Origin Of The Diamond

In olden times little was known about the diamond beyond the superficial facts that it was hard, brilliant and crystallized in. a certain definite form. In India, where it was first found and used as a jewel, imagination usually answered the questions of the curious and if the answers were adopted by those in authority, they were universally received, for rulers did not tolerate differences of opinion. So it was that diamonds were believed to be the gift of heaven, crystallized in the earth by thunderbolts. The wise men of the day dutifully adduced as proof, the assertion that diamonds were abundant in mines where there were also thunder-bolts.

But after four or five thousand years, the growing light of knowledge acquired about other things, fell from a thousand lamps kindled about it, upon the diamond and as the glamour which had enveloped it was dissipated, the need came to fill the place of the going fable with facts, for they only could bear the light. The prominence and preciousness of the stone attracted attention, but its value hindered experiments, so that there was little definite knowledge of the composition of it even, prior to the seventeenth century.
During the last two or three centuries, scientists have sought by careful research and costly experiments, to learn how Nature succeeds in isolating one of her elements in such a beautiful and enduring form. But while men have learned to measure the stars and have conceived an idea of infinity; to harness electricity to wheels and engines and transmit thought on its ethereal waves; while they have filled their archives with a myriad discoveries of light, heat, force and the whole kaleidoscope of Nature; established the natural rights of man and placed the compass of his mental horizon in the heavens among the gods ; while this and more has been accomplished, all they have learned of the crystallization of carbon is, that it can be done by heat and pressure and in a very small way to do it.

Thus knowledge of the diamond was gradually acquired, until the fact that it was simply pure carbon was established beyond question or doubt. But it was a form of carbon only. Graphite, the other form in which it is found in Nature, to sight and touch distinctly different, is nevertheless chemically the same. Though it requires less heat, it combines with oxygen in the same way, the resulting carbon dioxide showing that the graphitic carbon and the oxygen consumed in uniting, exist without appreciable loss in the gas. In comparative tests it has been shown that the diamond burns more easily than foliated graphite, but compact graphite succumbs more readily to heat than the diamond.

The fact that some diamonds taken from the African mines, burst after being released from the matrix, as artificial ones do, is accepted by many as evidence that they were formed under great pressure. Moissan claimed that the form of the carbon depends upon the amount of pressure existing at the temperature which permits transformation.
The Kimberley mines of South Africa lie in a cluster within a radius of a few miles. These mines, together with others in what was the Orange Free State and elsewhere, come to the surface in a great plateau extending from the Transvaal to the Bokkeveldt mountains at the Cape of Good Hope. The plateau varies in elevation from 2,700 to 6,000 feet above sea level, being 4,000 feet above, where the four principal mines are situated at Kimberley.

Until the discovery of diamonds in Africa, in what is believed to be the matrix in which they were formed, there were few hints of its origin in the circumstances of the diamond's lodgment. It was found always in deposits left by the waters and the beds in which it lay always showed the alterations of age and exposure. The gem, unscathed, rested in the decomposed fragments of the matrix that ages back had bound it. That the mountains were its original home is evident, for the diamondiferous deposits are on high plateaus, on the sides of the mountains, in the beds of old mountain water-courses, on the hillside banks and in the beds of the new streams and sometimes far away in the plains below, where the mountain torrents have rolled them. And the crystals hold a record of the long, slow journey. In the mountains, their corners are sharp and clear, but as they get farther from home, they become more and more worn and rounded. Up in the hilltops, the big crystals, wedged in the crevices of the rocks and in the corners among the boulders, resisted the drive of torrents which carried off the smaller ones with the sand and held fast, each in turn, near or far, finding at last an anchorage where it could await the coming of man. So long have they lain, that in some places the debris of succeeding ages has buried them many feet deep from the surface. At every diamond deposit the world over, the signs all point to the headwaters of the rivers in the mountains, but there the clue fails, for the rocks beneath and the sky above are silent.
In India, diamonds are found on a plateau, four to six or seven hundred feet high, in thin alluvial deposits at or near the surface of the earth. There are two distinct deposits, forming strata in the Upper Vindyan series of the north and in the Lower Vindyan section (Silurian) of the south.

It is also believed that diamonds exist in the older Paleozoic rocks in the Himalayas and it is thought that the diamonds of the Mahanadi river have been washed down by the headwaters higher up. The diamonds are always accompanied by pebbles of a siliceous and ferruginous nature and a variety of others, among them occasionally, corundum. The deposits in which they occur are so altered from their original form that they afford no clue as to the exact nature of the matrix in which the diamond was crystallized. That the matrix was formed long ages ago, then disintegrated and scattered over the earth, is about all we know of the origin of the diamond which was released from its bonds and strewn over the earth, in India during the ages succeeding.

The diamondiferous rock is a greenish-blue mineral, like dried mud with numerous inclusions. It carries many fragments of the surrounding reef, pieces of the shales being very noticeable. These foreign inclusions vary in size from very small pieces to one so large that it is called " the island". This is a block of olivine-basalt in the De Beers mine, having an area of nearly 3,000 square feet and penetrating to a great depth. Some inclusions must have been brought up from great depths, as they differ from any of the strata which compose the reef. Large blocks of gray sandstone, found at a depth of 250 feet, resemble the sandstone which in other localities forms part of the middle Karoo formation and may be here an underlying stratum at great depth. These foreign inclusions, differing entirely in nature from the diamondiferous material with which they are mixed, are called "floating reef" to distinguish them from the walls of the funnels which are termed simply "reef". The inclusions which differ from the reef are called "exotic fragments".
There are no horizontal layers in the kimberlite nor are there any beds of foreign rock in it, the floating reef being distributed throughout very irregularly, but there are very small vertical crevices in the kimberlite, filled with a foreign mineral resembling talc, which divide the kimberlite into vertical columns. These columns differ slightly from each other in color, composition and contained minerals, though each is the same in character throughout and all are in general alike. The most important difference is that some of these columns are much richer in diamonds than others. The western end of both the Kimberley and De Beers mines were very poor, the richest part of the latter being in the center. Fifteen of these kimberlite columns have been observed in the Kimberley mine.

Nevertheless, Henry Carvill Lewis, in " The Matrix of the Diamond", edited by Prof. T. G. Bonney, says,
" That the rock was a true igneous lava and not a mud or ash, is indicated by the following facts :
1. The minerals and their associations are those characteristic of eruptive ultra-basic rocks.
2. The porphyritic crystals are idiomorphic as in volcanic rocks.
3. The corrosion cavities in the porphyritic crystals are due to solution by the hot magma.
4. The character of the bronzite and diopside is similar to that in meteorites and eruptive rocks, but not in metamorphic or plutonic rocks.
5. The occurrence of a ground-mass and of traces of glass.
6. The traces of a second generation of minerals (pyroxene?) in the ground-mass.
7. The occurrence of fragmentary enclosures of the ad-joining rock and of deep-seated rocks and the evidence of alteration by heat which these enclosures exhibit.
8. The traces of a fluidal structure shown on polished specimens.
9. The identity of the rock with one in Kentucky, which is a true eruptive dyke and with others in the Vaal river, which also form dykes.

How To Buy Diamonds

The first thing that one should do when he intends to buy diamonds, is to disabuse his mind of the idea that he is about to purchase another form of cur-rent exchange with his greenbacks. Notwithstanding the elaborate advertising they have had as an investment, diamonds are not an investment, in a business sense, for the consumer, but a luxury. They are probably the most economical form of luxury in existence, for they do not wear out as sealskin sacques do, nor go out of fashion as fine clothes do, nor do they have to be fed like horses. They do not require chauffeurs and a good income for up-keep. They can be used as collateral without a search or a lawyer's fee and will bring nearer cost at a forced sale, on an average, than any other form of wealth, except the stock of corporations in which the directors invest their own money. They raise a man several hundred per cent. in the estimation of the woman to whom he gives them, but their money value seldom rises above the price he paid for them. One wearing diamonds will be more generally recognized as a person of some means than he would by carrying about with him the price of them out of sight in his pocket, but if he thinks they will buy as much money as it took to buy them, he deceives himself.

In order to buy diamonds well, one must have a good knowledge of the stones and values, or good judgment in selecting a dealer and faith in him. It is owing to the lack of these in the transactions of the general public, that so much poor material is marketed at unreason-ably high prices and that so much distrust exists.
Of the public, women, as a rule, have the sharper eye for color and the quality of color has a large influence on price. It should be remembered, however, that there are other things to be considered in connection, i. e., brilliancy, proportion, cutting and perfection. If a stone has all the good qualities, each one has added to its value and some of them at first sight may not be fully recognized. Many times, conscientious dealers lose a sale because they have selected a stone critically for an uncritical person who thought the price too high, though it was really very low for one so perfect in good qualities.

A sharp trader, or a good judge of diamonds, may sometimes buy to better advantage than others, but usually the person who selects a dealer of good reputation, tells him frankly what kind of a stone he wants, what he is willing to pay and trusts him to do what is right, will on an average come out best. The dealer as a rule, however much the buyer knows about diamonds, knows yet more and he has the advantage of knowing what the goods cost. If he has a customer who is willing to pay a fair profit and shows no inclination to beat down the price, he will ask only what he feels he ought to get for his jewel. If on the contrary he finds that he has a contest of wits on hand, he will prepare himself for con-cessions and he has the advantage of knowing just where he must stop in the whittling of price.
Gem stones command good prices, for they are rare. Nevertheless they are not usually as high comparatively as they are better than the lower grades. If due consideration be given to the rarity of very fine stones, they are the cheapest ones sold.

