To be called a gemstone, minerals - or occasionally organic materials - must be considered beautiful, most especially in regards to their color. It must also be durable enough to go through use and handling without becoming scratched or damaged. Lastly, rarity is ultra important. A gemstone's scarcity is what gives it a greater market value.
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| Diamond, king of the "Big Five" |
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| Sapphire |
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| Emerald |
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| Pearl |
Pictured here are the "Big Five", the five major, most highly prized gemstones on the market. All except pearl have a certain cut that displays their best qualities.
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| Ruby |
Okay, next up: The science behind the gems. All gems are absolutely fascinating scientifically, at least in my opinion (there may be those who think differently, but for argument's sake, let's just go with the idea that everyone agrees with me). Gemologists make a thorough study of each stone that they acquire, both as it occurs out in nature and after both the cutting and polishing. Throughout my posts, I'm going to try my best to find images of the gems I discuss in their rough, natural states. In most cases, pictures of the matrix (the host rock) are hard to come by. I will also, of course, try to include as many pictures of each species of gemstone after it has been cut, polished, or carved as possible. I'm hoping I can nab a microphotograph here and there so as to display the internal structures of stones. When getting in that close, that's where the REAL fun begins, as does all the detective work. But we'll go into all that at another time. Right now, let's talk a little about why gemstones are fun for just about anyone.
Throughout time, gemstones have symbolized wealth and power, we all know that. Everything from crowns to costly clothing that have adorned the holders of wealth and supremacy have been dripping with jewels. But gems are not just for rich people or scientifically inclined individuals. They can be loved and enjoyed by anyone, from the amateur collectors out there to professional jewelers, and right down to those simply obsessed with the history of gemstones. For most people though, the real kicker is actually owning their own gemstones. Most of us can't afford the hugely expensive stones on the charts, but anyone - even third graders - can grab up a few minerals that (even if not gem quality) are beautiful to the eye and satisfying to the soul. And who says you have to spend tons of money on it all? There's amber on the beaches, topazes in the dirt, and affordable pieces of jewelry packed with lovely gemstones all over the world. You don't believe me, search eBay!! Just because you want to collect and/or enjoy gemstones does NOT mean you have to be a rich scientist. Trust me, I'm neither, and yet here I am. It doesn't matter how modest your collection may be, it's all about the fascination and enjoyment you get from each and every little piece. If that's not how you feel about gemstones, I'd venture to say you've got the wrong hobby!
Next time, I'll discuss in depth what exactly it means to be a gemstone, as well as how they are formed. We'll continue on from there into the last of the "scientific details", and then launch right into identification. Around and about there will be personal stories, discussions with others, videos, etc. And of course, I will - from time to time - make purchase suggestions, geared mostly towards those just starting out with their collections. I gained incredibly valuable information from many sources when I first started out, but it wasn't until someone very experienced sat me down and told me everything I would need and why I needed it that I really felt like my wings were finally opening. So hopefully I can pass that information on to others so many more gem collections can start sprouting up like dandelions all over the world! A lofty goal, but hey, I dream big :) Thanks for reading, and until next time!
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