Short answer common gems
Common gems include: diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and pearls. These gems have been prized for centuries for their beauty and rarity. They are used in jewelry making, as well as in decorative objects and fine art.
Discovering Common Gems: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Are you new to the world of gemstones? Do you struggle to distinguish a diamond from a cubic zirconia? Fear not, for we have created a step-by-step guide for beginners looking to discover common gems and their unique characteristics.
Step 1: Education is Key
Before diving headfirst into the world of gemstones, learn the basics. Educate yourself on the different types of gems such as diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and more. Get familiar with the four C’s – carat weight, cut, clarity and color – which are essential in determining a gemstone’s worth. Reading books and attending classes taught by experts in this field will provide you with useful information that will make your journey easier.
Step 2: Visit Gem Shows or Expos
The best way to get up close and personal with an array of precious stones is to attend gem shows or expos. This event allows vendors from all over the globe to showcase their exceptional collections of rare finds. These shows are usually held annually in major cities across the world where one can have access to unique gems collected from diverse cultures or countries.
Step 3: Sourcing Reliable Jewelry Stores
When purchasing jewelry embellished with gems always opt for reliable jewelry stores online or offline. Always source them through referrals since friends can vouch for quality products services they have experienced first hand thus avoiding scams or phony substitutes.
Step 4: Ask Questions & Inspect
It’s crucial when sourcing gems ask questions about any possible treatments done on them before purchase. Some treatments may dramatically improve stone appearance but may affect quality making them less durable over time hence get certified lab proof documenting integrity beforehand would avoid unnecessary surprises disappointments when invested long term if undetected upfront.
On inspection level closely inspecting it under bright light could further reveal obvious flaws that might not be apparent at first glance like cracks scruffs no symmetry etc.
The Bottom Line:
Gemstone discovery is an exciting journey, and anyone can embark on it with the right resources, curiosity as one learns how to distinguish common gems from one another. Educate yourself by attending gem shows or workshops and sourcing reliable jewelry stores when purchasing precious stones. And always remember to ask questions, inspect before taking the plunge since certified labs are your best friend when purchasing expensive gems online or in-person. With these tips, you’re well on your way to discovering some of the world’s most unique treasures.”
FAQ on Common Gems: Answers to Your Most Pressing Questions
Gems are a fascinating and beautiful part of the jewelry world. These precious stones have captured the hearts of people all over the world with their stunning colors, unique formations, and remarkable properties. If you’re someone who loves gems, it’s likely that you have some questions rattling around in your brain. So we’ve decided to provide you with a helpful FAQ on common gems: answers to your most pressing questions.
What is a Gemstone?
Before we dive into specific gemstones, let’s start by answering a fundamental question – what exactly is a gemstone? A gemstone or jewel is any mineral, rock or petrified material that can be cut and polished to make jewelry or other decorative objects.
What Are The Four Precious Stones
When it comes to precious stones, there are four recognized types: diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds. These four are considered precious because of their rarity and unsurpassed beauty.
What Makes A Diamond Special?
Diamonds are known for their incredible hardness rating making them one of the best choices for engagement rings because they can withstand everyday wear without scratching easily. The brilliance of diamonds comes from their exceptional refractive index which creates intense sparkle through light reflection inside each diamond.
Are Sapphires Always Blue?
Although blue sapphires are fairly common; they come in an array of shades ranging from pale cornflower blue to deep royal blue depending on elements such as iron and titanium can create other colors too like yellow (due to iron) or pink (due to chromium).
Why are Emeralds Such A Big Deal When It Comes To Gems?
Emeralds could very well be the most popular green stone used in jewelry – if not THE MOST POPULAR – but did you know they happen to be one of the rarest as well? What sets emeralds apart from other green-colored stones is its hushed radiance embedded within its layers. They are also notoriously known for their inclusions, which give them a unique identity.
What Is A Birthstone?