Since two, three and four grainers have been in active demand, the importer is sometimes at his wits' end to supply lots of those sizes. To cover defects in his stock, he makes up lots averaging the size wanted. If the buyer is not mindful, he may when he wants four-grainers, buy for example, a lot of twenty stones weighing twenty carats, in which there will not be a half dozen one-carat stones. Nearly all will be over or under, so balanced that the lot will average one carat each. Beyond the fact that he does not want smaller or larger, he also loses on the transaction, as those weighing a little over one carat are worth no more, while those weighing under, are worth less. Say he buys twenty stones weighing twenty carats at a hundred and eighty-five dollars per carat, worth that price for carat stones and gets six one-carat stones and seven each of three-quarter and one and one-quarter stones :

He pays for 20 carats at $185.00 = $3,700.00
He gets 143/4 carats worth 185.00 = 2,728.75
and 51/4 carats worth 160.00 = 840.00
An experience of some years suggests, that if a dealer may sometimes say too much about his diamonds, he cannot know too much. To the consumer, an old saying may be safely paraphrased thus : " Trust your jeweler and keep your powder dry".

A diamond is definitely a woman’s best friend! These glittering pieces have always had a long list of admirers and people are known to be obsessed when it comes to owning these precious stones. A diamond symbolizes strength to many, for some, diamonds are a way to say you care whereas for most fashionistas, it is the sheer brilliance and the beauty of the diamonds that holds their attention. Diamonds make great gifts (if you have the dough!) and symbolize a long-term commitment as well. Therefore, diamond jewellery is very popular as a wedding gift and also for anniversaries as well.

Facts about Diamonds:

• The name Diamond is derived from the Greek word, Adamas. This means the unconquerable.
• Did you know that most diamonds that are found are not suitable to be used as jewellery?
• Diamonds are also the hardest substance on this earth and also the most sought after!
• Diamonds are always valued in terms of the 4 Cs. This is the cut, color, clarity and the carat of the diamond; it is said that the concept of the 4 Cs were introduced in 1939.
• Diamonds are found in various colors such as blue and pink, which are very rare and yellow and brown, which are amongst the most common types available. In its purest state, diamonds are colorless and brilliant in appearance.
• In the year, 1994, Pauline Willemse cut a diamonds that was 50 times smaller than the head of a ballpoint pen. This was the world’s smallest diamond.
• If one has to produce a single one-carat diamond, around 250 tons of earth will have to be mined.
• Diamonds were formed billions of years ago; under extreme heat and deep within the earth’s crust. They come to the surface when there is any form of volcanic eruptions. Such activities bring the diamonds closer to the surface of the earth.
• Diamonds are one such gemstones that are composed of only one chemical element-carbon.
• The cut of the diamond is very crucial as it is the cut that defines the beauty of the diamond.
• As per the old beliefs and customs, it is believed that the engagement diamond ring was worn on the third finger of the left hand because the ancient Egyptians believed the vein directly connected to the heart.
• The largest diamond was known as the Star of Africa (Cullinan). This adorned the scepter of King Edward VII of England and is now at the Tower of London.
• Diamonds also have the highest melting point of any natural substance.
• Amongst the other stories that are associated with diamonds, one such fact about these precious stones exists that the wearer gets more courage and good fortune and diamonds also act as a shield against all evils.
• Diamonds are rock hard and almost fire proof. Therefore, in order to make a diamond burn, it needs to be heated to 1292 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The first diamond ring (for engagement) was gifted by Archduke Maximillian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy in the year, 1477

Care for Your Diamond

Caring for your diamond during the summer months will ensure that it's brilliance shines for years to come. And while summer activities may be great for all who participate, diamonds can be sensitive to summer's effects. This article gives tips to help take care of your diamond this summer.
The old saying that "diamonds are forever" may sound cliche, but is founded in absolute truth. Diamonds offer a beauty, brilliance and durability that is second to no other natural stone on Earth.
Unfortunately due to the diamond's durability, most forget that the utmost care and attention is still required to keep these precious gems looking showroom sharp. When caring for a diamond, the summer months can be the hardest on the stone and the setting. This summer, before the fun begins, set a little time aside to keep your precious stone in top condition.

Diamonds are the hardest stone on Earth, however the settings a diamond needs in order to be worn are not quite as durable. The gold, silver, platinum and palladium used to house your stone can show very real signs of wear thanks to summer's unique events and activities. Here are a few tips to care for your diamond this summer.

1. Avoid salt water. While the chlorine present in swimming pools can harm the mounting of a diamond piece, salt water can harm the diamond itself. The erosive properties of salt water can act like sandpaper on the surface of the diamond causing the stone to appear less vibrant and brilliant. When swimming in ocean water or other forms of salt water, removal of the diamond piece is recommended. If your diamond has been buffed by the salt, take it to a jeweler for a cleaning. The industrial buffers used to shine diamonds can return the brilliance to your stone.

2. Reduce the amount of oils and grease. The summer is known for sunscreens, lotions and bug sprays which contribute to a more enjoyable summer for the wearer. However, these items can make a diamond appear dull and lifeless as they build on thick layers of grime. In addition to the natural oils and sweat produced by our bodies, those added oils that we apply should be cleaned on a regular basis during the summer months. A daily swish of your diamond in warm water with a soft cleaning solution is enough to keep your diamond sparkling.

3. Expeditions are not for diamonds. The hardest stone in the world does have the ability to break. For those rough and tough family outings like hiking, rock climbing and camping, leaving the diamond wedding rings, engagement rings and other loose diamond jewellery at home is a good idea for both diamond and the wearer. Not only can rough activity cause a diamond to chip, but the mounting can be disfigured causing diamond to fall out during the activity. Another risk is ring avulsion which occurs when a ring is caught and ripped from the finger of the wearer. Outdoor activities are best completed with jewellery-free hands, necks and arms.

Your diamond is a beautiful treasure that is meant to last a lifetime. However, with the amount of chemicals (both manmade and natural) and the "extremeness" of today's physical activities, the diamond needs a little extra care in order to stay as brilliant as it was on the day of purchase. This summer, take a few extra moments to care for your diamond to ensure that its timeless beauty can be seen year round.

Gem Stones

History of Gem Stones.

Gemstone History: A Journey Down an Old Path

Agate Alexandrite Amber Amethyst Aquamarine Aventurine Bloodstone Carnelian Chrysoprase Citrine Coral Emerald Garnet Jade Jasper Kunzite Lapis Lazuli Malachite Moonstone Obsidian Onyx Opal Pearl Peridot Quartz Rose Quartz Ruby Sapphire Tanzanite Tiger Eye Quartz Topaz Tourmaline Turquoise Zircon

Agate       Agate is a type of Chalcedony. Many people don't think of agate for jewellery - but it is very pretty. If you want "something different", consider trying agate jewellery. Agate comes in many varieties. Common types are: fire agate, blue lace agate, tree agate, moss agate and petrified wood. Agate is usually used in cabochons or bead form. Why not try a beautiful agate necklace, pendant, earrings or bolo tie for a eye catching piece of jewellery. Agate belongs to the chalcedony family of coloured quartz stones. They are found in colors like blue, green, yellow, brown, purple and pink. Agate is an Ayurvedic birthstone for the month of May; the name has been derived from the Greek name of a stone found in the river Achates in Sicily .Agateeq.. It ages back to Stone Age, where it was considered very valuable. The hardness rating for this stone is 7, even though it can chip or crack easily, so it should be protected from sharp blows, scratches and household chemicals like bleach. Agate is an inexpensive stone, with an exception of few varieties with unusual banded or scenic markings. Agate has been used in maintaining good health and prosperous life. Some of its believed benefits are:- • Due to cooling effect, it has proved in reducing fever and it is beneficial in stomach area. • It maintains the heart pulse rate. • Agate is believed to cure insomnia and to insure pleasant dreams. • Those who wear or carry Agate will be always guarded against bad affects, will be more cautious, get a more clarity on themselves and able to view the world with a broad angle. • Some feel Agate has mystical powers. Botswana Agate (also known as Eye Agate) a variety of agate from Botswana, Africa. This is the gemstone for people who are sensitive and lonely or easily hurt. It will help you have more self-satisfaction and protect you from hurt. It can be used to one's quest toward enlightenment. Many feel that Botswana Agate has an anti-depressant quality. Botswana Agate can help those who have repressed emotional issues that need to be addressed so that they can let go and heal. It can be helpful for those who are struggling to be genuine in their lifestyle, as it promotes an understanding of the need for deeper meaning. Works with us to release emotions no longer needed. It is great for energizing the aura. Physically, Botswana agate helps rid the body of toxins and can be used to support treatment of disorders of the nervous system. It is said to counteract physical, emotional and intellectual poisons.   Top

Alexandrite       Alexandrite is an exquisite color-changing gemstone. As most alexandrites are man made in a lab, it can be challenging to locate natural alexandrite. Alexandrite bracelets and rings are wonderful. When Alexandrite is used in these type of jewellery, the wearer can enjoy seeing the delightful color change in incandescent light. Alexandrite the traditional birthstone for June is a beautiful, but very rare stone. It is also associated with the astrological birth sign of Scorpio. The word Alexandrite is named after the Russian Czar Alexander II because it was discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia on the Czar Alexander II birthday in 1831. The most sensational feature about this stone, however, is its surprising ability to change its colour. Green or bluish-green in daylight, alexandrite turns a soft shade of red, purplish-red or raspberry red in incandescent light. This characteristic makes it one of the most expensive gemstone, especially for a stone of a large size. Stones of one carat or larger can range in price from fifteen thousand dollars to one million dollars. Along with Russia it is found in Brazil, Australia, the United States, portions of Africa and India. The Brazilian alexandrite shows both a distinctive colour change and good clarity and colour. The popular belief that a diamond is forever and it fetches up to 75% of the resale value and colored stones have no resale value is absolutely wrong. However, if one invests wisely, gemstones buying can be very profitable and remunerative too. There are various factors to be considered before buying Alexandrite: • One must always make sure that he/she is buying a natural alexandrite and not synthetic alexandrite. The certificate should mention the word "natural". • Always buy with a certificate, from a reputed gemological laboratory and not just from the dealer who is selling it, mentioning its authenticity. • Always go for quality rather than quantity. A good piece, though a small one, is any day better than a big gem with lower clarity and color. • As far as possible go in for a proper cut gemstone. Alexandrite Folklore Russians believe Alexandrite was a good omen. Alexandrite is said to open the heart to romantic possibilities, provide inner peace and even ward off certain physical maladies.   Top

