Monday, August 30, 2010

Gemstones -- An Introduction For You To Make An Informed Choice

by Rose Mary

Gemstones are mineral crystals or organic materials that have been cut and polished into beautiful items by skilled craftsmen. The minerals are naturally formed, solid, inorganic chemical compounds found in rocks. Each mineral has a fixed chemical composition and regular atomic structure, which gives it the specific hardness and color it possesses. Many natural crystals are attractive enough to be displayed. However, most of these crystals are faceted and polished to enhance their appearance.

Few gems, which are called organics, come from plants and animals. These gems include ivory, amber and pearl. There is a category of gemstones known as synthetics. They do not have any natural origin and are produce in laboratories. These artificial gems are cut to resemble the real ones. They have the same physical properties and chemical composition with natural gemstones. Gemstones are, typically, measured by their weight in carats.

To be considered a gemstone, it has to be rare, beautiful and durable. Gemstones, in its natural crystalline form, are rare, which means that they could only be found in certain parts of the world. Their scarcity makes them valuable in the market. The color of the minerals must be attractive, so that the gemstones will appear beautiful. Gemstones must be durable, which means that they should be hard enough to withstand scratches and damage.

The most valuable characteristic of gemstones is the color. Colorful gemstones such as emeralds, rubies and sapphires are highly priced. Diamonds, though colorless, are made beautiful and brilliant by skillful forms of cutting. White light is made up of a combination of the spectrum of colors. When white light falls on a gemstone, some of the colors are absorbed while the rest are reflected back. Those colors that are reflected are what we see as color of the gemstone. As each mineral interacts with light differently, a wide variety of colors of gemstones is produced.

The physical properties of gemstones are their hardness, their specific gravity, and the way they break. These properties depend largely on the atomic structure and the chemical bonding of the stone. The hardness of a gemstone is measured by how well it resists scratching. The specific gravity or density of a gemstone is derived by assessing its weight base on the weight of an equal volume of water. Gemstones can break in two ways, either by cleaving or fracture. The way they break depends on the atomic structure of the stone. Gemstones that cleave will break along the planes of weak atomic bonding. Those that fracture will break along a surface which has no relation to its atomic structure.

Gem cutting is a form of art which is done to produce finely cut faceted gems. This art contributes to the beauty of the gemstone and its value. There has been much progress made in gem cutting and polishing methods. These improved methods, coupled with an increased knowledge of the way gemstones responds to light, have resulted in marked improvements made on the appearance of gemstones.

Gemologists are fascinated by gemstones. They study each gemstone in-depth, both in its natural state and after it has been cut and polished. Gemologists are able identify every individual gemstone, as well as distinguish between a natural stone and a fake one.

Since early times, gemstones are considered precious and are well sought after. In the past, gemstones are known to represent wealth and power. They are used not only as jewels to decorate crowns and robes but also as amulets, talisman and charms. Nowadays, gemstones are not only for the wealthy, but rather they are appreciated by anyone who finds them beautiful and charming. Gemstones are commonly used to make creative jewelry pieces which are widely worn as accessories for personal adornment. Gemstones are highly treasured by people from all walks of life because of their unfading beauty with time. Being captivated by the timeless beauty of gemstones, most people desire to possess them. Hence, some people buy gemstones for collection purposes, while others buy gemstone jewelry for personal adornment or as gifts for friends. Gems that represent birthstones are commonly used as birthday presents. Due to the wide variety of gemstone jewelry items available in the market, there are plenty of gift ideas to choose from.

More information on gemstones jewelry can be found at: [http://www.internetbizcenter.com/gemstone/index.htm]

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Freelance Writer in various topics.

Please visit [http://www.internetbizcenter.com/gemstone/index.htm] for more information on Gemstones.


  
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4 comments:

Vintage jewelry said...

I have few gemstones but wasn't aware of so many characteristics of gemstones.The best part is they are available in different colors and designs.You have choices.I really like your post.Its very useful.

Unknown said...

The Michigan Gemstone, Jewelry & Coin Show August 26 2012.

Ticket Price
Adult $5.00
Kids under 13 Free
Tickets Available At The Show
Includes Free Food, Cash Bar & Entertainment


All age show where you can find gemstones and jewelry.
You can find items that you will not find any where else.


Precious gemstones, fine jewelry, beads, crystals, minerals, coins, fossils, cutting rough, findings, and lapidary supplies, gem faceting, silversmithing, wire wrapping, lapidary tools, jewelry equipment, precious metals & jewelry making supplies.


August 26 2012
The International Banquet Center
400 Monroe Street
Detroit Michigan


Show Hours


Sunday 9 am - 6 pm
For more info call 248-390-7530 or visit www.preciousgemstones.biz
Thank you

Unknown said...

Keep in mind that the harder the gem and the higher it is on the Mohs scale of hardness, the more durable it generally is. At time, a hard gem with high or distinct cleavage is apt to be fragile and may break or cleave if it is struck at the right angle. Hardness therefore is not synonymous with toughness. A tough gem may be soft enough to be more easily scratched but it is less apt to break or shatter. These characteristics have pertinence in wearing, cleaning, and storing jewelry, and in remodeling.

Fort Lauderdale jewelers

Panchrathna Gems said...

Interesting post to read and know about these gemstones choice. Thanks a lot for the share. Astrological gemstones in Coimbatore - Pancharatna gems Coimbatore