Agate
Agate, is a distinctly banded variety
of Chalcedony, is a variety of Quartz gemstones
composed of layers of Quartz, sometimes of different colors.
When it is concentrically banded (often in rather wild
patterns) it is called by the subvaritey name "Agate."
When it is in flat layers/bands it is called by the subvariety
name "Onyx." The layers of
Quartz are often concentric. The composition of
Agate varies greatly, but silica is always predominant,
usually with alumina and oxide of iron. Agate
comes in most colors. There are several types of Agate.
It is a mineral generally of secondary origin, forming
in cavities and veins by deposition from meteoric groundwater
containing gelatinous silica from the weathering of silicate
minerals. It can also form by deposition from late hydrothermal
solutions at or near the earth's surface under conditions
of low temperature and low pressure. Agate
is commonly associated with siliceous volcanics, occurring
as vein or vesicle filling. It occurs as a petrifying
agent in fossil, wood and bone. Agate is frequently found
lining or filling rock cavities and fissures, sometimes
forming geodes.
Colors: Clear, purple, rose, black, yellow, brown,
green, orange, etc.
About Name Origin: From the German "quarz",
of uncertain origin
Beads: Majority of Agate Beads are
made/manufactured in India, Hongkong & Idar.
Rough: Idar
Hardness: Agate has a rating of 7
at Moh’s Scale
Chemical Composition: SiO2 silicon dioxide
Medical: Good for transmutation; helps with the emotion
of acceptance, gives a mellow, blended aspect; beneficial
in stomach area.
Birthstone Months:
May: Jupiter/Sagittarius; Ayurvedic Birthstone;
September: Mercury/Virgo; Mystical Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19): Birthstone
Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18): Birthstone [Moss Agate]
Gemini (May 21 - Jun 20): Birthstone, Lucky Charm
Cancer (Jun 21 - Jul 22): Lucky Charm
Anniversary Gemstone:
Agate is the anniversary gemstone for the 12th year
of marriage. Moss Agate is the anniversary gemstone
for the 14th year of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Hindu mystics believe that Agate can
help children overcome their fears, learn to walk earlier
and maintain their balance. Moss Agate
is said to help one get in touch with nature. Tree
Agate is said to help with introspection. It
helps one view themselves with more clarity and sees
the world through a broader viewpoint.
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Amazonite
Amazonite is a translucent, Pearly,
pink or pale azure Blue Crystalline stone with a surface
resembling finely cracked Marble. The coloring agent
in Amazonite is a lead and may appear mottled. It is
sometimes confused with Jade, but is distinguishable
by it’s network of light striations, which are
visible with a lens. It has the same composition as
moonstone but the crystal structure is triclinic.
Colors: Blue-green, pale green or azure
About Name Origin: Amazonite derives its name from
the Amazon River where it was thought to originate.
Beads: Majority of Amazonite Beads are made/manufactured
in India & Hongkong.
Rough: United States, Brazil, Australia, Zimbabwe,
Russia, Madagascar & Namibia.
Hardness: Amazonite has a hardness
rating of 6
Chemical Composition:KAISi3O8 potassium aluminum silicate
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties:
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Amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of Quartz. Amethyst, transparent
purple quartz, is the most important quartz variety
used in gemstone world. However, purple, lilac and mauve
quartz are similar to call Amethyst. The highest quality
is transparent. Amethyst is an affordable purple gemstone
which is generally used for assorted Jewelleries. Wearing
Amethyest is assumed to be a symbol of Soberity.
Colors: Purple, lilac, mauve
About Name Origin: Amethyest is derived from the German
word "Quarz"
Beads :Majority of Amethyst Beads are made/manufactured
in India & Hongkong
Rough :Amethyest is mined in Zambia, Namibia &
other African countries.Other countries are Brazil,
Uruguay, Bolivia & Argentina.
Hardness: Amethyest has a rating of 7 at Moh’s
Scale
Chemical Composition: SiO2 silicon dioxide
Medical:
Amethyst is generally considered to be a strong antidote
against drunkenness. Morever headaches, blood sugar
imbalance, brain imbalances, edginess, facilitates healing,
inner peace, psychic insight, stimulates third eye,
aid for meditation, spiritual opening & internal
surrender.
Birthstone Months:
February: Modern, Traditional and Ayurvedic Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18): Birthstone
Pisces (Feb 19 - Mar 20): Birthstone/Lucky Charm
Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21): Birthstone
Mystical Properties:
Amethyst is used to increase spiritually.
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Ametrine
Do you love both the purple of Amethyst and the sunny
gold of Citrine? We have the perfect gem for you! it
is Ametrine: Spinning Purple into Gold. Sometimes Amethyst
and Citrine colors are found in the same Crystal of
Quartz. These bicolor yellow and purple Quartz gemstones
are called Ametrine.
With Ametrine, you can have both gem colors for the
price of one! Ametrine is especially inexpensive when
you consider that it comes from only one mine in the
world.
The Anahi Mine in Bolivia is the major world producer
of Ametrine. Ametrine Beads are mostly made in India
& Hongkong. The mine first became famous in the
17th century when a Spanish conquistador received it
as a dowry when he married a princess from the Ayoreos
tribe named Anahi. Ametrine was introduced to Europe
through the conquistador's gifts to the Spanish queen.
Ametrine is most typically faceted in a rectangular
shape with a 50/50 pairing of Amethyst and Citrine.
Sometimes a checkerboard pattern of facets is added
to the top to increase light reflection. Ametrine is
popular among artistic cutters and carvers who play
with the colors, creating landscapes in the stone.
Ametrine is a very durable gemstone suited for a variety
of jewelry uses.
So why compromise when you can have two varieties of
quartz for the price of one!
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Apatite
Apatite is not commonly seen in the gemstone world
due to its delicate composition. It is a heat sensitive
stone which is hard to cut due to its hardness index
only of 5 at Moh’s scale. But besides all that,
it offers a unique color that is not matched by any
other stone, and so the stone found it's way into the
jewelry world. There are a handful on skilled cutters
around the world who do cut this stone excellently.
It is sensitive to acids and has a vitreous luster.
Most gem quality apatite is found in pegmatite, but
it is an abundant mineral and can be found in many types
of rocks.
Colors: Green, teal green & blue
About name origin: Apatite name is derived from the
Greek word meaning "cheat" because it is easily
confused with other gemstones such as precious Beryl,
Topaz and Tourmaline.
Beads: Most of Apatite Beads are made/manufactured
in India .
Rough: Apatite stone is mined in Burma, Ceylon, India
,Madagascar, Mexico & Canada.
Hardness: Apatite has a hardness of 5.0
Chemical Composition: Ca5(PO4)3(F,OH,Cl) basic fluoro
and chloro-calcium phosphorate
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties:
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Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a variety of Beryl. It is high transparent
to translucent The highest quality is transparent. According
to some legends, it is the treasure of mermaids, with
the power to keep sailors safe at sea. Aquamarine is
said to be a particularly strong charm when immersed
in water .Aquamarine is one of our most popular and
famous gemstone and is characterized by many excellent
features. It is almost as popular as the classical stones
Ruby, Sapphire and Emerald. It is related to Emerald,
which just like Aquamarine belongs to the gemstone family
of Beryls. However, the colour is more evenly distributed
throughout the stone in Aquamarines compared to Emeralds.
More frequent in occurrence than it’s famous green
brother. Aquamarine is usually almost free of inclusions
due to it's natural good hardness and a breathtaking
brilliance. It’s good hardness makes it quite
robust and protects it generally from getting scratched.
Iron is the substance responsible for the colour in
Aquamarine, and the shades of blue displayed range from
almost colourless pale blue through to bright sea blue.
The more intense the colour of an Aquamarine, the higher
it's value. Some Aquamarines show a slightly greenish
hue – that is also considered typical. But a really
pure and clear blue is still cherished as typical Aquamarine
colour, as it best brings out the immaculate transparency
and high brilliance of this gemstone. It is said that
it is a stone of sympathy, trust, harmony or friendship.
Women all over the world covet it because of its fine
blue colour, which suits almost any complexion or eye-colour
to perfection, and creative gemstone artists get their
inspiration for new cuts more often from Aquamarines
than from other stones.
Colors: From lightest sky-blue to the deep blue of
the sea – Aquamarines show all these shades of
an exceptionally beautiful range of usually light blues.
It is a truly fascinating stone. However, it's color
can be naturally pale to deep blue as well .
About Name Origin: Aquamarine derives its name from
"sea water"
Beads: Majority of Aquamarine Beads are made/manufactured
in India
Rough: Aquamarine stone is mined in Brazil, Zambia,
Mozambique, Angola & Nigeria
Hardness: Aquamarine has a hardness of 7.5.
Chemical Composition: Be3Al2(SiO3)6 - beryllium aluminum
silicate
Medical: Fluid retention, coughs, fear, thymus gland,
calms nerves, problems with eyes, ears, jaw, neck, stomach,
teeth, mental clarity, meditation.
Birthstone Months:
March: Modern Birthstone
October
Star Stone Months:
Pisces (Feb 19 - Mar 20): Planetary
Scorpio (Oct 23 - Nov 21): Birthstone/Lucky Charm
Anniversary Gemstone:
Aquamarine is the anniversary gemstone for the 16th
and 19th year of Marriage
Mystical Properties:
Aquamarine is often used to (hopefully) experience love
and mercy. It is said to help ease depression and grief.
It is also known to help husbands and wives work out
their differences and ensure a long and happy marriage
makes it a good anniversary gift. Aquamarine also protects
against the wiles of the devil.
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Aventurine
A variety of Crypto Crystalline Quartz which contains
inclusions of small Crystals that reflect light and
give a range of colors - depending on the nature of
the inclusion. Hence Aventurine's green is the most
popular colour. Aventurine claim to fame is having inclusions
that look like sparkles. Extremely high quality aventurine
(without the inclusions), looks like an Emerald.
Colors: Green, greenish-brown, bluish ,green yellow
& orange.
About Name Origin: Please view “Quartz”
Beads: Majority of Aventurine Beads are made/manufactured
in India & Hongkong.
Rough: Aventurine is mined from the Quartz Mining Resources.
Hardness: Aventurine has a hardness rating of 7
Chemical Composition: SiO2 - silicon dioxide
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20): Planetary Stone
Star Stone Months:
Aventurine is not a star stone.
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Blue Topaz
Topaz comes in several colours .Blue is one of the
most popular & familiar colour of Topaz in gemstone
world. Topaz is a beautiful light blue stone. Blue Topaz
looks like Aquamarine but there is much difference between.
Blue Topaz is much less expensive than Aquamarine. It
is also called the Gem of The Setting Sun' It looks
beautiful in rings, bracelets, necklaces, and pendants.
Blue Topaz is also used as alternate of Aquamarine.
Topaz is a very hard gemstone but it can be split with
a single blow.
About Colors: Mostly blue. Other colours are yellow,
pink, brown & green .
About Name Origin: The Name "Topaz" is thought
to be derived from the Sankrit word tapas” meaning
fire. However, more likely, it’s name is probably
derived from the Island of Topazos, in the Red Sea.
Beads: Majority of Topaz Beads are made/manufactured
in India Hongkong.
Roughs: Topaz is found in Africa, Australia, Brazil,
China, Japan, Mexico, Myanmar, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri
Lanka, Russia, and USA (Colorado, Maine and Utah).
Hardness: Topaz has a hardness of 8.
