From mankinds earliest history, we have worn jewellery to enhance beauty and indicate prestige. There have been many myths and legends attached to the gemstones that adorn jewellery. For example, during the Middle Ages a ruby was considered to bring wealth and virtue to its owner, while the diamond was thought to protect against demons and bring strength in battle. These beliefs still persist in various forms even today, such as birthstones.
Whether for personal adornment, art, payment or even magic, the wonder and value of jewellery has never diminished.
The following guide will explore the different types of gemstones that are creatively used to make jewellery sparkle.
Precious and Semi-Precious Stones
Gemstones cover an enormous spectrum, but their accepted category generally entails a mineral (which has a characteristic chemical composition) or rocks such as lapis lazuli, amber or jet, to name but a few. When cut and polished, they come in a range of stunning colour variations that allow jewellers to create a wealth of unique and inspiring jewellery items.
Since ancient times, there has been a distinction between precious and semi-precious stones. With todays modern values and the huge diversification in taste and culture however, this distinction between the traditional precious and semi-precious classification is open to debate.
Nevertheless, here is the main difference between the two categories:
Precious Stones
Strictly speaking, precious stones are usually classified as diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires. When cut and polished, these translucent gemstones reflect their colour and brilliance magnificently, and also stand out for being very hard as a mark of their authenticity.
Semi-Precious Stones
These gemstones generally encompasses most other stones that are not classified as precious (diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires). Due to their increasing scarcity and the constant changes of fashion taste, these days they have acquired a higher value in the marketplace and in fact some of these stones are considered as precious.
Synthetic Gemstones
With todays technology, gemstones can be manufactured synthetically to imitate the natural variety in look and colour. For example one of the most popular synthetic semi-precious gemstones is the cubic zirconia made from zirconium oxide, which is similar to but much more affordable than a diamond and comes in a variety of colours. Moissanite is another synthetic stone that is manufactured to imitate the diamond, and in fact it boasts a higher refractive index (meaning it has more fire than an equivalent sized diamond).
Precious stones (diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires) can also be created in a laboratory to produce the same chemical and physical properties as the genuine natural article stones, and they will cost you a fraction of the price.
Cutting and Polishing
Some gemstones are used in the raw state in which they originated, however since mankind developed the tools and ability, gemstones have been cut and polished to reveal their splendour. This process occurs in two main categories:
Cabochons
This technique involves grinding and polishing stones in the form of smooth and usually dome shaped creations which are opaque, such as sapphires and opals. This design enhances their colour and lustre.
Faceted
Gemstones that are faceted are generally cut by a machine with mathematical precision into numerous angles of glass like windows. These facets are designed to refract light. They are then meticulously polished to create the sparkle and fire so loved and desired in diamonds, emeralds, sapphires and rubies.
Gemstones are also often treated to enhance their colour and clarity, however if this is not done correctly during the cutting and polishing procedure, it can damage the value of the stone.
Choice
One of the most famous collections typifying both the extraordinary beauty and skilled artistic craftsmanship are the famous Faberge Eggs which were created in the early nineteenth century. Not only are they superb and extremely valuable jewellery pieces, they are adorned with some of the most intricately exquisite jewels ever. The Queens collections as well as Elizabeth Taylors famed pieces that were recently auctioned are also outstanding examples of gemstone uniqueness, quality and craftsmanship.
The dazzling choice of gemstones that are available covers the alphabet from agate to turquoise with everything in between, such as amethyst, aquamarine, garnets, opals, jade, tigers eye, etc. The names alone are exotic enough to transport you into dreams of faraway places and adventure, not to mention the stunning brilliance and varied colours of the stones themselves.
When shopping around, always get the jewellers guidance, as he/she will be able to help you choose a quality gemstone that will also match your budget.
Conclusion
The above information on gemstones will start you on the path to finding that special item which dazzles your eyes.
Jewellery is very personal, so overall the most important factor is to choose a piece that reflects your individual personality and taste.