Amber       Amber is one of the organic gemstones, being the time-hardened fossilized resin of pine trees. It is formed during the process of polymerization of its original organic compounds. It varies from about 30 to 90 million years old. Amber is available in a wide array of colors, the most popular ranging from yellow to orange, mimicking the color of honey touched by the setting sun. Other less common colors include red, green, blue, violet and black. Ranging from transparent to opaque, the finest amber is clear with little or no cloudiness. Largest amber deposits are found in the Baltic Sea region. The level of succinic acid contained in the amber determines its quality. Amber from the Baltic Sea region contains the highest level of succinic acid and therefore is considered the highest quality amber. For the Greeks, amber is known as electron, which is also the origin of the word electricity. To modern society, amber is believed to have come from the Arabic word for ambergris. Ambergris, in turn, is a waxy substance found in the intestines of sperm whales. People have collected, traded, carved and coveted amber for more than 10,000 years, Yet despite our fascination with it, much about the smoky yellow stone -- the history of amber -- remains a mystery. Amber has varied uses and relevance to a number of areas such as: • Science: Geologists and paleontologists find use in amber because it presents proof of prehistoric life in the form of fossils and amber has been proven to be in existence during prehistoric times. Since ancient insects get trapped in amber, botanists and entomologists find use for this special mineral. • Art: writers find amber a good source of inspiration for their varied works. Jewelers and gemologists find this mineral a valuable piece of stone for its unique characteristics and beauty. Amber has been used and incorporated into bracelets, necklaces, earrings, pendants, brooches, cuff-links, rings and even teething rings for the children. • Magic: some believe that amber has magical powers especially the green and red varieties. It can also be used an amulet or charm, which could repel evils. Some claim it can even provide protection against poisons. Amber jewellery is said to help one be happier. The cheery yellow stone is believed to lighten the burdens of life. Healers say that amber activates our altruistic nature and helps us to realize the full power of our spiritual intellect.   Top

Amethyst       Amethyst has a vibrant purple color that is unique from any other gem stone. It is sometimes called a violet gemstone. It is thought to protect the bearer from possible seduction. For so many years, amethyst served as the most popular representative of the quartz gem family. Moses described this gem as the "Spirit of God", which is why it is mostly seen in the robes of High Priests and Empresses. It is often thought of as a royal stone. Amethyst is one of the top picks of women because of its simpleness and beauty. Amethyst is purple quartz. Citrine is yellow quartz; Rose quartz is pink quartz. This is also known as a very hard stone with a score of 7. Index of refraction is 1.544 to 1.553. There are plenty of sources of these crystals, including India, Brazil, Canada, Russia, USA and Sri Lanka. Amethyst is generally known as the birthstone of February. It's known to bring a lot of luck for those who are Pisceans or born at the month of February, as this is their gemstone. The word Amethyst comes from the Greek word "amethystos" meaning "remedy against drunkenness". Much of the folklore on Amethyst is a result of this meaning. It implies that when you wear amethyst, you are allowing positive vibrations into your life. It is thought that it may help you control your emotions. The origin of amethyst comes from the Greeks. Dionysus, the god of intoxication, was angered one day by an insult from a mortal and swore revenge on the next mortal he encountered. After, creating tigers to carry out his wish, unsuspecting Amethyst, a beautiful young maiden on her way to pay tribute to the goddess Diana appeared. But Diana turned Amethyst into a stature of pure crystalline quartz to protect her from Dionysus' tigers. At the sight of the beautiful statue, Dionysus is said to have wept tears of wine, staining the quartz purple and creating the gem amethyst. The pinkish lavender shade is called "Rose de France". It must be purple to be an amethyst. It is used as a dream stone and to help insomnia. Put an amethyst under your pillow to bring about pleasant dreams, or rub it across your forehead to offer relief from a headache. The healing power of the stone is said to be good for addictions, helping with arthritis, headaches, blood sugar levels, brain imbalances and a remedy for stomach disorders.   Top

Aquamarine       Aquamarine is March's birthstone and is a beautiful, medium priced, light blue or blue-green stone. It sparkles and shines so wonderfully that is it often made into an aquamarine engagement ring. Though this gemstone is wonderful in any setting, we found that aquamarine rings, aquamarine pendants and aquamarine earrings are the most popular aquamarine jewellery. The word Aquamarine is derived from the Latin words "aqua marina" which means "sea water" reflecting the color of the crystals. A transparent, pale green variety of beryl is often used as a gemstone. The beautiful Aquamarine is semi-precious, a light greenish blue to a vibrant blue variety of the species beryl, which makes it a relative of the Emerald. Aquamarine gemstones are available to you a choice of two qualities of faceted aquamarines. In both qualities the gemstones is eye clean with good cuts. AA quality consists of light to medium tone stones and our AAA quality has a medium to medium dark tone. Aquamarine is sturdier and larger carat weights can be found because when it is mined the crystals can be kept in relatively big pieces. Aquamarines can be found in several places on the globe, from Colorado in the United States to Brazil and several African countries. One well-formed crystal found in Brazil in 1920 weighed 243 pounds. It was 19 by 16 inches, greenish on the outside, blue on the inside and so transparent that objects were clearly visible through its length. Aquamarine is very durable and well suited for jewellery. It is not as costly as these gems and may be easier to find. In aquamarine jewellery, the darker the stone is the more money it is worth. Some women choose the lighter versions of aquamarine for a specific reason, however and that is because they are an excellent substitute for diamonds in jewellery like engagement rings and stud earrings. The ease of cutting the rough stone makes it highly desirable for jewellery designers. Many prefer the 'white' metals white gold, platinum and sterling silver as being more complimentary with the stone's color. This is the stone to help you be in touch with your spiritual being. This stone is used in deep meditations. Aquamarine is said to have a soothing influence on married couples. Aquamarine also protects against the wiles of the devil. In ancient times, the stone was said to aid seafarers; thus it is an excellent gift suggestion for sailors or one who takes frequent cruises. A dream of aquamarine means that you will meet new friends. Aquamarine is associated with the thymus gland. It is very soothing worn as a necklace. It will help reduce fluid retention. It has been used to calm the nerves.   Top

Aventurine       Aventurine, often called "poor man's Emerald" is a nice affordable stone. When it has inclusions, they appear to be sparkles. Extremely high quality aventurine (free from inclusions), can seem like emerald. It is wonderful for everyday wear as it is quite durable as well as pretty. Aventurine is a semi-precious stone that offers sparkle and beauty which is exquisite. Aventurine name is an Italian word means "a ventura" - "by chance". The word is insinuation of aventurine glass discovered in the 18th century. Its Moh's scale is of 6.5 hardness. It is derived from the semi-translucent to opaque grown glass with many small particles of chromic oxide and copper. Because of its several feldspars or quartz varieties it is streaked with particles of mica, hematite and other material, it is also known as Sunstone. This precious stone gives a glistening effect because of many shiny minerals and that is known as aventurescence. The stone is most commonly found in green colors, but the stone can be in orange, yellow, brown, blue or gray. The color depends on the kind of mineral is present in the stone. However, the stone can also be found in orange, blue, brown, yellow or gray. It is noticed that the stones have many healing powers. The gem stone is believed to be used as a stone of inner peace. It is used to calm down a troubled mind. The color dark green itself symbolizes meditations for posterity. Astrologers suggest this stone to increase confidence and gratitude and also for promoting positive attitude and emotional tranquility. The stone is also used for balancing the energies of males and females. The stone encourages initiative, strong ideals, stamina and ability to assert. It develops leadership qualities and people follow you, where you lead. These are the positive moon qualities and Aventurine will support these and will assist in taking your care and concern for others. It also elevates your spiritual vibrations, the crystal works rapidly and it works well with your impatient moon as well. For the people with sun shine as Aries, it is suggested to wear this semi precious stone to complete the unfinished work and encouraging leadership. It also assists in controlling anger and volatile situations, hence allowing you to make good decision. Green Aventurine is used for physical healing. It is worn over the ailing part of the body. And blue aventurine is used to improve circulation of blood. For business: people wear it in ring and some place it in cash register to enhance daily taking from the retail business. Aventurine is the best semi precious stone for luck of all kinds; including gambling luck, it has various names, such as "gambler's stone" and "Indian Jade" and with its reputation as a lucky charmer, is very popular with gamblers. To put it in nut shell, Aventurine promotes mind clarity and self confidence, reinforces decisiveness and intensifies leadership qualities. Aventurine helps to focus and find creative solutions when you are overwhelmed by problems.   Top

Bloodstone       Bloodstone gemstone is unique and beautiful. It is often used in contemporary jewellery designs. Bloodstone is also known as green jasper and it comes with blood red spots and therefore it is named as Bloodstone. The red spots come from the iron oxide deposits in the stone. In ancient times it was used for carvings and was favorite of Christian martyrs. A German Emperors seal carved in bloodstone is on display at the Louvre museum in Paris. The stone is affordable and available to common man, hence widely used in jewellery articles like pendants, rings and earrings. It is used in men's ring and is combined with other gemstone to give an individual identity. The color green looks beautiful with gold, platinum and silver. Bloodstone makes a very attractive gift, as there are many benefits of it. It is also a cheaper option for gifting. Proper care taken of the gemstone can help us to reap better benefits from it. Citing to ancient and traditional astrology, bloodstone is considered to have healing powers like curing hemorrhages and blood circulation problems. The powder of bloodstone is used for medical purposes in India and all over the world. In Egypt and other civilizations bloodstone was considered a supernatural object which was used to defeat enemies. The stone is commonly renowned for increasing strength and power and healing for sports injuries and joint problems. Ayurvedic healing concentrates on five elements of life- earth, water, fire, air and space. Bloodstone contains the power of fire and earth hence considered a very powerful stone in Ayurvedic astrology. Bloodstone gives an illusion of a red sun setting in the sea which looks beautiful. The stone also provide a claming effect to the nerves and can cure discomfort and uneasiness. Bloodstone is useful in blood pressure problems. Astrologers suggest wearing bloodstone embedded in silver with Rudraksha to heal blood pressure. It helps in strengthening blood purifying organs in the body. It also relieves stomach pain and bowel pain. Bloodstone is a magical stone; it also relives animal pains like improving falling eyesight, lung congestion, spleen disorder, bladder, kidney, neutralizing body toxins and many more. Bloodstone is believed to have great magical and protective properties, possessing the ability to throw out evil, keep out unfavorable influences and scatter negativity. As its name suggests, Bloodstone is an excellent blood cleanser.   Top

