Understanding Gemstone Jewelry
Gemstone jewelry is a popular choice among jewelry lovers, as it combines natural beauty with various colors, shapes, and sizes. Gemstones are minerals polished and cut into faceted or cabochon shapes for use in jewelry. The most popular gemstones used in jewelry are diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and aquamarines.
When choosing a gemstone for a piece of jewelry, it is essential to understand the different characteristics of each gemstone. Each stone has unique properties, so it is vital to research before making a purchase. For example, diamonds are the hardest gemstone, while sapphires and rubies are durable and scratch resistant. Emeralds and aquamarines are softer and more prone to scratches and damage, so they may not be ideal for everyday wear.
When shopping for gemstone jewelry, it is vital to consider the quality of the stones. Gemstones are graded according to clarity, color, cut, and carat weight. Clarity refers to the number of inclusions and imperfections in the stone, while color and cut affect the overall look and sparkle of the stone. Carat weight is simply the weight of the stone, and it is measured in carats. The higher the carat weight, the more valuable the stone will be.
In addition to the quality of the stones, it is also essential to consider the jewelry's setting. The setting helps protect the stones while also enhancing their beauty. Standard settings include prong settings, bezel settings, and pave settings. Prong settings feature several metal prongs that hold the stone in place, while bezel settings feature a metal rim that encircles the stone. Pave settings are made up of tiny stones that are set closely together.
Finally, it is crucial to consider the cost of gemstone jewelry. Gemstones vary significantly in price, depending on the quality, size, and type of stone. Generally, the rarer the stone, the more expensive it will be. It is also essential to consider the cost of the setting and any additional treatments the stone may have undergone.
Researching the Different Types of Gemstones
(i) Diamond
Diamond is one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world, with its luxurious sparkle and exquisite beauty. It is the hardest known natural material and has been used in jewelry since ancient times. Diamonds are composed of pure carbon, making them a unique and rare gemstones with no other minerals. Depending on their cut and clarity, diamonds can come in various colors, from white to yellow, brown, and even black.
Diamonds are typically found in kimberlite pipes and volcanic tubes containing rocks and minerals. They are mined in various places, such as Africa, Canada, India, and Russia. The process of mining diamonds is labor-intensive and requires special equipment. Diamonds found near the surface of the earth are typically lower quality than those found deeper underground.
The quality of a diamond is determined by its cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. The cut of a diamond refers to its angles and facets, which determine its fire and sparkle. The clarity of a diamond is determined by its lack of blemishes or inclusions. Color is determined by the amount of nitrogen in the diamond, with yellow and brown diamonds being the most common. Carat weight is the measure of a diamond's size, with one carat being equal to 0.2 grams.
Diamonds can be used in various ways, from jewelry to industrial purposes. In jewelry, diamonds are set in rings, necklaces, earrings, and other jewelry pieces. Diamonds are also used as abrasives in industrial processes, as well as in optics and electronics.
Diamonds have long been a symbol of wealth and status and are often given as engagement or wedding rings. They are also used as investment pieces, as their value usually increases over time.
No matter the use, diamonds are a beautiful and luxurious gemstone that will be cherished for generations to come.
(ii)Sapphire
Sapphire is a precious gemstone belonging to the corundum family and is the second-hardest mineral on earth after diamond. It is made of aluminum oxide and is available in various colors, the most common being blue. Sapphires come in other colors, such as pink, yellow, green, white, and black.
Sapphires have been mined and used by humans since ancient times. The gemstone was first discovered in India, although it has since been found in many other countries, such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Australia, and the United States. Throughout history, sapphires have been highly prized and used as a sign of wealth and power. They were often used as a currency and were said to be kings' favorite.
Sapphires are typically cut either as a cabochon or with facets, depending on the desired effect. The most popular cut for sapphires is the oval or round shape. Sapphires can also be cut into other shapes, such as hearts, marquise, pears, squares, emeralds, and cushions.
Sapphires are commonly used in jewelry, as they are beautiful and durable.
