Sparkling Facts

Discover the Enchanting World of Gemstones!

Gemology: FAQ

Spinels

Dating back over 2,000 years, spinels have a fascinating ancient history. They were often mistaken for rubies due to their striking resemblance, leading to their frequent use in royal and ceremonial jewelry. The most famous example is the "Black Prince's Ruby," a magnificent 170-carat red spinel that has adorned the British Crown Jewels for centuries, carrying with it a legacy of nobility and grandeur.

One of the most alluring aspects of spinels lies in their incredible color spectrum. From vibrant reds, pinks, and purples to mesmerizing blues, oranges, and even striking black spinels, the range of colors they exhibit is nothing short of extraordinary. This diversity in hues makes spinels highly sought-after by gem enthusiasts and jewelry collectors who crave variety and uniqueness in their precious gemstone pieces.

Apart from their stunning appearance, spinels also boast impressive durability and brilliance. With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, they are exceptionally resistant to scratches and wear, making them suitable for various jewelry pieces, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. When expertly cut and polished, spinels exhibit a dazzling brilliance that rivals some of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.

Speaking of rarity, fine spinels are relatively scarce, especially those with intense and vivid colors. As a result, they are considered valuable and exclusive gemstones, cherished by connoisseurs and discerning customers who appreciate the rarity of these natural wonders. Unlike many other gemstones that are often subjected to treatments for enhancement, spinels are mostly found in their natural state, making them even more desirable for those who adore untouched beauty.

Spinels have also been known to hold a certain mystique and magical appeal. In ancient times, these gemstones were believed to possess protective properties and bring vitality, strength, and inspiration to the wearer. Wearing a spinel was thought to shield the wearer from negative energy and bestow them with good fortune and positive vibes.

For those born in August, spinels serve as an alternative birthstone, providing a vibrant and symbolic gemstone choice to celebrate their birthdays in a unique and meaningful way.

Emeralds

Emeralds have a fascinating past that dates back to ancient civilizations. The first emerald mines were believed to be in Egypt, with Cleopatra famously favoring these mesmerizing green gems.

Throughout history, emeralds have been cherished by royalty and nobility, often adorning crowns, tiaras, and other regal jewelry pieces.

What sets emeralds apart is their unique and vibrant green color. Their lush and rich green hues evoke feelings of nature, growth, and renewal, making them highly desirable for those seeking a connection to the natural world. The most prized emeralds display a deep, intense green color with a velvety texture, known as "jardin," which adds to their character and charm.

Due to their captivating beauty and historical significance, emeralds have often been associated with various legends and folklore. They are said to symbolize love, hope, and new beginnings, making them a popular choice for engagement rings and anniversary gifts.

Colombia is renowned for producing some of the finest emeralds in the world, with the Muzo and Chivor mines being particularly famous for their exceptional quality. However, emeralds can also be found in other parts of the world, including Zambia, Brazil, and Afghanistan.

Another fascinating aspect of emeralds is their "inclusions." Unlike many other gemstones, emeralds often contain natural imperfections, known as inclusions, which are considered part of their character and authenticity. These inclusions are often described as "gardens" due to their moss-like appearance, adding a distinct and unique allure to each individual stone.

In ancient times, emeralds were believed to possess healing properties and bring good fortune to the wearer. They were thought to soothe the eyes and alleviate vision-related issues, leading to their use in ancient medicinal practices.

For those born in May, emeralds are their birthstone, making them an especially meaningful and cherished gemstone choice for birthday celebrations.

Emeralds are a part of the beryl family, which includes other gemstones like aquamarine and morganite. Despite their undeniable beauty, emeralds are relatively soft compared to other gemstones, registering 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. This means they require gentle care to preserve their beauty and avoid damage.

Rubies

Rubies have a storied past that spans centuries and civilizations. Known as the "King of Gemstones," rubies have been prized by royalty and adorned crowns, scepters, and royal jewelry throughout history. In ancient Sanskrit, rubies were called "ratnaraj," meaning "king of precious stones," a testament to their regal reputation.

What makes rubies truly captivating is their intense red color, often described as "pigeon blood" red for the most coveted and vivid hues. This vibrant crimson shade is caused by the presence of the element chromium in the gemstone. The deep red color of rubies symbolizes love, passion, and courage, making them a popular choice for romantic and powerful jewelry pieces.