Chemical Composition:
Al2(OH,F)2SiO4 - aluminium fluosilicate
fluorine (F) and the hydroxyl (OH) can partly replace
each other
Medical:
Balances emotions; calms passions; gout; blood disorders;
hemorrhages; increases poor appetite; general tissue
regeneration; VD; tuberculosis; reverses aging; spiritual
rejuvenation; endocrine system stimulation; releases
tension; feelings of joy.
Birthstone Months:
November: Modern Birthstone [Yellow Topaz], Ayurvedic
Birthstone [all colors]
December: Modern Birthstone [Blue Topaz]
Star Stone Months:
Scorpio (Oct 23 - Nov 21): Birthstone
Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21): Birthstone, Planetary
Stone, Lucky Charm
Anniversary Gemstone:
:Topaz is the anniversary gemstone for the 4th and 19th
year of marriage. Imperial topaz is the anniversary
gemstone for the 23rd year of marriage
Mystical Properties:
The ancient Greeks believed that it had the power to
increase strength and make it’s wearer invisible
in times of emergency.
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Calcite
Calcite is found in limestone and in most stalactites
and stalagmites worldwide. It is a very soft stone and
takes great care to cut and facet. Calacite can be found
in very large prismatic crystals in many different forms
and combinations.
Colors: Colorless,white,yellow,brown & other colors
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Calacite Beads are made/manufactured
in India & Hongkong.
Rough: Finest specimen come from Italy. Other countries
are Germany, England & US.
Hardness: Calacite has a hardness rating of 3
Chemical Composition :CaCO3
Medical: NA
Birthstone Month: NA
Star Stone Month: NA
Anniversary Gemstone: NA
Mystical Properties :NA
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Carnelian
Carnelian is a reddish variety of Quartz, a translucent
to opaque. Carnelian usually ranges from bright orange
to reddish orange. The shades of red are due to iron
oxide. It is used for great beads, cabochons and cameos.
Carnelian is very popular in south Asian countries.
It can be from good transparent to translucent &
opaque as well.
About Colors: Ranges from bright orange to reddish
orange.
About Name Origin: Please view Quartz as it is a variety
of Quartz
Beads: Majority of Carnelian Beads are made/manufactured
in India
Rough: Carnelian is mined in India.
Hardness: Carnelian has a hardness rating of 7.
Chemical Composition: SiO2 silicon dioxide
Medical: Stimulates curiosity & initiative, focuses
attention to the present moment, use with citrine on
lower 3 chakras, digestion.
Birthstone Months:
July - Other Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 22): Birthstone & Lucky Charm
Anniversary Gemstone:
Carnelian is not an anniversary gemstone.
Mystical Properties:
Carnelian is used for clear thinking. It is said to
help balance creativity and mental processing. It is
a stone Vitalizing and positive energy, and derives
its electro-magnetic energy from the earth and the cosmos.
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Cat's Eye
Cat's Eye is a particular hard stone which comes in
a range of colors. It's also known as Chrysoberyl cat's
eye. It is actually beryllium aluminum oxide. When it
is cut, it shows a whitish line across the surface due
to inclusions of rutile.
Colors: Yellow, greenish yellow, green & brown.
About Name Origin: The name Cat's Eye is derived from
the Greek words, chrysos beryllos, which means "golden
beryllium".
Beads: Majority of Cat's Eye Beads are made/manufactured
in India .
Rough: Sri Lanka, Brazil & China
Hardness: Cat's Eye has a hardness rating of 8.5
Chemical Composition :BeAl2O4
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties:
It is believed that wearing Cat's Eye can protect against
evil.
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Chalcedony
Chalcedony is a catch all term that includes many well
known varieties of Cryptocrystalline Quartz gemstones.
Chalcedony includes Agate, Carnelian, Chrysoprase, Jasper,
Onyx & a few of the better known varieties. It can
be in various colours. It can be transparent, translucent
& opaque as well. It has been always so usable in
gemstone world because of it’s various colours.
About Colors: It has a waxy luster and appears in a
great variety of colors -- usually blue-white, buff,
gray, yellow or brown
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Chalcedony Beads are made/manufactured
in Hongkong & India.
Roughs: Chalcedony is mined from it's family member
stones Mining Resources.
Hardness: Chalcedony has a hardness rating of 7.
Chemical Composition: SiO2 - silicon dioxide
Medical: Touchiness, melancholy, fever, gallstones.
Leukemia, eye problems, stimulates maternal feelings
& creativity release.
Birthstone Months:
Please view Chalcedony's family related other stones.
Star Stone Months:
Please view Chalcedony's family related other stones.
Anniversary Gemstone:
Please view Chalcedony's family related other stones.
Mystical Properties:
Please view Chalcedony's family related other stones.
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Chrysoberyl
Word, Beryl' or Chrysoberyl' has a very important meaning
in the gemstone world. It is popular or well-known for
it's various colors or for it's magic of colors .The
other members of the Beryl family are colorless. Beryl
which shows off the brilliance of this gem family, pink
and peach Morganite, Heliodor, also known as golden
Beryl, rare red Beryl, pale green Beryl, which is a
green version of Aquamarine. Colours are very much related
to our emotions and to stimulate them. Beryl various
colors do make us feel happy, vivacious or calm, making
us experience magic and freedom. And where would colour
be more permanently or beautifully presented than in
a gemstone? In the fascinating realm of gemstones Emeralds
shine in the most burning green imaginable. Aquamarines
sparkle in all shades of blue – from light pale
sky-blue to the deep blue of the sea. And charming pink
Morganite enthralls women all over the world. And only
few people will realize that all these different gemstones
belong to one and the same family. Aquamarine, Emerald
and Morganite are all Beryls – just like Golden
Beryl, gold-green Heliodor and colourless Goshenite.
No matter whether blue, green, yellow, colourless or
pink, their chemical and physical consistence is basically
identical, they only differ in colour. For the natural
various colors of Beryl, Iron is responsible for making
Beryl appear sea blue and turning it into one of the
most popular and well-known gemstone, Aquamarine. This
stone not only sparkles in all the colours of the water
– colours which complement almost any colour of
eyes and complexion. Often it seams sea-green, a typical
characteristic of the stone. It is the favorite stone
of many creative designers and is set apart by quite
a number of positive features: the distribution of colour
is even throughout the stone, there are only little
inclusions so that it is almost flawless, it has a good
hardness and a beautiful lustre. The Beryl is also closely
related to Emerald. This most valuable of all Beryls
owes it's colour to chromium and/ or vanadium, which
make it show ,maybe most beautiful and brightest green
of all respective gemstones Emerald-green. Fine crystal
inclusions, fissures and flaws are not only tolerated
in this valuable gemstone, they are even considered
as identifying features stating its authenticity. Experts
have lovingly called the Beryl Emerlad's Garden as well.
Beryl reacts completely different, when manganese comes
into the picture. This element lends a fine feminine
pink, rose or peach colour to the stone, which is then
called Morganite, besides Emerald and Aquamarine probably
the best-known representative of the Beryl group. Small
traces of uranium are sufficient to lend colourless
Beryl a more or less satiated golden colour –
typical characteristic of Golden Beryl. This gemstone
also shows the same good qualities as it’s blue
brother Aquamarine. Usually it is also mined in the
same occurrences alongside Aquamarine. Golden Beryl
fascinates us by its fine range of yellows, from palest
lemon shade to warm gold. Contrary to Emerald, however,
it shows only few inclusions. Iron and uranium in combination
are responsible for the fresh and invigorating green-yellow
of another Beryl variety, of Heliodor. The stone has
been aptly named, for "helios” is the Greek
word for "sun” and "doron” denotes
a gift. Heliodor is thus a gift from the sun to all
mankind.
Briefly or to end-up with, we'd say that Beryls are
popular gemstones, and not only because of their gorgeous
colours. They also convince because of their high brilliance
and their excellent natural hardness of 7.5 making them
very suited for everyday wear. The skilled hands of
expert gemstone cutters turn them into a wide range
of many-faceted shapes. Especially popular cuts for
Beryls are rectangular or square step cuts, since a
clear design will succeed in best bringing out the transparent
beauty of this multi-coloured gemstone family.
Colors: Various colors as mentioned above
About Name Origin: The name Beryl as such originally
is rooted in India based on the Sanskrit word "veruliyam"
– an old term for the gemstone Chrysoberyl –
from these roots there later developed the Greek word
"beryllos". Word brilliance is possibly derived
from the ancient Greek word for beryl.
Hardness: Beryl has a hardness rating of 7.5 to 8.
Beads: The majority of Beryl Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: Beryl stone mined in Middle and Western Africa,
Madagascar, Russia , Ukraine, USA & South America.
Chemical Composition: Be3Al2(SiO3)6 - beryllium aluminum
silicate
Medical:
Laziness, hiccups, swollen glands eye diseases.
Birthstone Months:
Please view Beryl’s ted other stones.
Star Stone Months:
Please view Beryl's family related other stones.
Anniversary Gemstone:
Please view Beryl's family related other stones.
Mystical Properties
See Beryl's family related other stones.
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Chrysoprase
Chrysoprase is apple green C lcedony. The shade of
green is due to nickel. Chrysoprase is often referred
to as Australian Jade due to it’s green colour.
It is often for beads, cabochons and cameos
About Colors: Apple Green
About Name Origin
Hardness: Chrysoprase has a hardness rating of 7.
Chemical Composition:SiO2 - silicon dioxide
Bead: Majority of Chrysoprase Beads are made/manufactured
in India & Hongkong
Rough:
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
May - Other Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Gemini (May 21 - Jun 20): Birthstone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Chrysoprase is not an anniversary gemstone.
Mystical Properties:
Chrysoprase is used for spiritual protection. It is
said to improve perception, both physical as well as
mental. Meaning, it improves eyesight and enhances psychic
perception as well.
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Citrine
Citrine is a gem variety of Quartz .Citrine is a beautiful
yellow stone. Many Citrines have a juicy lemon color.
The gem's yellow color comes from trace elements of
iron. It is a popular less expensive alternative to
the much more expensive yellow Sapphire or yellow Diamond.
To create wonderful multi-colored jewelry, it is often
combined with other stones such as: Peridot, Amethyst
and Garnet. Citrine is one of the most affordable gemstones.
Sunny and affordable, Citrine can brighten almost any
jewelry style, blending especially well with the yellow
gleam of polished Gold. Sometimes you will hear Citrine
referred to as Topaz , which is incorrect. This name
was used in the past in reference to the color, which
is sometimes similar to the color of Topaz. Since Topaz
is a separate mineral, this type of name can be confusing
and should not be used. However, Citrine is considered
an alternative to Topaz as the birthstone for November.
Colors: Yellow
About Name Origin: From the French name for lemon,
'Citron,"
Beads: Majority of Citrine Beads are made/manufactured
in India
Rough: Citrine is mined in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
particularly from The Sierra Mine & The Iraa Mine.
Hardness: Citrine has a hardness rating of 7.
Chemical Composition: SiO2 - silicon dioxide
Medical: Heart, kidney, liver & muscle healer;
appendicitis, gangrene, red & white corpuscles,
digestive tract, cleanses vibrations in the atmosphere,
creativity; helps personal clarity, will bring out problems
in the solar plexus & the heart, eliminates self-destructive
tendencies.
Birthstone Months:
November: Modern and Traditional Birthstone.
Star Stone Months:
Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 22): Planetary Stone.
Anniversary Gemstone:
Citrine is the anniversary gemstone for the 17th year
of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Citrine is said to help one connect with Spirit.
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Coral
Coral is created by sea life. It is the skeletal that
remains of coral polyps. Coral is calcium carbonate
with a trade of carotene. It’s color ranges from
white to red. Red, pink and white coral is mostly calcium
carbonate. Black and golden c.
