The aforementioned gemstones are popular due to their striking colors such as blue, red and green. While sapphires among the three other gemstones have other variety in terms of its color, which includes yellow, green and pink.

Nonetheless, all gemstones have their own respective appealing color which adds to its daintiness. As an example, we may take the pearls which have several colors like pink, red and white while aquamarine is known for being bluish green. The amethyst for that matter is known for being stained with the shades of purple, while garnets are known to be green, purple and red. Gems also have other color variations like red, green and blue.

Your desire matters

An exceptional advantage that is offered by gemstones to its clients is that they have all the freedom to select the color which they prefer. In line to that, most of the gems that are intense and richest in terms of its color merit higher market value as compared to others. This is the very reason why other gemstones even though it is of the same kind has different price depending on its color.

For instance the emerald is known for its various shades of green, however the most famous color is the bluish green which also happens to be the most expensive kind.

Finding treasure

If you think that those adorable gemstones are beautiful from the very start then you are wrong, because when they are located inside the mines they might probably end up on long list of your most precious objects. The beauty of the gem only is discovered after it is polished and cut out by the stores which are to sell these gems to the public.

The richer the color of the stone the more precious it is. But of course once it undergoes the proper polishing measures, its sparkle also contributes to its potential market value. However, you ought to be reminded that the stones of the richest colors are very rare, which results to the lessening of the client’s standards and leads them to settle for gems with lighter colors.

]]> http://knowingjewelry.com/rarity-is-determined-by-the-gems-color.html/feed 8 http://knowingjewelry.com/briolette-old-fashioned-cut-becomes-a-classic.html http://knowingjewelry.com/briolette-old-fashioned-cut-becomes-a-classic.html#comments Tue, 15 Sep 2009 08:56:30 +0000 MS Prasaja http://knowingjewelry.com/?p=11 There are a lot of gemstones that are cut in a certain way to create briolette jewelry. Briolette refers to the shape of stones that are cut into a pear shape. A briolette looks like an oval stone at the bottom that gradually narrows to taper sharply at the top, giving it the shape of a tear drop.

Briolette stones

Briolette jewelry can be made from a variety of stones, whether they are precious or semi-precious stones like diamond, amethyst, citrine, garnet, tourmaline, sapphire, ruby, emerald, you name it. Jewelers who use the briolette cut often inspect the gem carefully to make sure that it is the best cut for that particular stone.

Why briolette?

The briolette cut often brings out the brilliance of a stone and makes it sparkle but in a more refined way. Briolette jewelry emerged around the 17th century when jewelers wanted their gemstones to attract an admirer and not blind him.

Jewelers were also able to maximize the original size of the rough stone, keeping as much of the stone as possible. This is why you can often find briolettes that are elongated or even globular. The early days sure did allow cutters to do as they wished with the rough stone they had in their hands.

Although briolette jewelry lost its charm when round brilliant cuts emerged, they are currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity. These days, briolette cut stones can be found on earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, even tiaras.

Buying briolette jewelry

Regardless of whether you’re buying a diamond or a peridot, there are certain things you should look for in briolette jewelry. Look for a rounder shape at the bottom of the ‘pear’. This is the mark of quality. It’s nearly impossible to count the facets, so you’ll have to look for more precise faceting.

As for the setting, check the positions of the drill holes, especially in pendants and earrings. The hole should be in the center and the wall holding the stone in place should be stable. An off-center hole might loosen the stone over time.

And of course, consider the color class and the carat. Most briolette jewelry are priced depending on these two factors.

Who wears briolette jewelry?

The soft triangular shape of briolette jewelry makes it a favorite among women with small, pointed chins or those with oval or inverted triangle faces. Briolette earrings and pendants can sometimes emphasize a squarer jaw, so some women with this face shape opt for other cuts or at least prefer to wear smaller-cut briolettes. It’s a very trendy yet elegant shape and as long as the size and design are carefully chosen, almost anyone can wear it.

The name emerald is from the Greek word smaragdos, the name been given among the number of unique stones. In the Zodiac signs, this is the birthstone that has been assigned to Taurus. It is even used as the anniversary gemstone for marriage, because it symbolizes kindness, faith and purity.

Emeralds are known to have a healing ability. Although it isn’t directly a replacement for the traditional medical treatment, emerald was used for emotional and physical healing. The refreshing green color quality of emerald can cure eye problems; it is even a good amulet for eye troubles.