Birthstones are gems that represent the particular month a person was born. Each birthstone holds different spiritual and emotional meanings depending on the zodiac sign or star alignment inherited during conception. Here’s a quick rundown:
• January – Garnet
• February – Amethyst
• March – Aquamarine
• April – Diamond or Clear Quartz (alternate)
• May – Emerald or Chrysoprase (alternate)
• June – Pearl or Alexandrite (alternate)
• July – Ruby
• August- Peridot or Spinel (alternate)
• September – Sapphire
• October – Opal, Tourmaline or Pink/Bergeron Sapphire(alternates)
• November – Topaz and Citrine(alternate)
December – Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon (alternates), Blue topaz
Are Natural Gemstones Better Than Lab-Grown Ones?
Natural gemstones take millions of years to form within the earth’s mantle under incredible temperature and pressure just before reaching Earth’s crust whereas lab-grown stones can be made in weeks with the aid of new scientific technologies in highly controlled conditions like heat pressurization machines. Both natural and lab-grown stones have their own characteristics but tend to be exquisite in their own ways.
We hope this FAQ has been helpful in answering some of your questions regarding common gemstones. Whether you’re looking to expand your jewelry wardrobe or simply want to learn more about gems, we encourage you to keep exploring and discovering all the beauty that lies within these precious stones!
Top 5 Facts You Need to Know About Common Gems
As we wander around this big beautiful world of ours, it’s easy to get lost in the allure of sparkling stones that are found all around us. From precious gems to semi-precious jewels, there’s no doubt that gems have been coveted by everyone from royalty to commoners throughout history. But do you really know what lies beneath their shiny exteriors? Let’s delve deeper and explore the top 5 facts you need to know about common gems.
1. Diamonds Aren’t The Rarest Gemstones
First on our list is perhaps the most surprising fact – diamonds aren’t actually the rarest gemstones out there! While they may be highly sought after and expensive, other stones such as emeralds, sapphires and rubies are actually much rarer. Despite dainty little diamond rings being slowly encouraged into the minds of couples since hundreds of years ago, colored stones can often go overlooked because they don’t match the iconic engagement ring we’ve grown so accustomed too.
2. Gems Can Be Found All Around The World
While some famous gems such as Tanzanite are only found in a specific geographical location (in this case Tanzania), many other well-known varieties like Topaz, Amethyst and Aquamarine can be found all over the world. Although due to climate which affects growth rate for minerals different specimens of these enduring gems will show distinct properties when sourced from various locations.
3. A Gemstone’s Value Is Determined By Several Factors
The value of a gemstone doesn’t just depend on its carat weight or size – color clarity, cut quality., rarity and country/cultural beliefs also play significant roles in determining its worth. In fact, slight variations in hue or clarity can make a huge difference between an ordinary stone and one that is truly exceptional. For instance, a ruby with a strong red color has higher value than one with an orangey tone or paler undertones, while an emerald with fewer blemishes will be worth more than one with numerous inclusions.
4. Some Gems Have Healing Powers
Gems aren’t just pretty to look at, some cultures historically believe that certain types of gems hold healing powers too. For instance, Amethyst is said to calm the nerves, Citrine is believed to help digestion and Turquoise is meant to enhance creativity. It’s perhaps arguable how much credibility each type of belief holds these days but it’s fascinating to know nonetheless.
5. Synthetic Stones Are Becoming More Common
Lastly, synthetic gemstones have become increasingly common as technology advances make it easier and cheaper to produce them. Made in a lab using similar conditions to naturally occurring stones, they can be very difficult – even for experts – to tell apart from real ones without professional examination or use of specialist equipment. Many people now opt for synthetic versions as alternatives because they offer a similar look at much lower cost or ethical advantages.
There you have it – the top 5 facts you need to know about common gems! Whether you’re a lover of all things shiny or just curious about these precious finds, we hope this article has given you an insight into the world of gemstones that goes beyond their impeccable exterior looks .
The History of Common Gems: From Ancient Times to Modern Day
Gems have been prized for their beauty, rarity, and value for thousands of years. From the ancient Egyptians to modern day jewelry enthusiasts, gems have played a significant role in human history. In this post, we’ll take a journey through time to explore the fascinating history of some of the most common gems.
