Silver Crystal Jewellery

From unique solitaire engagement rings. Your Jewelry cost a lot, so it should be well-taken care of to extend its life and beauty. Here are some guidelines to take care of your Gemstone Jewelry.

Clean it!

Cleaning your Gemstone Jewellery doesn’t require any special accessories or appliances. A bowl of water with some drops of dish detergent will do the trick. Arm yourself with a soft toothbrush and brush away especially behind the stone. Don’t scrub too hard as it may scratch the stone. Scrub gently and rinse after it is done. Dry it with a soft cloth with soft pats. 

A home ultrasonic cleaner can also be used, but only for those who know how to use it and what gem to use it with. It could be used with ruby, sapphire, and amethyst, among others; however, it could damage Gems such as emerald, turquoise, and pearl. So use this appliance with extreme caution. 

Take note that organic gems should only be wiped with a soft cloth when cleaning them. Pearls, corals, and ambers are examples of organic Diamonds. These Gemstones are soft and porous. Long-term exposure to chemicals such as hairspray, cosmetics, and perfume may damage these organic Gemstones, especially pearls.  

Be very careful with it

Taking care of your Diamond Jewelry will make it look brand-new for many years. Oftentimes, common sense should be used in taking care of your Diamond Jewelry. Take your Jewelry off when doing strenuous activities that may cause damage to your Diamond. Diamonds are still susceptible to breakage when they collide with something hard or heavy. Gems, rubies, or sapphires may be the toughest but they can break easily when given a solid blow. 

Store your Gem Jewelry separately to avoid scratches from by harder gems. If possible, get each piece a velvet box to be stored in. Don’t get lazy in storing your Diamonds as they are very valuable. 

Put your Jewellery on last when dressing. This is to avoid getting the Gem tangled with your clothes. But remove the Gemstone Jewelry first at the end of the day. Its also a big no-no to wear your Jewellery when going swimming. The chlorine in the water might damage your Jewellery. 

Its essential to take care of your Gemstone Jewellery so it to last a long time. The value of these pieces of Diamond Jewellery are really high and may get higher as time goes by. And who knows, after some decades, your Jewelry may be a good gift for your granddaughters! So take good care of your Diamond Jewelry.

For more see princess vintage diamond ring and cushion cut.

Technorati Tags: care, Diamonds, gems, gemstone, jewelry

From emerald cut diamond solitaire engagement ring. Jade, a generic term for nephrite and jadeite Gems is regarded as a fascinating Gemstone for collectors and Jewelry enthusiasts. Asian countries regard jade as a valuable antique. Jade is said to have symbolic beauty and energy since it balances creativity and mental agility in Gemstone therapy. Many people want jade for various reasons because of its uniqueness as well as its impressive history where even the Aztecs and ancient Egyptians regard jade as a symbolic item. Here are some guidelines in spotting a good jade.

Select the people you buy jade from

Since jade is a really rare and wanted Gemstone, many people have created ways of making fakes or imitation jades. Finding a good genuine jade might cost a lot and consume a lot of time. In buying jade Gems, only trust reputable sellers or dealers and collectors. Never buy from shady stores in the area or resorting to online stores which can be doubted most of the time. Having a critical eye to look for a good jade Diamond will be a necessary weapon in hunting for these beauties. 

Determining the value of the jade

Generally, a jade Gemstones value depends on the intensity of the color, transparency, clarity, and its texture. Connoisseurs differentiate the shades of green in seven main qualities, from light shades of apple green to the darker shades of green.

Different countries regard a specific color more valuable among jade Gemstones based from their culture. USA and Europe regard spinach green and apple green colors of jade the most valuable. Meanwhile, far eastern countries prefer jade in colors of sheer white or yellow with a trace of pink. Generally, the hint of lavender or fine violet in jade is the most popular color. However the rarest of jade Diamonds in color are the imperial green which has extraordinary depth. This color of jade Gemstone fetches the highest price. 

It all depends on the collector or buyer

For those collectors who don’t just fancy buying jade Diamonds, advice on what to buy will be futile. Everyone has their own tastes and preference on what color or shape to buy. However for those enthusiasts who enjoy the beauty of jade, they have a wide variety of designs to choose from, especially since modern chic designs have sprouted. 