Moreover, when emeralds are worn around the neck and fingers of children it can prevent them from having convulsions. Emeralds help patients with ailments of the spine, and it helps fight neurological and mental disorders. It can even be an antidote for most poisons and eases wounds associated with poisons.

Emeralds are believed to have some mystical powers. Some people say that it can drive away evil spirits. Having an emerald with you can make you a man of wisdom, for it is said to bring wisdom to those who have or wear it. The ancients believed that it was a good amulet for those who wanted to have good fortune.

Lastly, emeralds are popularly known to be a symbol of faith and love. It can even discover false friends, because it actually changes color in their presence. As for love, when the emerald fades, that means that love weakens so better check the color.

To achieve a lasting beautiful emerald gemstone, care and treatment is needed. To clean the stone, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe it. Use oil when treating it, never use ultrasonic cleaner, because it can remove the oil that is being used during treatments. Lastly, never soak it in hot water, the color of the stone easily changes when it is strongly heated.

When buying your precious emerald, consult a professional retail jeweler to make sure that you will get the real one. A professional knows about details of the emerald, it is very confusing sometimes to compare a true emerald from a synthetic one.

]]> http://knowingjewelry.com/emeralds-a-charming-beauty.html/feed 10 http://knowingjewelry.com/the-popularity-of-purple-gemstones.html http://knowingjewelry.com/the-popularity-of-purple-gemstones.html#comments Wed, 04 Feb 2009 08:02:20 +0000 MS Prasaja http://knowingjewelry.com/?p=129 Purple gemstones are among the most popular gemstones. There are many other colors of gemstones like gray, green, orange, pink, red, blue, aqua, black, white, yellow and brown but purple gemstones are still among the most preferred worldwide. The elegance of purple-colored gemstones can be one of the reasons why such items are valuable.

Good shapes and materials used for gemstones are further accentuated by the purple color. Thus, it not only looks elegant but expensive. It also looks bright, vibrant and very much interesting. No wonder, purple gemstones on the market are premium priced.
Aside from its elegant look, purple gemstones are symbolic. For one, such colored items are symbolic of power. High-profile people and government authorities appropriately wear purple gemstones at any occasion to make their authority and power seen and observed.

Purple is also symbolic of the spiritual goals of a person. Thus, religious people almost always prefer to buy and wear purple gemstones. Such colors are also indicative and symbolic of respect, passion, leadership and most importantly, wealth.

Aesthetically, purple gemstones are pacifying in nature. The color when exhibited in gemstones can be truly calming and refreshing. In the past, purple gemstones were dominantly worn by military commanders and emperors. The gemstones have also been symbolic of success, independence, psychic abilities and wisdom. In ancient continental Europe, purple gemstones used to symbolize royalty.

There are also popular beliefs and superstitions that make buying and acquiring purple gemstones rampant and popular. Societies all over the world have regarded gemstones as items that help boost and strengthen the wearer’s generosity while at the same time helping bolster inner strength and creativity. The gemstones are also said to be effective talismans in boosting and accelerating wisdom and creative talents.

Across the market, purple gemstones are almost always expensive. Gemstones are generally premium priced, but purple ones are priced even higher. The strong demand for them may be among the reasons why prices of the products always remain high, aside of course from the basic general characteristics and overall value of the gemstones.

If you are wanting to buy purple gemstones, the time is now. Be prepared to allocate a significant amount of investment so that the purchase would be completed and done right away. Gemstones generally are breath-taking. Purple ones are truly fascinating and alluring.

How to Evaluate Clarity in a Gemstone

Clarity assesses and grades the external and internal characteristics of a given gemstone. Inclusions such as feathers and crystals are examples of internal flaws. They originate from within but may extend to the surface. Blemishes such as scratches and nicks are examples of external flaws.

Blemishes are generally quite small and only appear on the surface of gemstones. Feathers are cracks or fissures within a gemstone. Crystals are minerals trapped inside gemstones. Inclusions carry greater weight in diamonds than other colored gemstones. While they are expected to occur in certain gemstones like red tourmaline and emerald, inclusions hardly occur in gemstones like aquamarine and citrine.

