Gemstones
A gemstone or gem, also called a precious or semi-precious stone, is a piece of attractive mineral, which — when cut and polished — is used to make jewelry or other adornments. However certain rocks, (such as lapis-lazuli) and organic materials (such as amber or jet)
are not minerals, but are still used for jewelry, and are therefore
often considered to be gemstones as well. Most gemstones are hard, but some soft minerals are used in jewelry because of their lustre or other physical properties that have aesthetic value. Rarity is another characteristic that lends value to a gemstone.
Subsections:
- Main info
- Gemstones from A to Z
- Taking care of Gemstones
- Meaning of Gemstones
- Birthstones Calendar
- Gemstones Healing Powers
- Gemstones Cuts & Shapes