Gemstones - An introduction!

The very mention of the word gemstones brings the view of beautiful colorful stones in our mind. Some of us associate it with ornaments while others relate it with planetary implications. But in reality, they are much more than that. This piece of information will update you with some basic yet amazing facts about the gemstones.

A gemstone is basically a rock or mineral that can be used for jewelry purposes. The gemstones that are acquired naturally from the earth through mining are called natural gemstones and they are quite valuable. On the other hand, the gemstones that are manufactured by individuals in the laboratories are called synthetic gemstones and they cost less. There are more than 2000 kinds of gemstones available in the world, but only hundred of them can be used in the adornment of jewelry. Ruby, emerald, sapphire, opal, amethyst, topaz, tanzanite, aquamarine, citrine, tourmaline, garnet, lapis lazuli, zircon, jade, iolite, amber, moonstone, turquoise, agate, coral, onyx, jasper, bloodstone, diamond and pearl are the few to name from the list that are widely held all across the globe. Diamonds are said to be women's best friends. All these precious gems are mainly used with gold, silver, and platinum for preparing jewelry, but prior to that they are cut and polished accurately to make them look attractive when set in jewelry.

Each of the gemstones has its own beauty and significance. They are believed to have some healing powers and that is why they are worn as rings, pendants, bracelets or in any other form of jewelry to attract positive powers from their respective ruling planets. Besides that, the raw and uncut loose gems are purchased as an investment also. They are considered safe for investments, as their prices do not fluctuate in the short term. But the value of each of these stones is decided on the basis of its rarity, clarity, density, cut, and above all the aesthetic worthiness; though these gemstones in their raw form do not fascinate much. They are chiseled, cut, carved and finally polished by experts to making it look attractive and worth setting in the jewelry.

Natural gemstones are quite expensive as they are found rarely. Each natural stone takes millions of years to form in the earth's crust. Either they appear on the surface of the earth after a certain period of time or they are obtained through mining. Other loose gems like pearl, coral, amber, ivory etc. are obtained from the plant or animal resource. Their value is also determined on the basis of rarity and durability. Apart from the precious gemstones, these days semi-precious gemstones are also widely held. They are the synthetic gemstones available almost in any color you think of. Beautiful and colorful looks make these gemstones the choice of modern people. Plus they are reasonable priced also. One can choose from a wide variety of colors and textures. But before buying any gemstone online one must verify its authenticity, as it is difficult to differentiate the precious and semi-precious gemstone with a naked eye. Either seek expert's advice or authenticity certificate when you buy these gemstones.