At times, inclusions and blemishes occur due to the cutting technique utilized. Also, inclusions, at times, increase the value of a gemstone. This is true in the cases of eye in cats eye and stars in rubies and sapphires.

Upon assessing the number, color, nature, location, and size of these flaws, an authorized individual will then grade the clarity of the gemstone in a scale of 0 to 10.

Unlike cut, clarity definitely affects the prices of gemstones.

Types of Gemstones according to Clarity

Type 1 These gemstones are free from inclusions most of the time. They include but aren’t limited to yellow beryl, blue topaz, and amethyst. Their grades range from VVS to I.

Type 2 These gemstones generally possess inclusions. They include but aren’t limited to sapphires, rubies, and alexandrite. Their grades range from VVS to I as well.

Type 3 These gemstones are rarely without inclusions. They include but aren’t limited to red tourmaline and emeralds. Their grades range from VVS to I1.

Factors Affecting Inclusions in Gemstones

Size Minute and minor inclusions are small in size and hardly visible. Obvious inclusions are easily observable. Prominent includes are hard to miss at all.

Contrast Also known as color or relief, contrast refers to the difference between a gem and included crystal. Inclusions, based on their contrast levels, may be barely noticeable or a distraction.

Number Inclusions may appear individually or in clusters and clouds. Keep in mind however that the degree of distraction carries more weight than the number of inclusions present.

Location Inclusions located at the center of a gemstone or under the table are less desirable than those occurring near the girdle.

Grading System for Gemstone Clarity

VVS 1 and 2 Eye-Clean and Extra Fine - Something more than 10x magnification eyepiece is necessary just to make the inclusions in a gemstone visible.

VS 1 and 2 Slightly Included and Fine Quality - Tiny pin-prick inclusions are visible under careful scrutiny but their presence doesn’t affect the overall appearance of the gemstone.

S1 Moderately Included and Good Quality - Although the inclusions of this ilk are easier to see, they still don’t detract too much from the overall appearance of the gemstone.

S2 Moderately Included and Good to Medium-High Quality - When held closer than arms length, the gemstone will show inclusions that are easily visible.

Included 1, 2, and 3; Heavily to Severely Included and Low to Medium Quality – Inclusions here are either highly visible or worse, they virtually draw attention to themselves.

Levels of Transparency in a Gemstone

Transparent gemstones are those which you can see right through them. Their internal features are clear and defined. Semi-transparent gemstones on the other hand may appear a bit hazy and blurry. Not all of its internal features may appear distinct.

The internal characteristics of translucent gemstones are vague and not that easy to see. Semi-translucent or semi-opaque gemstones, on the other hand, simply provide even greater challenge for the individual to see through it.

Lastly, opaque gemstones don’t show its internal characteristics at all.

When evaluating the transparency and clarity of a gemstone, make sure to clean it first as dirt and oil can reduce transparency. Use a microscope if possible. Lastly, loose gemstones are easier to evaluate because settings can conceal inclusions located at the gemstones pavilion.

]]> http://knowingjewelry.com/understanding-the-clarity-and-transparency-of-gemstones-crystal-clear.html/feed 0 http://knowingjewelry.com/quick-guide-to-popular-and-precious-gemstones.html http://knowingjewelry.com/quick-guide-to-popular-and-precious-gemstones.html#comments Tue, 30 Dec 2008 13:29:07 +0000 MS Prasaja http://knowingjewelry.com/?p=78 Alexandrite – this is a beautiful gemstone named after a Russian czar. The gemstone is a basic crysoberyl type, and is best noted for it’s color changing properties depending on the shade of light it is exposed to. Alexandrite shifts between greenish to blue, to purple and even crimson hues. It is this very color-changing property that makes it one of the most valuable gemstones around.

Amber – formed from fossilized tree sap, amber is best known for it’s soft yellow golden hue, which is distinctly different from other yellow-colored gem stones because it diffuses light into a much softer shade of gold than other yellow gemstones, which tend to intensify and sparkle instead. The fact that it is fossilized liquid makes finding unflawed pieces with no bubbles or cracks in the gemstone much rarer and more valuable.

Amethyst – the most famous type of purple gemstone, amethyst’s color is a very light shade of purple that captures light inside the gem’s facets. The color of amethyst is often semi-transparent as opposed to other purple gemstones which are darker and more opaque. It is this crystalline clarity and beauty which makes amethysts sought after by certain collectors.