Coral is concholin. It is beautiful in Beads/Necklaces,
and other jewelries. Coral makes jewelry of a very special
fascinating charm: the perfect embodiment of mankind’s
yearning for summer, sun and faraway seas. Corals live
in depths between three to three thousand meters in
the seas around Japan, Taiwan and the Malayan Archipelago,
in the Red Sea, the Biscayan Gulf and around the Canary
Islands, but also in north-eastern Australia and off
the Midway Islands. In the Mediterranean there are Coral
reefs all around the Tyrrhenian Sea, along the coastline
of Sardinia and also off the shores of Tunisia and Algeria,
Yugoslavia and Turkey. Corals are produced by tiniest
life forms, which settled in the depths of warm seas
in vast colonies, long before our time. The Coral cnidarians
is covered by a fleshy skin and secretes a calcareous
substance, from which there are built the branchlike
structures of the Coral stems. They can grow up to 40
cm in height, the thickness of the branches, however,
hardly ever amounts to more than four cm. Only at the
forks the structures are a little thicker. And from
these parts the valuable raw material is gained which
will then be turned into pieces of jewelry.
The Coral pieces are cleaned, sorted, and treated with
saws, files and drills. Coral is hardly ever cut like
other gemstones. When unfinished, Coral appears dull
and matted. Only after polishing it receives it’s
beautiful gloss. Corals are not too sensitive, but with
their hardness of only 3.5 they are considerably softer
than any other gemstone material.
From pre-historic times, now Coral has been used as
jewelry and worshipped as a protective charm. Nowadays
Coral is still used as a talisman in many cultures in
order to ward off evil spirits. The modern teachings
of healing with gemstones appreciate Coral for it’s
positive effects. For young girls, Coral is also a popular
choice as first piece of jewelry. But Coral is more
than this: In a miraculous way it reflects the complexion
of its wearer, and best displays its irresistible beauty
when worn on the bare skin. Coral belongs to the most
attractive of jewelry materials that can be imagined,
and keeps on inspiring international jewelry designers
to develop charming and unique designs.
Corals need not necessarily be red. Nature creates Coral
in a wide range of shades and hues from red and white
and blue to brown and black. Most coveted are the red
shades, ranging from palest petal pink via salmon to
deep velvety red. The height of fashion are currently
black Coral and golden Coral, and extremely rare the
blue variant. Especially valuable is also the white
Coral with a slight blush of pink, the so-called “Angelskin
Coral”.
About name origin: The Name Coral, is always controversial
amongst the linguists. Some are convinced that the Greek
word koraillon“ is the root, as this signifies
the hard and calcareous skeleton of the Coral animal.
Another possible source is “kura-halos”,
meaning “mermaid”, and after all, the fine
Coral branches sometimes remind us of the shape of people.
Other experts favour the theory that the word comes
from Hebrew, “goral”, the name for the stones
used to cast an oracle, and in fact the Coral branches
were used for casting oracles in former times in Palestine,
Asia Minor and the around the Mediterranean.
Hardness: Coral has a hardness of 3.5.
Chemical Composition: CaCO3 - calcium carbonate
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Taurus (Apr. 20 - May 20): Blood Coral is the birthstone.
Star Stone Months:
Blood Coral is not a star stone.
Anniversary Gemstone:
Coral is the anniversary gemstone for the 35th year
of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Coral is used to build an emotional foundation. Coral
is also reported to soothe fears and tensions, and to
encourage positive ways of living together.
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Emerald
Emerald is a medium to dark green beryl which derives
its color from chromium and vanadium always rich green
in color, most emeralds have many "inclusions,"
or flaws, and are typically oiled to fill cracks and
generally improve appearance. Emerald is a fascinating
gemstone. Emerald green show the most beautiful, deepest
and most brilliant imaginable green. Inclusions are
allowed, and nevertheless, in top qualities. Fine Emerald
is even more valuable than a Diamond. Emerald are Beryllium
Aluminium Silicate.
Colors: Mostly Green. Emerald Green is the colour of
life and of eternally returning spring.
About Name Origin: The name Emerald was derived from
French "esmeraude” which in turn goes back
via Latin to the Greek root "smaragdos”,
meaning simply "green gemstone”.
Beads: Majority of Emerald Beads are made/manufactured
in Jaipur, India.
Rough: Colombia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Pakistan, Russia,
USA (North Carolina). The best and finest qualities
of Emeralds are from Colombia.
Hardness: Emerald has a hardness rating of 7.5.
Chemical Composition: Ca3Al2(SiO4)3
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
January: Mystical Birthstone
May: Modern Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20): Birthstone/Planetary Stone
Gemini (May 21 - Jun 20): Lucky Charm
Cancer (Jun 21 - Jul 22): Birthstone/Lucky Charm
Anniversary Gemstone:
Emerald is the anniversary gemstone for the 20th, 35th
and 55th year of marriage, the perfect emblem of an
enduring love.
Mystical Properties:
Emerald is used for physical and emotional healing.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fluorite
Fluorite is a transparent stone with green and purple
with clear areas or bands. This stone is like a mental
organizer. It's base matrix is air, but does contain
some fire. It's energy dispels chaotic tendencies, and
replaces them with harmony and order. It promotes mental
growth, stimulates the third eye, and harmonizes it
to mental realities. Purifies enteric body and produces
"etheric atmosphere". It helps in concentration
and helps encourages positive mental flow. It helps
in understanding in relationships and can tune individuals
to a group harmony. It balances the mental and emotional
energies for good harmonious flow. It's energy is soft
Yet very powerful.
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Garnet
Garnet displays the greatest variety of color of any
mineral, occurring in every color except blue. Although
the colour red is the one which occurs most frequently,
there are also Garnets showing different shades of green,
pale to bright yellow, fiery orange and fine earth-
and umbra-shades. Only blue is a colour which is not
available in Garnet. Garnets are gemstones which are
in high demand and are often worked into pieces of jewelry
- especially since today not only the traditional gemstone
colours red, blue and green are cherished by the consumer,
but the intermediate shades and hues are also very popular.
Due to it's excellent hardness in nature this gemstone
is so excellent to wear. Garnets are quite sturdy and
resistant to everyday wear and tear, and uncomplicated
to work into jewelry. Deep red in color, almandine Garnet
is the most popular gem in the garnet family. Occasionally
deep enough red to appear black, almandine Garnet is
sometimes hollowed in order to let light shine through
the stone, highlighting it’s red color.
Colors: Usually Red but Ranges from colorless to black
though it is often thought of as only red.
About Name Origin: The word "garnet" is believed
to have come from the Greek word "granatum,"
or pomegranate seed. Morever, the word Garnet means
something like "The Grainy" which is derived
from the Latin word "granum” meaning Grain.
Beads: Majority of Garnet Beads are made/manufactured
in India .
Rough: The Garnet is mined in India, Australia, Arizona,
New Mexico & Africa.
Hardness: There are various types of Garnet with the
hardness ranging from 7 - 7.5.
Chemical Composition:
Almandite: iron aluminium silicate, 3FeO . Al2O3 . 3Si2
Pyrope: magnesium aluminium silicate
Spessartite: manganese aluminium silicate
Andradite: calcium iron silicate.
Grossular: calcium aluminium silicate
Uvarovite: calcium chromium silicate
Medical: Some people believe that it can have effect
on normalizing circulation, and to balance thyroid disorders.
Garnets come in many colors and different varieties
are associated with different healing abilities. The
blood-red varieties are often associated with blood
diseases. The browner varieties are used by healers
to draw out stress. The Demantoid variety has been used
to alleviate chronic pain. The pink Grossular varieties
sooth a stressed nervous system and are used by healers
for stress-related diseases, such as anorexia, mistrust,
and people needing comfort.
Birthstone Months:
January - Modern/Traditional/Ayurvedic Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Garnet is not a star stone.
Anniversary Gemstone:
Garnet is not an anniversary stone
Mystical Properties:
It is know to draw out negativity and increase well
being. To receive this stone as a gift is considered
good luck, however, if ever stolen, bad luck to the
thief. In the Middle Ages it was used to ward off harm
and increase chivalry, loyalty and honesty.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gaspiete
Gaspiete is considered a rare mineral which is actually
nickel magnesium iron carbonate. Although It is in nature
specifically opaque yet rarely it can be translucent
as well. Gaspiete's apple green color is unmistakable
and makes it a unique specimen. It is often described
a "green turquoise" but it is not related
to turquoise. It is found as a secondary mineral around
nickel sulfide deposits.
Colors: Pale green to apple green
About Name Origin: Named after the Gaspe' Peninsula,
Lemieux Township, Gaspe'-oust County, Quebec, Canada.
Beads: Majority of Gaspiete Beads are made/manufactured
in India & Hongkong.
Rough: Australia.
Hardness: Gaspiete has a hardness rating of 4.5-5.
Chemical Composition: Ni,Mg,Fe)CO3.
Medical: NA
Birthstone Months: NA
Star Stone Months: NA
Anniversary Gemstone: NA
Mystical Properties:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Grossular Garnet
Grossular Garnet is considered to be one of the most
colorful member of the Garnet family It is a very soft
stone and takes great care to cut and facet.
.It is calcium aluminum silicate Pure Grossular Garnet
is colorless, but impurities deposited during formation
give it a wide range of colors. Chromium and vanadium
create a rich green color, manganese and iron produce
a brownish-orange color. Garnets, formed under high
temperatures and/or pressure, are common in highly metamorphosed
rocks and in some igneous formations. Iron and chromium
give it the blood red color. Garnet is made up of a
group of differently colored minerals with similar chemical
composition. It is one of the few gemstones that require
no processing other than cutting to enhance its beauty
is found in limestone and in most stalactites and stalagmites
worldwide.
Colors: Mostly green. Other colors are yellow &
brown.
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Grossular garnet Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: Canada, Russia, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Pakistan
& USA.
Hardness: Grossular Garnet has a hardness rating of
6.5-7.
Chemical Composition: Ca3Al2(SiO4)3 calcium aluminum
silicate.
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
January - Aquarius
Star Stone Months:
January
Anniversary Gemstone:
Two-Year Stone
Mystical Properties:
It is commonly believed that if you give Garnet to a
loved one, it will secure affection.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hessonite
Hessonite Garnet, sometimes referred to as "Cinnamon
Stone", is a brownish-orange color due to manganese
and iron impurities. It is one of the gem varieties
of the garnet mineral, grossular. The swirls of inclusions
give it a honey like appearance. Garnets, formed under
high temperatures and/or pressure, are common in highly
metamorphosed rocks and in some igneous formations.
Iron and chromium give it the blood red color. Garnet
is made up of a group of differently colored minerals
with similar chemical composition. It is one of the
few gemstones that require no processing other than
cutting to enhance its beauty. Hessonite is a symmetrical,
cube-based crystals.
Colors: Brownish-Red
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Hessonite Garnet Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: Sri Lanka, Madagascar, USA, Brazil, Canada &
Russia.
Hardness: Hessonite Garnet has a hardness rating of
6.5-7
Chemical Composition: Ca3Al2(SiO4)3
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
January - Aquarius
Star Stone Months:
January
Anniversary Gemstone:
Two-Year Stone
Mystical Properties:
It is commonly believed that if you give Hessonite Garnet
to a loved one, it will secure their loyalty and affection.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Idocrase
Idocrase, also known as Vesuvenite' is a fascinating
stone found originally in volcano. It forms as a result
of contact metamorphism on impure limestone's and is
usually found with other exotic minerals. A massive
green gem variety is called californite from where it
is found. It is a somewhat rare and beautiful mineral
that can rival many other minerals for interest among
mineral collectors.
