subject: Gem Jewelry2 [print this page] The Basics of Gem Jewelry The Basics of Gem Jewelry
It helps to know your stones before you go out on a gem jewelry shopping spree. The more information you have, the less difficult it would be for you to make the right choices and find the best deals in jewelry pieces. Gemstones are desirable because of their vibrant colors and luster but we all know that they come from rough, unpolished rocks or minerals mined from the earth. They are cut and polished, sometimes treated with oil, wax, or resin, before they are made into a gemstone earring or any other piece of jewelry.
After being cut and polished, facets are cut into the gems to allow them to reflect light and be able to sparkle. Shapes vary into rounded, cabochon, or smooth, depending on the kind of gemstone. Transparent stones are usually faceted while opaque gems such as opals are usually cut into cabochon shapes. After being cut, the stones are polished and ready for jewelry making.
Precious and Semi-Precious Stones
When we say precious stones, we usually refer to the most valuable gems which are diamond, emerald, sapphire, ruby, sapphire, and amethyst. Gem jewelry made of these stones is the most expensive because of their clarity and inner fire. Semi-precious stones are much more affordable and can also be made into highly attractive and unique pieces. A jade or onyx gemstone earring would be less costly than a pair of diamond ones but they it would make a nice gift that any woman would surely appreciate.
Gemstones and Mysticism
The unique beauty found in gemstones has inspired mystical beliefs in many cultures and generations. Thus, beliefs, such as that emerald brings financial prosperity to anyone who wears it or that rose quartz attracts true love, remain prolific and may actually influence the buying habits of people buying gem jewelry. Whether you believe in the metaphysical, gemstones are indeed mysterious as much as they are breathtaking.
Birthstone Jewelry
Another top reason why gem jewelry are very much in demand is that specific stones are associated with each month of the year so that they are referred to as birthstones. A month may have one or more birthstones, which would make appropriate birthday gifts to anyone celebrating their birthday in that particular month.
There are different versions as to how gem stones have been linked with birth months. Superstition is one of the leading factors. The physical characteristics of the stones have also been used in designating them to corresponding months. Biblical references have even been used in the selection of birthstones.
However, the Jewelers of America released its official list of birthstones in 1912 and the list is followed by most jewelers in English-speaking countries all over the world. If you should consult the list in buying gem jewelry corresponding to a persons birthstone, it contains one main stone and two or three alternative ones for each month.