Carnelian       Carnelian is a reddish-brown mineral which is commonly used as a semi-precious gemstone. Sard too is similar to Carnelian but is harder and darker. Both these terms are used interchangeably. Carnelian and sard are varieties of the silica mineral chalcedony colored by impurities of iron oxide. The colors can vary from pale orange to intense black. It belongs to chalcedony gem family and could be opaque to translucent. The hardness on Moh's scale is seven plus which means it is a hard gem. The stone can be found in many shapes but the commonly found shape is oval shape. The stone is mined from USA, Madagascar, Russia, Brazil and Australia among many other countries. The name has been derived from a Latin word meaning HORN, as it sometimes shows the appearance of flesh. Carnelian was widely used in the Roman era, where it was popularly used for making seal rings and signets for imprinting seals with wax for important documents and correspondences. It was used for this purpose because wax does not stick on carnelian seals. Anyone wearing the carnelian stone needs to take due care of it. The stone changes color from brown to reddish when placed or contacts with direct sunlight. Hence, the stone should not be placed or exposed to prolong sunlight. In the list of birthstones, it resembles the month of August. The stone is mentioned in the ancient astrology of Hebrew, Arabic and Italian. It was believed that the stone brings good luck, good fortune and is connected to religious resources. The gem is popularly used in Indian and vintage jewellery, as it matches well with other gems and metals. It matches well with citrine and have a great healing impact. It is said that it helps in healing mental and physical tensions and is being used as alternative medicine. The stone is having some holistic properties, like an ability to change an individual's outlook in life. It also assists in healing the wounds and cleansing of blood. It is also said that it holds power afterlife. Carnelian is used for targeting your body's system: it motivates your circulatory system, kidneys, hunger, emotions and sexuality. It grants confidence, assertiveness and an unstoppable drive to succeed.   Top

Chrysoprase       Chrysoprase or chrysophrase is a gemstone, variety of chalcedony that contains small quantities of nickel. It is a beautiful green stone which varies from a pale green to apple green and on to a darker, deeper green color. The word chrysoprase comes from the Greek chrysos means 'gold' and prason, means 'leek'. It is one of the highly prized members of chalcedony mineral group. Rather unusual, Chrysoprase gets its color from very small amounts of nickel. Other stones like emerald, gets their color from mixing chromium in it. Other rock crystal such as amethysts is transparent, whereas this gem is normally semi-transparent. Chrysoprase has a hardness rating of 7, on the Moh's scale and a gravity of 2.65 to 2.66. It is found in beads and cut form. It contains Cryptocrystalline, which means that it is composed of crystals which are so fine that they cannot be seen under normal magnification as distinct particles. Like other gemstones, it is found with poor color quality, flaws, inclusions but what we see in gemstone jewellery is an apple green or deeper green with no flaws of any kind. It is used as the birthstone for May month and for Gemini' or Libra. These stones have metaphysical properties like compassion, acceptance and grace. The stone is said to increase fertility, increase energy levels and is accepted as a soothing stone. It calms over excitement, takes the heat out of situations and inspires tolerance. It is also used for Spiritual protection. Ancient historians believe that it helps in improving eyesight. It is found in Queensland, Australia and some parts of Austria, Brazil and others. It is found embedded in serpentine rock. It is marketed as "Australian Imperial Jade". Chrysoprase had its medical usability, as it contains high alkalinity. Astrologers link this stone with planet Mercury and Venus. Greek Sailors used to wear amulets of it to prevent drowning. If someone was lost and could not be found, the stone was blamed for it.   Top

Citrine       Citrine, is the most valuable gem of quartz family. It is also commonly dubbed as a gold topaz. Over the years, citrine has taken over topaz in both its name and use. As topaz is a superior gem as to citrine. Topaz is too expense for general purpose. Citrine banks on that difference and had become first preference over topaz. Except a similarity of color, there is no other similarity in the real topaz and citrine. Citrine name is derived from its color, it is commonly found in yellow color beads. In an old French word "Citrin" means yellow and the stone is found in lemon yellow color. Citrine could last forever if proper care is taken in a right way. It should be protected from possible scratch situations. It is very important that the citrine is not left in the sun or any such situations, like sunbathing where it is exposed to prolonged sunlight. As it is a heat sensitive stone, it will change its color or fades into lighter color. The stone can be used in any commercial jewellery and can be cleaned by plain soap and warm water with soft brush. Make sure that it is rinsed properly and dry after through cleaning. The stone can be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner, but steam cleaning is not recommended for it. As citrine is replaced by topaz, there are many names given to it like gold topaz, madiera topaz, citrine topaz and Brazilian Topaz. Citrine and topaz share the role of being a birthstone for November month. Of course citrine is secondary to topaz. Citrine is believed to be a stone for boosting self-esteem, self-confidence, treat anxiety feeling and depression. The powers are connected to the 3rd chakra. The chakra is located below the navel area and is responsible for personal well-being and personality formation. These stones are believed to help people in handling negative attitude in a better way and also deal with pressure while dealing with finances, anxieties and fear. The stone improves the functions of circulatory systems, digestive system, urinary problems, resulting in good health and preventing from ailments occurring due to body toxins. It also helps in improving emotional stability and body conditions etc., i.e. routine wear and tear. The stone gives people peace of mind and relaxation and helping then to cure restlessness, insomnia and emotional unrest.   Top

Coral       Coral mined from the oceans. It grows underwater. Coral is used to create beautiful earrings, brooches and pendants. Though coral rings are popular, be aware that coral scratches easily. Red coral jewellery is often dyed; white coral jewellery is usually bleached. Pearls, Corals and Jet are known as organic gems because they normally grow in the water. While they can be found in other habitats these gems are more at home in the oceans and lakes of the world. Pearl diving has been around for thousands of years with divers bringing clams and other sea mollusks up from the depths of the oceans in order to search them for pearls. Coral is sometimes described as a sea plant with flowers but no roots. In 1723 the French biologist, G.A. Peyssonal researched and brought the mystery of corals to light. He surmised that coral colonies were made up of exoskeletal polyps. These polyps come from minute, small animals that create dendritic forms from calcite that is dissolved in sea water. It is from these forms that coral begins to grow and flourish. The habitat has to be just right. The water needs to be warm and, as a rule, about 10 to 45 feet deep. Some coral can be found at deeper levels but it is rare. It grows in branches that look like underwater trees. Colors of coral range from white to red and sometimes pink and white. The most valuable coral are red, black and pink and is created by coelenterate species. Most coral is quite soft and, therefore, needs to be handled carefully. Corallium rubrum is a red coral that forms tree-shaped colonies. Its' color is caused by a red calcium carbonate skeleton almost 20 inches (50 centimeters) tall. Hard rods are embedded in the outer part of its body. They also have feeding tubes or tentacles that can be drawn into the tissue. Other non-feeding tubes serve as sex organs. Red coral can be found in the Mediterranean and in the Atlantic Ocean coastal regions of Portugal and Northern Africa. Other types of coral can be found all over the world, including the Great Barrier Reef of the east coast of Australia. Red coral is one of the coral species that is not on the endangered list of plant and animal life. Most coral, because of their associations with the reefs hold a prominent place on the endangered list. The red hues of coral have always been prized gems of artisans and craftsman. Coral jewellery has a long history and is still made and worn in many parts of the world. Ancient civilizations used coral to make an ornament and then, very often, used gold to accent the piece. Coral has a secure place among ancient gems. In fact coral jewellery has been utilized since prehistoric times. Coral jewellery has been found from the Iron Age. Coral along with other gemstones holds a significant status in religious history. Ancient Phoenicians, Egyptians and Romans all used coral as method of currency and trade. Some societies believed that ships needed to have coral on board as a defense against lightning. The gem was also supposed to drive hatred out of a home.   Top

Emerald       Emerald is May's birthstone and is a beautiful green, well-loved stone. It is used in rings, necklaces, pendants and bracelets. It is a wonderful birthday gift. "Indeed there is no stone, the colour of which is more delightful to the eye; for whereas the sight fixes itself with avidity upon the green grass and the foliage of the trees, we have all the more pleasure in looking upon the smaragds, there being no green in existence of a more intense colour than this. And then, besides, of all the precious stones, this is the only one that feeds the sight without satiating it. Even when the vision has been fatigued with intently viewing other objects, it is refreshed by being turned upon this stone; and lapidaries know of nothing that is more gratefully soothing to the eyes, its soft green tints being wonderfully adapted for assuaging lassitude, when felt in those organs" The dictionary definition of an emerald is: 1. a rare variety of the mineral beryl that is green because of its chromium content and is valued as a gem. 2. clear, deep green. The colour intensity of an emerald depends on the chromium quantities. May time Grass is considered to be the most beautiful. An emerald is one of the few stones that actually will shine in the dark when a small amount of light appears in the room. The colour occurs when the geochemical makeup of beryllium and chromium are found together. The combination is not easily found and considered to be a rare phenomenon. Natural chemical processes are what really form the stones. Emeralds are hard but are sensitive and prey to flaws or inclusions. They require a lot more care than most other gemstones. The flaws occur through the trials imposed by nature and sometimes the engineering process developed by man. The identification of fissures, however, does serve a useful purpose. The flaws help to weed out artificial emeralds from the real ones. Inclusions actually prove an emeralds authenticity. Refraction and density of the stones vary from the location where they are found. Emeralds are found buried in their parent rock. Today, some of the finest emeralds can be found in South America. They can be found in other parts of the world with the most important sites being in Africa, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Madagascar. The Mines of Cleopatra were the earliest emerald mines on earth. There was emerald mining as early as 2000 B.C. These early mines were abandoned in 1750, briefly revived and then finally left to nature in the 1920's. Authentic emeralds are very expensive and not available to the casual collector. However, with today's technology scientists can make lab-created emeralds that can be sold at affordable prices on the open market. They are made by exposing thin slices of natural beryl to a chemical mixture that is akin to an authentic emerald. The mixture is one of pure filtered water and acids. Then it is put under intense heat in saline solution. Then the stone slices cool until crystal forms and it reaches a gem like thickness. When this process is complete it can be cut and processed like a gem.   Top