Blue sapphire is the most popular and valuable type of sapphire. It is often associated with loyalty, friendship, and trustworthiness. It is also believed to bring good luck and positivity to its wearer.
Pink sapphires are a softer and more subtle type of sapphire. They are thought to bring peace and harmony to the wearer.
Yellow sapphires are associated with happiness and joy. They are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to the wearer.
Green sapphires are thought to bring abundance and renewal. They are associated with nature, growth, and renewal.
White sapphires are said to bring clarity and peace of mind. They are believed to be highly protective and can deflect negative energy.
Black sapphires are a rare type of sapphire associated with power and strength. They are believed to bring strength and courage to the wearer.
No matter the color, sapphires have long been a symbol of beauty and power. They are highly sought-after and make an excellent addition to any jewelry collection.
(iii) Emerald
Emerald is one of the most popular and valuable gemstones in the world. It is a variety of the mineral beryl and is characterized by its green color. Emeralds are found in many countries worldwide, including Brazil, Colombia, Zambia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India.
Emeralds have been used for centuries for jewelry and were highly valued by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. They were also used as a medium of trade and currency in many parts of the world.
The color of an emerald is determined by the presence of chromium, vanadium, and other trace elements in its composition. The most desirable emeralds are those that are a deep, stimulating green color with a hint of blue.
Emeralds can range in size from tiny chips to large stones of several carats. The more enormous emeralds are usually cut in an oval, square, or rectangle shape and can be set with diamonds to create stunning jewelry pieces.
When buying emeralds, looking for a gemstone free of inclusions and blemishes is essential. Inclusions are tiny imperfections inside the stone that can affect its clarity and value. It is also essential to check the color of the stone since the intensity of the color can also affect its value.
The price of an emerald can varies greatly depending on its size, color, and clarity, as well as its origin. Emeralds from Colombia tend to be more expensive than those from other countries.
Emeralds can be cleaned with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution. Be careful when handling emeralds because they are a relatively soft gemstone and can be easily scratched or chipped.
Emeralds are a beautiful and rare gemstone and can be a great addition to any jewelry collection. An emerald can last a lifetime and become a treasured heirloom with proper care.
(iv) Ruby
The ruby is one of the world's most precious and sought-after gemstones. It is a variety of the mineral corundum, which also includes sapphires. Rubies are available in various shades, from deep crimson to light pink. They can be found in sizes ranging from tiny chips to large Carats.
The word “ruby” comes from the Latin word “ruber," which means "red." This is because the ruby is a red gemstone. It is also sometimes referred to as the "king of gems" because of its rarity and beauty.
The most valuable rubies possess a deep, intense red color. These are often referred to as "pigeon's blood" rubies. These rubies are also highly sought after because of their rarity and beauty.
Rubies are often found in inclusions, or tiny imperfections, that can affect the gemstone's clarity. These inclusions can range from tiny black spots to more prominent flaws of another color. Inclusions can also affect the value of the ruby since they can diminish the gemstone's clarity.
Rubies are often cut into cabochons, rounded stones with a flat bottom. This cut is ideal for displaying the ruby's color and luster. Rubies can also be cut into brilliant cuts, which feature many facets to maximize the gemstone's brilliance and sparkle.
The most sought-after rubies are those from Myanmar, known for their deep, intense red color and clarity. Other sources of rubies include Thailand, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and India.
Rubies are often used in jewelry and can be set in various metals, such as gold, silver, and platinum. They can also be set with other gemstones, such as diamonds, to create stunning jewelry pieces. Rubies are also used in various decorative objects, such as bowls, vases, and figurines.
Rubies have long been associated with wealth, power, and passion. They are said to bring luck and good fortune to their owners and are believed to protect them from harm. Rubies are also said to stimulate the mind and encourage creativity.
The ruby is a gorgeous and valuable gemstone. Its deep, intense red color makes it one of the world's most sought-after and desirable gemstones. It is a timeless classic that will be treasured for generations to come.