Rubies are part of the corundum family, which also includes sapphires. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, rubies are one of the hardest gemstones, making them durable and ideal for daily wear, especially in engagement rings and other jewelry pieces meant to be cherished for a lifetime.

Among the world's most famous rubies is the "Sunrise Ruby," a stunning 25.59-carat Burmese ruby that sold for a record-breaking price at auction, highlighting the gemstone's desirability and rarity. Burma (now Myanmar) has long been renowned for producing some of the finest rubies, known for their exceptional color and quality.

In addition to their captivating beauty, rubies have been surrounded by myths and legends. Ancient cultures believed that rubies held the power of life, symbolizing vitality and energy. They were thought to protect the wearer from harm and ensure good health and prosperity.

For those born in July, rubies are their birthstone, adding a special significance to these fiery gems for birthday celebrations and personalized jewelry gifts.

Sapphires

Sapphires hold a rich and illustrious history, dating back to ancient times. Known for their celestial blue hue, sapphires have been revered as symbols of wisdom, truth, and nobility. In many cultures, sapphires were associated with the heavens and believed to bring spiritual enlightenment and divine blessings.

Beyond their iconic blue, sapphires also come in an array of captivating colors, including vibrant pink, mesmerizing yellow, and exquisite green. These diverse colors are caused by the presence of different trace elements in the gemstone, creating a cornucopia of shades to suit every individual's preference and style.

One of the most famous sapphires is the "Star of India," a 563-carat star sapphire renowned for its intriguing optical phenomenon known as asterism. When light interacts with the inclusions within the stone, a captivating star-shaped pattern emerges, adding an extra layer of allure to this exceptional gem.

Sapphires are a member of the corundum family, making them one of the hardest gemstones with a remarkable 9 on the Mohs scale. This impressive durability ensures that sapphires are not only stunning but also suitable for everyday wear, making them a perfect choice for engagement rings, necklaces, and other cherished jewelry pieces.

While sapphires are found in various locations worldwide, Kashmir, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka are renowned for producing some of the most coveted sapphires. Kashmir sapphires, in particular, are celebrated for their velvety blue hue and exceptional quality, though they are exceedingly rare and highly sought after.

Throughout history, sapphires have been embraced in myth and legend. Ancient civilizations believed sapphires protected their wearers from envy and harm, enhancing their intuition and guiding them towards spiritual enlightenment. These mystical beliefs have contributed to sapphires' enduring popularity and allure.

For those born in September, sapphires are their birthstone, making them a meaningful and cherished gemstone choice for birthday celebrations and personalized jewelry gifts.

Tourmalines

Tourmalines are gems that showcase an astonishing variety of colors, making them one of the most versatile gemstones in the world. From vibrant pinks, greens, and blues to enchanting purples, yellows, and even watermelon combinations, tourmalines offer an endless array of captivating hues to suit every individual's taste and style.

One of the most remarkable aspects of tourmalines is their ability to exhibit different colors within the same stone. Known as "pleochroism," this property allows tourmalines to display varying shades when viewed from different angles, adding a dynamic and mesmerizing element to these extraordinary gems.

Tourmalines are found in various locations across the globe, including Brazil, Madagascar, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and the United States. Each region's geological conditions contribute to the unique colors and characteristics found in the tourmalines from that area, making them truly one-of-a-kind treasures of the Earth.

Throughout history, tourmalines have been associated with mystical properties and healing abilities. Many ancient cultures believed that tourmalines could protect the wearer from negative energy and promote harmony and balance in one's life. Today, tourmalines are still revered for their spiritual significance, with different colors being linked to various chakras and energy centers.

Tourmalines are also known for their excellent durability, registering 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This hardness ensures that tourmalines are suitable for everyday wear, making them ideal for various jewelry pieces, including rings, bracelets, pendants, and earrings.

One of the most famous tourmalines is the "Paraiba tourmaline," named after the Brazilian state where it was first discovered. These rare gems showcase an intense neon blue or green color due to the presence of copper and are highly sought after by collectors and gem enthusiasts alike.

For those born in October, tourmalines are one of their birthstone options, adding a personal touch and symbolism to their jewelry choices and special occasions.

