A Beginner's Guide to Different Types of Gem stones

A Guide to gemstones. Many gemstones as following. 

What are Gem stones?

Gem stones are naturally occurring minerals that are valued for their rarity, beauty, and durability. These precious stones have been coveted by humans for centuries and are often used in jewelry and other decorative items. They come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, with each gemstone having its own unique characteristics and properties.

Definition of Gem stones

 Gemstones are naturally occurring minerals that are cut and polished to be used in jewelry or for ornamental purposes. These minerals are valued for their beauty, rarity, and durability. Gemstones come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, and are often prized for their unique properties such as brilliance, clarity, and refraction of light. Some popular gemstones include diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and amethysts, each with their own distinct characteristics and value.

How are Gem stones Formed?

Gemstones are formed through a combination of geological processes over millions of years. The most common formation process involves the following steps:
1. Crystallization: Gemstones are minerals that have undergone a process of crystallization, wherein atoms or molecules arrange themselves in a repeating pattern to form a crystal lattice structure.
2. High Pressure and Temperature: Gemstone formation usually occurs deep within the Earth's crust or mantle, where there are intense pressures and high temperatures. These conditions are necessary for the formation of certain minerals that make up gemstones.
3. Magma Cooling: Some gemstones form from magma or molten rock. As the magma cools, the minerals within it start to solidify and form crystals. This process can take thousands or millions of years.
4. Metamorphism: Gemstones can also form through the process of metamorphism, which involves the transformation of existing rocks due to extreme heat and pressure over time. During this process, minerals recrystallize and form new gemstone minerals.
5. Hydrothermal or Pegmatitic Solutions: Gemstones may also be formed through the movement of hydrothermal fluids or pegmatitic solutions. These fluids contain dissolved minerals that can precipitate and form crystals when they encounter favorable conditions.
6. Weathering and Erosion: Over time, geological forces like weathering, erosion, and tectonic activity can bring gemstones closer to the Earth's surface. This allows us to find them and extract them for various purposes.
It is important to note that each gemstone has its own specific formation process, and factors such as chemical composition, pressure, temperature, and surrounding rocks greatly influence their formation.

What Makes Gem stones Valuable?

Several factors contribute to the value of a gemstone. Rarity is perhaps the most important factor, as rare gem stones are more valuable due to their scarcity. The color, clarity, and size of the gemstone also play a role in determining its value. Additionally, the demand for certain gem stones in the market can impact their price. Gem stones with exceptional qualities and historical significance are often highly valued by collectors.

How Many Different Types of Gemstones Are There?

There are numerous types of gem stones, each with its own unique characteristics and properties. Here are some popular gem stones:

List of Popular Gemstone names

• Sapphire
• Ruby
• Emerald
• Opal
• Garnet
• Pearl
• Diamond
• Topaz
• Aquamarine
• Spinel
• Tanzanite
• Amethyst
• Beryl
• Turquoise
• Citrine

What Are the Most Precious Gemstone Names?

Some of the most precious gemstone names include:

1. Diamond
2. Ruby
3. Emerald
4. Sapphire
5. Alexandrite
6. Tanzanite
7. Paraiba Tourmaline
8. Jadeite
9. Pink Diamond
10. Blue Diamond
11. Red Beryl
12. Musgravite
13. Serendibite
14. Benitoite
15. Grandidierite
These gemstones are highly valued for their rarity, beauty, and often their durability. They are often used in high-end jewelry and can be quite expensive. 