Amber
Amber is a fossilized resin that has been found with prehistoric insects encased within it. This gem has been used throughout human history as amulets or talismans to ward off evil spirits. The ancient Greeks believed that amber was produced by the tears of the Heliades sisters who were transformed into poplar trees after mourning the death of their brother.
Turquoise
Turquoise is known for its brilliant blue-green color and has been prized for centuries by cultures around the world. It was used extensively in ancient Egyptian jewelry and was also highly valued by Native American tribes such as the Navajo and Hopi.
Emerald
The vibrant green color of emerald has long captivated people’s attention. The gemstone has been discovered in many parts of the world like Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, Zimbabwe etc., but it was famously mined from Cleopatra’s Mines in Egypt during her reign. Emeralds were symbols of wealth for royalty and members of high society throughout history.
Ruby
Rubies are one of the four precious stones alongside diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. This sparkling red gemstone is among one of the most sought-after gemstones throughout history because they symbolize love, courage and passion. Rubies have been associated with kings since ancient Sanskrit texts mentioned their use in royal ceremonies as far back as 2nd century B.C.
Sapphire
The blue sapphire — a personal favorite of ours — embodies wisdom, truthfulness and loyalty. Sapphires are incredibly hardy stones which makes them excellent choices not just for jewelry but also for industrial applications. The British Crown Jewels’ centerpiece is a beautiful blue sapphire that was once owned by King Edward VII.
Diamonds
We couldn’t finish this list without talking about the most coveted and magnetic gemstones of all time. Diamonds have been famous for centuries and are commonly associated with affection, fidelity, and romance in contemporary cultures. However, diamonds were originally valued more for their toughness than their beauty. They were used to engrave armor long before they became symbols of romance.
In conclusion, gems have played an extraordinary role throughout human history and continue to captivate us even today. Whether it’s the stunning blue sapphire on Kate Middleton’s engagement ring, or Elizabeth Taylor’s diamond necklace – gems undoubtedly leave a mark in our hearts with their exquisite colors and mesmerizing sparkle.
Using and Caring for Common Gems: Tips and Tricks
When it comes to gems and jewelry, it’s so easy to get carried away with the dazzle and glamour of precious stones such as diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds. But what about the more common gems that adorn our jewelry boxes? Gems like amethysts, topaz, and garnets might lack the exorbitant price tag of their rarer counterparts but they still deserve just as much love and attention when it comes to maintenance.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some tips and tricks on how to care for your common gemstones to ensure they last a lifetime.
Amethyst
The gorgeous purple hue of an amethyst is undoubtedly mesmerizing – this birthstone for February has been coveted for centuries. However, despite its popularity, amethysts are relatively delicate – they can scratch or chip easily if not properly cared for.
To keep your amethyst in pristine condition, avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals like household cleaners or perfumes. Instead, clean with warm water, mild soap and a soft-bristled brush. Also be mindful when storing your amethyst – since its purple color can fade when overexposed to sunlight or heat.
Topaz
Topaz is one of the hardest naturally occurring minerals – hence making it perfect material for jewelry – making it durable enough for everyday wear however hard stones need to avoid chipping & fracture which may happen on hard impact. While topaz can come in various shades such as blue or pinkish-purplish hue (imperial) , you’ll most likely come across golden-yellow variety- November’s birthstone! To maintain your topaz print pieces’ shine glimmering beautifully here are some pointers:
Avoid exposure from temperature fluctuations such as from beach sun; remove any jewelry before doing household chores; Clean with warm water using mild soap followed by a good buff dry. If easier availability is at hand use a dedicated cleaner only made for cleaning gemstones for most effective results.
Garnet
These are a semi-precious common gemstone that is best known to be deep red. However, they also come in orange, green, and purple hues. The red garnet is January’s birthstone – are often used because of its affordable price tag while providing a deep rich color that compliments any wardrobe ensemble.