Chalcedony – also known as agate, chalcedony is a form of quartz crystal which is composed of several different strains of quartz fused together in parallel layers. This tends to make the gems multi-colored, and the effect is like looking at a rainbow if the different layers of quartz are of varied colors and types. Quartz mines which hold different deposits of quartz types are ideal places to dig for this, and it is the rarest form of quartz gemstone around.

Diamond – composed mostly of superheated and compressed carbon, diamond is the hardest known substance in nature, and it’s basic color once polished and cut is completely transparent. Diamonds are perhaps the most famous and valuable of the different types of gemstones because of its pure clarity and the enduring quality of the gemstones. Much romanticism surrounds diamonds because of these features and they are most sought after for wedding rings as a symbol of love’s eternity.

Emerald – this is the most well known type of green colored gem stone. They are beryllium-based in chemical composition, sharing this element with several equally well known gemstones like rubies and sapphires. An emerald’s shade of green is unique and quite a few ancient civilizations regard this as a holy or mythic stone. More often than not, emerald gemstones are cut into simple square or circular shapes, with few variations.

Garnet – this is a stone whose basic color is red. The most famous red gemstone remains the ruby, yet the garnet’s distinguishing factor is that it’s shade of red actually approaches crimson. For this reason, some people refer to it as a “bloodstone”. A very rare type of garnet however is the “fire garnet”, whose color is a brighter orange instead of a deep crimson. This is more expensive than regular garnets.

Jadeite – this is a form of jade that is rarer than the more common form, nephrite. While both are green colored, jadeite is semi transparent, making it more closely resemble “regular” gemstones than it’s cousin nephrite. The purity of jadeite is higher than nephrite, and it’s crystal density is higher, but it tends to naturally form in smaller pieces as a result and is much harder to work with than nephrite, which can be carved like stone.

Lapis Lazuli – this is a relatively soft type of gemstone which can be carved into a variety of shapes. What makes this particular gemstone unique is that it’s color is a deep night-sky blue, but the gemstones are always flecked with small fool’s-gold (pyrite) traces which gives the gem the appearance of a night sky dotted with golden stars.

Moonstone – this gemstone’s fame comes mostly from it’s mysticism and it’s decidedly “feminine” gearing. As gemstones go, it’s actual worth isn’t very high, but it remains popular nonetheless. Moonstones are opaque, white-silver stones that under moonlight appear exactly the same shade as the moon in the sky. Naturally, this feature is what gave rise to it’s historic popularity.

Nephrite – when people refer to jade, they often mean nephrite. This material is a bright opaque green, and it’s physical quality compared to another form of jade, jadeite, is softer and more malleable. Large pieces of nephrite are easier to find than jadeite, and aside from jewelry this gemstone occurs naturally in pieces large enough to carve into small figurines and statues. Smaller pieces are carved into entire pieces of jewelry like bracelets and brooches.

Opal – these are completely opaque quartz crystals which, like chalcedony, displays a multitude of colors at the same time. The biggest difference between the two is that chalcedony’s color patterns are often set parallel to each other, and chalcedony stones themselves are semi transparent. Opals are completely opaque, and the splash of colors are random and haphazard throughout the surface of the gem.

Pearl – these are organic gems which naturally occur in oysters. They are often rendered in an opaque whitish sheen that refracts light, making small rainbows play across the surface of a well-cut and polished pearl. Tons of myths surround pearls, and being reaped from the sea they figure prominently in almost every sea-faring culture’s stories. Especially pirates. I don’t know why, but pirates ALWAYS hoard them in stories. Go figure…

Peridot – this gemstone is perhaps best known for only one thing: simplicity. Unlike other gemstones, which can come in quite a variety of colors, peridots are uniformly a green-gold shade. Period. They are silicate-based gemstones, and traces of iron in the gems give it a gold hue. There are NO variations of opacity, color traces, or shade variations in peridots no matter what part of the world they come from.

Ruby – along with the emerald and sapphire, this red stone is one of the oldest and most famous types of gemstone for collectors. It’s shade of red is actually rather bright and the stone itself is semi transparent instead of opaque. It is a type of gemstone called corundum, and is second only to the diamond in toughness among the world’s gemstones. Next to diamond, it is also perhaps the most expensive type of gemstone around.