(v) Opal
Opal is a unique and beautiful gemstone often referred to as the "queen of gems" due to its stunning array of colors and unique properties. It is a hydrated form of silica and composed of tiny spheres of silica gel interspersed with water. As light reflects off these spheres, the effect is a rainbow of colors ranging from bright yellow to fiery red. Opal is a very popular gemstone used in jewelry for centuries.
Opal has been found worldwide, including in Ethiopia, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, and the United States. The most common type of opal is called "precious opal," characterized by its rainbow of colors, ranging from yellow, orange, red, green, blue, and pink. Precious opal is usually cut into cabochons, beads, and other shapes for jewelry.
The most valuable type of opal is called "black opal," characterized by its dark body color and intense play-of-color. Black opal is mainly found in Australia and is the most sought-after by collectors. Fire opal is another type characterized by its yellow, orange, or red body color and is usually found in Mexico.
Opal is a unique gemstone associated with luck, good fortune, and protection. It is believed to bring luck to the wearer and is often given as a gift to bring good luck. It is also believed to have healing properties and is said to help relieve depression, stress, and anxiety. In addition, opal is said to bring out the wearer's inner beauty and to help them find their true love.
Opal is a very fragile gemstone and must be handled with care. It is best to store opal in a soft cloth or jewelry box to protect it from scratches and other damage. Opal should also be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth and never exposed to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.
Opal is a gorgeous and unique gemstone used in jewelry for centuries. Its impressive array of colors and healing properties make it a trendy choice for jewelry. While it is fragile, proper care and handling can ensure that your opal jewelry will remain beautiful for years to come.
(vi) Amethyst
Amethyst is a beautiful, purple-colored gemstone that has been used for centuries to adorn jewelry, decorations, and sacred objects. It is a quartz crystal, a type of mineral composed of silicon and oxygen atoms, and is the most popular variety of quartz. Amethyst is found in many countries worldwide, including Brazil, Russia, India, and the United States.
Amethyst is believed to have healing properties and is thought to bring peace and contentment to its wearer. It is said to strengthen relationships and help ward off negative energy. It is also associated with the crown chakra, which is believed to be the center of spiritual energy and connection to the divine.
Amethyst is derived from the Greek word "amethysts," which means "not drunken." The Greek god Bacchus was said to have been so angry with a young woman named Amethyst that he turned her into a statue of quartz. She was later rescued by the goddess Diana, who poured red wine over her, turning her quartz into Amethyst and giving it its signature purple color.
Amethyst is one of the most popular gemstones in the world and is used in various jewelry designs. It is often cut into cabochons, ovals, and rounds and faceted to create a more sparkly effect. Amethyst is also used in various ornamental objects, including decorations, sculptures, and religious artifacts.
Amethyst is a relatively hard gemstone, measuring seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is relatively abundant and can range in color from light lilac to deep purple. The deeper the color, the more valuable the stone.
Amethyst is believed to have many healing and calming properties. It is said to help overcome addiction, protect from negative energies, and bring mental clarity. It is also believed to help reduce stress, promote restful sleep, and increase spiritual awareness.
Amethyst is a beautiful gemstone used to adorn jewelry, decorations, and sacred objects for centuries. It is a quartz crystal believed to have healing properties and is associated with the crown chakra. It is relatively abundant and can range in color from light lilac to deep purple. Amethyst is a relatively hard gemstone, measuring seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is said to help overcome addiction, protect from negative energies, and bring mental clarity.
(vii) Tanzanite
Tanzanite is an incredible gemstone found only in one place on earth, the Mererani Hills of Tanzania. It is a variety of mineral zoisite and is known for its intense blue and violet hues. Tanzanite has quickly become one of the most popular gemstones in the world since its discovery in 1967 and has been described as "The Gemstone of the 20th Century."
Tanzanite is renowned for its unique and vibrant colors, ranging from deep blue to vibrant violet. The gemstone is pleochroic, representing different colors from different angles. This results in the gemstone having different colors depending on how it is cut. For example, when to cut into a cabochon, the gemstone will display a more intense blue and violet color.