Colors: The gemstone is normally green, but also can
be brown, yellow, blue and/or purple.
About Name Origin: The name Idocrase is from the Greek
and means mixed form, an allusion of it's crystals showing
a mixture of other volacanic mineral forms
Beads: Idocrase Beads are made/manufactured in India
& Hongkong
Rough: Asbestos, Quebec, Canada, California and the
New England region of USA, Mt Vesuvius-Italy, Ural Mountains,
Russia and Switzerland.
Hardness: Idocrase has a Hardness of 6.5 at Moh's scale
Chemical formula: Ca10(Mg, Fe)2Al4(SiO4)5(Si2O7)2(OH)4
Medical: NA
Birthstone Months: NA
Star Stone Months: NA
Anniversary Gemstone: NA
Mystical Properties: NA
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Iolite
Iolite is usually a purplish blue when cut properly,
with a softness to the color that can be quite attractive.
This purplish-blue gemstone (Cordierite) is sometimes
known as the "water sapphire" owing to it's
resemblance in color to the more valuable blue Sapphire.
Properly cut, Iolite shines different colors when viewed
from different angles, a quality known as "pleochro.
Colors: Ranges from blue to violet
About Name Origin: The name Iolite comes from the Greek
Ios", which means violet.
Beads: Majority of Iolite Beads are made/manufactured
in India .
Rough: Iolite is mined mainly in India & Sri Lanka.
It is also found in Madagascar, Brazil, Burma &
USA.
Hardness: Iolite has a hardness rating of 7.
Chemical Composition: Mg2Al4Si5O18 - Complex magnesium
aluminium silicate
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jade
Jade is A Chinese Stone of Heaven. JADE is a generic
term that actually covers three minerals. They are Jadeite,
Nephrite, and Chloromenlanite.
Jade is chiefly valued by it's color and freedom from
cracks. It should have a 'greasy' appearance when it
is polished. Colors will range from the many shades
of green, to yellow, red, black, and white. Lavender
Jade is the most highly valued, and also the rarest
forms of the stone.
Jadeite is composed mainly of silica and alumina, it's
green color is determined by the amount of iron present.
Jadeite is generally brighter and more vivid in color
than Nephrite. It's body is more translucent and sometimes
partially crystallized. The white variety of Jadeite
with the brilliant streaks of deep Emerald green, gets
it’s colour from the element 'Chromium'.
Nephrite is composed mainly of silica and magnesia,
it is also dependent on it’s color by the amount
of iron present. Nephrite is usually some shade of green,
it may range from sea green, gray green, celadon, lettuce
green, grassy green and spinach green. Other colors
of Nephrite include blue gray, reddish gray, greenish
gray, yellow and black.
Chloromenlanite is a black variety of Jadeite, belonging
to the same 'Class' which mostly is found in Burma.Any
black carving from the regions of China come under this
classification of mineral. Silica and aluminia are equally
prominent in Chloromenlanite and Jadeite.
The top Jadeite Jade is usually cut into smooth dome
shapes called cabochons. Jadeite bangles are also very
popular in Asian countries. Beads are also very beautiful
.This stone is assumed to be a symbol of Love and Virtue
About colors: As mentioned above
About name origin:
Beads: Majority of Jade Beads are made/manufactured
in China(Hongkong)
Rough:
Hardness: Jade has a hardness of 6.5 to 7.0.
Medical: Kidney, heart, larynx, liver, parathyroid,
spleen, thymus, thyroid & parasympathetic ganglia
healer, strengthens body, longevity.
Birthstone Months:
March: Mystical Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 22)
Anniversary Gemstone:
Jade is the anniversary gemstone for the 12th, 30th
and 35th year of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jasper
Jasper is a very pretty, inexpensive earth stone .It
is one opaque, impure usually red but also yellow, green,
and grayish blue stone. Jasper is also multi-colored.It
is usually worn as beads or cabochons. Jasper is an
ornamental rock composed mostly of Chalcedony, microcrystalline
Quartz, in association with other minerals, which give
it colorful bands and patterns. It is sometimes used
to create bowls and other objects,too .
Colors: Rich clay red color, with a slight grayish-black
matrix
About Name Origin: The name Jasper is possibly traced
back in Hebrew, Assyrian, Persian, Greek, and Latin.
Beads: Majority of Jasper Beads are made in Hongkong
Rough: From the Calacedony Mining Resources
Hardness: Jasper has a hardness rating of 7
Chemical Composition: SiO2 - silicon dioxide
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
October, Mystical Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Aries (Mar 21 - Apr 19): Planetary Stone/Lucky Charm
Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 22): Birthstone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Jasper is not an anniversary gemstone.
Mystical Properties:
Leopard skin Jasper is said to bring one what they need;
Poppy Jasper is said to help bring joy into life. Opalite
Jasper is said to help one sleep.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kunzite
Kunzite is pale pink to lilac gem variety of the mineral
spodumene. Kunzite is often found in association with
morganite and pink tourmaline. It is relatively hard,
with a hardness of seven just like quartz.
About Colors: Pale Pink to Lilac.
About Name Origin: Kunzite is named as a tribute to
George Kunz, the legendary gem scholar, gemologist,
and gem buyer for Tiffany & Co at the turn of the
century. The author of The Curious Lore of Precious
Stones, Kunz searched the globe for old stories and
legends about gems as he searched for new varieties
and new deposits.
Hardness: Kunzite has a hardness rating of 7.
Medical:
Beads: Majority of Kunzite Beads are made/manufactured
in India & China (Hongkong)
Rough: Most kunzite is mined in Brazil, Afghanistan,
and Madagascar.
Healing: NA
Birthstone Months: NA
Star Stone Months: NA
Anniversary Gemstone: NA
Mystical Properties: NA
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kyanite
Kyanite is unusual stone. It has two hardness values,
approximately 4.5 when scratched parallel to the long
axis of the crystal and 6.5 when scratched perpendicular
to the long axis. This variable hardness and cleavage
make it difficult to cut the stone . Kyanite has a pearly
vitreous luster and coloring may be uneven with darker
coloring towards the center.
Colors: Blue, blue-green & brown
About Name Origin: Kyanite - it's name is derived from
the Greek word meaning "blue".
Beads: Majority of Kyanite Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: India, USA, Australia, Kenya, Myanmar (Burma)
& Brazil
Hardness: axes 4-4.5, across 6-7
Chemical Composition: Al2SiO5
Medical:
Birthstone Months: NA
Star Stone Months: NA
Anniversary Gemstone: NA
Mystical Properties:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Labradorite
Labradorite usually has a gray to gray-black color
but an interference of light at junctions of internal
structures show a schiller in metallic tints. It displays
rainbow-colored reflections, known as labradorescence
in violet, blue, green, yellow, orange and red. Blues
and greens are most common but some rare specimens may
display all these colors at once. Labradorite belongs
to the plagioclase mineral family. Labradorites are
actually sodium calcium aluminum silicate.
Colors: Gray to Gray-Black with Blue Sheen
About Name Origin: Labradorite derives its name from
the peninsula of Labrador in Canada where it was first
found.
Beads: Majority of Labradorite Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: Canada, USA, Mexico, Australia, Russia &
Madagascar.
Hardness: Labradorite has a hardness rating of 6-6.5
Chemical Composition: NaAlSi3O8 to CaAl2Si2O8 sodium
calcium aluminum silicate.
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lapislazuly
Lapislazuly which is also known as Lapis” is
a dark blue microcrystalline rock composed primarily
of the mineral lazurite. It often sparkles with golden
pyrite inclusions. Lapis is a beautiful royal blue stone
often associated with royalty. It is most often seen
as a necklace of beads or carved pendants. Lapislazuly
is a highly appreciated stone suitable for many purposes,
which shows remarkable stability on the light of quickly
changing fashion trends. This is not too surprising,
after all, it’s fairy-tale colour and it’s
golden Pyrite light reflections have been fascinating
for men and women for thousands of years. Lapislazuly
is actually not a mineral but a rock which is complex
aggregate (mixture) of other minerals. It is assumed
to be a stone or symbol of friendship and truth.
Colors: Dark blue possibly with white spots of Calcite.
It often has specks of pyrite which look like gold.
About Name Origin: The name Lapislazuly is international,
yet it's derived from the Latin, lapis” which
means stone, and from the Arabic, azul, which means
blue.
Beads: Majority of Lapislazuly Beads are made/manufactured
in India, Afganistan & Hongkong
Rough: Lalislazuly is mostly mined in Afghanistan &
Brazil.
Hardness: Lapislazuly has a hardness rating of 5.5.
Chemical Composition:
Not a mineral but a rock which is complex aggregate
(mixture) of other minerals:
(NaCa)4 8(S3So2)1 2(Al6Si6O24). hauynite
Na8Cl2(Al6Si6O24) sodalite
Na8(SO2)(Al6Si6O24 noselite
Medical:
Neurologia, melancholy, fevers, inflammations, penetrates
subconscious blockages. throat charka, sore throat,
energy focuser for teachers, lecturers & speakers,
mental & spiritual cleanser; used on 3rd eye for
meditation; eliminates old & negative emotions;
use with other healing stones; thought form amplification;
helps in creating mantras.
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
December -Traditional Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19): Planetary Stone
Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 22): Birthstone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Lapislzulyis is anniversary gemstone for the 7th and
9th year of marriage
Mystical Properties:
Is said that Lapis helps one understand the mind. It
helps to expand your viewpoint. It is good for connecting
the heart and the mind when worn over the heart.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Malachite
Malachite is a beautiful green earth one with black
bands. It is beautiful in necklaces, pendants and earrings.
Malachite is sensitive to acids, ammonia, heat and hot
water.
Malachite's coloring agent is copper, which gives it
a varying green color, most often banded light to dark.
In Asian countries, it is mostly worn with Silver Jewelry.
Hardness: Malachite has a hardness of 4.
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Malachite Beads are made/manufactured
in India
Rough: Malachite is found worldwide .But larger quantity
are found in mining areas of Zaire, Chile, Zambia, Arizona
(USA), Zimbabwe & Namibia.
Medical: Physical pain particularly in kidney. Asthma,
arthritis, swollen joints, tumours, broken bones. torn
muscles. enhances the immune system. birthing. menstrual
cycles.
Birthstone Months:
Malachite is not a birthstone.
Star Stone Months: Malachite is not a star stone.
Anniversary Gemstone:
Malachite is the anniversary gemstone for the 13th year
of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Malachite is said to bring harmony into one's life.
Clears and activates all chakras. Helps one in making
transformations. Aids one with insight to find disorders.
For equalizing and balancing and revitalizes all the
bodies. Helps one to achieve goals. Promotes fidelity
and friendship and loyalty in business. Protects one
while flying. Enhances psychic abilities.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morganite
Morganite besides Emerald and Aquamarine, Morganite
is probably the best-known member from the fabulous
multi-coloured Beryl-group. Women all over the world
love it because of its very fine pink colour which emanates
charm, esprit and tenderness. It is also known as Pink
Beryl, Aka Morganite. Pink Beryl” is simply a
variety of Beryl in general and not as an individual
stone.
Beryls are hard minerals consisting of beryllium aluminium
silicate. Pure Beryl is colourless.Due to its hexagonal
structure it is able to integrate other elements such
as, e.g., iron, manganese, chromium or vanadium. If
manganese is embedded in Beryl, the plain and unexciting
gemstone is turned into a pink and precious beauty:
Morganite is so ideally suited to wear.