Sapphire – like the ruby, this is a corundum type of gem, making it much harder and more enduring than other types of gems. Traditionally sapphires are best known for being a vivid crystalline blue in color, though what few people know is that sapphires can come in a variety of colors including green, yellow, and orange. The real definition behind this is that corundums will almost always be RUBIES if they’re red, and sapphires if they’re any other color. Strange logic there, but that’s how it’s defined by a lot of gem collectors.

Turquoise – this stone can easily be likened to nephrite for two things: one, it’s considerably softer than other gemstones, making it easier to work with, and two, it is opaque. Turquoise come in shades of sky blue with just a hint of green, and while it technically a stone the colors actually come from metals in the mineral – namely copper and iron traces. These metallic traces are the main reason for the stone’s opacity and malleability.

Topaz – this gemstone is an aluminum silicate based gemstone and is primarily a rich yellow gold in color. The stone is semi transparent and is one of the harder and more enduring gemstones around. If the ruby “defines” red, the sapphire “defines” blue, and the emerald “defines” green for other gemstones, the topaz is the gemstone that sets the standards followed by other yellow colored gemstones.

Common Cuts Used on Gemstones

Brilliant Cuts A brilliant-cut gemstone usually has three flat polished surfaces per facet. They are positioned in such a way to radiate the best light from the gemstone. Gemstone cutters also make sure that the angles will enhance the brilliance of the gemstone. Brilliant cuts are mostly used for diamonds and transparent gemstones.

Some facets will have one or more shapes like stars, hearts, kites, and lozenges. Variations of the brilliant cut include the naivet‚ or boat-shaped marquise, per-shaped pendeloque, and oval shape. Oval shapes are suitable for gemstones with lower carat weight because they can make them appear bigger.

The most popular variation of all is the full-cut round brilliant. It has fifty-eight facets, presently the greatest count for brilliant cut gemstones. The single brilliant cut, on the other hand, has seventeen to eighteen facets. For gemstones used in earrings and pendants, the briolette variation is mostly used to provide it with circular cross-section teardrop shapes. Brilliant cuts with triangular dimensions are called trilliants while square brilliant cuts are also known as princess cuts.

Step Cuts Another popular cut for a gemstone is the step or trap cut. Step cuts are best used for colored gemstones because they possess four-sided table facets and girdles as well as parallel quadrilateral facets. The term step cut was used because this gemstone cut bears similarities with a staircase. Step cuts have fewer facets than brilliant cuts.

One well-known variation of a step cut is the baguette. It is rectangular in shape but with square corners. Emerald cuts are also quite popular. Its name was derived from its consistent use with emeralds. Emerald cuts remove the corners and form an octagonal shape. Clipping off the corners protect delicate gemstones like emeralds and facilitate setting of gemstones at the same time. Other popular variations for step cuts are window, table, radiant, and oval.

The best advantage of step cuts is its ability to enhance a gemstones color, making the color richer and appearing to have originated straight form the belly of the gemstone.

Mixed Cuts Mixed cuts for gemstones are mostly combinations of brilliant and step cuts. The crown or top portion of a gemstone will resemble a brilliant cut while the pavilion or bottom portion of a gemstone will receive a step cut. At times, the two cuts will appear side by side. Mixed cuts are also characterized by their rounded outlines. Many transparent gemstones like rubies and sapphires are often cut this way. Gemstones with mixed cuts are also commonly set in prongs.

Variations for mixed cuts include but are not limited to cushion, zircut, pear or teardrop, and oval.

Cabochon Cuts A gemstone with a cabochon cut will appear rounded on top and flat on the bottom. At times, gemstones will only appear in this cut. Height of a gemstones dome with a cabochon cut varies. The name is derived from the French term used for bald heads. Cabochon cuts are simplest to make, and that’s why you’ll often see them used on affordable gemstones and those that will not benefit from faceting.

Fancy Cuts Any other cut besides those mentioned above is usually referred to as fancy. A checkerboard cut, for instance, will have a combination of a large table facet on top and a mixed cut. A rose cut will have a round girdle outline, flat base, dome-shaped crown, and facets of a brilliant cut.

When judging the cut of a gemstone, start by evaluating it face up. See if the gemstone shows uniform color distribution and radiates light in the best possible way. Gemstones cut with large windows are unappealing. Lastly, recheck all other angles and determine if the cut took both carat weight and looks into consideration.