Garnet       Garnet is a January's birthstone. It is beautiful in rings, pendants, necklaces and bracelets. It is much less expensive than pink tourmaline or ruby. Garnet ranges in color from colorless to black though it is often thought of as only red. There are various types of garnet with the hardness ranging from 7 - 7.5. Clean garnet with a dry soft cloth. As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches, sharp blows, harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Garnet is found in Africa, Brazil, Canada, India, Madagascar, Sri Lanka and the USA (Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Utah and Virginia). Garnet is the January Modern and Traditional Birthstone. Garnet is the anniversary gemstone for the 2nd and the 6th year of marriage. Garnet is used as a power stone. Garnet is given as a symbol of: consistency, perseverance and good health. According to legend, Garnet gives its wearer guidance in night travel, protects them from night mares, promotes long-lasting love and prevents depression and h hearing difficulties.   Top

Jade       Jade is usually carved to bring out its beauty. It is most often used in pendants and statues. There are two types of Jade: Jadeite and Nephrite. Jadeite is rarer and the highest quality is known as imperial Jade. Jadeite comes in many colors: red, yellow, green, lilac, black, orange, white, pink, blue and brown. Jadeite has a hardness of 7. Nephrite Jade is more common and is often used in chinese carvings. Nephrite Jade comes in various tones of green -- mostly with an olive green tone. It has a hardness of 6.5. Be aware that Serpentine is often sold as Jade. Reputable dealers will not use the following misleading terms. However, for your protection, I am listing them here: "Amazon jade" and "Colorado Jade" is really Amazonite (green feldspar). "American jade" is really the Californite (green variety of idocrase). "Imperial mexican jade" and "mexican jade" are really green-dyed calcite. "Indian jade" is really aventurine. "Korea jade" and "New jade" are really Serpentine. Jadeite is from Myanmar, Japan and USA (Alaska and California). Nephrite Jade is from Myanmar, Russia, China and USA (Wyoming). Jade is the anniversary gemstone for the 12th, 30th and 35th year of marriage. Jade is said to help one relax. It is considered a very balanced stone -- it helps one in both the vision of tasks to do as well as doing the actual tasks. Jade has been thought of as the concentrated essence of love. In China, jade is regarded as a special stone. It is believed that when handled some of the secret virtue of the substance is absorbed into the body. Legends have it that the Spanish conquers of Central America wore amulets of Jadeite to prevent/cure hip and kidney complaints. Jade is the US State Gemstone of Alaska and Wyoming. It is the Canadian State Gemstone of British Columbia.   Top

Jasper       Jasper is a very pretty, inexpensive earthstone. It is usually worn as beads or cabochons Jasper comes in red, brown, green, grayish-blue and yellow. Often jasper is multi-colored. Jasper has a hardness rating of 7. The polish on Jasper will often be washed away in water. Clean with a soft dry cloth. Jasper is often sealed with petroleum products. Jasper is found in France, Germany, India, Russia, Venezuela and USA (Arizona, California, Utah and Wyoming). Leopardskin Jasper is said to bring one what they need; Poppy Jasper is said to help bring joy into life. Opalite Jasper is said to help one sleep. Jasper was thought to drive away evil spirits and protect against snake and spider bites. Jasper was known as the great "rain-bringer" in the fourth century. Jasper is the US State Rock of Massachusetts.   Top

Kunzite       Kunzite is lilac-pink Spodumene. It is beautiful in rings, necklaces and pendants. Kunzite is lilac-pink Spodumene. It's color is a result of manganese. It has a hardness of Kunzite is often irradiated to enhance color. Kunzite is especially fragile due to its crystalline structure. Protect kunzite from scratches and sharp blows. Also avoid large temperature changes (such as leaving it be a heater vent or in a hot car). Do not clean kunzite in a home ultrasonic cleaner. Kunzite will fade when exposed to sunlight over time. Kunzite is found in Africa, Brazil, Canada, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar, Sweden and USA (California). Pink Kunzite promotes emotional support. It helps keep the mind and emotions in sync. Kunzite was discovered in 1877. It was named after G. F. Kunz in 1902. Depending on the direction one is viewing kunzite, it will appear as different colors. It will be clear from one direction and pink from the other. As a result, it needs to be cut carefully so that the pink will show through the table facet. Kunzite is known as the US patriotic stone of September.   Top

Lapis Lazuli       Lapis is a beautiful royal blue stone often associated with royalty. It is most often seen as a necklace of beads or carved pendants. Lapis Lazuli is dark blue possibly with white spots of calcite. It often has specks of pyrite which look like gold. Lapis Lazuli has a hardness rating of 5.5. Lapis Lazuli is often dyed to improve its color. Pierre Gilson Lapis is one of the better imitations. Lapis has been imitated by dyed Jasper and by paste with inclusions of copper. Lapis Lazuli can easily be scratched or chipped. Water will dissolve it's protective coatings. Lapis Lazuli is found in Afghanistan, Argentina, Canada, Chile and the US. Lapis is known as the December Traditional Birthstone. Lapis Lazuli is the anniversary gemstone for the 7th and 9th year of marriage. It is said that Lapis helps one understand the mind. It helps to expand your viewpoint. It is good for connecting the heart and the mind when worn over the heart. Lapis was prized in both Babylonia and Egypt and often worn by royalty. Legend has it that Lapis Lazuli would protect the wearer from evil. Lapis was a cure for melancholy and for certain types of fever.   Top

Malachite       Malachite is a beautiful green earth stone with black bands. It is beautiful in earrings, necklaces and pendants. Malachite is green with irregular black banding. It has a hardness of 4. Malachite is especially fragile. Protect malachite from scratches and sharp blows. Also avoid large temperature changes (such as leaving it be a heater vent or in a hot car). Do not clean malachite in a home ultrasonic cleaner. Washing malachite in water will remove its finish. Malachite is always coated with a protective polish. This polish will wash off. Imitation malachite has very regular black or white banding. Malachite is found most everywhere. However, the most important mine is in Zaire. Malachite is the anniversary gemstone for the 13th year of marriage. Malachite is said to bring harmony into one's life. It is said that malachite gives knowledge and patience. Malachite was used as a children's talisman to ward off danger and illness. It is attached to infant's cradles. Mining Malachite began as early as 4000 BC by ancient Egyptians.   Top

Moonstone       Moonstone is a translucent stone that has a shimmering effect called adularescence. It is often worn in rings, pendants or bead necklaces. Moonstone comes in colorless, white, yellow, orange and gray. It always has a white or blue sheen. That is, moonstone reflects light in a distinctive shimmering phenomenon known as adularescence. Moonstone has a hardness of 6. Moonstone can be easily scratched. Moonstone is found in Brazil, European Alps, India, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and USA (Pennsylvania and Virginia). Sri Lanka has the highest quality moonstones. Moonstone is the June Modern and Mystical Birthstone Moonstone is said to balance yin/yang. In India, moonstone is regarded as a sacred stone. It is believed to bring good fortune. Legend says that Moonstone is a highly prized gift for lovers as it arouses tender passion. Moonstone is the US State Gemstone of Florida and New York.   Top

Obsidian       Obsidian is natural glass. It is beautiful and jet black. Snowflake obsidian is gray and black; mahogany obsidian is brown and black. All three varieties make wonderful jewellery. Obsidian has been used for jewellery, mirrors, tools and more for hundreds of years. Obsidian is natural glass formed by volcanic lava that cooled too quickly. It is generally black. Other obsidian colors include: brown, gray, red, blue and green. If there are bubbles or crystal inclusions, it has white or gray marks and is often named snowflake obsidian. Some obsidian has iridescence: flashes of color. Obsidian has a hardness rating of 5. Obsidian is fairly fragile. treat obsidian carefully as sharp blows will cause it to crack. Obsidian is most often found in Hawaii, Japan and Java. However, it can be found in all areas with volcanic activity. Apache tears are dark obsidian pieces found in Arizona and New Mexico. It is said that gemstone healers use obsidian to get clearer insight into problems. In ancient times, obsidian was used as mirrors. Sharp shards of obsidian were formed into arrowheads.   Top

Onyx       Onyx is a rich-looking, affordable black stone. It is often mixed with pearls to create elegant jewellery. Onyx, sard and sardonyx are all varieties of chalcedony (microcrystaline quartz). Onyx comes in brown, white, grey and black. Sard is a reddish-brown variety. Sardonyx is a blend of sard and onyx with the red bands of sard and the white bands of onyx. Onyx, Sard and Sardonyx all have a hardness rating of 7. Onyx is very similar to agate. Onyx has straight bands of brown, white or black; agate has curved lines of many colors. Since ancient times, Onyx has been dyed to improve it's color. Often treated agate is sold as Black Onyx. Onyx may chip or scratch rather easily. Onyx is found worldwide. Onyx is the anniversary gemstone for the 7th year of marriage. Black Onyx is the anniversary gemstone for the 10th year of marriage. Black Onyx is used to help one change habits. Mexican Onyx (white and brown chalcedony) is said to help one sleep. Sard (reddish brown chalcedony) was regarded as a protection against incantations and sorcery. It was also believed to sharpen the wits of the wearer.   Top