Nevertheless, anyone will enjoy a jade Diamond, no matter its color, shape, or texture, since it is a beauty no one can deny.

For more see radiant cut diamond solitaire engagement ring and vintage engagement rings in cushion cut.

Technorati Tags: gemstone, jade, jewelry

Turquoise is a gorgeous gemstone that looks so good in silver turquoise jewelry.

      >>  See natural turquoise silver jewellery here

Scientifically it’s a blend of phosphates and aluminum with some traces of copper oxide, from which it gets its blue color, and iron, zinc, calcium and manganese oxide.

The green color arises from the iron or aluminum and and zinc gives it a yellow color. The most common color is green for turquoise gemstones, and indeed blue gems very often turn green if exposed to sunlight for any length of time.

Different combinations of these elements give turquoise its array of colors, with the most valued being those with an intense blue color and yellow colored gemstones having the lowest value. The finest quality stones, for instance Persian turquoise, don’t usually fade and keep their gorgeous blue color indefinitely.

Some stones have a major color with a spider web pattern of different colored lines marking the surface. The cause of this is uneven distribution of the various elements present in the precious stone and the marks can be brown, yellow or black in several different patterns. However unmarked gems are more sought after than gems with a spider web matrix although turquoise precious stones of intense blue color, even though they have a spider web matrix, are more sought after than yellow or green pure gemstones. Natural stones of a pure color, i.e. those which are not marked with spider web matrix, are much rarer and are very highly valued.

Turquoise Treatments

Less than 10% of the turquoise used in jewelry is the naturally occurring, best quality stone. Over 85% is treated from soft, rough turquoise so that it is hard enough to be used. This procedure also improves stability and boosts the gem’s color. Turquoise from some countries, China for example, is too soft and must be treated. In spite of this the process yields beautiful gems, which, though less prized than unprocessed stones, nevertheless make superb jewelry.

Treatments enhance the color of the gemstones as well as making them tougher which gives them a longer life. A treatment method used to boost the color involves injecting a dye in epoxy resin into the gemstone. The color is more stable and will not fade. Turquoise from China is hardened by injecting liquid plastic into the stone. An alternative approach is to inject epoxy resin alone that will stabilise the gem but won’t change the color.

Synthetic turquoise can be made from powdered turquoise in liquid plastic. This kind of turquoise is naturally very cheap. These imitation gems may be sold as natural turquoise and are often waxed or coated in plastic.

Care of Turquoise Gems

Turquoise is porous and soft so must be looked after carefully. It must never be worn when it can become scratched and ought to be protected from any impact always. On no account wear turquoise jewelry when washing the car or gardening! Keep turquoise jewelry in a box that is lined with soft material and do not store with other, harder gems which might damage the stones. Turquoise gems can absorb liquids so keep them away from hot water, oils, chemicals and even perfumes and cosmetics. These may be absorbed by the gem which will become dull and may change color. You can clean turquoise using very mild soapy water and drying carefully with a soft cloth. Ensure it is completely dry before storing it away and on no account use ultrasonic jewelry cleaners as they may cause cracking of the gem.

In Conclusion

Turquoise is a lovely, eye-catching stone which is rare and sought after. Even though there are several disadvantages in that it must be carefully looked after and a number of the blue stones can fade to green over time, it makes fantastic silver turquoise jewelry as the attractive blue color goes perfectly with the silver.

Technorati Tags: blue, care, gemstone, green, jewellery, jewelry, of, precious, silver, stone, stones, turquoise

The precious stone used in December birthstone jewelry is the turquoise, a blue green mineral that is a phosphate of copper and aluminum.

>> See Turquoise silver jewellery: Click here

It is a rare stone that has been used in decorative pieces and gold and silver jewelry for many thousands of years and was worn from about 6000 B.C. by the Egyptians.

It was a valued gem worn by the Pharaohs and Aztec kings. It has also been used in exquisite ornamental and decorative pieces by the Native Americans and Persians.