Rarest Gemstones in the World

1. Grandidierite: Found mainly in Madagascar, grandidierite is an extremely rare blue-green gemstone with a high transparency, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world.
2. Jadeite: Native to Myanmar, jadeite is a highly valuable gemstone in vibrant shades of green. Its scarcity and popularity make it one of the rarest gemstones, especially the intense green varieties known as "Imperial Jade."
3. Musgravite: Named after the remote Musgrave Ranges in Australia, musgravite is an extremely rare gemstone that belongs to the taaffeite family. Its colors range from lavender to mauve and greenish-blue, and it is highly prized by gem collectors.
4. Alexandrite: Alexandrite is known for its chameleon-like properties, changing color depending on the lighting conditions. It is mostly found in Sri Lanka, Brazil, and Russia. Its scarcity and mesmerizing color-changing abilities make it one of the rarest gemstones sought after by collectors.
5. Painite: Painite used to hold the title of the rarest gemstone in the world until more discoveries were made. It was first discovered in Myanmar in the 1950s, and for many years, only a handful of specimens existed. Its reddish-brown color and rarity have made it highly coveted by gem enthusiasts.
6. Serendibite: Serendibite is an extremely rare gemstone discovered in Sri Lanka in 1902. It comes in various shades of green, blue, and black. Due to its scarcity, serendibite is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world.
7. Red Beryl: Red beryl, also known as bixbite, is an extraordinarily rare gemstone found in Utah, USA. Its striking red color and small size make it highly sought after by gem collectors, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world.
8. Blue Moon Diamond: The Blue Moon Diamond received its name due to its blue color and rarity. This stunning gemstone is one of the rarest diamonds in the world, known for its intense blue hue. It was discovered in South Africa and weighs 12.03 carats.
9. Taaffeite: Taaffeite is an extremely rare gemstone found in various colors, including lavender, mauve, pink, and violet. It was first discovered in 1945 in Sri Lanka and named after its discoverer, gemologist Richard Taaffe. Today, taaffeite is considered one of the rarest gemstones worldwide.
10. Black Opal: Black opal is a captivating gemstone known for its dark body tone with a vivid play of color. It is primarily found in Lightning Ridge, Australia. Due to its rarity and stunning display of colors, black opal is highly sought after by collectors, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. 

List of gemstones by Species

Stones can be categorized based on their mineral composition. Some examples include:

List of gemstones by species:

 1. Diamond
2. Ruby
3. Sapphire
4. Emerald
5. Amethyst
6. Topaz
7. Garnet
8. Aquamarine
9. Opal
10. Pearl
11. Peridot
12. Tanzanite
13. Turquoise
14. Citrine
15. Lapis Lazuli
16. Tourmaline
17. Moonstone
18. Jade
19. Alexandrite
20. Coral        

might not be exhaustive, as there are many rare and lesser-known gem stone species beyond those mentioned here. Additionally, some, may have multiple color variations and varieties not listed here.

Gem stones Categorized by Color

It can also be categorized based on their color. Here are some examples:

Gemstones list

Gemstones can be categorized by their color. Here are some examples:
1. Blue gemstones: Blue sapphire, aquamarine, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli.
2. Red gemstones: Ruby, garnet, red spinel, red tourmaline, red zircon.
3. Green gemstones: Emerald, peridot, green tourmaline, green garnet, green jade.
4. Pink gemstones: Pink diamond, pink sapphire, pink tourmaline, rhodolite garnet, morganite.
5. Purple gemstones: Amethyst, tanzanite, purple sapphire, purple spinel, purple garnet.
6. Yellow gemstones: Citrine, yellow sapphire, yellow diamond, yellow garnet, yellow topaz.
7. Orange gemstones: Orange sapphire, fire opal, orange spinel, orange tourmaline, spessartite garnet.
8. Brown gemstones: Smoky quartz, tiger's eye, brown diamond, brown zircon, brown garnet.
9. White gemstones: Diamond, white topaz, white sapphire, moonstone, white opal.
10. Black gemstones: Black diamond, black spinel, black onyx, black tourmaline, obsidian.
These are just some examples, and there are many more gemstones available in different colors. 

Please note that some stones can come in a different colors, and certain gem stones might have variations that fall under multiple categories. Additionally, the availability and many color of gem stones can vary based on their source and specific characteristics.

What Are Some Common Gems Names?

List of Gemstones a-z:

Below is a list of some gemstones from A-Z:

 A - Amethyst
B - Blue Topaz
C - Citrine
D - Diamond
E - Emerald
F - Fire Opal
G - Garnet
H - Hematite
I - Iolite
J - Jade
K - Kyanite
L - Lapis Lazuli
M - Moonstone
N - Nephrite Jade
O - Onyx
P - Pearl
Q - Quartz
R - Ruby
S - Sapphire
T - Tanzanite
U - Unakite
V - Vesuvianite
W - White Topaz
X - Xenotime
Y - Yellow Jasper
Z - Zircon 

What Factors Determine the Value of Gemstone?