Beads: Majority of Morganite Beads are made/manufactured
in India
Rough: Morganite is mainly mined in Brazil, Madagascar,
Afghanistan & California.
Hardness: Morganite has a rating of:7.5 to 8 on the
Mohs’ scale
Chemical Composition:
Medical: Morganite always radiates charm, esprit and
a certain tenderness. This gemstone is endowed with
a wonderful gift: even in times of high stress it will
manage to let you focus on the bright side of life.
. A person who decides for this stone, will be able
to see "la vie en rose” even in the grey
monotony of everyday routines. Morganite is considered
the typical stone to be used as the antidote to cure
the problems caused by hectic modern life: to relieve
stress and provide clarity. It will provide a pleasant
feeling of relaxation, peace and joy of life.
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sapphire
Sapphire includes all colors of the corundum mineral
except red, which is known as Ruby. It is the second
hardest stone known to man. The most desirable color
is a clear, deep blue. However, Sapphires come in many
colors due to levels of iron and titanium impurities,
or vanadium impurities in violet stones. It is a stone
symbolizing sincerity and faithfulness.
Colors: Mostly Purple or Violet, Blue or Slate Gray
very rarely
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Multi Sapphire Beads are made/manufactured
in India & Thailand/ Hongkong.
Rough: Australia, Nigeria & Thailand. Other countries
are Montana (USA), Columbia, Brazil, Cambodia, Kenya
& Malawi.
Hardness :Sapphire has a hardness rating of 9
Chemical Composition :Al2O3
Medical:
Birthstone Months: Please see the related stones.
Star Stone Months: Please see the related stones.
Anniversary Gemstone: Please see the related stones.
Mystical Properties:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Obsidian
A natural glass which forms from volcanic activity.
Because it rapidly cools when exposed to air, it forms
without Crystals. The most common color is black, but
gray and brown also occur. Rarely, colors such as red,
Blue, and green may also be found. Inclusions may add
colors to it such as Gold, or Silver sheen, velvet,
or a rainbow affect. Some inclusions could be bubbles
or Crystals creating a random pattern such as Snowflake.
Pebbles of lava that rapidly cooled are called Apache
Tears.
It has been used for jewelry, mirrors, tools and more
for centuries.
About Colors: Black, brown, gray, red, blue & Green
About Name Origin:
Beads: Most of Obsidian Beads are made/manufactured
in Hongkong
Roughs: Obsidian is most often found in Hawaii, Japan
and Java. However, it can be found in all areas with
volcanic activity. Dark pieces found in Arizona and
New Mexico are called Apache Tears.
Hardness: Obsidian has a hardness rating of 5.
Medical:
Birthstone Months: Obsidian is not a birthstone.
Star Stone Months: Obsidian is not a star stone.
Anniversary Gemstone: Obsidian is not an anniversary
gemstone.
Mystical Properties: Obsidian is often used for gaining
clear insight into problems.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Onyx
Onyx is a rich-looking, affordable black stone. Onyx,
Sard, and Sardonyx are all varieties of Chalcedony (Microcrystaline
Quartz). Sard is a reddish-brown variety. Sardonyx is
a blend of Sard and Onyx with the red bands of Sard
and the white bands of Onyx. Onyx is very similar to
Agate. Onyx has straight bands of brown, white or black;
Agate has curved lines of many colors. It is often mixed
with Pearls to create elegant jewelry. In jewelry design
as in fashion, colors look crisper against a background
of black and black and white always looks right. In
fine jewelry, the black backdrop is often supplied by
Onyx, a Chalcedony Quartz with a fine texture and black
color. Some Onyx also displays white bands or ribbons
against a black background. If the layers are even,
this type of Onyx can be carved into cameos. It is also
popular in marcasite jewelry. So if one would like to
add a little black magic to his jewelry design, Onyx
is one of the best stone to consider.
Colors: Brown, white, gray and black.
About Name Origin: The name Onyx comes from the Greek
word onux” that means fingernail. Onyx was very
popular with the ancient Greeks and Romans.
Hardness: Onyx, Sard and Sardonyx all have a hardness
rating of 7.
Chemical Composition :SiO2 - silicon dioxide
Medical: Objective thinking, spiritual inspiration,
control of emotions & passions, help eliminate negative
thinking, apathy, stress & neurological disorders;
also used as a heart, kidney, nerve, capillary, hair,
eye and nail strengthener.
Birthstone Months:
February: Other Birthstone
December: Mystical Birthstone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Onyx is not a star stone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Onyx is the anniversary gemstone for the 7th year of
marriage. Black Onyx is the anniversary gemstone for
the 10th year of marriage.
Mystical Properties: Black Onyx is used to help one
change habits.
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Opal
Opal is a non-crystalline form of the mineral silica
which, despite its amorphous structure, displays an
amazing degree of internal organization. Opal is related
to it’s more commonly found but highly crystalline
cousins Quartz and Agate, and is formed from amorphous
"balls" or lumps" of silica rather that
from ordered, naturally faceted Crystals.
The most striking quality of Opal is it’s ability
to refract and reflect specific wavelengths of light.
In fact, the term "opalescence" was coined
to describe this phenomenon. The size and spacing of
the amorphous spheres of silica within the stone refracts
specific wavelengths of light; each sphere refracting
a single, pure spectral color much like the individual
microscopic droplets of water in a rainbow. The interplay
of these pure wavelengths of light gives opal its unique
visual appeal, and makes it one of the most sought-after
gemstones in the world. It's also called Nature's firework".
Peruvian, Mexican Fire Opal are it’s one of the
most popular kind going ever in gemstone world.
Colors: Opal is usually white, clear, pale red or black,
and emits brilliant flashes of multi-colored light.
Watching the fire in an Opal is enchanting.
About name origin:
Beads: Majority of Beads are made in Hongkong, Australia,
India, Brazil, Germany
Roughs: It is found near the earth's surface in areas
where ancient geothermal hot springs once flowed. The
minerals bubbled up from beneath the surface of the
earth and slowly, over the centuries, lined the walls
of cracks, vents and underground cavities in the bedrock.
Most Opal is found where geothermal hot springs dried
up during seasonal periods of rainfall and extended
dry periods. More than 90% of the world's quality Opals
come from Southern Australia, although it can be found
in other parts of the world such as Brazil, Mexico,
Czechoslovakia & Nevada. All black Opals come exclusively
from Australia. Opal is found in Australia, Brazil,
Czechoslovakia, Mexico & USA (Idaho).
Hardness: Opal hardness ranges from 5.5 to 6.5 on the
Moh’s scale. Opal's scratch hardness is measured
at 6.0 to 6.5 on the Mohs' scale, similar in hardness
to Quartz, a little more than halfway between the hardness
of Talc and Diamond.
Chemical Composition:
SiO2nH2O - hydrous silicon dioxide
The chemical composition of Opal is SiO2H2O, silicon
dioxide combined with water (an Opal stone may contain
up to 30% water.) The silicate minerals in the stone
add to its weight, giving it a specific gravity ranging
from 1.98 to 2.5 times that of pure water.
Medical:
Cherry: Red corpuscle & blood disorder, depression,
apathy, lethargy, intuition & joy.
Dark: Reproductive organ, spleen & pancreas, filters
red corpuscles & aids white corpuscle, bone marrow,
depression, esp. of sexual origin, balances, amplifies
creative & intuitive thought, grounds radical emotional
body.
Jelly: Spleen & abdominal diseases; cellular reproductive
problems, helps absorb nutrients, minimizes wide mood
swing, mystical thought amplifier.
Light: Balances L & R brain hemispheres for neuro
disorders, stimulates white corpuscles, helps bring
the emotions to mystical experiences; aids abdomen,
pituitary & thymus problems.
Birthstone Months:
April: Mystical Birthstone
June: Other Birthstone
October: Modern and Ayurvedic Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18): Birthstone
Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 22):
Birthstone/Lucky Charms
Anniversary Gemstone:
Opal is the anniversary gemstone for the 14th and 18th
years of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Opal is used to see possibilities.
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Pearl
Pearl is formed in shellfish as a reactant to an irritant
such as a piece of sand. Cultured Pearls are created
by adding a piece of mussel or shell inside of an oyster
of mussel. This then creates a Pearl as layers of the
inside of the shell grow over the added substance. Pearls
are generally white, brown, silver, cream, black or
pink depending on the type of shellfish and water.
Natural pearls are the most expensive, followed by cultured
Pearls. Freshwater Pearls tend to be relatively inexpensive.
Pearls are also considered as an organic gem, created
when an oyster covers a foreign object with beautiful
layers of nacre.
While Pearls generally are thought of as white in color,
they also can be found in colors ranging from pink to
black. The famed South Seas and Tahitian black Pearls
are rare (and very expensive), with some of them among
the largest Pearls available, up to 18 and 20 millimeters.
The most common size is about seven millimeters.
Today Pearls are cultured by man: shell beads are placed
inside an oyster and the oyster is returned to the water.
When the Pearls are later harvested, the oyster has
covered the bead with layers of nacre.
The quality of Pearls is judged by the orient, which
is the soft iridescence caused by the refraction of
light by the layers of nacre, and luster, the reflectivity
and shine of the surface. Fine Pearls do not have any
flaws or spots in the nacre: it has an even smooth texture.
Other factors which affect value are the regularity
of the shape, size, and color: rose tints are the most
favored.
Colors: White, brown, silver, cream, black or pink
depending on the type of shellfish and water. Black
Mother-of-Pearl is light to dark grey and white Mother-of-Pearl
is white. Both varieties possess a pearlescent sheen
About name origin:
Beads: Most of the Freshwater Pearl Beads are produced
in China
Where Found:
Most cultured Pearls are produced in Japan. In the warmer
waters of the South Pacific, larger oysters produce
South Sea cultured Pearls and Tahitian black cultured
Pearls, which are larger in size. Freshwater Pearls
are cultured in freshwater mussels, mostly in China.
Natural Pearls have been harvested from the Red Sea,
Gulf of Manaar, and the Persian Gulf. The coasts of
Australia and Polynesia produce mostly cultured Pearls.
Freshwater Pearls occur in many rivers in places such
as: Austria, France, Scotland, Ireland, and the USA
(Florida, Mississippi River, California, Delaware)
Hardness: Pearl has a hardness of 3.5 to 4.0
Chemical Composition: CaCO3 - Calcium Carbonate
Medical: Eliminates emotional imbalances; helps one
master the heart chakra; aids stomach, spleen, intestinal
tract & ulcer problems.
Birthstone Months:
June: Modern and Ayurvedic Birthstone
November: Mystical Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Gemini (May 21 - Jun 20): Birthstone
Cancer (Jun 21 - Jul 22): Birthstone
Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21): Lucky Charm
Anniversary Gemstone: Freshwater Pearl is the anniversary
gemstone for the 1st year of marriage; Pearl is the
anniversary gemstone for the 12th and 30th year of marriage.
Mystical Properties: Pearl is said to help one see
themselves and help improve self-worth. Giving a loved
one a gift of natural pearls is one of the nicest gifts
one can give. It allows the wearer to see the love of
the person who gave them the Pearls.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Peridot
Peridot, The volcanic gem, is the best known gem variety
of mineral olivine, a species name for a series of magnesium-iron
rich silicate minerals. Peridot is a beautiful olive
green stone. It is much less expensive than green tourmaline.
Typically found in volcanic rock, this varying green
gemstone has occasionally been found in meteorites,
and enjoys the unique distinction of being the only
precious gem known to exist in outer space. Peridot
is the gem form of the mineral olivine. Because the
iron which creates the color is an integral part of
its structure, it is found only in green, ranging from
a summery light yellowish green to a 7-up bottle green.