Most specimens found are extremely small, frequently so tiny that they can only be seen using a microscope. High quality turquoise is mined in Australia, Iran, Arizona, New Mexico and Afghanistan.

The name turquoise is thought to derive from the French word meaning Turkey as it was mistakenly assumed that the gems came from that country as they were sold in the bazaars to European merchants. In reality they most likely came from the Sinai Peninsular or Persia (now Iran). It may perhaps also have arisen from the French word pierre turquin, meaning dark, blue stone. It is often found in deposits of copper generally in arid, dessert conditions.

Before the crystal turquoise was discovered in the USA the highest quality gems, with an intense blue color, came from Persia and Persian Turquoise is still used these days to designate the best quality gemstones. In the later years of the 19th century turquoise was found in the United States with deposits that matched the quality of the Persian gemstones. Nowadays the US is the largest producer of this gorgeous precious stone.

How the Aztecs Used Turquoise

Turquoise was used extensively by the Aztecs, often with gold and several other minerals such as quartz, jade, jet and malachite as well as corals and shells. They used it in masks, mosaics, knives and shields. Some magnificent examples of mosaics that were not destroyed by the Spanish Invaders are exhibited at the British Museum.

How the Native Americans Used Turquoise

The Pueblo, Apache and Navajo tribes used turquoise as a talisman frequently believing it had power to perfect the aim of archers. The original turquoise jewelry made by Native Americans included beads, carvings and mosaics and only from the late 1800’s was the typical silver jewelry made. Navajo craftsmen began making this type of jewelry from silver coins for trade with white men.

Looking After Turquoise Jewellery

Turquoise is quite soft and needs to be looked after with care to avoid being damaged. It can lose it s lustre if it is heated, or if it is exposed to to weak acids or sunlight so you need to be careful to remove any turquoise jewelry before using household chemicals or hot water.

December Birthstone Jewelry

Turquoise is the precious stone for December in the current birthstone jewelry system. In traditional schemes the birthstones are zircon and ruby. Turquoise jewelry would make a lovely gift whether set in bracelets, earrings, necklaces or charms. You can read more at December Birthstone Jewelry.

Technorati Tags: birthstone, crystal, december, gemstone, jewellery, jewelry, silver, stone, turquoise

Quartz is the most common mineral on the face of the Earth. Chemically, quartz is a compound called silicon dioxide, SiO2. As a crystal, quartz is used as a semiprecious gemstone. Quartz is a relatively hard stone, 7 on the Mohs hardness scale.

Quartz is one of the most abundant mineral crystals and can take many forms. Quartz is a piezoelectric material that moves when placed in an electric field. It has been applied in various devices as an oscillator.

Quartz is used extensively in industry and was used in radios and most of all it had its impact in the watch industry. It is very resistant to chemical weathering. A conchoidal fracture will result when quartz is struck and it has no cleavage.

In pure form, quartz is colorless, but it is commonly colored by impurities. Rose quartz is a pink stone often worn as crystal pendants or bead necklaces.

Green quartz is sometimes referred to as aventurine quartz. Milky quartz is a common mineral that is found in many different types of rocks. Pink or peach colored quartz is called rose quartz. Smoky quartz is generally transparent to translucent quartz that is gray to black in color. The most common and familiar inclusion in quartz is rutile. Rutilated Quartz is a variety of Quartz crystal that contains small needles of Rutile trapped inside.

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz and is a popular gemstone. Amethyst is the most highly valued stone in the quartz group. Amethyst displays shades of violet due to the presence of small amounts of Fe3+ ions. Amethyst is sometimes heat treated to form citrine. On exposure to heat, amethyst generally becomes yellow, and much of the cairngorm or yellow quartz of jewelry is said to be merely ‘burnt amethyst.

Ametrine occurs naturally and is the combination of amethyst and citrine in the same crystal. Ametrine is a variety of quartz that contains both amethyst and citrine sectors in the same crystal. Ametrine is a real gemstone variety mostly found in Bolivia. Ametrine is a very durable gemstone suited for everyday wear. Ametrine, Quartz, Natural ametrine is not usually enhanced; amethyst can be heated to produce ametrine.