]]> http://knowingjewelry.com/knowing-the-different-cuts-for-gemstones.html/feed 11 http://knowingjewelry.com/different-kinds-of-gems-in-mens-gemstone-jewelry.html http://knowingjewelry.com/different-kinds-of-gems-in-mens-gemstone-jewelry.html#comments Sun, 02 Nov 2008 05:38:15 +0000 MS Prasaja http://knowingjewelry.com/?p=60 While it is a more common practice for women to wear jewelry and gemstones, there are certain jewelry designs that are suitable for men and have been worn by men over the years. Most of the more common men’s gemstone jewelry that you find are rings and cuff links but there are a few other kinds that seem to be becoming more popular with the younger generation of males these days.

The Diamond

The most common gemstone that you can find in men’s gemstone jewelry is the diamond. Due to its versatility and classy appearance, diamonds have always been seen on rings for men and for women as well. This kind of a gem, one of the most expensive gems that can be used in jewelry, can be found in men’s rings and cuff links and are usually cut in the classic round shape. Of course, as versatile as the diamond is, it can also be found combined with other gemstones in certain designs that are somewhat masculine or manly to the eyes.

Precious and Semi-Precious

Other gemstones that can be found in these kinds of jewelry are other precious and semi-precious stones that have been cut in either a square, oval or round shape to give the gemstone a more manly appeal. The gemstones used in men’s gemstone jewelry is also in chunkier and bigger sizes than those usually seen on women’s jewelry to help exude that same masculine air.

This kind of a logic in jewelry cuts and designs has long been in use in jewelry and you can see those big precious and semi precious stones on the fingers and cuffs of a lot of men. Among the precious and semi precious gems that are often seen on men’s gemstone jewelry pieces, you can easily find the red ruby, amethysts, opals, quartz and emeralds.

Big Jewelry for Men

Most men’s gemstone jewelry designs are chunky bracelets, necklaces and stick pins as well. This kind of a trend in men’s jewelry design has been around for quite a while and there are men’s gemstone jewelry that do have thinner components on certain designs, the overall assembly still ends up being a bit on the bigger side as compared to women’s jewelry.

Men can easily find gemstone jewelry at a lot of jewelry stores and online shops everywhere. Finding the right kind of composition and design for their choices will solely depend on the individual taste of each man who buys them.

]]> http://knowingjewelry.com/different-kinds-of-gems-in-mens-gemstone-jewelry.html/feed 1 http://knowingjewelry.com/the-stories-and-meanings-of-gemstone.html http://knowingjewelry.com/the-stories-and-meanings-of-gemstone.html#comments Thu, 30 Oct 2008 05:27:40 +0000 MS Prasaja http://knowingjewelry.com/?p=51 Ever wondered what your birthstone means? Since the beginning of early times, many people had assumed that different gemstones have their own meanings and properties of healing. Whether what they said is accurate or not, it was believed that every gemstone held its own energy and through the chakra system is able to motivate the human body.

Gemstone meanings

Gems have always been the storehouses of power, and can only be imparted in your body through physical contact. Royal families especially the crowned kings and queens wore several pieces of gemstones to obtain their influences on the people. They had believed that as rulers, they can be guided by cosmic energies by connecting them with special forces.

Priests too had the same concept with the monarchs. They wore rings with gemstones as they had conceptualized on the idea that the power exhibited by the gemstones could be beneficial for them.

The power of the gemstones

Vijaya Kumar, a professor of computer and electrical engineering, wrote an overview on the power of gems:

1. All gemstones generate magnetic powers and many are considered beneficial to man.

2. A man’s whole being is strongly influenced by the gemstones frequencies and vibration.

3. These stones are used for transforming and healing the mind, body and soul.

4. They trigger our abilities, soothe, and comfort us though the chastity of their rays.

5. Most precious stones have their own way of treating unbalanced emotions.

6. Gemstones which are always in contact with a person transmit their healing properties to him or her.

Birthstone meanings and origins

Years ago, some people had believed that certain gemstones generate more vibration power at a certain time of the year. That is why the month the stones power is stronger determines our birthstones. Also, other people have said that the original link between the gemstones and the twelve months of the year developed from the twelve stones which are pointed out in the Bible while others believe that they symbolize the twelve stones. For this reason, several gemstones are associated with each month.

