Are you a gemstone enthusiast? Do different types of gemstones have you feeling overwhelmed? We’ve got your back! Here’s an in-depth look at the various kinds of gems so you can differentiate between them.
With this ultimate guide to different gemstones, you’ll be able to recognize and name various gems in no time. From rubies and sapphires to opals and aquamarines, get ready to become an expert on different types of gemstones!
From minerals to beryls, these jewels range from traditional to modern. We have classified them all into different categories so you can easily recognize each gemstone.
Let’s dive right in and explore the different types of gems. But first, let’s understand what gemstones are.
What are Gemstones, and What are Their Properties
Minerals that have undergone cutting and polishing to create various shapes for use in jewelry or other decorative items are known as gemstones. Each gemstone has different chemical and physical properties, which give them different colors and shapes.
These different kinds of gemstones are found all over the world, but some of the most popular and valuable gems come from different parts of Asia.
When looking at their chemical properties, different gemstones have different levels of hardness and durability. Some are more resilient than others, while some are more delicate and fragile.
The refractive index is another important property of gems. It refers to how different gemstones interact with light and affects how bright or dull the jewels appear. Moreover, gravity is evaluated to check the density of various gems. Different gravity values tell us whether a gemstone is lightweight or heavy.
Types of Gemstones According to Their Chemical and Physical Properties
Minerals
Minerals are unique gemstones that come in different colors and shapes. These gems are composed of only one element and have specific chemical properties, which makes them even more special.
Examples of gemstones that belong to this group are diamonds, quartz, and topaz. Most of these gemstones are extremely durable and hard.
Beryls
The gemstones that belong to this group are most commonly known as gem-quality beryl. Beryls are a variety of gems that have impressive crystal structures and come in different shades of green, blue, yellow, and pink.
Beryls are formed when beryllium, aluminum, and silicate combine together. The most popular and valuable examples are emeralds and aquamarines. Beryllium gemstones have a unique shimmer to them that makes them stand out from the rest.
Organic Gemstones
Organic gemstones are made up of molecules composed of both organic and inorganic components. These gemstones are formed from materials that come from plants or animals. Examples of these gemstones are amber, coral, pearl, and ivory.
Organic gemstones are usually fragile, so they should be handled with extra care when making gemstone jewelry.
Synthetic Gemstones
Synthetic gemstones are man-made gemstones that have the same chemical composition as natural gemstones. These gems are created in controlled laboratory conditions and have the same hardness and durability as natural gemstones.
Synthetic gemstones are a great way to get stunning gemstone jewelry without breaking the bank.
Types of Gemstones Based on Price, Value, and Rarity
If you look at the gemstones price list, you’ll quickly learn about gemstones that are affordable and others that can cost a fortune.
On the one hand, you have gemstones like quartz and citrine that are perfect for those on a budget but still want to look classy. On the other hand, gemstones like pink diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires can set you back a few thousand dollars.
Here are the two main categories of gemstones based on their rarity and value.
Precious Gemstones
These gemstones are the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the gemstone market. Due to their rarity, they have a high retail price point and are usually used in gemstone jewelry. Examples of precious gemstones are diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires.
Semi-Precious Gemstones
These gemstones have less value than precious gemstones, but they can still make an excellent gemstone jewelry piece. Examples of these gemstones are quartz, opal, and topaz. Semi-precious gemstones are often used as an affordable alternative to gemstone jewelry.
Different Types of Gems Based on Refractive Index
The refractive index is an essential property of gemstones because it can determine how bright or dull a specific gem will appear. A gemstone’s refractive index is also known as its sparkle factor, so the higher it is, the more sparkly the gem will be.
High-Refractive Index Gemstones
These are gemstones with a refractive index of 1.9 or higher and are known for their exceptional sparkle. Examples of these gems are diamonds, sphene, and zircon. These gemstones are usually used in jewelry because they can make a statement.
Low-Refractive Index Gemstones
These are gemstones with a refractive index of 1.9 or lower and don’t have the same sparkle as the high-refractive-index gemstones. Examples of these gemstones are quartz, tourmaline, and moonstone. They can still make an attractive gemstone jewelry piece, but they won’t have that “wow” factor.