Citrine is a macrocrystalline variety of the mineral Quartz (SiO2). Sometimes you will hear citrine referred to as topaz quartz, which is incorrect. Citrine includes yellow to gold to orange brown shades of transparent quartz. Citrine crystals can form together with amethyst or smoky quartz to form ametrine and bi-colored quartz. Most commercial citrine is in fact artificially heated amethyst or smoky quartz.

Citrine crystals can form together with amethyst to form ametrine, or with smoky quartz to form bicolored quartz. One of the most durable gemstones, citrine gets its name from the French for lemon, in honor of its vibrant yellow hue. The difference between citrine and amethyst is only the Oxidation State of the iron impurities present in the quartz.

Natural citrine is rarer than amethyst or smoky quartz, both of which are often heated to change their natural color to that of citrine. Synthetic Russian citrine is produced directly by the addition of iron to the growth solutions. Natural citrine is one of the rarer varieties of quartz. However, heating poor quality amethyst generally artificially forms the darker citrine. Citrine, a form of quartz, is used or worn to remove fear, to prevent nightmares and to ensure a good nights sleep.

Tiger’s eye quartz contains brown iron, which produces its golden yellow color. Tiger’s eye (tiger’s eye, tiger-eye, and tiger iron) is a member of the quartz group of chalcedonies. This changeable luster and rich brown to golden color makes tiger’s eye jewelry striking and desirable. Tiger’s Eye – Yellow/brown or blue fibrous material that forms by the replacement of riebeckite by quartz. The unique appearance of tiger’s eye is caused by fibrous inclusions. Tiger’s Eye is a brown quartz silicon dioxide with lustrous yellow and brown parallel fibers.

Notable Occurrences of amethyst are Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, Russia, Thunder Bay area of Canada, and some localities in the USA. Brazil is also the only source of true well-formed crystals of rose quartz. Brazil presently produces the largest volume of smoky quartz as lapidary enhanced pieces. Smokey: Crystals weighing as much as 650 lbs. have been found in Brazil.

Author: Chrisitne Breen

Now that you know about quartz, learn about or buy gem minerals at Gems Explained Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chrisitne_Breen

Technorati Tags: amethyst, ametrine, aventurine, citrine, crystal, crystals, gemstone, quartz, quartz crystals, rose, rutilated, smoky, tigers eye

What is in your mind when comes an idea of deciding on an engagement ring? An engagement ring is a thing you should not overlook when you are going to pronounce your romantic intentions for marriage. It is also as a way to show your love and your commitment to your going to be husband or wife. In consequence, hunting for the most wonderful one to express it is such a must.

In reality, deciding to buy an engagement ring for your partner will rank among the most significant decisions in your life. Consequently, you must give the best effort in searching for the most suitable ring.

Have a Budget in Mind

The first thing to take into account when trying to find the most perfect engagement ring is recognizing how much your budget is. Of course you wish to give the most proper ring for your partner in life. Nonetheless, don t forget to think about your budget.

You may want to browse the internet to view what is on offer and what the costs are. Thus, with a budget in mind, you should not have much problem in selecting a perfect engagement ring which of course, must also have the perfect type of gemstone or laudable stone.

Diamond engagement rings are a clear choice. Although women cannot resist them, it is still prudent to look around at other options including opals and gold. Yet, if you do make decision on buying diamonds for your love, then you need to don’t forget the four C s which are cut, color, clarity and carat.

Another significant consideration with regard to buying an engagement ring is the sort of setting utilized in the ring. In this regard you will require checking out the metals, styles and also diverse designs. Some people even go to the extent of selecting their own designs for the engagement ring while others are contented going along with what a jeweler or jewelry designer suggests.

Nevertheless, it would be most excellent if you had an idea about what your partner would like and then decide accordingly. In addition, if you are buying an engagement ring for your lady love you would want to know whether she prefers a huge diamond or would a few small numbers of diamonds take her fancy. You also need to decide whether to go for a yellow setting or white and also the cut of the diamond as well as its color.

The bottom line is, discovering the most appropriate engagement ring is such a tricky thing to do. But with more effort, there are always large opportunities that you are going to discover the most ideal one. Just do your best!