Opal       Opal is October's birthstone and is an elegant sparkling gemstone. Opal is a soft gemstone so wearing it in pendants, necklaces and earrings is ideal. The fabulous fire of an opal has made this stone a favorite of many. There is the precious opal, the common opal, the fire opal, the Peruvian opal and then, of course, there is the synthetic opal. The Sanskrit language knew the stone as upala, while the Greek variation is opallios while the Latin world for opal is opalus. All of the different word origins refer to the special nature of the opal. The Sanskrit word literally means "precious stone" and the Greek and the Roman meanings have a shared outcome. They called the opal "precious stone". There are a lot of different trade names for opals, but the most recognized and widely used is the precious and common opal. Even though the opal is brittle and can break quite easily and is prey to scratches and heat it remains high on the list of gemstone collectors. The reason is that opals are truly beautiful. Its. beauty fascinated earlier cultures. Some even believed it fell from heaven. The birthstone of October is the opal and in the 19th century those who were superstitious believed that only those born in that month should wear opals. Anyone else wearing one was supposed to have run the risk of having bad luck or running into a dire fate. An opal is actually what is known as a mineraloid, a shapeless gel with silicium dioxide that was deposited at a low temperature in crevices and fissures of all different types of rock. The most common types of rock where they were deposited are limonite, sandstone, rhyolite and basalt. It can also form original fossils or replace fossils that have already been formed and collectors find this phenomenon very interesting. Opals are relatively young gems and they are so fragile they could never have survived early geological upheavals that produced other types of stones. Opals did occur in volcanic masses of calcite that filled the veins in lava rock. Hot, briny gel like mixtures would rise up to the surface from the volcano which decomposed the calcite. What was left behind was colloidal silica and this along with water later produced opals. The precious opal has a unique internal structure. It is made up of spheres that are closely packed in layers that eventually form something that looks like a four-sided triangle or a hexagon. They are made up of silica that allows light to pass through the structure like a prism to produce internal colors and it also determines the quality of the stone. A precious opal has a doublet which is a colorful material laid on a black backing of ironstone, basalt or obsidian. This causes "a play of color" which produces a spectrum of different colors. The common opal is quite a departure from the precious opal. There are several different types of common opals: the milk opal, opals with blue and green tints, resin opal and a wood opal. There are also opals that can be found around hot springs and geysers. They are a clear glass opal made up of geyserite. There are other varieties of opals most notably the fire opal and Peruvian opal. Mexico and Mesoamerica is the chief source of the fire opal. They come from the Mexican high country where they can be found in rock surrounding extinct volcanoes. It is extracted from open-pit mines in the canyons and valleys there. It should be noted that more durable fire opals are found in drier region. The drier the region the more durable the opal will be. While Mexico produces the most fire opals they can be found in Honduras, Ethiopia, United States, Australia, Canada, Turkey and areas in former Russian states. The Opal is the national gemstone of Australia. The state of Nevada in the United States honors the black opal as its' state gem stone. The black opal is found in Humboldt County, Nevada.   Top

Pearl       Pearl is one of June's birthstones. A classic pearl necklace and/or pearl earrings are one of the most loved gifts one can give. People seem to radiate when wearing pearl jewellery. Pearl -- The Heart of Purity and Wisdom Nathaniel Hawthorne in his epic story, The Scarlet Letter called the innocent little girl portrayed in the story, Pearl. It was a sign of purity and virtue and he exemplified those traits in the character. The members of the Mormon Church revere one of their texts: The Pearl of Great Price---as one source of the words of wisdom that they live by. The name Margaret and variations of it have connections with the Pearl. Most people equate precious stones with open pit mines or ancient river beds or some other type of mining. Usually precious stones are found as a result of ancient lava flows and millions of years weathering processes. However, there are other habitats that produce some of the world's finest gems. They spawn in the oceans and in some cases freshwater streams and lakes all over the planet. Pearls, coral and jet are organic gems. The pearl has been found all the way from Asia to some of the rivers and water sources in the United States. It was the Native Americans living along the eastern seaboard of the United States along with tribes around the Mississippi River Basin who were the first Americans to start collecting pearls. Pearls are unique in that they can be found in both freshwater and saltwater. The stones were highly prized by the Native Americans who used them for decorative purposes, while some tribes used the pearl as a form of currency. It is reported that the father of Pocahontas received pearls as tribute and it is said that he had a tendency to hoard them. Since pearls are found in mollusks that can be found in both saltwater and freshwater habitats they are quite plentiful. Pearl production started in the United States in New Jersey around 1850, although there were other smaller enterprises in operation prior to that time such as the Native American enterprises. The pearl is produced by mollusks which have a nacreous lining. This lining is better known as "mother of pearl". Mollusks are invertebrate animals with soft, unsegmented bodies, such as clams and snails, usually enclosed in a calcium shell. They are any of numerous chiefly marine invertebrates of the phylum Mollusca. Mollusks can occur in habitats ranging from the deep sea to high mountains. There are eight main classes of mollusks: Gastropoda (snails), Bivalvia (clams, oysters and scallops), Pelecypoda (fossilized bivalves), Cephalopoda (octopus and squid), Scaphopoda (tusk shells), Aplacophora (no shell invertebrates), Caudofoveata (scaly with calcareous spines), Polyplacophora (chitons) and Monoplacophora (ancient fossil shells). Some mollusks can also be utilized as a food source, as well a source that is used in jewellery and decorative items Pearl is actually made up of layers and layers of Mother of Pearl which gives it an onion like appearance. Aragonite microcrystals are meshed together by horny substance known as Conchiolin which is a protein substance that is the organic basis of mollusk shells. The crystals that manifest in the production of the pearl overlap and results in a roughness that authenticates it. One way it is actually identified is by rubbing it across the teeth. To be an authentic pearl the surface has to be irregular. It if doesn't have a rough surface then the pearl is not genuine. There is a wide color spectrum among pearls. The general color of a pearl is also called the body color. The color is produced by light interference known as the color "orient" and can be semitransparent to opaque. Orient refers to colors that seem to move around as the gem is turned. Pearls can be white, silver, cream-colored, gold, green, blue, or even black. The color is synonymous with the type oyster or mollusk from which it originated. Various types of oysters will sometimes produce different hues and water and implants will also make a significant difference in the color. Some pearls have overtones and some don't. An overtone is a color that lays over the body color and sometimes adds a depth to the piece that might not otherwise be there. There are two types of pearls available on the gem market: Natural pearls and cultured pearls. Natural Pearl - A natural pearl is one that forms in nature with no human intervention. Natural pearls are nearly 100% Mother of Pearl (nacre). Pearls formed under natural conditions manifest because tiny parasites or intruders invade bivalve mollusks. Then the mollusk attempts to fight it off in self-defense by ejecting nacre many times to cover up the intruder and this produces a natural pearl. Round pearls are rare, but pearls in other shapes are more plentiful. Cultured Pearl - The cultured pearl is produced through the intentional, human introduction of foreign objects into the shell of a mollusk. Baby oysters are usually used for the culturing process. They are placed in plastic cages in protected water for 3 years. A piece of the oyster called .mantle tissue. along with a bead of nacre is pre-formed and then placed inside the oyster itself. This then produces nacre around the bead. Then they are placed in the sea for 3 more years when the pearls can finally be removed. There is also a large market for imitation pearls. Some of them are of high quality like the ones from Majorca and other cheaper ones that made out of either plastic or glass.   Top

Peridot       Peridot is August's birthstone and is a beautiful olive green stone. It is much less expensive than green tourmaline. It is worn in necklaces, earrings, pendants and bracelets. Peridot is a transparent lime or olive green. It has a hardness of 6.5. As with all gems, protect peridot from scratches and sharp blows. Also avoid large temperature changes (such as leaving it be a heater vent or in a hot car). Do not clean peridot in a home ultrasonic cleaner. Peridot is found in Australia, Brazil, China, Egypt, Myanmar, Norway and USA (Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii and New Mexico). Peridot is the August Modern Birthstone Peridot is the anniversary gemstone for the 16th year of marriage. Peridot is used to help dreams become a reality. Peridot is given as a symbol of fame, dignity and protection. Legend has it that pirates favored peridot to protect them against evil. When the peridot was set in gold it also protected the wearer from terrors in the night. Peridot has been mined from St John's Island in the Red Sea for over 3500 years. Peridot is the created during volcanic action. Occasionally, Peridot crystals are found on the black sands of Hawaii. Peridot is the US State Gemstone of Nevada.   Top

Quartz       Quartz is a simple clear stone often worn as a crystal pendant. It is the very popular in new age stores and alternative healing shops. Quartz is colorless and transparent. It is also known as "Rock Crystal". Other colors of quartz have special names such as: Rose Quartz, Citrine and Amethyst. It has a hardness of 7. Quartz will chip and crack rather easily. Brown quartz is often referred to as Smokey Quartz. Smokey Quartz is often irradiated clear quartz. Smokey Quartz will fade in the sun. Quartz is found in Brazil, Madagascar, USA (Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina and West Virginia) and former USSR. Though not meant to replace traditional medical treatment, Quartz is used for balance and to increase energy. Clear quartz formed into crystal balls have been used to predict the future since the middle ages. The name "quartz" comes from the Greek word krustallos, meaning ice, because it was thought that quartz was ice formed by the gods. Quartz is the US State Gemstone of Georgia. Quartz is the US State Mineral of Arkansas.   Top

Rose Quartz       Rose quartz is a pink stone often worn as crystal pendants or bead necklaces. It is simple, inexpensive jewellery that goes with everything. Pink or peach-colored quartz is called Rose Quartz. It has a hardness of 7. Rose Quartz will chip and crack rather easily. Rose Quartz fades in the sun; most Rose Quartz is dyed. Rose Quartz is found in Brazil, Madagascar, Scotland, Spain and USA (Colorado, Connecticut, Maine and New York). Rose Quartz is the anniversary gemstone for the 2nd year of marriage. Though not meant to replace traditional medical treatment, Rose Quartz is used to balance ones emotions and open the heart. The star effect seen in some Rose Quartz cabochans and beads happen when rutile inclusions are present. Wiccans supposedly use Rose Quartz for forgiveness. Rose Quartz is the US State Gemstone of South Dakota.   Top