Variety of Gemstones by Color
Gems come in a wide range of colors, from bright and vibrant to muted and subtle. Here’s a list of gemstones by color covering the most popular colored jewels:
- Blue Gemstones – aquamarine, sapphires, blue topaz, and lapis lazuli
- Red Gemstones – ruby, garnet, and spinel
- Green Gemstones – emeralds, peridot, and tourmaline
- Yellow Gemstones – citrine, topaz, and beryllium
- Orange Gemstones – fire opal and Padparadscha sapphire
- Pink Gemstones – morganite, rubellite and kunzite
- Purple Gemstones – amethyst, tanzanite, and charoite
- White Gemstones – diamonds, quartz, and moonstone
- Black Gemstones – onyx, tourmaline, and obsidian
- Brown Gemstones – tiger’s eye, jasper, and amber
- Grey Gemstones – hematite and smoky quartz
- Multicolor Gemstones – opal, iolite, and tourmalinated quartz
Kinds of Gemstones as Per Their Meanings
Gems are believed to have spiritual and healing powers, so gemstones’ meanings can be significant for some people. Here’s a list of gemstones and their meanings:
- Agate – Balance, Harmony
- Amethyst – Protection, Inner Strength
- Aquamarine – Communication, Clarity
- Diamond – Eternal Love, Abundance
- Emerald – Intuition, Insight
- Garnet – Passion, Creativity
- Jade – Positivity, Luck
- Lapis Lazuli – Self-confidence, Stress Relief
- Moonstone – Intuition, Balance
- Obsidian – Grounding, Protection
- Opal – Creativity, Imagination
- Pearl – Purity, Wisdom
- Peridot – Optimism, Renewal
- Quartz – Clarity, Focus
- Ruby – Love, Passion
- Sapphire – Intuition, Calm
- Topaz – Strength, Transformation
Which Types of Gemstones are Right for Jewelry
Going through all the different types of gemstones can be a bit overwhelming. After all, there are so many to choose from! But whether you’re looking for an addition to your own fine jewelry stash, or just a gift for someone you love, there’s sure to be a gemstone that fits your needs.
For selecting gemstones perfect for jewelry, you should consider the four Cs – cut, clarity, color, and carat. A gemstone’s cut makes a huge difference in how it looks, so you want to ensure that it’s been cut and polished correctly.
Clarity refers to how clear the gemstone is, so opt for one that has few inclusions. Color is also essential – you want to select one with a hue and saturation that really complements the jewelry. And finally, carat refers to the weight of the gemstone and is often used as an indicator of its size.
Keeping in mind the 4 Cs, the following are some of the most sought-after gemstones for jewelry:
- Diamonds: The most popular gemstone for anniversary gifts, diamonds come in a variety of colors and sizes.
- Sapphires: Blue sapphire is a classic choice for jewelry – they’re strong and beautiful.
- Rubies: Bright and eye-catching, rubies are a symbol of love, passion, and protection.
- Emeralds: A stunning green gemstone that makes a statement in any jewelry piece.
- Opal: With its vibrant rainbow of colors, opals are perfect for adding a unique touch to a piece of jewelry.
- Pearl: Usually seen in white or cream, pearls can add a timeless and elegant touch to an outfit.
- Tanzanite: This multicolored gemstone is known for its unique violet-blue color.
FAQs
Gemstones are believed to have spiritual and healing powers, which can be very important for some people. Each gem has its own unique meaning, from peace and balance to protection and luck.
Some of the rarest gemstones include Alexandrite, Red Beryl, Benitoite, and Black Opal.
Yes, crystals and gemstones are different. Crystals typically form in large clusters with many points coming off the main crystal, while gemstones are usually cut and polished into a specific shape for jewelry.
Know the Type You’re Buying
Gemstones come in all shapes, sizes, and colors – so take your time to learn about various types of gems to find the one that perfectly suits your needs. Whether it’s a diamond for your anniversary or an opal for your new necklace, gemstones offer something memorable and meaningful.
So be sure to appreciate the variety of gemstones available because, after all, it really is the most precious type of gem that make your jewelry sparkle!
And there you have it – a brief overview of different types of gemstones available so you can find the perfect one for your jewelry needs. Don’t let the variety overwhelm you – with some knowledge and a little research; you’ll be sure to find the perfect gemstone!
Now, go forth and shine on with your beautiful gems!