Like all other gemstones, avoid extreme temperature fluctuations from sun exposure which may cause changes in the color and degradation of quality; remove jewelry before swimming or using household cleaners such as bleach or chlorine since they may also impact the stone negatively. Care tip: use warm water with mild soap to clean followed by soft-bristle brush then rinse with cold water and buff dry.
In conclusion, jewelry lovers can properly maintain their gemstone jewelry by taking care of it daily so it can last longer especially for all-day wear pieces. Avoid rough handling because these gems may chip off on hard impact; use warm soap & water with a soft-bristled brush to gently loosen away the dirt if your gemstone becomes dull; store them separately with space between each piece wrapped separate pouch so that they don’t lose their shine from rubbing against others during storage. A timely maintenance routine goes a long way for keeping your cherished pieces looking brand new!
Uncovering the Beauty of Rare Common Gemstones: Hidden Treasures in Jewelry Making
Have you ever stopped to admire the stunning jewels in a piece of jewelry and wondered about their rarity? While diamonds may be the crown jewel, there are rare gemstones out there that often go unnoticed. Common gemstones like emeralds, sapphires, and rubies are popular choices for jewelry making; however, many other precious stones can take your breath away with their beauty.
In this blog post, we will explore some of these rare common gemstones that are hidden treasures in the world of jewelry making.
1. Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone found only in Tanzania. Its mesmerizing blue-violet hue has captured the imagination of jewelry makers in recent years. It is known for its exceptional clarity, which adds to its lustrous appearance when set into necklaces, earrings, or rings.
2. Alexandrite
Alexandrite’s chameleon-like color change from greenish-blue in natural light to purplish-red under incandescent lighting makes it an unusual yet fascinating stone. Found mainly in Russia and Sri Lanka, it makes for unique and beautiful pieces.
3. Paraiba Tourmaline
Found mainly in Brazil and Mozambique, Paraiba tourmaline’s vibrant blue-green color is due to trace amounts of copper within the stone. The rarity of this stone has made it one of the most sought after gems by collectors worldwide.
4. Spinel
Spinel comes in a range of colors including red (often mistaken for ruby), black, green and blue varieties – just to name a few! Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for any type of jewelry design.
5. Morganite
Morganite belongs to the beryl family and is known for its soft pink hue reminiscent of blush roses on warm summer days. Loved by many due to its romantic charm and elegance when paired with rose gold settings.
6. Sunstone
Sunstone comes in a range of warm, earthy colors including yellows, oranges and browns with shimmery iridescence that sparkles like the sun. This rare stone is unique in every sense and can create an eye-catching look when set into pendants, bracelets, or earrings.
In conclusion, the world of jewelry making offers endless possibilities for introducing beauty through rare gemstones. It’s a fantasy to wear these precious stones around your neck or wrist as they often hold the stories of their origins; whether emerging from deep mines below or extracted from crystalline mountains above. Uncover your own hidden treasure and adorn yourself with adornments made with love and care by jewelers who appreciate the rareness buried within each piece they make.
Table with useful data:
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Birthstone Month(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond | Colorless, Can be found in many colors | 10 | April |
| Ruby | Red | 9 | July |
| Sapphire | Blue | 9 | September |
| Emerald | Green | 7.5 – 8 | May |
| Topaz | Yellow, Brown, Blue | 8 | November |
| Amethyst | Purple | 7 | February |
Information from an expert
As an expert in gemology, I can attest to the fact that there are a number of gems commonly used in jewelry today. Diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies are all popular choices due to their beauty and durability. However, there are many other gems that may not be as well-known but are equally stunning such as garnets, tourmalines, citrines, and peridots. Each gemstone has its own unique beauty and story to tell; as an expert, I encourage everyone to explore the world of common gems and discover what speaks to them.
Historical fact:
Common gems such as diamonds, rubies, and emeralds were highly valued by ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Egyptians who believed they possessed magical powers and used them for adornment in jewelry and crowns.