In our time, the powers of gemstones are appreciated in the industrial uses of crystals in lasers, watches and computers. In addition, these gemstones have been used to promote physical healing in the human body by helping a person to balance his human emotions. With all their contributions to man, no wonder these precious stones have been considered one of the most valuable possessions since the beginning.

]]> http://knowingjewelry.com/the-stories-and-meanings-of-gemstone.html/feed 0 http://knowingjewelry.com/care-for-your-jewelry.html http://knowingjewelry.com/care-for-your-jewelry.html#comments Sat, 18 Oct 2008 09:47:21 +0000 MS Prasaja http://knowingjewelry.com/?p=47 You have to remove your jewelry whenever you are doing activities that are risky. These activities may cause an impact or expose the jewelry to chemicals. Don’t wear your jewelry when you’re playing sports or doing house hold chores.

If you have rings that can’t be removed and you have to use strong cleaning products, particularly those with an Ammonia base, you can protect it (as well as your skin) by wearing gloves made of rubber. Rings and bracelets are jewelry that are often worn, earrings and necklaces are also prone to damages from chemicals, especially whenever they are worn while putting make-up, spraying fragrances and spritzing hair products.

A jeweler can also restring your pearl necklaces every two years. This should be done if it is your favorite jewelry. You can also clean your jewelry yourself by using mild and warm water with a soapy solution. Use a soft brush in cleaning the edges. Dry them using a soft cloth.

Be mindful of the loose clasps and gems before you wear your jewelry. You wouldn’t want the stones dropping off. Neither would you want to lose the entire thing when you’re walking down the street.

Don’t pull the stones. Some women who wear jewelry pull on the stones whenever they are bored; just so their fingers have something to do. Well, this practice results to the gemstones being more prone to oil, dirt and sweat. You may even risk these because you loosen the setting on the metal.

It is also not advisable to store your jewelry in one big pile. This will cause the metal and the gems to scratch one another. Store your jewelry in separate sections. Wrap them in paper, silk or velvet. Put them in a jewelry box.

Here is a quick run-through on how to clean common gems:

1. Alexandrite

Clean using soapy water or commercially available products. The best is alcohol. You can also resort to mechanical cleaners.

2. Aquamarine

Steer clear of chemical cleaners and heat. These shouldn’t be cleaned frequently as well. Use a soapy solution.

3. Diamond

Chemical and mechanical cleaners are said to be safe, but they should be avoided when cleaning diamonds because the stone could be fractured. Rinse the diamond dry and well after using a soapy solution.

4. Emerald

Don’t use mechanical and chemical cleaners. It will only dissolve oils during the cleaning process. Emeralds must be cleaned using soapy water. Have a jeweler re-oil the gem once every year.

5. Garnet

Just use soapy water.

6. Jade

Soapy water is the best, safest and easiest solution. You can also resort to mechanical cleaners, just steer clear of the chemical ones.

7. Opal

Wipe the stone after every use with a slightly damp pr dry cloth. Do not wash or scrub hard.

8. Peridot

Don’t use chemical or mechanical cleaners. Just use soapy water.

9. Ruby

Use soapy water or the cleaning solvents that are commercially available. Mechanical cleaners are also safe but these should be avoided because it may affect the clarity of the ruby.

10. Sapphire

Use soapy water and cleaning solvents. Mechanical cleaners are also safe but when these are used, they may affect the sapphires clarity.

11. Spinel

Use soapy water and the commercial cleaning solvents. Mechanical cleaners are to be avoided because these affect the clarity of the spinel.

12. Tanzanite

Don’t use chemical or mechanical cleaners. Just use soapy water.

13. Topaz

Same with tanzanite, don’t use chemical or mechanical cleaners. Soapy water is fine.

Caring for Your Pearls

Pearls are quite durable. Proper care keeps them lustrous and even more beautiful. Here are some general tips in doing so.

1. Wipe the pearls using a damp warm cloth. This removes dirt and body oils which harm the original color of the pearl. Do this before you put them away.

2. Pearls must be stored away from other jewelry and objects. Keeping them close to such could scratch the surface. Wrap them in soft cloth or linen and put them in pouches. Don’t store your pearls in packages that are air tight because they might lose their moisture.

3. Wash them using mild soap and wipe them dry with soft cloth. You can use also use acetone polish remover.

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