Still curious about engagement ring? Just explore more on the links here and you will get much more about it as well as any thing related.

Buying Engagement Rings

Thinking about the practical aspects of buying engagement rings may not be romantic but it is essential in protecting your investment. Since engagement rings are worn all the time they need to be well made and the diamonds secure

How to Upgrade Your Engagement Ring

Sometimes, the engagement ring you’ve always hoped for doesn’t end up being the perfect piece of jewelry you thought it would be.

Buying the Perfect Engagement Ring

We’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you purchase an engagement ring that your girlfriend will flip over. Let’s get started.  

Technorati Tags: budget, cheap diamond, design, engagement, gemstone, jewelry designer, modern, ring, rings, setting, silver, white gold

Citrine is a variety of a quartz stone which is usually yellowish to brownish in color. Jewelers find use for this type of quartz as a gem setting on a ring or necklace.

Citrine happens to be the most valuable quartz gemstone.

How it is formed

Under natural conditions, citrine is colored yellow to orange and is generally of a lighter shade compared to the heat-treated stones which usually turn reddish-brown or orange brown. Most citrines sold to the public are amethysts that have been treated with heat. In some cases, the crystals in amethyst deposits can be changed partially or fully to a citrine mineral of the brown variety mainly by natural means of heating. In other cases, treating smoky quartz with heat can also produce citrine.

Citrine is naturally an amber-colored stone. It is a combination of ferric iron and quartz and is rarely found naturally but can be manufactured artificially from other gem stones. Brazil is the leader in the production of commercially manufactured citrine, specifically from Rio Grande des Sul.

Citrine in History

Citrine was also used in ancient times as an amulet to protect the bearer or the wearer from a snake’s venom and even evil thoughts. It is also one of two birthstones for the month of November.

Chemical Composition of Citrine

The chemical composition of citrine is silicon dioxide. The crystals formed follow a hexagonal structure which commonly shows as clusters of pyramids based on a geode. They could also come in short, terminated crystals either singly or in aggregates. They can also come in massive and crusty forms. It can be transparent to translucent. However, it basal cleavage is indiscernible. It has a specific gravity of 2.6-2.7 and they are also predisposed to fracturing because of its inherent brittleness.

Citrine does not appear commonly and only appear in smaller quantities compared to other quartz deposits. Mostly, this gemstone can be found in Minas Gerais, Brazil and also in the Ural Mountains in Russia, Madagascar and Dauphine, France. However, the majority of them are really manufactured through heat treatment instead of natural means.

Naturally Occurring Citrines

To the untrained eye, it is easy to mistake a topaz for a citrine. Some unscrupulous individuals have begun to hype up the market with citrine as a more valuable variety of topaz. In general, all topazes with a prefix are considered heat-treated citrine such as Madeira topaz, gold topaz, Brazilian topaz, false topaz and citrine topaz. The only three exceptions to this rule are oriental topaz, precious topaz and imperial topaz, which are incidentally the most-sought after topaz varieties.

The experts in the jewelry industry have come up with ingenious ways of producing more expensive specimens of amethyst and smoky quartz. In nature, citrines are usually pale yellow but the heat treated specimens come out as orange or reddish shades. Under natural conditions citrine starts out as amethyst then changes to citrine due to heat emitted by magnetic bodies. Citrine from amethyst can be changed back to a purple shade through the process of beta radiation. A popular gemstone, ametrine, is in fact a combination of amethyst and citrine.

Author: Dr. Mark Clayson

Eric Hartwell oversees “The World’s Best Homepage” intended to be a user-generated resource where YOUR opinion counts. Anybody can contribute and all are welcomed. Visit us to read, comment upon or share opinions on jewelry and visit his associated site for unique jewelry.

Citrine info

The history of citrine is bound up with that of yellow topaz, since the two stones can easily be mistaken for one another. Citrine is usually mistaken for (or misleadingly sold as) the more expensive topaz but both have been highly … 

Citrine – November’s Gemstone of a Golden Gleam

But beyond its modern-day uses and associations, citrine holds a decadent mythological, spiritual and etymological history that adds nostalgic value to its already strong aesthetic worth. 

