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Blue Chalcedony Beads
A gemstone is a mineral rock or petrified material that when cut or faceted and polished can be used in jewelry or is a collectible. Others are organic. Some are too fragile to be used in jewelry, but can be seen on display in museums.
The most important attribute of gemstones is their appearance. Gemstones are all different.
Things to consider when shopping for gemstones are color, clarity, cut, size, rarity, durability and fashion.
Diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and amethysts have been commonly considered "precious" stones.
"Semiprecious" stones are valued for their beauty, but are not one of the five "precious" stones. Some examples of semiprecious stones are, aventurine, carnelian, garnet, opal, peridot, rose quartz, aquamarine, tanzanite, citrine, topaz, tourmaline etc.
Today most jewelry professionals don't distinguish between "precious" and "semi precious," but refer to both as gemstones.
Synthetic gemstones are made in a laboratory. Synthetic stones have almost the same physical and visual properties as natural gemstones, however they do not have the rarity of naturally colored stones and are valued less. Imitation stones should be clearly identified as such.
Gems are sometimes treated to improve their appearance or durability, or even change their color. Jewelers should tell you whether a gemstone(s) has been treated since sometimes the treatment is not permanent, or the stone may require special care or the treatment could significantly affect the value of the gemstone.
How to Buy a Gemstone
Video
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Designer
Gemstone Pieces
Peridot and Diamond
Swirl Ring
Faceted Topaz and Citrine
Citrine Beads
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