GEMS AND PRECIOUS STONES
A gemstone refers to a mineral crystal that, once cut or polished, is crafted into jewelry or decorative items. In addition to traditional minerals, some rocks and even organic materials can also qualify as gemstones, broadening the definition. While most gemstones are known for their hardness, softer minerals like brazilianite can still find a place in jewelry due to their appealing colors, luster, or other attractive characteristics. Nonetheless, soft minerals are usually avoided in gemstone applications due to their fragility and lower durability.
Many individuals in the gem and jewelry sector prefer to avoid the labels of precious (DIAMOND, EMERALD AND SAPPHIRES) and semi-precious, as these classifications overlook the actual quality of the gemstones. Contrary to popular belief, precious stones are not necessarily rarer or more valuable than their semi-precious counterparts. Gemmologists assess gemstone quality using the 4Cs—clarity, color, cut, and carat—to gauge potential pricing.
The allure of a gemstone is determined by how light interacts with it, whether through transmission, refraction, or reflection. Gems can exhibit various colors, shifting patterns, and differing degrees of transparency, luster, and brilliance. Some gemstones even display light dispersion, known as 'fire.' While certain characteristics are qualitative and can be described, others are quantitative and can be measured with specialised optical tools.
Another relevant term is 'ornamental gemstone,' which refers to minerals that, despite lacking transparency, possess appealing colors, textures, and patterns, such as jade, malachite, chalcedony, and lapis lazuli. These stones are not necessarily rare, and most have a hardness rating below 7 on Moh’s scale.
Please, click on the picture for more pictures and details like dimensions (like 300 240 340 (LWD in mm), weight (carats / in grams), locality and specimen number (SKU)).
