We are currently updating this site, links will become available as those sections appear but in the meantime, please visit our EBAY Store and/or contact us at janice933@bellsouth.net
|
Gemstone History and Lore
Almost all Gemstones (except for the non-mineral or organic gems like pearls, coral and amber) are Mineral Crystals that formed through a natural combination of chemicals, heat and/or pressure and can affect the shape or color of the crystals. Mineral crystals are usually tiny but a few can be cut into beautiful gemstones. Most all gems though were formed during one of the three rock making process listed below:
Igneous Rocks
Molten rock and gases, also called magma deep within the earths core well up within the earth. The intense pressure builds forcing the liquid rock toward the surface and known as lava. As it slowly cools it forms igneous rocks, and within these rocks and gas bubble spaces, interlocking crystals grow. Crystals form due to the minerals that are present, the cooling time and the proper environment work together to form these gemstones. Examples of gemstones found in igneous rock: diamonds, topaz, kunzite and spinel.
Sedimentary
Fragments of Rock are often washed into seabeds and riverbeds that are near the earth’s surface. Over the years, layers of rock fragments, mud and other organic and non-organic elements are compacted together into hard rock. As a result sometimes sea creatures, bugs or other organic elements will get trapped within these rock formations. Examples of sedimentary rocks include limestone, shale and sandstone. Also most gemstones are found in sedimentary deposits and discovered in riverbeds. Some of these deposits include metamorphic gems such as sapphire and ruby.
Metamorphic Rocks
Recrystallization can also happen as a result of intense pressure and high temperatures and actually transform the composition of the rock. This can happen deep within the earth's crust and also with direct contact with hot magma. Examples of metamorphic gemstones include emerald, sapphire, jadeite and peridot.
In each of the above rock formations the crystals grow as atoms which in turn then form a complex but ordered structure. The structure and the mineral’s chemical composition combined create the crystal's properties. These crystal properties such as shape, hardness, cleavage, refractive index and more help us to identify each individual crystals structure, gemstone species and group.
|