Colors: Transparent olive green & lime green
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Peridot Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Roughs: Peridot is found in Australia, Brazil, China,
Egypt, Myanmar, Norway & USA .In 1994, an exciting
new deposit of peridot was discovered in Pakistan, and
these stones are among the finest ever seen. The new
mine is located 15,000 feet above sea level in the Nanga
Parbat region in the far west of the Himalaya Mountains
in the Pakistani part of Kashmir. Beautiful large Crystals
of Peridot were found, some that cut magnificent large
gemstones. This new discovery, combined with fashion's
passion for lime green, has revived interest in Peridot
and increased the popularity of this gemstone.
Hardness: Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7
Chemical Composition: Magnesium Iron Silicate (MgFe)2SiO4
Iron and magnesium are interchangeable, so that Peridot
can vary from Mg2SiO4 known as Forsterite, to Fe2SiO4
known as Fayalite
Medical: Protects against nervousness, helps alleviate
spiritual fear, aids in healing hurt feelings &
bruised egos, incurs strength & physical vitality,
aligns subtle bodies, amplifies other vibrational energies
& positive emotional outlook, helps liver &
adrenal function.
Birthstone Months:
August, Modern Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Leo (Jul 23 - Aug 22): Lucky Charm
Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 22): Birthstone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Peridot is the anniversary gemstone for the 16th year
of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Peridot is used to help dreams become a reality.
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Quartz
Quartz – Rock Crystal is the most common gem
variety of Quartz Crystal. It is in fact like all Quartz,
formed from the two most abundant elements in the earth's
crust: silicon and oxygen. Quartz is colorless and transparent.
It is also known as "Rock Crystal". Other
colors of Quartz have special names such as: Rose Quartz,
Citrine, Amethyst. Quartz is a simple clear stone often
worn as a Crystal pendant in necklace. It is very popular
in new age stores and alternative healing shops.
Specimens vary according to color, shade, transparency,
size of Crystals and Crystal form. There are hundreds
of unique Quartz varieties. Various kinds of Quartz
have been adopted by Arkansas, Georgia, Alabama (star
blue quartz), South Dakota (Rose Quartz), and New Hampshire
(Smoky Quartz). Quartz gems also include Rutilated Quartz,
Citrine, Ametrine, Onyx, & Chrysoprase.
About Colors: All stones colours as mentioned above
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Crystal Beads are made/manufactured
in India..
Rough: From Quartz mining resources
Hardness: Quartz has a hardness of 7.
Chemical Composition: SiO2 - silicon dioxide
Medical: Generally Transmitter & amplifier of healing
energy & clarity, balancer, channeler of universal
energy & unconditional love, all purpose healers,
programmable.
Smoky Quartz: Stimulates Kundalini energy, cleanses
& protects the astral field, draws out distortion
on all levels, good for hyperactivity & excess energy,
grounding.
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties: Though not meant to replace traditional
medical treatment, Quartz is used for balance and to
increase energy.
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Moonstone
Moonstone is a variety of Feldspar with a soft pearly
sheen in delicate orange, blues, yellow and whites.
Moonstone, the body color can range from colorless to
gray, brown, yellow, green, or pink. The clarity ranges
from transparent to translucent. The best Moonstone
has a blue sheen, perfect clarity and a colorless body
color. It is often worn in rings, pendants or bead necklaces.
The mystical stone belongs to the large mineral family
of Feldspars which provide almost two thirds of all
stones on our Earth. In the case of Moonstone, we are
looking at the Feldspar variety called “adularia”
a silicate of potassium aluminum in gemstone quality,
which is also found in the European Alps near the Adula-group
– thus the name “adularia”. Another
synonym for Moonstone is “Selenite”, according
to the Greek goddess of the moon, Selene.
The light of a Moonstone is something special indeed
in the fascinating world of gemstones. Experts call
this phenomenon “adularescence”. The origin
of this phenomenon is the interior structure of the
gemstone in scales. Incoming rays of light are refracted
inside the stone and scattered. In this way, then, there
is created a unique play of light, which makes Moonstone
so special and coveted The Moonstone's green, blue and
peach or smoke and champagne coloured, black and reddish
do come mainly from India. Some of these show not only
the typical the typical floating play of light, but
also a Cat’s eye or a multi-Rayed Star. These
stones, then, are not only cut as cabochons, but also
cut as intricate cameos, sometimes engraved as children’s
-, moon - or gargoyle face. They also show the play
of light which is so typical for Moonstone, just like
the spheres and beads made from suitable raw material
to be crafted into fine necklaces.
Moonstone symbolises a holistic view of man and woman..
Moonstones are Nature’s treasures with a sensuous
and seductive charm.Moonstone is assumes to be a symbol
of fertility & good dreams.
Colors: White, yellow, orange and gray. It always has
a white or blue sheen. & that's why rainbow"
is often added to it.
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Moonstone Beads are made/manufactured
in India , Hongkong
Rough: Moonstone is mined in Sri Lanka & India.
Hardness:
Moonstone has a hardness of 6.
Chemical Composition:
KAlSi3O8 - Potassium Aluminium Silicate
Medical: Soothes & balances the emotions, helps
eliminate fear of "feeling", encourages inner
growth & strength, aids peace & harmony &
psychic abilities, aligns vertebrae, digestive aid.
Birthstone Months:
February: Other Birthstone Stone
June: Modern and Mystical Birthstone
September: Ayurvedic Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Cancer (Jun 21 - Jul 22): Birthstone/Planetary Stone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Moonstone is the anniversary gemstone for the 13th year
of marriage.
Mystical Propertie :
Moonstone is said to balance yin/yang.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rhodochrosite
Rhodochrosite, the most common color is rose or salmon
to reddish pink with white and/or black banding. Its
color is similar to Rhodonite but is distinguishable
by its density and its sensitivity to acid. The coloring
is due to manganese and deposits occur in veins associated
with manganese, silver, copper and lead.
Colors:Mostly Pink to red. It can be also yellowish
& brownish striped .
About Name Origin:Rhodochrosite derives its name from
the Greek word meaning "rose colored".
Beads :Majority of Rhodochrosite Beads are made/manufactured
in India & Hongkong.
Rough :Argentina, Mexico, Peru, South Africa, Chile
& USA.
Hardness: Rhodochrosite has a hardness rating of 4
Chemical Composition: MnCO3
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rhodonite
Rhodonite is usually beautiful pink. It is actually
manganese silicon oxygen. It is a pink or rose red color
with black veining caused by oxidation of manganese.
It is often confused with Rhodocrosite but is distinguishable
by its greater hardness and it cannot be damaged by
hydrochloric acid, unlike Rhodochrosite.
Colors: Pink,Rose ed with Black veining
About Name Origin: Rhodonite, like Rhodochrosite, derives
its name from the Greek word "rhodon", which
means pink.
Beads: Majority of Rhodonite Beads are made/manufactured
in India & Hongkong.
Rough: Australia, India, Soviet Union & USA
Hardness: Rhodonite has a rating of 7
Chemical Composition: Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3
Medical: NA
Birthstone Months: NA
Star Stone Months: NA
Anniversary Gemstone: NA
Mystical Properties: Rhodonite is associated with sound.
It is said to aid in ear soreness and used to enhance
creativity in music.
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Rose Quartz
Rose Quartz is a variety of Quartz .Pink or peach-colored
of Quartz is called Rose Quartz. Rose quartz is often
worn as Crystal Pendants or bead necklaces. The coloring
agent for rose in Quartz is due to chemical activities.
This colour of Quartz is used so much in jewelries.
Colors: Rose. Please view details for more in Quartz.
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Rose Quartz Beads are made/manufactured
in India .
Roughs : Rose Quartz is found in India, Brazil, Madagascar
& Scotland .
Hardness: Rose Quartz has a hardness of 7.
Chemical Formula:SiO2 - silicon dioxide
Medical: Generally Transmitter & amplifier of healing
energy & clarity, balancer, channeler of universal
energy & unconditional love, all purpose healer;
programmable.
Rose Quartz: Lymphatic cancer & circulatory problems;
helps the psychologically inflexible.
Heart chakra opener, love & self-acceptance healer
for emotional wounds, dissipates anger & tension.
Birthstone Months:
January, Other Birthstone Stone
Star Stone Months:
Rose Quartz is not a birth stone.
Anniversary Gemstone:
Rose Quartz is the anniversary gemstone for the 2nd
year of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Though not meant to replace traditional medical treatment,
Rose Quartz is used to balance ones emotions and open
the heart.
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Ruby
Ruby may be any color of red depending on the chromium
and iron content of the stone. Ruby is the red variety
of the mineral corundum, the second hardest mineral
known to exist, surpassed only by Diamond.
Ruby is the red variety of the corundum mineral, one
of the hardest minerals on Earth which also includes
Sapphire. Pure corundum is colorless. Slight traces
of the colour creating elements such as chrome, iron,
titanium or vanadium are responsible for the colour.
Ruby, this magnificent red variety of the multi-coloured
corundum family, consists of aluminium oxide and chrome
as well as smallest proportions of other trace elements-
depending on the respective occurrence. Responsible
for this scarcity is in fact the colour-creating element
chrome. Millions of years ago when the gemstones were
being created, chrome was the element awarding Ruby
its wonderful colour deep inside the core of the Earth.
But at the same time it is also responsible for causing
a multitude of fissures and tiny irregularities inside
the crystals. Only very few Ruby crystals could grow
undisturbed to considerable sizes and crystallize to
form a perfect gemstone.
For thousands of years Ruby has been considered the
most valuable gemstones of our Planet. It has got all
it takes for a precious stone: a wonderful colour, excellent
hardness and an overwhelming brilliance. Besides, it
is an extremely rare gemstone, especially in the finer
qualities.
Colors: Mostly Red. It is said that Ruby’s red
colour means Passion.
About Name Origin: Although for Ruby, name of origin
are various discussions. However, the literature of
India contains a rich and varied knowledge collected
and handed down for over two thousand years. Even the
term "corundum” which we use today is derived
from the Sanskrit word "kuruvinda”. In the
Sanskrit language Ruby is called "ratnaraj”,
which does in fact translate as "King of Gemstones”.
And it was a royal welcome indeed.
Hardness: Ruby has a hardness rating of 9.
Beads: Majority of Ruby Beads are made/manufactured
in India
Rough: The finest stones are from Myanmar. Bright red
Rubies are mined in: Afghanistan, Pakistan, Vietnam.
Brownish-red Rubies are from Thailand. Darker Rubies
are generally produced from the mines in Australia,
India, Russia and USA (Georgia, North Carolina and Wyoming).
However Burmese Ruby is most popular.
Chemical Composition: Al2O3 aluminum oxide and chrome
Medical: Heart chakra; balances love & all spiritual
endeavors; self-esteem, strengthens neurological tissues
around the heart, prevents miscarriages.
Birthstone Months:
July: Modern, Traditional, Mystical and Ayurvedic Birthstone
December: Ayurvedic Birthstone
December: Traditional Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19): Birthstone/Lucky Charm
Cancer (Jun 21 - Jul 22): Birthstone
Scorpio (Oct 23 - Nov 21): Planetary Stone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Ruby is the anniversary gemstone for the 15th and 40th
year of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Ruby is said to open one's heart to love.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sapphire
Sapphire is a splendid gemstone. Blue is Sapphire’s
main colour, however, also comes in many other colours
not only in the transparent grayish misty blue of far
horizons, but also displaying the bright fireworks of
sunset colours–yellow, pink, orange & purple.
