Everything You Need to Know About Real Gemstones

Gemstones have captivated human beings for thousands of years. From the mystical lore of ancient civilizations to modern jewelry showcases, these dazzling minerals hold immense value not only in monetary terms but also in symbolism, healing, and fashion. Whether you're a collector, a jewelry lover, or simply curious about what makes these stones so special, this guide will walk you through the fascinating world of gemstones.

What Are Gemstones?

At their core, gemstones are naturally occurring crystals or organic materials that are cut and polished for use in jewelry or adornment. Most gemstones are minerals, but some—like amber or pearl—are derived from organic origins.

To be considered a gemstone, a mineral must exhibit:

• Beauty (color, clarity, luster)

• Durability (resistance to scratching, breaking, and weathering)

• Rarity (how uncommon it is in nature)

These factors determine the stone’s value and desirability.

Classification of Natural Gemstones

Gemstones are typically divided into two broad categories:

Precious Gemstones

These are the most rare, beautiful, and durable gems:

• Diamond – Known for its brilliance and hardness.

• Ruby – Celebrated for its deep red hue.

• Sapphire – Usually blue, but comes in many colors.

• Emerald – Famous for its vibrant green shade.

Semi-Precious Gemstones

All other gemstones fall into this category. Despite the term "semi-precious," many of these stones can be quite valuable. Examples include:

• Amethyst

• Citrine

• Topaz

• Garnet

• Peridot

• Aquamarine

• Opal

• Turquoise

Today, gemologists prefer to avoid this outdated distinction, as some so-called "semi-precious" stones may actually surpass "precious" stones in value or rarity.

Birthstones and Their Significance

Birthstones are gemstones associated with each month of the year. They are often believed to bring good fortune or healing to those born in that month.

The Big Four: A Closer Look

Let’s dive deeper into the four most iconic gemstones: diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald.

Diamond

• Color: Typically colorless but also found in shades of yellow, pink, blue, and even black.

• Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale – the hardest known natural material.

• Symbolism: Eternal love, purity, invincibility.

• Uses: Engagement rings, industrial cutting tools.

Diamonds are formed under extreme pressure and heat over billions of years. Their clarity and light dispersion give them unmatched brilliance.

Ruby

• Color: Deep red, often with a slight bluish tint.

• Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale.

• Symbolism: Passion, power, love.

• Famous for: Burmese rubies, which are of exceptional quality.

Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum (the same as sapphires). The red color is due to the presence of chromium.

Sapphire

• Color: Most commonly blue, but also found in yellow, green, pink, and white.

• Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale.

• Symbolism: Wisdom, loyalty, nobility.

• Unique variety: Padparadscha— a rare pink-orange sapphire.

Sapphires are also a form of corundum. Blue sapphires from Kashmir, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar are especially prized.

Emerald

• Color: Rich green, sometimes with a bluish hue.

• Hardness: 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale.

• Symbolism: Growth, fertility, rebirth.

• Origin: Often sourced from Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil.

Due to natural inclusions known as “jardin,” emeralds are less durable than other precious stones and require special care.

Healing and Metaphysical Properties

For centuries, gemstones have been believed to possess healing energies and spiritual significance. While not scientifically proven, many people incorporate them into holistic practices.

• Amethyst: Said to aid in meditation, calm the mind, and support sobriety.

• Citrine: Attracts abundance and prosperity.

• Black Tourmaline: Offers protection against negative energy.

• Lapis Lazuli: Enhances intellectual ability and self-awareness.

• Moonstone: Encourages emotional balance and intuition.

These beliefs form the basis of crystal healing, chakra balancing, and other metaphysical practices.

Popular Gemstones and Their Characteristics

Here’s a snapshot of some beloved gemstones beyond the Big Four:

Amethyst

• Color: Violet to deep purple.

• Hardness: 7

• Meaning: Peace, spiritual growth.

• Fun fact: Once as prized as diamonds before large deposits were found in Brazil.

Citrine

• Color: Yellow to golden brown.

• Hardness: 7

• Meaning: Joy, creativity, wealth.

Opal

• Color: Milky white with iridescent flashes; black opals are rare and valuable.

• Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5

• Meaning: Inspiration, emotional expression.

Turquoise

• Color: Sky blue to greenish blue.

• Hardness: 5 to 6

• Meaning: Protection, healing, friendship.

• Note: Highly porous; often stabilized for durability.

Garnet

• Color: Deep red, but available in green (tsavorite), orange (spessartine), and more.

• Hardness: 6.5 to 7.5

• Meaning: Love, safety, vitality.