The gemstone’s color can also vary depending on the type of light it is exposed to. Tanzanite is known for having a striking trichroic effect, appearing blue, purple, or burgundy in different lights. This is referred to as the “flash effect,” which is most prominent when the gemstone is viewed in incandescent light.
In addition to its stunning color, Tanzanite is also known for its durability. The gemstone is a 7.0 to 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for everyday wear. Tanzanite is also one of the few gemstones that can be cut into a cabochon, allowing the stone's unique color to shine.
Because of its rarity and beauty, Tanzanite is highly sought after by collectors and jewelry buyers alike. The gemstone is often set in necklaces, earrings, and rings and is often used to accentuate other gemstones in jewelry. Tanzanite has also been used in religious jewelry, with its deep blue and violet hues representing spiritual enlightenment and awakening.
Tanzanite is a genuinely remarkable gemstone, with its rare and vibrant colors and incredible durability. It has become one of the world's most popular and sought-after gemstones. Its rarity and beauty make it an excellent choice for any jewelry collection.
(viii) Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a variety of beryl, a mineral composed of beryllium aluminum cyclosilicate. Its most common color is light blue-green, but it can also be found in shades of yellow and greenish-blue. It is usually found in large, well-formed crystals and is often cut into different shapes for jewelry. Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and is associated with the sea, making it a popular choice for beach-inspired jewelry.
Aquamarine is known for its beautiful color, which is believed to represent the sea. Its name is derived from the Latin phrase "aqua marina," meaning "seawater." It is said to bring a sense of balance to its wearer and to promote courage, protection, and hope.
Aquamarine is relatively complex and durable, making it a good choice for everyday wear. It rates 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale of hardness and is resistant to scratches and chips. Aquamarine is also quite resistant to heat and pressure so it can be set in jewelry without fear of damage.
Aquamarine is found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, India, and Madagascar. It is also found in the USA and mined from the Blue Ridge Mountains, especially in North Carolina. Aquamarine is mined from shallow, open-pit mines and can be found in boulder and crystal forms.
Aquamarine is often cut into different shapes for jewelry. It is commonly cut into cabochons, pear shapes, and round and oval cuts. However, it can also be cut into emerald and princess cuts and other fancy shapes. Aquamarine is often faceted to bring out its beautiful color and to make it sparkle.
Aquamarine is a popular choice for jewelry, as it is both beautiful and affordable. It is also famous for engagement and wedding rings, as it brings its wearer luck in love. Aquamarine is also believed to bring its wearer peace, joy, and a sense of calm.
Aquamarine is a beautiful gemstone that symbolizes the sea and is believed to bring its wearer luck and balance. It is a popular choice for jewelry thanks to its beautiful color and affordability. Aquamarine is also a popular choice for engagement and wedding rings, as it is said to bring its wearer luck in love.
Caring for Your Gemstone Jewelry
- Store your gemstone jewelry in a soft cloth or pouch, away from other jewelry items, to prevent scratching and damage.
- 2. Clean your gemstone jewelry regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth and a mild soap-and-water solution.
- Always remove gemstone jewelry before engaging in activities that could damage the stones, such as swimming, gardening, or sports.
- Avoid exposing gemstone jewelry to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine, bleach, and perfume.
- Bring your gemstone jewelry to a professional jeweler for cleaning and maintenance, such as polishing and prong tightening.
Ensuring You Get the Best Price
- Shop for the best prices by comparing several jewelers (choose to shop with Planderful).
- Educate yourself about the quality, value, and rarity of the gemstone you are interested in.
- Ask for a certificate of authenticity for the gemstone.
- Look for reputable jewelers with a good reputation among other jewelry professionals.
- Compare the quality of the gemstone’s cut and clarity to determine the best value.
- Ask for a guarantee of the gemstone’s quality and authenticity.
- Look for the professional hallmarks of the jeweler on the jewelry piece.
- Get an appraisal for the gemstone to ensure you get the best price.
- Consider buying gemstone jewelry online, as there are often better prices than in-store.
- Look for sales and discounts on gemstone jewelry.