Ruby       The fiery red ruby has been known as "drop of the heart's blood of Mother Earth" and symbolizes the emotions of power and love. As such, it is sometimes used in diamond ruby engagement rings. Ancient ruby lovers from India called it "the lord of the gemstones". Those born in July precariously own the red fire because it is considered the birthstone for that month. According to birthstone enthusiasts the ruby stands for freedom, goodness, respect and dignity. No wonder the ancients fought to get their hands on one single ruby. The fight does still go on today. In the modern world the ruby hasn't lost its allure and its' fascination among retailers and collectors. In ancient cultures and even in some modern communities, it is believed that rubies have magical powers according to the richness of the light that emits from them. Changes in light and color may be a signal that foreshadows terrible events: if the stone darkness there is supposed to be an approach of evil. If the piece lightens up then the evil retreats. It comes from family of corundum gems and its closest cousin is the Sapphire. The ruby is a rare gem and the reason is because the chromium pigments that are embedded in the earth's crust are not very plentiful. Also, the chromium had to meet up with the element alumina at the exact moment that crystallization actually occurred. Without these two elemental factors the ruby might not sport a rich red color. In addition, other elements and natural processes played a role in ruby formation. Basalt marble, metamorphic rock and pegmatite are principal parts of the final product. The Mogok mine in Burma (modern day Myanmar) in the Far East is known for the location of the world's finest rubies. At Mogok gems are found connected to dolomite limestone marble that has been identified as crystalline schists that are 500 million years old. Crystallizing has to be in the right place at the right time for the chromium to come through a natural door and lay the red color inside the stone. The whole schedule has to be perfect. The infamous blood red rubies are most impressive when they are found attached to white marble. Most of the time rubies are connected to something else and very rarely turn up in their host rock. At Mogok the gems are found on the valley floor. There is a wonderful story about how the mine started. According to popular lore in the 15th century a Burmese king started getting words from thieves who were working out their sentences there. They claimed that they were finding beautiful red stones on the valley floor. At that time the valley didn't really belong to the Burmese king, so through a lot of negotiation with the Shan prince who did own it an exchange took place. The king traded a rather worthless piece of property for an absolute treasure trove. The Mogok and other mines in Burma were responsible for building the great fortunes of the rulers so secrecy surrounded mining operations. The area was off limits to outsiders and security was a major issue. The other major site in Burma has been the Hunza mine. The rubies found there have a large number of inclusions and often are found clinging to white dolomite marble. Stones found in Africa at Kilimanjaro and in North Vietnam share this commonality with rubies found at the Hunza mine. They are all embedded in dolomite marble and share the same mother rock. Following Myanmar, Thailand is most important as a ruby supplier. Rubies are found at this site close to the earth's surface. Stones lay only a few meters under the ground in basalt and according to experts they were derived from the erosion of ancient volcanoes. The rubies found in Thailand tend to be darker in color with tints and hues of purple and brown. While beautiful rubies can be found in Cambodia the raspberry red rubies have their home in Sri Lanka. Found near Ratnapura the lighter red color makes identification difficult because light red rubies can be mistaken for pink sapphires. In Tanzania in Africa transparent rubies can be found. Most of them are mined along the Umba River. At Longido, a site of an extinct volcano, smaller rubies are found which can be used as ornaments in the production of jewellery. jewellery manufacturers use them to adorn metals like gold that is used in the final phases of production. Most rubies have a similar appearance externally, but on the inside the inclusions and trace elements are different. Pure rubies, with rare inclusions or have a total absence of them are difficult to find. Almost all rubies retain small amounts of foreign crystals inside them and it is assumed that these crystals formed at the same time as "rutile needles". These needles are formed by the intersection of the inclusions and their reaction to light. This light refraction forms a mirage of a star when it is cut. This phenomenon is known as an "asterism" and appears in both rubies and sapphires. Other inclusions are identified as liquid drops and are used to identify genuine rubies from those that artificially produced. Large ruby crystals are hardly ever found and when they are discovered elite oriental families usually end up with them and they are hidden away in dynastic vaults.   Top

Sapphire       Sapphire is September's birthstone and comes in every color except red (ruby). Blue is the most common color for sapphire gems. White sapphire is occasionally used as a diamond substitute. Sapphire tennis bracelets are beautiful and loved by many. There is more than one way to become a legend. It cousin, the ruby, is well-known because of its' brilliant red color and because man decided to equate it with their emotions as a symbol of love. But, there is more than one way to become a legend. History is full of legends that were quiet and less bombastic than some of their contemporaries. This is true of gemstones. The sapphire is legendary not because it appeals emotions, but it has an appeal that requires deeper meaning and understanding. It is quiet, it is calm. But its' effect is long lasting. Perhaps that is one reason why it is described in the book of Exodus in the Bible this way: "And they saw the God of Israel; and there was under his feet as it were a pavement of sapphire stone, like the very heaven for clearness" (Exodus 24: 9-10) Marbode of Rennes (1035-1123) said in his writings: Sapphire has an appearance Similar to the heavenly throne; It depicts the heart of simple men Waiting with sure hope, In whose life and ways The highest is pleased. The sapphire has traditionally been involved in the area of religious magic and it was believed that the owner of the stone could use it to harness psychic powers. It was and still is, the choice of high church officials and regents especially when their rings are mounted. There are several language origins for the word "sapphire". In Sanskrit it was known as "sauriratna" in honor of the planet Saturn. Ancient Chaldean references called it "sampir" while the Greeks had a modern translation, "sappheiros" which denoted the color blue. The Arabic translation was "safir" and the Latin texts call it "saphirus". The sapphire does share a lot in common with its' ruby relative, but there are some differences. First of all, the sapphire is must more widespread and more accessible. This is because sapphires originate in the earth's upper crust. The second difference is that it is blue and some natural processes have to occur that are a little different from rubies for a change in color. In some cases, however, early natural metamorphisms are identical to the ruby. They both come from the family of corundums and share the same attributes of light refraction, density and hardness. Both stones are derived from the same chemical crystallization of alumina. The sapphire comes in all shades of blue. The most sought after shade is Cornflower Blue Sapphire, the finest of all the sapphires. It is a gleaming blue gem with a touch of purple in it. The Royal Blue variety is velvety and the cobalt in it lets the viewer wonder how deep it really is. Marine Blue sapphires carry the color and dramatic tones of the oceans. Sapphires come in all different shades of blue. Titanium and Iron show up more in the rocks where sapphires are formed, however, they are formed differently all over the world. In Kashmir sapphires are formed in pegmatites which are veins made up of pegmatite. In the pegmatite formations that are the feeding ground for Kashmir sapphires there is an abundance of aluminum and boron. In the rock surrounding the formation there is iron and titanium present. In Australia, Cambodia and Thailand sapphires have developed over millions of years from rich deposits of molten carbonatite that has a lot of aluminum mixed with it. At first they were situated deep in the earth's crust where there was a presence of high pressure and extremely high temperatures. It was basalt volcanic activity that propelled them to the surface along with other minerals and finally they were laid to rest on the valley floors. In other parts of the world sapphires may have come from ancient formations that were once impure marble which developed over time through metamorphic conditions into crystalline cal silicates known as skarns. A skarn is a metamorphic rock that is usually variably colored green or red, occasionally grey, black, brown or white. It usually forms by chemical processes that form rocks during metamorphism and in the contact zone of magma like intrusions. Skarns in the igneous environment are associated with marble and wider zones of cal silicate rocks. Mixtures of corundum, titanium and iron were also a part of the crystallization process. Because of this process there are numerous inclusions in a sapphire and like the ruby, they are useful in verification techniques when authenticating the stone. Sapphires do twinkle. This is caused by the smaller, microscopic stones inside the primary gem that were created at the same time. This twinkling phenomenon is known as "silk" referring to its silky and silvery qualities. It appears as a star that seems to be imposed over a silk like background. Some of the most important occurrences of sapphires can be found in Sri Lanka, but sometimes access to them is difficult. Pit and river mining are the most used techniques in Sri Lanka, but is impeded because the country resists modernization. Other areas where sapphires can be found are Tanzania, Australia, Madagascar and Montana (USA). Honored as the stone of fidelity and chastity, some say it is a sign of peace and friendship, while ancient Romans and Egyptians felt it was a holy stone of truth and justice. Innocent III, during his time as Pope said that every Cardinal and Bishop should wear a sapphire ring on the right hand to be used when they were giving blessings. The sapphire: legendary, quiet and regal.   Top

Tanzanite       Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone introduced by Tiffany's. It's unique blue color looks fabulous. Tanzanite gem stones make wonderful eye-catching jewellery. Tanzanite gems may be blue, purple or slate gray. Tanzanite has a hardness rating of 6.5. Tanzanite gem stones are often heat treated to improve its color and clarity. Tanzanite jewellery can easily be scratched or chipped. Clean your Tanzanite with warm, soapy water and a soft bristle brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaning. Tanzanite was found in Tanzania in 1967. Tanzanite is the anniversary gemstone for the 24th year of marriage. It is said that Tanzanite helps with change. It uplifts and opens the heart. Tiffany & Co. of New York named this gemstone and introduced it to the world in 1969. It is one of the newest, most fascinating gemstones on the market today. A very large tanzanite (122.7 carats) may be seen at the Natural History Museum in Washington DC.   Top

Tiger Eye Quartz       Tiger Eye Quartz is used in cabochans and beads where it's lovely tiger-like quality comes out best. Generally, you will not find faceted tiger eye. This stone is often called "Tiger's Eye" or simply "Tiger Eye". Tiger Eye is black with iron oxide staining which gives it yellow and golden brown stripes. It is a type of chatoyant quartz. Tiger Eye has a hardness of 7. Tiger Eye is often heat treated. This is permanent so no extra care is required. As with all gems, protect topaz from scratches and sharp blows. Also avoid large temperature changes (such as leaving it be a heater vent or in a hot car). The most important mine for Tiger Eye is in South Africa. Tiger Eye is the anniversary gemstone for the 9th year of marriage. Tiger Eye is used for focusing the mind. Tiger Eye was thought to be all seeing due to its appearance. It has been said that Tiger Eye offers protection during travel.   Top

