Crystal and gemstone jewelry are some of the most treasured pieces anyone can own. They are often seen as a symbol of luxury and wealth and are highly sought after by collectors and those who appreciate fine jewelry. Crystal and gemstone jewelry come in various colors, sizes, and shapes. Some of the most popular crystals used in jewelry include diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies. Gemstones are often seen as more valuable than crystals because they are rarer and more difficult to find. This article will explore how crystal and gemstone jewelry can be used, how they are made, and what makes them so precious.
What Is Gemstone?
A crystal or gemstone is a piece of mineral which, in cut and polished form, is used to make jewelry or other adornments. However, certain rocks (such as lapis lazuli) or organic materials (such as amber or jet) are not minerals but are still used for jewelry. Most crystals are used for commercial purposes and have a wide variety of applications in electronics, optical, and other industries. The word “crystal” comes from the Greek word for ice, as early crystallographers believed that all crystals were composed of water. The modern definition of a crystal is based on the arrangement of atoms rather than composition. A few minerals are composed of only one type of atom (such as sulfur or carbon) and are referred to as “elemental crystals.”
Types Of Gemstone
There are many types of gemstones available in the market. However, not all of them are considered precious. The following are some of the most popular and valuable gems.
Diamonds
Diamond is perhaps the most popular and well-known gemstone in the world. It is also the hardest naturally occurring substance on earth. It is made up of carbon atoms arranged in a cubic crystal structure. Diamonds are trendy in engagement rings and other fine jewelry. It is also used in industrial applications such as drill bits and saw blades. More so, it is the birthstone for April.
Amethyst
The amethyst is a purple stone associated with royalty for centuries. It has many healing properties and is thought to be very protective. Amethysts are found in many jewelry pieces, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Many do not know the meaning of amethyst is related to the Greek myth of the goddess Artemis. It is said that the amethyst was created when the goddess spilled her wine on a white stone. The amethyst is also the birthstone for February. Many people believe that amethyst has healing properties. It is thought to help treat addictions and headaches.
Sapphires
Sapphires are one of the most precious gemstones and have been prized by many cultures for centuries. Sapphires come in various colors, but the most valuable and rare are the blue sapphires. These stunning gemstones can be found in several jewelry pieces, including necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings. Sapphires are not only beautiful, but they are also durable. They are rated a nine on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means they can withstand scratches and wear over time. This makes them an excellent choice for everyday jewelry pieces worn often.
If you’re looking for a piece of jewelry that will last a lifetime and beyond, consider a sapphire necklace, ring, bracelet, or earrings. You’ll be able to enjoy the beauty of these stunning gemstones for many years to come.
Pearl
The pearl is one of the oldest known gemstones and has been considered the most precious for centuries. It is said that Cleopatra once dissolved a pearl in vinegar and drank it, demonstrating her wealth to Marc Antony. Pearls have been found in burial sites dating back as early as the Stone Age. The vast majority of pearls used in jewelry today are cultured freshwater pearls. These are grown on mussel farms in China, Japan, and the United States.
Akoya pearls, which are saltwater cultured pearls grown in Japan and China, make up a small percentage of the market. Natural pearls are rare and very valuable. Most pearls used in jewelry are round, but they can be found in a wide range of shapes, including teardrop, oval, button, and baroque. The size of a pearl is measured in millimeters across the broadest point. The larger the pearl, the more valuable it is.
Beryl
The green variety of beryl is known as emerald, the blue as aquamarine, the pink to red as morganite, and the yellow as heliodor. Beryl occurs in many pegmatites worldwide, but fine crystals are found only in a few localities. The finest emeralds come from Colombia, where they have been mined for over 500 years. Zambia, Brazil, and Madagascar are also important sources. Other emerald countries include Austria, Russia, Zimbabwe, Pakistan, and the United States (Virginia). The emerald green color’s intensity is due to chromium traces and sometimes vanadium.
Opal
Opal is a unique gemstone because it displays all the colors of the other birthstones. Opal is often called the “queen of gems” because of its exceptional beauty. Opals are typically white or transparent with colorful streaks or patches and can be cut into any shape or size.
Opals are found in many parts of the world, but most high-quality opals come from Australia. The name “opal” comes from the Latin word “opalus,” which means “precious stone.” Opals are relatively soft gemstones, requiring special care when cleaning and storing. Opal jewelry should be kept away from other gems to avoid scratching. The best way to clean opal jewelry is with warm, soapy water.
Opals are considered semi-precious gemstones because they are not as rare as diamonds, rubies, and sapphires. However, high-quality opals can be pretty valuable. The most valuable opals are called black opals and have a dark body color with bright streaks of color.
In conclusion, precious crystal and gemstone jewelry are pretty valuable. They can be used to add a touch of luxury to any outfit and can be passed down through generations as family heirlooms. If you are considering purchasing some precious jewelry, do your research to know if what you are buying is of good quality. You should also know how to care for your jewelry to last a long time.
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