Citrine

Citrine permanently changes color if left in the sunlight for several hours, hence citrine jewelry should be kept away from prolonged exposure to strong light or heat. From the stone history: Citrine is a gemstone which has been used in … 

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Mark_Clayson

Technorati Tags: benefits of, citrine, citrine quartz crystal, citrines, crystals, gemstone, info, natural, properties, quartz

Silver jewellery dresses up beautifully when you add natural gemstones.

Amethyst has long been used as gemstones and ornamental stones. Jewelry designers and makers from all around the world have selected amethyst for making jewelry pieces like necklaces, bracelets, earrings, bangles and many other pieces of beautiful and affordable fashion jewelry.

The hardness of this gemstone is seven according to Mohs scale and is suitable for making jewelry. The term Amethyst originated from the Greek word ‘Amethuskein’ or ‘Amesthystos’ and the meaning of these words are ’sober’ or ‘not intoxicated’.

Amethyst is a mineral gemstone and transparent macro crystalline quartz. The color of the gemstone is due to the manganese impurities and the color intensity of this gemstone is controlled by the iron content.

This gemstone can be found in various shades of purple ranging from pale lavender to deep purples. Purple color is the identity of amethyst and even more expensive purple colored gemstones are compared with the color and beauty. Pale lavender colored amethyst is the least expensive one and the dark violet shaded amethyst is the most expensive. The dark violet amethyst will show flashes of red under incandescent light.

This stone is found as long prismatic crystals with six sided pyramid at both end. The popularity of the amethyst is in its color and the crystal shapes which form a purple, sparkling cluster. The texture and character formation of Amethyst differs from region to region and mine to mine i.e. experts can identify the locality of a particular amethyst as they are unique in each region. The uniqueness of amethyst in different localities depends on its color intensity, crystal shape, associations, inclusions and the character of formation.

Amethyst is found mostly in Canada, Bolivia, Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia and Africa. South American amethyst is large in size and has a better color saturation than the African amethyst. The famous pale colored Rose-de-France is coming from Brazil. Amethyst plays a major role in the economy of various states in Brazil and Uruguay. Madagascar is the third major amethyst export country. In its pure form is colorless and is found in abundance. If amethyst is heated, then the color is removed or changes in to yellow of citrine. Many of the commercial citrine is made by heating amethyst. There are bicolor stones also in amethyst like the stones recently found in the form of causticised crystal nuggets in Bolivia. This variety is called as ametrine because in certain energy states, the iron content introduces violet areas to the yellow citrine.

Amethyst is a birthstone for the people born in the month of February and is the gemstone of the fourth and sixth wedding anniversaries. It symbolizes wisdom and spirituality. The mystical abilities and power of healing of this gemstone is widely known.

It is believed to have the power to prevent intoxication. Some of these stones are pale colored which gives a feeling of colorlessness in daylight. Amethyst can lose their color due to rough use and so it should no be worn while sunbathing, in a discotheque with black light and in a solarium. These stones may also get damaged due to sudden changes in temperature.

Author: Dale Arnold  Your one-stop shop for pretty, affordable silver pendants.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dale_Arnold

Ametrine

Sparkling earrings feature plump faceted Ametrine stones with smaller faceted Citrine above. Ametrine is a natural gemstone cut from a crystal where Amethyst and Citrine grew together. 

Silver Amethyst  Sterling Silver Amethyst Ring

Silver amethyst ring. Amethyst can be used to in attractive pendants, necklaces, rings, ear studs and bracelets. Amethyst stones are usually set in gold and silver jewelry. Amethyst jewelry can be combined with pearls.

Beauty n’Fashion Secrets  In 2009 Purple is the …

Of course, one of the most popular types of purple jewelry is the amethyst. The beautiful gemstone is available in a variety of hues. Try a combining an amethyst pendant jewelry necklace and matching ring set in silver or amethyst 

Technorati Tags: amethyst crystal, amethyst crystals, ametrine, facts about amethyst, gemstone, jewellery, pendants, rich purple, silver jewelry

Before gemologists had dissected this lustrous brown gemstone, it was known as smoky topaz. Once they dug into the chemical composition of this stone, they realized it wasn’t what it appeared to be-it was actually quartz.