Due to their colours Sapphires are really and truly
heavenly stones. Blue color is the most preferable color
worldwide & Saphire's blue color, is also linked
to emotions such as sympathy and harmony, friendship
and loyalty. These emotions belong to features which
are permanent and reliable–emotions where overwhelming
and fiery passion is not the main element, but rather
composure, mutual understanding and unshakeable trust.
Sapphire blue has thus become a colour related to anything
permanent and reliable, and this is one of the reasons
why women in many countries settle on Sapphire for their
engagement rings. Sapphire symbolizes loyalty and faithfulness,
while at the same time expressing love and yearning.
Sapphire’s blue colour is also evoked where clear
competence and controlled brainwork are the issue. Sapphires
are found in hard soil.
Colors: Mostly Blue or as given above
About Name Origin: Sapphire's name is derived from
the Sanskrit, kuruvinda
Hardness: Sapphire has a hardness rating of 9
Beads: Majority of Sapphire Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: Ceylon, India, Srilanka. Ceylon Sapphire Gemstones
are very popular.
Chemical Composition: Corundum (For more Information
,please view Corundum”)
Chemical Composition: Al2O3
Composition Molecular Weight = 101.96 gm
Aluminum 52.93 % Al 100.00 % Al2O3
Oxygen 47.07 % O
______ ______
100.00 % 100.00 % = TOTAL OXIDE
Empirical Formula (Al2O3
Medical:
Spiritual enlightenment, inner peace, colic, rheumatism,
mental illness, pituitary, metabolic rate of glandular
functions, anti-depressant, aids psychokinesis, telepathy,
clairvoyance & astral projection, personal expression
,also for pain.
Birthstone Months:
April: Other Birthstone [White Sapphire]
May: Mystical Birthstone
August: Ayurvedic Birthstone
September: Modern/Traditional Birthstone
Star Stone Months:
Pisces (Feb 19 - Mar 20): Birthstone
Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20): Birthstone/Lucky Charm
Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 22): Birthstone
Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 22): Planetary Stone
Sagittarius: (Nov 22 - Dec 21): Birthstone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Sapphire is the anniversary gemstone for the 5th and
45th year of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Sapphire is used for clear thinking.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scapolite
A stone which applies to a group of predominately green
colored minerals with essentially the same chemistry
but different structures of Serepenitne. It is actually
sodium calcium aluminum silicate. It's color can vary
from yellow, blue, pink, violet, gray and colorless
depending on the levels of sodium and calcium impurities.
It is sometimes called "Serpentine Jade",
because it possesses some of the same properties as
Jade. Specimens can appear patchy or cloudy due to inclusions
or even colorless when sliced thinly. It is found transparent
to translucent.
Colors: Yellow, blue, pink, violet, gray & colorless
About Name Origin: Scapolite derives its name from
the Greek words "scapos", meaning rod and
"lithos", meaning stone.
Beads: Majority of Scapolite Beads are made/manufactured
in Hongkong.
Rough: Burma, Brazil, Canada, Madagascar & Tanzania.
Hardness: Scapolite has a rating of 5.5-6
Chemical Composition : Na4Al3Si9O24Cl to Ca4Al6Si6O24(CO3,SO4)
sodium calcium aluminum silicate
Medical: NA
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties: Scapolite is said to provide motivation
and clarity in one's life.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Serpentine
Serpentine is basically magnesium silicate. It is sometimes
called "Serpentine Jade", because it possesses
some of the same properties as Jade. Specimens can appear
patchy or cloudy due to inclusions or even colorless
when sliced thinly. Serpentine applies to a group of
predominately green colored minerals with essentially
the same chemistry but different structures.
Colors: Green, yellowish, brown
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Serpentine Beads are made/manufactured
in Hongkong.
Rough: Serpentine, found in Italy, England and China
The most common Bowenite Serpentine is a translucent
green or blue-green color and is found in Africa, Afghanistan,
China, New Zealand, South Africa & USA.
Hardness: Serpentine has a rating of 2.5-5.5
Chemical Composition: H4Mg3Si2O9 magnesium silicate
Medical: NA
Birthstone Months: NA
Star Stone Months: NA
Anniversary Gemstone: NA
Mystical Properties: NA
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Snowflake obsidian
Snowflake obsidian is the trade name given to obsidian
with gray or white snowflake-like spotting. It is silicon
dioxide with impurities. Obsidian itself, is formed
by lava coming in contact with water and cooling quickly,
producing a glassy, black surface. Iron and magnesium
give it a rich black color, which is included with small,
white, radically clustered crystals. It is mostly found
where there are volcanic activities. Though it is opaque
yet a few times can be slightly transparent as well
in nature.
Colors: Black with white spotting
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Snowflake obsidian Beads are made/manufactured
in Hongkong .
Rough: Mexico, Japan, Iceland, Indonesia, Italy, Ecuador
and USA.
Hardness: Snowflake Obsidian has a rating of 5-5.5
Chemical Composition: SiO2
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties:
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Sodalite
Sodalite is basically one opaque stone. It is choric
sodium aluminum silicate. Sodalite derives its name
from its sodium content. It is found in a variety of
blue shades and is often included with white patches
or veins. Pure blue colors are most desirable but rare.
It is often confused with Lapis, but is distinguishable
by its lower specific gravity and lack of brassy pyrite
specks, which are found in Lapis.
Colors: Mostly Blue. It can be white & Gray as
well.
About Name Origin: Sodalite derives its name from its
sodium content
Beads: Majority of Sodalite Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: India, Italy, Canada, Peru, Namibia & US
Hardness: Sodalite has a hardness rating of 5.5-6
Chemical Composition: Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2 sodium aluminum
silicate
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties: Sodalite is said to clear the
mind for deeper and wiser thinking.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spinel
Spinel is a fascinating red colour of gemstones. Spinel
is a durable gemstone that is perfect for all jewelry
uses. It is most often faceted in oval & round shape.
Spinel is actually magnesium aluminum oxide or magnesium
auminate. The main thing holding back greater recognition
for Spinel is rarity. Fine Spinels are more rare than
the Rubies which used to imitate. It has been quite
familiar over the years due to it’s beautiful
rich red colours Spinel can be found in a range of beautiful
pastel shades of pink and purple. Of particular interest
is a vivid hot pink with a tinge of orange which is
mined in Burma & is assumed to be one of the most
spectacular gemstone colors in any gem species. Spinel
also comes in beautiful blues which are sometimes called
cobalt Spinel, but these are very rare.
Colors: Mostly transparent & bright red.
About Name Origin:
Hardness: Spinel has a hardness rating of 7.
Beads: Majority of Spinel Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: Burma, now known as Myanmar, Spinel is mined
in Srilanka, Tanzania & Tadjikstan (A part of the
former Soviet Union).
Chemical Composition: Al2O3 aluminate magnesium
Medical: Leg conditions, when worn on solar plexus;
powerful general healer; detoxification aid.
Birthstone Months: Please see related gemstones.
Star Stone Months: Please see related gemstones.
Anniversary Gemstone: Please see related gemstones.
Mystical Properties: Please see related gemstones.
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Sugalite
Sugalite, Ken-ichi Sugi who first discovered it in
1944 is named with his own name ever. Sugalite is actually
potassium sodium lithium iron manganese aluminum silicate.
Although somewhat obscure, Sugalite has been gaining
in popularity due to its distinctive appearance. It's
specimens in nature are usually massive .
Colors: Purple/Violet
About Name Origin: From the name of Ken-ichi Sugi who
first of all discovered it.
Beads: Majority of Sugalite Beads are made/manufactured
in Hongkong .
Rough: Japan, Canada & South Africa
Hardness: Sugalite has a rating of 6-6.5
Chemical Composition:
KNa2(Fe,Mn,Al)2LiSi12O30 sodium lithium iron manganese
aluminum silicate
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties: Sugalite is said to aid in healing
and physical purification.
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Sunstone
Sunstone, known also as Aventurine Feldspar: is a member
of the Feldspar group of minerals and is closely related
to Moonstone. It is formed and crystallized in a lava
flow. Sunstone range in color from water clear through
pale yellow, soft pink and blood red to deep blue and
green. Some of the deeper colored stones have bands
of varying color; a few stones show two different colors
when viewed from different directions. The color is
caused by tiny crystals of copper within the stones
which often results in "schiller" or shimmer
that is usually a Peach color. Sunstone is cut into
cabochons or the deeper transparent colors may be faceted.
Sunstone occurs in metamorphic and igneous rocks. It
is sometimes called Aventurine Feldspar or Oligoclase,
which is a species of Plagioclase Feldspar. It has reflective
inclusions of tiny Hematite or Goethite platelets, which
give a red, orange or even a blue metallic glitter.
It is sodium calcium aluminum silicate.
Colors: Orange & red brown with Speckalce/Shimmer
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Sunstone Beads are made in India.
Rough: India, Norway, Russia, Madagascar, Canada &
USA
Hardness: Sunstone has a hardness rating of 6-6.5
Chemical Composition: Ca,Na)(Al,Si)2Si2O8
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties:
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Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a velvety blue variety of the mineral
Zoisite. It is actually hydrous calcium aluminum silicate.
It was first discovered in 1967. It's unique blue color
is fabulous. Tanzanite is often heat treated to improve
it’s color and clarity.
Tanzanite is a very special and unique gemstone. World-wide
it occurs only in one specific location. It’s
blue colour which shimmers in a slightly purplish hue
is magnificent indeed. Because of its unusually attractive
flair for New York Jeweller Tiffany’s to make
it one of the most sought-after and popular gemstones
in the world. New York Jeweller Tiffany’s are
the most popular company which first of all launched
it in world market.
Colors: Mostly purple or violetbBlue or slate gray(very
rarely)
About Name Origin:
Hardness: Tanzanite has a hardness rating of 6.5.
Beads: Majority of Tanzanite Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: East-African state of Tanzania
Chemical Composition: Ca2Al2(AlOH)(SiO4)3 hydrous calcium
aluminum silicate
Medical: Leg conditions, when worn on solar plexus
powerful general healer; detoxification aid.
Birthstone Months: Please see related gemstones.
Star Stone Months: Please see related gemstones.
Anniversary Gemstone: Please see related gemstones.
Mystical Properties: Please see related gemstones.
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Tiger’s Eye
Tiger’s Eye is black with iron oxide staining
which gives it yellow and golden brown stripes. It is
like the eye of a Panther. It is a type of chatoyant
Quartz. This stone is often called "Tiger's Eye"
or simply "Tiger Eye".
Colors: Black with golden yellow & brown
Beads: Majority of Tiger’s Eye Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: The most important mine for Tiger’s Eye
is in South Africa.
Hardness: Tiger’s Eye has a hardness of 7.
Chemical Composition: SiO2 - Silicon Dioxide
Medical:
Birthstone Months: Tiger’s Eye is not a birthstone.
Star Stone Months:
Gemini (May 21 - Jun 20): Planetary Stone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Tiger’s Eye is the anniversary gemstone for the
9th year of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Tiger’s Eye is used for focusing the mind.
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Tourmalinated Quartz
Tourmalinated Quartz is a clear variety of Quartz included
with Black Tourmaline. These inclusions form prismatic
needle-like Crystals within the Quartz. It is silicon
dioxide. It is tansparent to translucent. When it is
transparent, all green needles are visional. In nature
it is mostly found transparent yet it can be also translucent
in rare cases.
Colors: Clear with greenish Black inclusions/Needles
About Name Origin: Please view Quartz
Beads: Majority of Tourmalinated Quartz Beads are made/manufactured
in India
Rough:
Mostly mined in India & Srilanka. Other countries
are Brazil, Germany, Switzerland & South Africa.