Peridot

• Color: Lime green to olive green.

• Hardness: 6.5 to 7

• Meaning: Protection, prosperity.

How to Choose the Right Gemstone

Choosing the right gemstone is a blend of personal taste, practical use, and emotional or symbolic resonance.

1. Consider Color

Color is often the first thing people notice. Choose a hue that complements your skin tone or wardrobe. Some opt for birthstones or stones associated with zodiac signs.

2. Durability

If you're planning to wear the stone daily (like in an engagement ring), durability matters. Diamonds, sapphires, and rubies are excellent for daily wear, while softer stones like opal or turquoise require more care.

3. Cut and Clarity

A well-cut gemstone enhances its brilliance and appeal. Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions or flaws. Some stones (like emeralds) are expected to have inclusions, while others (like diamonds) are more valuable when flawless.

4. Budget

Gemstones range from a few dollars to millions. Semi-precious stones offer beauty and uniqueness without breaking the bank. Synthetic or lab-grown stones are also a budget-friendly alternative with minimal ethical concerns.

Genuine Gemstone Treatments and Enhancements

Many gemstones undergo treatments to enhance their appearance. Common treatments include:

• Heat treatment: Improves color and clarity (common in sapphires, rubies).

• Irradiation: Alters color (used in blue topaz).

• Fracture filling: Fills cracks to improve clarity (common in emeralds).

• Dyeing: Enhances or changes color (used in agates, turquoise).

Always ask your jeweler if a stone has been treated. Untreated or natural stones typically command higher prices.

Natural vs. Synthetic Gemstones

Natural gemstones are mined from the earth. They often contain inclusions and are valued for their rarity.

Synthetic gemstones are created in laboratories using the same physical and chemical properties. They are visually identical to natural stones and generally more affordable.

Then there are imitation stones, like glass or cubic zirconia, which merely resemble real gemstones but have different compositions.

Caring for Your Gemstones

Proper care extends the life and luster of your gemstones.

General Care Tips:

• Store separately to prevent scratching.

• Clean with mild soap and water, and a soft brush.

• Avoid ultrasonic cleaners on porous or treated stones.

• Remove jewelry before swimming, exercising, or doing housework.

Soft stones like opal, turquoise, and pearl require extra caution. Periodic inspections for loose settings are also recommended.

Ethical and Sustainable Gemstone Sourcing

In today’s world, more consumers are concerned with where their gemstones come from. Issues like child labor, environmental damage, and conflict mining have tainted parts of the industry.

Look for:

• Fair Trade certifications

• Conflict-free assurances

• Recycled or lab-grown alternatives

Brands that offer full supply chain transparency are becoming increasingly popular with conscious consumers.

Fun and Fascinating Gemstone Lore

Throughout history, gemstones have been steeped in myth and superstition:

• Cleopatra was said to favor emeralds and believed they granted eternal youth.

• Ancient Greeks wore amethyst to ward off intoxication.

• Medieval Europeans believed garnets protected against poison.

• The Hope Diamond, a 45.52-carat blue diamond, is infamous for supposedly cursing its owners.

Whether you believe in their mystical powers or not, there’s no denying the rich tapestry of lore that surrounds these natural marvels.

Authentic Gemstones in Modern Culture

Gemstones continue to play a powerful role in art, fashion, and culture.

• Pop culture: Celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor were known for their exquisite gem collections.

• Fashion: Bold gemstone jewelry is a staple on runways and red carpets.

• Wellness: Crystal healing and gemstone meditation have surged in popularity with the wellness movement.

From chakra bracelets to minimalist rings, gemstones find their way into everyday life in both spiritual and aesthetic forms.

Conclusion: A Timeless Treasure of Gemstones

Gemstones are much more than beautiful adornments. They’re symbols of nature’s artistry, vessels of history, and expressions of identity. Whether you're drawn to the fiery red of a ruby or the calming violet of an amethyst, there’s a gemstone out there that speaks to your soul.

Understanding their properties, origins, and meanings adds a deeper layer of appreciation for these ancient wonders. So next time you admire a sparkling jewel, know that you’re gazing into a legacy millions of years in the making.

Lateef Warnick is the founder of Onassis Krown. He currently serves as a Senior Healthcare Consultant in the Jacksonville FL area and is a Certified Life Coach, Marriage Counselor, Keynote Speaker and Author of "Know Thyself," "The Golden Egg" and "Wear Your Krown." He is also a former Naval Officer, Licensed Financial Advisor, Insurance Agent, Realtor, Serial Entrepreneur and musical artist A.L.I.A.S.