Topaz is a fluorine aluminum silicate where as quartz is a silicon dioxide. However, people were familiar with the name and, for convenience, it is still sometimes called smoky topaz.

Quartz comes in many colors and there are two possible reasons for the brown shades. The presence of aluminum particles in the mineral may contribute to the color, but irradiation from the earth may also be the cause. It could also be a little bit of both. In the lab, colorless quartz is sometimes irradiated to pull out the brown hues.

Where does it come from?
Quartz is everywhere. It is the most common mineral-it’s even in the dust floating in the air. But, the stones in a smoky topaz bracelet likely came from some mountainous region like the Rocky Mountains of Colorado or the Swiss Alps.

One region famous for its smoky topaz quartz is Scotland. Though the mines of Cairngorm Mountain aren’t producing vast numbers anymore, they are still mined for their historical value. Why? Because it is the national gemstone for Scotland. It even holds a place of honor as the tip of the national scepter.

Does it have a special day?
This gemstone is not a birthstone, but it doesn’t have to be. Smoky topaz quartz is very affordable and makes stunning jewelry. The brown earth tones make it a great addition to a fall outfit, but it also goes well with the colors of spring and summer. As a necklace, ring or brooch, it is a versatile accessory.

Mysticism and More
Smoky topaz quartz joins the ranks of all the gemstones that are thought to have mystical powers that affect the wearer. In particular, it is supposed to help make things clearer, open the mind and reveal solutions. Another acclaimed mystical power is the ability to enhance psychic abilities.

For healing the body, it aids in the functioning of the reproductive and digestive system. For healing the mind, it elevates the mood and allows the wearer to overcome depression. Supporting this theory is its supposed ability to absorb negative energy from the person wearing it. If it can do all of this, could it really hurt to sport a smoky topaz pendant year round?

Tips for cleaning

On the Mohs scale of hardness, all varieties of quartz rank a 7. This means that a smoky topaz bracelet can withstand the wear and tear of daily wear. But, just because it is fairly durable doesn’t mean its strength should be tested. It can be scratched or chipped if beaten up too much. To get the grit and grime off, soak the pieces in warm soapy water and scrub with a soft brush. That should be enough to get it back to its original velvety sheen.

Because of its affordability, there are a variety of settings and cuts and they are set either alone or paired with other gemstones. There is something for everyone and every occasion. Smoky topaz quartz is a sexy and sophisticated gemstone when paired with fancy attire, but can be simple and lovely when paired with jeans and a t-shirt.

Author: Andrew Stratton

Topaz: Shades of Color

Topaz comes in a variety of colors and you are sure to find one you like. You probably think topaz is blue or even yellow, but there are also green, red, pink and brown topazes. Since very few colored topaz are naturally occurring.

Bedazzzled

My eyes instantly went to a beautiful smoky topaz (my birthstone) ring. Price was not too bad, either. Hubby ignored my lavish praise of the ring and kept walking.  Returning to my room, I rested for a bit

Bridal Jewelry Blog

Mocha: Pearl: Deep Brown, Brown, Crystal: Mocca, Smokey Topaz, Smokey Quartz burnt orange: Pearl: Copper – not an exact match – different shade that might coordinate, Crystal: Topaz, Copper claret: Crystal: Burgundy

Transparent Gold Smoky Topaz Czech Glass

Palest transparent gold Czech glass gemstone cut donuts with a gorgeous smoky topaz finish. These are beautifully faceted spacers

The smokey topaz is thought to help the wearer overcome depression, enhance psychic abilities, open the mind and reveal solutions. This brown stone can make a stunning piece of jewelry and enhance the beauty of earth toned fashions. Find more unique gemstone jewelry at http://www.gemaffair.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Stratton

Technorati Tags: bracelet, difference, found, gemstone, jewelry, quartz, smokey, smoky, topaz, where

Amethyst is popularly regarded as a gemstone. Several names have been attributed to it due to its characteristics and variety in colors. The pinkish lavender shade is called ‘Rose de France.’ It is the least sought after variety compared to the intense violet shade called ‘Siberian’ which is the most-sought after shade of all. The latter shade is usually found not just in Siberia but also in the African region of Zambia and Uruguay. Ametrine on the other hand, is a gem of Bolivia which exhibits alternating bands of citrine orange and purple. Oriental amethyst is also the name of the purple corundum as well as fine samples of amethystine quartz which does not necessarily come from the Eastern regions of the globe.

