LEARN THE BENEFITS, HEALING PROPERTIES, USES & TERMINOLOGY OF GEMSTONES
Crystal Knowledge
Welcome to our Crystal Knowledge and Gemstone Glossary page! Whether you’re a seasoned jewelry enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of gemstones, understanding the terminology can enhance your appreciation for these beautiful natural treasures. First, we’ll break down some common terms and concepts related to gemstones, making it easier for you to navigate your jewelry and gemstone journey.
What is a Gemstone?
A gemstone is a precious or semi-precious stone that has been cut and polished for use in jewelry. These stones are valued for their beauty, rarity, and durability. To determine the quality and value of a gemstone, gemologists and mineral enthusiasts go by what is known as the 4Cs: Cut, Clarity, Carat, and Color.
CUT
The cut of a gemstone refers to how it has been shaped and faceted. A well-cut gemstone will reflect light beautifully, enhancing its brilliance and overall appeal.
CLARITY
Clarity refers to the presence of internal or external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively. The clearer the gemstone, the more valuable it typically is.
CARAT
Carat is a unit of weight used to measure gemstones. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams. The size and weight of a gemstone can significantly affect its value.
COLOR
The color of a gemstone is one of its most important characteristics. Factors such as hue, tone, and saturation all contribute to the overall appearance and desirability of the stone.
TREATMENT
Many gemstones undergo treatments to enhance their color or clarity. Common treatments include heat treatment, dyeing, and irradiation. It’s essential to know if a gemstone has been treated, as this can affect its value and care requirements.
MOHS SCALE
The Mohs scale measures the hardness of gemstones, ranging from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond). This scale helps determine how resistant a gemstone is to scratching and wear.
BIRTHSTONES
A birthstone is a gemstone that is traditionally associated with a specific month of the year. Many people wear their birthstone as a symbol of their birth month and personal identity.
NATURAL VS. SYNTHETIC
Natural gemstones are formed in nature, while synthetic gemstones are created in laboratories. Although synthetic stones can have the same physical and chemical properties as natural ones, they are often less valuable.
GEMSTONE FAMILIES
Gemstones can be categorized into families based on their chemical composition. For example, the corundum family includes sapphires and rubies, while the beryl family includes emeralds and aquamarines.
A-Z GEMSTONE GLOSSARY
Explore the healing properties, uses, and benefits of each gemstone in our comprehensive crystal index!
We are always on the lookout for rare and unique gemstones. Please note that this list will be updated frequently as we add new crystals to our jewelry designs and crystal shop.
ABALONE
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AMAZONITE
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AMETHYST
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BLACK SPINEL
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Blue Sapphire
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CITRINE
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CRYSTAL QUARTZ
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Emerald
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GARNET
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Hematite
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LABRADORITE
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Lapis Lazuli
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PYRITE
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RAINBOW MOONSTONE
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SELENITE
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ROSE QUARTZ
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SMOKY QUARTZ
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Tourmalinated Quartz
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TURQUOISE
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White Howlite
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