Several factors determine the value of a gemstone, including the following:
1. Rarity: Gemstones that are rare and difficult to find are usually more valuable. This factor considers the overall availability of the gemstone in the market.
2. Color: The color of a gemstone is crucial in determining its value. Generally, vibrant and intense colors command higher prices. For instance, in diamonds, colorless stones with a higher color grading (such as D or E) are more valuable.
3. Clarity: Clarity refers to the absence of internal flaws or inclusions in a gemstone. Gemstones with higher clarity, meaning fewer visible flaws, are more valuable.
4. Cut and Shape: The cut and shape of a gemstone can greatly impact its value. Precise cutting that maximizes the gem's brilliance, sparkle, and symmetry commands a higher price.
5. Carat Weight: Carat weight refers to the size of a gemstone, and it has a direct correlation with its value. Generally, larger gemstones are rarer and more valuable.
6. Origin: The origin of a gemstone can have an impact on its value. Some gemstones from specific regions or mines are highly sought after due to their historical significance or reputation for producing higher-quality stones.
7. Treatment: The treatment of a gemstone, such as heating or fracture-filling, can significantly affect its value. Some treatments may enhance the appearance of a gemstone, making it more valuable, while others may decrease its worth.
8. Durability: The durability or hardness of a gemstone can influence its value. Gemstones that are more resistant to scratching and wear, such as diamonds or sapphires, tend to have higher values.
9. Market Demand: The demand for certain gemstones can fluctuate over time, affecting their value. Popular gemstones that are currently in high demand will typically be more valuable.
10. Brand and Reputation: Gemstones from well-known brands or with remarkable histories often carry a premium due to their prestige and desirability.
It is important to note that these factors are assessed by gemologists and experts in the field to determine the value of a gemstone. 

How to Identify and Evaluate Gemstones?

Identifying and evaluating gemstones requires a combination of knowledge and skills. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to identify and evaluate gemstones:
1. Educate Yourself: Start by learning about the different types of gemstones, their properties, and characteristics. Familiarize yourself with the Four Cs of gemstone evaluation: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. This knowledge will serve as your foundation.
2. Visual Examination: Observe the gemstone using good lighting. Look for its color, brilliance, and any inclusions or flaws. Note that some gemstones have unique visual characteristics. For example, inclusions can be a desirable trait in asteriated gemstones like star sapphires or cat's eye chrysoberyl.
3. Use a Gemological Tool: Utilize gemological tools like a loupe or magnifying glass to examine the gemstone closely. Look for any internal or external features that might help in identification, such as color zoning, growth patterns, or natural fractures.
4. Conduct Tests: Certain tests can help confirm the identity of a gemstone. However, these tests should only be conducted by professionals or gemologists due to the risk of damaging the stone. Some common tests include:
- Refractometer: Measures the gemstone's refractive index.
- Spectroscope: Measures the gemstone's absorption and transmission of light, aiding in identifying its color and any spectroscopic features.
- Dichroscope: Helps differentiate between singly and doubly refractive gemstones.
- Hardness Test: Determines the gemstone's hardness on the Mohs scale.
- Specific Gravity: Measures the density of the gemstone.
- UV Light: Fluorescent gemstones may reveal their true colors under specific UV wavelengths.
5. Seek Expert Opinion: If you're unsure about the identification or evaluation of a gemstone, consult a professional gemologist or jeweler. They have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to provide accurate assessments.
Remember, identifying and evaluating gemstones can be challenging, and it takes time and practice to become proficient. Always exercise caution and seek professional guidance when needed. 

 

Q: What are gemstones?

A: Gem stones are minerals or rocks that are cut and polished to be used in jewelry or for decorative purposes.

Q: Can you provide a list of popular gemstones?

A: Sure! Some popular gem stones include amethyst, Pearl, Sapphire, and alexandrite.

Q: How are gemstones categorized by color?

A: Gem stones can be categorized by color, such as blue gem stones, red gem stones, or yellow gem stones.

Q: Where can I find a complete list of gemstones by color?

A: You can find a complete list of gem stones by color online or in gemstone guidebooks.

Q: What are the different species of gemstones?

A: Gem stones can be classified into different species, such as zircon, Beryl, or semi-precious stones.

Q: Are gemstones available in a variety of colors?

A: Yes, gem stones are available in a wide range of colors. Some gem stones can even come in multiple colors.

Q: Can I buy colored gemstones online?

A: Yes, you can conveniently buy colored gem stones online from reputable jewelry websites.

Q: What types of gemstones are available?

A: There are many types of gem stones available, including precious gem stones and semi-precious gem stones.

Q: Are gemstones associated with specific colors?

A: Yes, certain gem stones are traditionally associated with specific colors. For example, sapphires are often associated with the color blue.

Q: What are some characteristics of natural gemstones?

A: Natural gem stones are formed over thousands or millions of years in the earth's crust and are valued for their rarity and beauty.