Hardness: Tourmalinated Quartz has a rating of 7
Chemical Composition: SiO2 silicon dioxide
Medical: NA
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties: Tourmalinated Quartz is said to
provide strength and balance, combining the attributes
of Quartz and Tourmaline.
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Tourmaline
A stone which has been in jewelry use over the years.
Tourmaline comes in many colors - but primarily in pink
and green.
Tourmalines are precious stones displaying a unique
splendor of colours. It is beautiful in necklaces &
other jewelry.
According to an ancient Egyptian legend this is the
result of the fact that on the long way from the Earth’s
heart up towards the sun, Tourmaline traveled along
a rainbow. And on it’s way it collected all the
colours of the rainbow. This is why nowadays it is also
called the "Rainbow gemstone”. Tourmalines
are red and green, range from blue to yellow. Often
they show two or more colours and are cherished for
this multi-coloured appearance. No Tourmaline exactly
resembles another one: this gemstone shows many faces
and is thus excellently suited to match all moods and
tempers. Tourmaline is supposed to be an especially
powerful influence on love and friendship, lending them
permanence and stability. Tourmalines are actually mixed
Crystals of complex aluminum-borosilicate varying in
their composition. The slightest changes in composition
will result in completely different colours. In fact,
Crystals showing one colour only are quite rare; generally
one and the same crystal displays several shades and
colours. Not only the wide range of colours characterizes
this gemstone, it also shows a remarkable dichroism.
Depending on the angle of view the colour will be different
or at least show different intensity. The deepest colour
always appears along the main axis, a fact that the
gemstone cutter has to keep in mind when cutting the
stone. This gemstone is excellently suited for wearing
and is uncomplicated to care .The different shades of
colour have been assigned different names in the trade.
For example, deep red Tourmaline is named "Rubellite”,
provided it shows the same fine ruby-red shade in daylight
and in artificial light. Should the colour change when
the source of light changes, the stone will be called
a "Pink Tourmaline”. Blue Tourmalines are
called "Indigolith”, "Dravite”
is a golden-brown to dark brown Tourmaline, and black
Tourmalines are known as "Schorl”. The latter
stone is mainly used for engravings and in esotericism,
where it is highly cherished because it is reputed to
ward off harmful radiation from it’s wearer. Very
popular is "Verdelith”, the green Tourmaline,
however, if its fine emerald-like green is caused by
traces of chromium, the stone is named "Chromium-Tourmaline.”
But the outstanding highlight among Tourmalines is of
course Paraiba Tourmaline, a gemstone showing a vivid
deep blue to bluish green. In good qualities these stones
are much coveted treasures. Since yellow Tourmalines
from Malawi of brilliant colour have been offered on
the market, the formerly missing colour yellow has been
added in excellent quality to the apparently unlimited
range of colours shown by the "Rainbow Gemstone.
”The Multi-coloured Tourmalines are also very
popular.
Not only designers are fascinated by Tourmaline because
of its incomparable wealth of colours providing unlimited
inspiration but Scientists are also intrigued due to
it’s astonishing physical characteristics: by
heating and subsequently cooling down Tourmalines for
charging up.
Colors:
Tourmaline comes in many colors such as blue, yellow,
pink, red, black, green and clear. See also above.
Indicolite (blue or blue-green) -moderately scarce and
expensive in fine qualitities.
Rubellite (red)- moderately scarce and expensive in
fine qualitities. Often badly included.
Bicolor or tricolor tourmaline - shows multiple color
zones throughout the Crystal. Highly prized when the
colors are well divided and vivid. Often badly included
and subject to fracture along the color transition line.
Watermelon tourmaline - has a red central core surrounded
by green, resembling the cross section of a watermelon.
Often cut in thin slices to show the colors to best
advantage.
Schorl -black Tourmaline.
Dravite -brown Tourmaline.
Chrome Tourmaline - vivid green. Derives it’s
color from chromium. Appears red when viewed through
a Chelsea filter (Emerald filter). Fairly scarce and
expensive.
Achroite - colorless Tourmaline. Fairly rare.
About Name Origin:
The Name "Tourmaline” has been derived from
the Singhalese expression "tura mali”, which
translates as "stone of mixed colours.” The
very name already refers to the unique spectrum of colours
displayed by this gemstone.
Beads: The majority of Beads are made/manufactured
in Jaipur ,India.
Roughs: Tourmaline is usually found worldwide .However
it is mainly mined in Africa, Brazil, Madagascar, Nigeria,
Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania ,Mozambique, Pakistan, Afghanistan,
Mexico, Myanmar, Srilanka & USA (California, Connecticut,
Maine, New York and Texas).
Hardness: Tourmaline has a hardness of 7.0 - 7.5.
Chemical Composition: Complex aluminum borosilicate
Medical:
Dispels fear & negativity & grief, calms nerves,
concentration & eloquence improve, genetic disorders,
cancer & hormones regulated, raises vibrations,
charisma, universal law, tranquil sleep.
Black Tourmaline: Arthritis, dyslexia, syphilis, heart
diseases, anxiety, disorientation, raises altruism,
deflects negativity, neutralizes distorted energies,
i.e. resentment & insecurity.
Rubellite: Creativity, fertility, blanches passive or
aggressive nature.
Green: Creativity, opens heart charka, immune system,
psychological problems with the father, blood pressure,
asthma, balancer, eliminates conflict within.
Blue Indicolite: Lungs, larynx, thyroid, parasympathetic
nerves.
Watermelon: Heart chakra healer, imparts sense of humor
to those who need it, balancer, eliminates guilt, nervous
system, integration, security & self-containment.
Birthstone Months:
October: Modern/Traditional Birthstone, Other Birthstone
(Pink Tourmaline)
Star Stone Months:
Leo (Jul 23 - Aug 22): Birthstone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Multi-colored Tourmaline is the anniversary gemstone
for the 8th year of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Pink Tourmaline promotes female balance and protection.
Green Tourmaline promotes male balance.
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Tsavorite
Tsavorite is a green variety of the mineral Grossular
Garnet .It was discovered in the late 60's by the Scottish
explorer, Campbell Bridges. It is actually calcium aluminum
silicate. It's color ranges from light to rich yellow
green, exhibiting a purer green color than Emerald.
It’s coloring is due to vanadium which is found
in it & it is the factor that makes it yellowish
green. It is in nature found from very good transparent
to translucent.
Colors: Green
About Name Origin: It’s name is derived from
Kenya's Tsavo National Park
Beads: Majority of Tsavorite Beads are made/manufactured
in India.
Rough: Kenya & Tanzania
Chemical Composition: Ca3,Al2,Si3,O12 calcium aluminum
silicate
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties: Tsavorite is said to enhance spiritual
awareness and aid in meditation.
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Turquoise
Turquoise-Ancient and yet always at the height of current
fashion: that is Turquoise for you. Its brilliant sky-blue
belongs to the all-time favorite trend colours in the
world of fashion and jewelry. Turquoise has captivated
man's imagination for centuries. When it came to the
attention of man is unknown. We have archeological as
well as literary references that pre date the Christian
era by five millennia. The four bracelets of Queen Zar,
found on her mummified arm, date to the second ruler
of the Egypt's First Dynasty, approximately 5500 B.C.
Although not specifically mentioned in the Bible, scholars
believe that the robe worn by the high priest Aaron
was adorned with Turquoise. Aristotle, Pliny and others
refer to stones that must have been turquoise. After
the fourth or fifth century A.D., many writings appeared
discussing the stone. Explorers such as Marco Polo took
time to write about it.
Turquoise's color ranges from sky blue to green. Turquoise
is a vibrant light blue stone often seen in south-western
jewelry. It is reasonably priced and quite lovely.
It is a virtual "peoples’ gemstone”.
At all times in history Turquoise was worn as protection
to ward off the influence of dark and evil powers. In
former times thought to protect riders and horses from
accidental falls, they are nowadays considered the ideal
good-luck stones for aviators, flight staff and other
professions which need special assistance to ward off
accidents.
Turquoise is a copper aluminum phosphate considerably
softer than Quartz. It occurs naturally in all shades
ranging from sky-blue to grey-green, usually in such
locations where copper is hidden in the soil in high
concentrations. However, only the best quality Turquoise
show the real turquoise colour, which in ordinary stones
is normally rather pale, blue-green or greenish. The
blue colour is caused by copper, while the green colour
is caused by iron or chromium. Often the material is
veined or shows spots, which depending on the respective
occurrence are brown, light grey or even black. These
vivid, more or less regular patterns are called the
spider web. The micro-Crystals are really tiny and almost
not discernible with the bare eye. Usually Turquoise
occurs as encrustation, in veins or as nodules or nuggets.
Turquoise is a symbol of Good Luck Charm.
Turquoises are relatively soft gemstones and thus quite
sensitive. Turquoise is only rarely facetted. Usually
it is shaped as cabochons or as beads, or even given
a fancy cut.
Colors: Please See Above.
About Name Origin: It is so unique that the language
took the stones’ very name to describe it: Turquoise.
Beads: Most of Turquoise Beads are made in Hongkong
& Australia.
Roughs: The most famous occurrences are situated in
the USA, Mexico, Israel, Iran, Afghanistan and China.
Yet Turquoise is found in Australia, Chile, Iran, Mexico,
Tibet & USA (Arizona , California and New Mexico).
Hardness: Turquoise has a hardness of 6.
Medical: Master healer, protects against environmental
pollutants, strengthens anatomy & guards against
all disease, improved absorption of nutrients, tissue
regeneration, subtle body alignment & strengthening,
eye disorders.
Birthstone Months:
December: Modern and Traditional Birthstone
Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18): Planetary Stone
Star Stone Months:
Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20): Birthstone
Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21): Birthstone
Anniversary Gemstone:
Turquoise is the anniversary gemstone for the 5th year
of marriage.
Mystical Properties:
Turquoise supposedly helps one to start new projects.
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Unakite
Unakite is composed of Granite rock with aggregates
of Quartz, Feldspar and greenish Epidote spotted with
pink Feldspar. It is typically cut into a cabochon,
carved or polished into beads. It is prized for its
unusual color combinations.
Colors: Green
About Name Origin: It’s name is derived from
Unaka Mountains in Tennesee.
Beads: Majority of Unakite Beads are made/manufactured
in India & Hongkong.
Rough: Tennesee (USA) & Africa.
Chemical Composition:
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
Star Stone Months:
Anniversary Gemstone:
Mystical Properties: Unakite is said to be a grounding
stone, promoting balance and emotional stability.
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Zircon
Zircon is a natural stone - not to be confused with
Cubic Zirconia which is man made. Zircon is known as
a colorless stone used to imitate Diamonds but also
comes in blue, yellow, orange, red, brown and green.
Zircon is often used to imitate Diamonds. It is often
confused with cubic Zirconia which is a synthetic stone.
Zircon occurs in a wide range of colors but for many
years, the most popular was the colorless variety which
looks more like Diamond than any other natural stone
due to its brilliance and dispersion.
The wide variety of colors of Zircon is it’s variety
and it’s relatively low cost make it a popular
collector's stone.
Colors: Blue, yellow, orange, red, brown & green
About Name Origin:
Beads: Majority of Zircon Beads are made/manufactured
in Hongkong.
Rough: Cambodia, Srilanka, Thailand, Myanmar &
Australia
Chemical Composition:
Medical:
Birthstone Months:
October, other birthstone
December: Traditional Birthstone
Star Stone Months: NA
Anniversary Gemstone: NA
Mystical Properties: Zircon supposedly helps one be
more at peace with oneself.
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