There are different types of gemstones present in the earth`s surface. Shimmering hue, dazzling colors and an iridescent sparkle makes gemstone to stand out with pride. Depending upon the clarity and also on the characteristics like Chemical Composition, Crystal Structure, Optical Characteristics, Specific Gravity, and Durability Gemstones are classified. Although there are more than 30 popular varieties of gemstones yet all the gemstones can be differentiated in two distinct groups of precious and semi-precious stones. Diamonds have traditionally been the most highly prized of such stones, varying in color from yellow to bluish white and sometimes reaching enormous size. Rubies, emeralds, and sapphires are other precious stones used for jewelry, and are the less costly than stones like topaz, and zircon.
Some names of the semiprecious stones can be mentioned as Amethyst, garnet, opal, aquamarine, jade, turquoise, agate, onyx, lapis lazuli, and malachite. In the same way some of the stones of organic origin can be mentioned as amber. This is mainly a fossil tree resin and also a highly valued stone. Pearls and corals, though animal in origin rather than mineral, are also usually considered as good gemstones. Gemstone is any of various minerals highly prized for beauty, durability, and rarity. More than 2,000 identified natural minerals are present, out of which less than 100 are used as gemstones and only 16 have achieved importance. These are beryl, diamond, garnet, jade, , opal, quartz, spinel , topaz, tourmaline, turquoise, and zircon. Some of these minerals provide more than one type of gem. Some other names of gemstones can be mentioned as Alexandrite, Aventurine, Bloodstone, Chrysoprase, Coral, Jasper, Kunzite, Moissanite, Moonstone, Obsidian, Pearl, Peridot, Rose Quartz, Tanzanite, and Tiger Eye.
Gemstones have long been used for jewelry. They have attracted all the human beings especially the womenfolk in great manner. The prime requisite for a gem is that it must be beautiful and elegant. The beauty may lie in color or lack of color as well. When the colour is absent, extreme limpidity and `fire` may provide the attraction. In some cases, the color of gemstones is also artificially enhanced. These are known as treated gem.
In recent times various kinds of synthetic gems, including rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, have been produced. In addition to their use in jewelry, gems were regarded by many civilizations as miraculous and endowed with mysterious powers as well. The different type of gemstones are
Gemstones for Planets
See Also on Gemstones