Topaz       Topaz is a beautiful light blue or yellow stone. Yellow Topaz is November's birthstone while blue topaz is December's birthstone. It is much less expensive than aquamarine. It looks beautiful in rings, bracelets, necklaces and pendants. full of mystery, in fact there is a famous movie mystery thriller named after it. The Topaz is well-known as a large quality gem. The worlds. largest topaz crystal was found in Brazil at the Minas Gerais, the world's most well-known producer of topaz. It was purchased in 1938 by Allan Caplan, a New York dealer in minerals and precious gems. Upon his first inspection of the stone he thought there might be something wrong with it and this particular stone along with two others were sent the American Museum for further study. What the experts found was the largest topaz known to that date. It is still housed at the museum. During the Middle Ages people believed that the use of topaz strengthened the mind and prevented sudden death. Some physicians of those times prescribed it as a remedy for weak vision. It was also used as a method of preventing mental disorders or curing these disorders altogether. The topaz has superb qualities of color, clarity and hardness. Its. hardness allows it to be easily polished because it contains an innate smoothness. The smoothness and slipperiness of topaz is one of the ways it is identified along with the brilliancy of color. It comes in all different shades of yellow, blue, brown and rose reds. Most deep blue hues are produced artificially by heat and irridation. Citrine is sometimes mistaken for topaz. The more intense colors of topaz is what usually sets it apart from the lighter citrine colors. However, there is a test known as the "methylene iodide test" that can make a final determination. A stone is place in the solution and a citrine gem will float while the topaz will sink to the bottom. While hardness is a definite prime attribute, topaz has a real disadvantage with its. basal cleavage. This makes the stone very sensitive to sharp blows so artisans and miners have to handle it very carefully. Topaz can be found in streams, rivers and in gravel deposits. It is found mainly in gem pegmatites where the presence of fluorine can be found. Fluorine provides a rich environment for the stones to grow into very large crystals. In fact, without the presence of Fluorine topaz would not exist. Topaz crystallizes orthorhombically and develops columns with square and diamond shapes planes with multisurfaced heads. Topaz can also be found in cracks and cavities where a combination of Fluorine and silica and alumina which was released by very hot temperatures caused the gems to form. Chromium Oxide is what provides its beautiful color. Brazil is the undisputed leader in topaz production. Topaz can also be found in the Ural Mountains in Russia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and the United States. At Minas Gerais they are normally mined from their primary rock or found on valley floors there. Topaz was actually first discovered in Poland in the Erz Mountains in an area called Schneckenstein. Topaz is a very large stone. One giant gem at the Viennese Historical museum is reputed to weigh 585,000 carats. The rarest topaz is the Imperial Topaz and pink topaz. Pakistan is the only place today where rose-red tinted topaz can be found today. All other pink topazes get their color from heat treatments of up to 475? C. Imperial topaz is has a yellow tint to it while other members of the topaz family can be completely colorless. Some of the most beautiful examples of topaz are the famous blue topaz which can have colorful ranges starting with light blue stones. The very deep blue topaz is artificially produced by heating and irridation processes. One of the most interesting characteristics about topaz is that it bleaches in daylight and then renews itself as the light subsides. The color changes occur because of natural heating and irridation. The largest deep red topaz in the world was found either in Brazil or Russia and is considered highly unusual. Naturally red topaz is not very often found.   Top

Tourmaline       Tourmaline is one of October's birthstones and comes in many colors - but primarily in pink and green. It is beautiful in rings, necklaces and pendants. by Margaret Burgon Klemp My interest in the gemstone tourmaline is personal. I happen to live about 35 miles away from one of the most celebrated tourmaline mines in the world. It is located in the San Luis Rey River Valley in northern San Diego County in California. There are actually two mines there: The Tourmaline Queen mine with lodes given the names Tourmaline Queen and Tourmaline Queen No. 3. There are other smaller lodes in the Pala region, but the Queen mines are the largest and the most well known. The gem, tourmaline, is found in my own back yard. The mine was discovered in 1903 and it became one of the worlds. major excavation areas for tourmaline. Then the local gem market ran into significant difficulties and the mine became inactive until 1960 when it was purchased by Pala Properties International. Then mining operations were revived. Since the discovery of tourmaline in this region more of the high grade tourmaline has been produced there than at any other site in the whole Northern Hemisphere. Only operations in Brazil have yielded more fine tourmaline. The tourmaline saga began when a gem collector took a beautiful piece of the gem to Tiffany and Company in 1876. His name was George F. Kunz and he became one of the worlds' best known collectors of gems. He was hired by Tiffany as a consultant when he was only 20 years old. Because of his efforts the tourmaline family of gems was born. Tourmalines were his favorite gems although he collected myriads of other stones. In his own narrative from Reminiscences of a Gem Collector Kunz describes his first connections with Tiffany. He explains this way: "Breakfast at Tiffany's In those early days, no so-called fancy stones were on sale in any jewellery store in the country; one could scarcely find them in a lapidary's shop. Yet, reviewing those that I had gathered, it seemed to me that many ladies, even those who could afford the gesture of diamond tiara and pearl choker, would be happy to array themselves in the endless gorgeous colors of these unexploited gems. As I looked over a collection of them, with the sunlight imprisoned in the sea-green depths of the tourmaline, lapping at the facets of the watery-blue aquamarine, flooding the blood-red cup of the garnet, glancing from the ice-blue edges of the beryl, melting in the misty nebula of the moonstone, entangled in the fringes of the moss agate, brilliantly concentrated in the metallic zircon, forming a milky star in the heart of the illusive star sapphire -- how, I thought, could a woman ever resist their subtle appeal? So one day, buckled in youth, I wrapped a tourmaline in a bit of gem paper, swung on a horse car and all the way to my destination rehearsed my arguments. Arrived there, I was finally received by [Charles Tiffany] the managing head of what was even then the largest jewellery establishment in the world and showed him my drop of green light. I explained -- a very little; the gem itself was its own best argument. Tiffany bought it . the great dealers in precious stones bought their first tourmaline from me. The check which crinkled in my pocket as I walked home in the late afternoon, forgetting there were cars, stargazing, tripping over curbs, meant very little in comparison with the fact that I had interested a foremost jeweler of that time in my revolutionary theory and made the acquaintance of a man who was later to become my close friend". Chemically tourmaline is an extremely complicated group of stones. They are silicate minerals which contain silicon and oxygen and then it is mixed with aluminum and boron. It is also may contain sodium, calcium, iron, magnesium, lithium and a host of other elements that may be found in its structure. The most common variety of tourmaline is schorl and may account for 95% or more of all tourmaline in nature. Schorl is black tourmaline. Tourmalines consist of ten mineral species and only three of them are considered to be gems. They are part of a crystal system that produces long prisms of a columnar shape. They range from slender to thick densities and appear in triangular cross-sections. Tourmaline has a three-sided prism which is unique in the world of gems. There is a large range of colors among the tourmaline family of stones. According to ancient Egyptian lore the tourmaline made a long journey from the center of the earth and on its way it passed over a rainbow and absorbed and the colors. Collectors still refer to it as the "gemstone of the rainbow". The colors range from red to green and blue to yellow and very often sport multiple hues. Some colors change when exposed to artificial light. Tourmaline also has unusual electrical qualities. It collects fine dust when it is subjected to artificial light sources. Each tourmaline has a different appearance and consequently there is one that suits each individual buyer. For this reason the ancients claimed that it had magical powers. They said it promoted long-lasting love and friendship.   Top

Turquoise       Turquoise is one of December's birthstones and is a vibrant light blue stone often seen in southwestern jewellery. It is reasonably priced and quite lovely. Turquoise's color ranges from sky blue to green. It has a hardness of 6. Howlite is often dyed to imitate turquoise. Turquoise made in a laboratory has a very uniform color. Chalky varieties of turquoise are often coated with wax or oil to enhance color - and when treated like this, the color change is not permanent. Turquoise is often fracture sealed. This doesn't mean that it has fractures, it means that it was seal ed with an acrylic resin to enhance it's color, texture and hardness. Turquoise is somewhat soft so avoid scratches and sharp blows. To be certain and coatings are not removed also avoid hot water and household chemicals. Reputable dealers will not use the following misleading terms. However, for your protection, I am listing them here: "Vienna turquoise" is really a glass imitation. Turquoise is found in Australia, Chile, Iran, Mexico, Tibet, USA (Arizona , California and New Mexico). Turquoise is the December Modern and Traditional Birthstone Turquoise is the anniversary gemstone for the 5th year of marriage. Turquoise supposedly helps one to start new projects. Turquoise has been thought to warn the wearer of danger or illness by changing color. In the 13th century, Turquoise was thought to protect the wearer from falling especially from horses. Legend has it that the Indians believed that if turquoise was affixed to a bow, the arrows shot from it would always hit their mark. It was also believed to bring happiness and good fortune to all. Turquoise started being used before 4000 BC. Turquoise is the US State Gemstone of Arizona, Nevada and New Mexico.   Top

Zircon       Zircon is a natural stone often used to imitate diamonds. It is often confused with cubic zirconia which is a synthetic stone. Sometimes zircon is used instead of diamonds in a wedding or engagement ring. Zircon is a natural stone - not to be confused with Cubic Zirconia which is manmade. It is known as a colorless stone used to imitate diamonds but also comes in: blue, yellow, orange, red, brown and green . It has a hardness of 7.5. Zircon is somewhat soft so avoid scratches and sharp blows. Avoid hot water and household chemicals. Brown Zicon is usually heat treated to change them to colorless or blue Zircon. Blue stones that revert to brown will regain the blue if reheated. Blue Zircon reheated in the presence of oxygen will change to a golden yellow. Zircon will have more wear on its facets than diamond. Zircon is imitated by colorless glass and synthetic spinel. Zircon is found in Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, France, Myanmar, Nigeria, Sri Lanka and Tanzania. Zircon is the December Traditional Birthstone Zircon supposedly helps one be more at peace with oneself. Zircon was believed to provide the wearer with wisdom, honor and riches. The lost of luster on a Zircon stone is said to warn of danger. The name Zircon is from Zargun which means "gold color".   Top