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gemstone jewelry
A gemstone is a stone that is beautiful, rare, and durable – resistant to
abrasion, fracturing and chemical reactions.
Gemstones may be measured by weight, size, or both. The basic unit for weighing
gemstones is the carat, which is equal to one-fifth (1/5th) of a gram. Carats
are divided into 100 units, called points. For example, a half-carat gemstone
would weigh .50 carats or 50 points. When gemstones are measured by dimensions,
the size is expressed in millimeters (for example, 7x5 millimeters).
Gemstone treatments or enhancements refer to the way some gems are treated to
improve their appearance or durability, or even change their color. Many
gemstones are treated in some way. The effects of some treatments may lessen or
change over time and some treated stones may require special care. Some
enhancements also affect the value of a stone, when measured against a
comparable untreated stone. Gemologists have studied the unique properties of
diamonds and colored stones. They are familiar with the various types of
precious and semi-precious stones used in fine jewelry and can explain how to
care for and clean your gemstone jewelry. If you are interested in purchasing
diamond or gemstone jewelry, a gemologist can guide you to an appropriate
purchase that matches your taste, budget and lifestyle.
Emerald is the green variety of the mineral beryl. The precious green color is caused by small amounts of chromium and enhanced by traces of iron. Unlike other beryls, emeralds often contain inclusions and other flaws. These flaws are not looked on as negative aspects for emeralds like they would be for other gemstones. These flaws are considered part of the character of the stone and are used to assure the purchaser of a natural. Emeralds are delicate and softer than many other gems.
Sapphires are more readily available than emeralds. It is common practice for a broker to heat treat sapphires to improve their color and clarity. Sapphires consist of the non-red variety of corundum, the second hardest natural mineral known to mankind. The red variety of corundum is Ruby. Sapphires are well known among the general public as being blue, but it can be nearly any color.
When you buy a dazzling piece of gemstone jewelry,
you’re making an important purchase. Equally important is the decision of where
you’re going to make the purchase. Your jeweler should be there to guide you in
selecting fine jewelry of lasting quality and beauty that will enrich your life
and the lives of those you love. Your jeweler should also be there to help you
properly care for your jewelry so that it can give you years of enjoyment.
Jewelers should tell you whether the gemstone you're considering has been
treated when: the treatment is not permanent; the treated gemstone requires
special care; or the treatment significantly affects the value of the gemstone.
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