Garnets

Garnets have been cherished for thousands of years, making them one of the oldest gemstones known to humankind. They hold a significant place in ancient mythology and have been associated with various legends and symbolic meanings. Often referred to as the "Gem of Faith," garnets are believed to inspire devotion, loyalty, and passion, making them a meaningful and sentimental choice for jewelry pieces.

While garnets are commonly associated with a deep, luscious red color, they come in a wide range of hues, including vibrant greens, warm oranges, and captivating purples. This diverse color palette ensures that garnets can cater to a myriad of tastes and preferences, offering a versatile and captivating gemstone option for all jewelry enthusiasts.

The most well-known type of garnet is the "Pyrope" variety, characterized by its rich and velvety red hue. Pyrope garnets are often found in Bohemia (now the Czech Republic) and were particularly popular during the Victorian era, adorning many exquisite jewelry pieces of that time.

Garnets are also appreciated for their exceptional brilliance and transparency, showcasing a beautiful sparkle that adds a touch of luxury and elegance to any jewelry design.

With a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, garnets are relatively durable, making them suitable for various jewelry types. However, like all gemstones, they should be handled with care to ensure their lasting beauty.

Garnets have been treasured in different cultures for their believed healing properties. They were thought to promote good health, protect against nightmares, and provide guidance during difficult times. As a result, garnets have been popular choices for talismans and amulets throughout history.

For those born in January, garnets are their birthstone, adding a personal touch and symbolism to their jewelry choices and special occasions.

Moonstones

Moonstones are known for their mesmerizing play-of-color, a phenomenon that creates a soft and radiant sheen across the surface of the stone. This enchanting visual effect, often referred to as adularescence, resembles the gentle glow of the moonlight passing through thin clouds, giving moonstones their name and otherworldly allure.

The most common color of moonstones is a translucent milky-white, which perfectly complements the gem's mystical aura. However, moonstones can also be found in shades of peach, gray, and even a stunning iridescent blue, known as "rainbow moonstone," which adds to the gemstone's versatility and allure.

Moonstones have a rich history and have been highly prized in various cultures for centuries. In ancient Rome, they were believed to be formed from solidified moonbeams, while in India, they were regarded as sacred and believed to bring good fortune to the wearer.

Aside from their captivating appearance, moonstones are also associated with a variety of metaphysical properties. They are often considered symbols of femininity, intuition, and new beginnings, making them popular choices for jewelry pieces that celebrate the transformative phases of life.

With a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, moonstones are relatively soft compared to other gemstones, making them best suited for jewelry items that are less prone to daily wear and tear, such as pendants, earrings, and occasional-wear rings.

Moonstones are traditionally connected to the moon and its cycles, making them a thoughtful and symbolic gift for those born under the zodiac sign of Cancer or for anyone who feels a special affinity towards the moon's influence.

Aquamarines

Aquamarines are cherished for their serene blue color, reminiscent of the clear and calm waters of the sea. The name "aquamarine" is derived from the Latin words "aqua" (water) and "mare" (sea), perfectly capturing the gemstone's soothing and refreshing essence.

Ranging from pale sky blue to deep azure, aquamarines offer a spectrum of hues to suit various preferences. Their transparency and brilliance make them highly desirable for jewelry designs, allowing them to shine brilliantly in different settings and light conditions.

These mesmerizing gems have been adored since ancient times, and they hold a special place in mythology and folklore. Legend has it that aquamarines were treasured by mermaids, and sailors carried them as talismans to provide protection during their sea voyages.

Aquamarines are a variety of the mineral beryl, making them cousins to other gemstones like emeralds and morganites. With a commendable hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, aquamarines are relatively durable, making them suitable for various jewelry types, including rings and bracelets.

The healing properties attributed to aquamarines focus on tranquility, clarity, and emotional balance. They are believed to calm the mind, enhance communication, and promote feelings of peace and harmony.

For those born in March, aquamarines are their birthstone, infusing a personal touch and symbolism into their jewelry choices and special celebrations.

Topaz

Topaz is renowned for its exceptional brilliance and remarkable clarity, making it a gemstone that sparkles and shines like few others. While most commonly known for its golden-yellow color, topaz occurs in a wide spectrum of hues, including vibrant blues, pinks, greens, and even rare reds, known as "imperial topaz."

The name "topaz" is believed to have originated from the ancient island of Topazos in the Red Sea, although the gemstones found there were likely not true topaz. Nevertheless, the name stuck and became associated with these captivating gems.

Imperial topaz, with its warm reddish-orange tones, is particularly prized and considered one of the most valuable variations of topaz. Its regal color has earned it the name "imperial," evoking a sense of luxury and prestige.

Blue topaz, on the other hand, has become one of the most popular and sought-after gemstones due to its vivid and eye-catching hue. Although rare in nature, blue topaz is achieved through a color enhancement process that transforms natural colorless or pale topaz into stunning blues.

With a commendable hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, topaz is relatively durable, making it suitable for various types of jewelry. Whether it's a ring, necklace, bracelet, or earrings, topaz can effortlessly elevate any jewelry design.

Topaz has been associated with various legends and beliefs throughout history. Ancient civilizations believed topaz had the power to protect its wearer from harm and bestow strength and wisdom. In medieval times, it was thought to dispel enchantments and soothe anger.

For those born in November, topaz is one of their birthstone options, adding a personal touch and significance to their jewelry choices and special celebrations.

Chrysoberyls

Chrysoberyls, particularly Alexandrite, are renowned for their mesmerizing color-changing ability. They shift from a lush green in daylight to a striking red or purplish-red under incandescent light, leaving you spellbound by their captivating magic.

Another captivating variety is the "cat's eye" chrysoberyl, displaying a luminous band of light that glides across the surface, resembling the eye of a cat. This phenomenon, known as chatoyancy, adds a touch of mystery and intrigue to these extraordinary gemstones.

Chrysoberyls come in a wide range of colors, from golden yellows to warm browns and even shades of gray, offering a spectrum of choices for jewelry enthusiasts.

With an impressive hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, chrysoberyls are exceptionally durable gemstones, perfect for creating long-lasting and cherished jewelry pieces.

Throughout history, chrysoberyls have been associated with legends and folklore, believed to bring good luck, protection, and prosperity to their wearers, making them cherished talismans throughout the ages.

As the birthstone for June, Alexandrite holds special significance for those born in this month, adding a touch of wonder to personalized jewelry gifts for June birthdays.

Due to their mesmerizing optical effects and limited availability, chrysoberyls, especially Alexandrite, are considered rare and highly prized gemstones, adored by gem enthusiasts and collectors.

The exceptional brilliance and clarity of chrysoberyls make them perfect for various jewelry styles and settings, ensuring they shine brilliantly in any piece.

Chrysoberyls exude a timeless elegance that never goes out of style. Whether in classic or contemporary designs, they add a touch of sophistication and allure to any jewelry collection.

Peridots

Peridots are renowned for their vibrant green color, ranging from a refreshing lime green to a deep olive hue. As the gem of summer, peridots are often associated with the lushness of nature and the renewal of life during this season.

One of the most intriguing aspects of peridots is their origin. Unlike most gemstones found within the Earth's crust, peridots are formed in the depths of the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity or tectonic movements. As a result, they are often referred to as "extraterrestrial gemstones."

Peridots have a fascinating history, dating back over 3,500 years. In ancient times, they were cherished by Egyptian pharaohs, who believed peridots represented the sun god Ra. The gemstone was also highly prized by the Greeks and Romans, who associated it with love and happiness.

Beyond their captivating color, peridots are valued for their remarkable brilliance and transparency. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, peridots are relatively durable, making them suitable for various jewelry types, including rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Peridots are often considered a symbol of protection and healing. They are believed to bring harmony and balance to the wearer, fostering a sense of peace and well-being.

For those born in August, peridots are their birthstone, adding a personal touch and symbolism to their jewelry choices and special celebrations.

Tsavorites or Tsavolites

Tsavorites are a variety of grossular garnets known for their intense green hues, ranging from a bright and refreshing green to a deep forest green. The name "tsavorite" is derived from the Tsavo National Park in Kenya, where this captivating gemstone was first discovered in 1967.

One of the most remarkable qualities of tsavorites is their exceptional brilliance and transparency. Their high refractive index and dispersion give them a vibrant sparkle that rivals even the most precious gemstones.

Tsavorites are highly coveted for their rarity and natural beauty. They are found in only a few locations around the world, with the primary sources being Kenya and Tanzania. Their limited availability adds to their allure and makes them a cherished choice for collectors and gem enthusiasts.

With a hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs scale, tsavorites are relatively durable, making them suitable for various jewelry types, including rings, earrings, and pendants.

Tsavorites are often associated with nature and the beauty of lush green landscapes. They evoke a sense of renewal and vitality, making them a meaningful and symbolic choice for those seeking a gemstone that represents growth and harmony.

For those born in January, tsavorites are an alternative birthstone option, providing a vibrant and captivating choice to celebrate their birthdays.

Opals

Opals are renowned for their unique beauty and iridescence. They come in a diverse range of colors, from milky whites and pale pinks to vibrant blues, greens, oranges, and fiery reds. The most extraordinary feature of opals is their play-of-color, an optical effect that creates a captivating dance of spectral colors when the gemstone is viewed from different angles.

Australia is the primary source of opals, and it is home to some of the most exceptional and sought-after varieties, such as the Black Opal, Boulder Opal, and Crystal Opal. Each type displays its own mesmerizing play-of-color, adding to the allure and fascination of these gemstones.

Opals have been revered throughout history for their mystical properties and associations with love and passion. Ancient civilizations believed opals to possess the power of foresight and prophecy, making them highly prized talismans and symbols of hope and inspiration.

Due to their unique beauty and individuality, opals are often used as centerpieces for one-of-a-kind jewelry creations. Their play-of-color adds a touch of magic and wonder to any jewelry piece, making them ideal for statement rings, necklaces, and earrings.

With a relatively moderate hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, opals require gentle care to preserve their natural beauty and avoid damage. They are best suited for occasional wear and special occasions.

For those born in October, opals are their birthstone, making them an especially meaningful and personalized gemstone choice for celebrating birthdays and significant milestones.

Moissanites

Moissanites are lab-created gemstones that exhibit remarkable fire and brilliance, similar to diamonds. They were first discovered in 1893 by Nobel Prize-winning chemist Dr. Henri Moissan in a meteorite crater in Arizona. Since then, scientists have successfully synthesized moissanites, making them a popular and ethical choice for jewelry lovers.

One of the most exceptional qualities of moissanites is their dispersion, which is even higher than that of diamonds. This dispersion creates an impressive play-of-color, producing vibrant flashes of rainbow hues that add a captivating sparkle to the gemstone.

Moissanites come in various shapes and sizes, making them versatile for a wide range of jewelry designs, from classic solitaire rings to intricate halo settings and everything in between.

Due to their hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, moissanites are highly durable and suitable for everyday wear. Their hardness and resilience make them an ideal gemstone for engagement rings and wedding bands that can be cherished for a lifetime.

Moissanites are ethically sourced and environmentally friendly, as they are created in laboratories using sustainable methods. This makes them an excellent alternative for those seeking a socially responsible and affordable gemstone option.

With their brilliance and affordability, moissanites provide an excellent alternative to diamonds, offering the look of luxury without the premium price tag. They allow you to create stunning and eye-catching jewelry pieces without compromising on quality or style.

Morganites

Morganites are a variety of beryl, like emeralds and aquamarines, and are known for their soft and dreamy pink hues. Their blush pink color evokes feelings of love, tenderness, and femininity, making them a perfect choice for romantic and sentimental jewelry pieces.

Named after the American financier and gem enthusiast J.P. Morgan, morganites have gained popularity in recent years as a sought-after gemstone for engagement rings and other meaningful jewelry designs.

One of the most enchanting features of morganites is their exceptional brilliance and transparency. They have a lovely luster that enhances their soft color, creating an ethereal and captivating appearance.

Morganites come in various shapes and sizes, allowing for versatility in jewelry designs. Whether set in a classic solitaire ring or surrounded by sparkling diamonds in a halo setting, morganites exude elegance and sophistication.

With a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, morganites are relatively durable, making them suitable for various jewelry types. However, like all gemstones, they should be treated with care to ensure their lasting beauty.

Morganites are often associated with feelings of joy, peace, and compassion. They are believed to promote harmony in relationships and inspire a sense of emotional balance and well-being.