Amethyst in History and its Symbolisms

Amethyst is generally known as the birthstone of February celebrators which indirectly links it to the horoscope calendar of Pisces, Aries, Sagittarius and Aquarius. High ranking officials of the Roman Catholic sect wear rings with amethyst stones as symbolism of their offices.

From the Greek word amethystos, it literally means not drunken. This name was an offshoot of its use in ancient times as an antidote for drunkenness. This also gave rise to the practice then of carving wine goblets from amethyst. According to Greek mythology, a maiden by the name of Amethystos was being pursued by the drunken Dionysus. Amethystos prayed to the gods for protection against Dionysus’ unwanted affection. Artemis, the goddess heard her prayer so she transformed the maiden into a white stone. When Dionysus realized what happened to her, he poured wine over the stone as an act of offering. This act transformed the white stone to a crystal purple.

Another mythical story about the origin of amethyst involved the god Dionysus. He was angered by an insult coming from a mere mortal. He swore that the next mortal he will come across will die through the fierce tigers he has created to carry out his revenge. An unsuspecting maiden named Amethyst happened to be on her way to make an offering to the goddess Diana. Knowing what was bound to the happen to the poor mortal, the goddess changed Amethyst to a crystalline quartz to prevent her from being ravaged by the brutal tigers. The blinded Dionysus wept after knowing what happened to the mortal and the tears trickled to the crystals turning it to a purple color.

Author: Dr. Mark Clayson

Eric Hartwell oversees “The World’s Best Homepage” intended to be a user-generated resource where YOUR opinion counts. Anybody can contribute and all are welcomed. Visit us to read, comment upon or share opinions at the worlds best homepage and visit his associated site for unique jewelry.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Mark_Clayson

Technorati Tags: amethyst, birthstone, crystal, february, gemstone, history, jewelry, quartz, siberian, symbolism

There are two types or forms of quartz: crystalline which comes in a single crystal and chalcedony which is formed from millions of microcrystals.

Quartz may derive its name from the German word Quarz. It is extremely widespread across the earth and comes in just about every colour and form.

Of the crystalline form Amethyst and Citrine are the most popular and the most well known. Rose quartz and rock crystal are also well known and commonly used as gemstones in jewellery. Rock crystal is colorless and is the clear quartz that we often see carved and polished into gorgeous shapes such as skulls and crystal balls.

The microcrystal from provides us with the chalcedony group. Of these are the very common and well known agates such as jasper, chrysoprase, onyx, carnelian and sard. These are very beautiful stones and not expensive. They have been used over the centuries as minerals to make adornments and items of jewellery to be worn by kings and queens as well as the common people.

Quartz has a hardness of seven on the Mohs’ scale of hardness and that make it a good stone to make jewellery from.

I particularly like large pear shape pieces of lemon, smoky or brown quartz for making modern pendants. It is affordable enough to use large pieces and can be set in gold or silver and goes well with diamond accents.

Quartz is used extensively in industry and was used in radios and most of all it had its impact in the watch industry. Since the thirteen hundred watches made no significant changes in their development although they were constantly improved but in the 1970s along came the quartz crystal that changed the watch industry forever. It was the development of the watch which flashed the numbers of the time of day with LEDs.

Many cultures have recognized the healing quality of quartz crystals and you only have to go to a health exhibition or fair to find booths with mystical looking and colorfully dressed people selling an array of crystals. So crystals can be functional jewellery as well as adornment of the body.

Author: Gary Hocking

Gary Hocking makes custom jewellery specializing in Australian opals.  http://www.jewelleryexpress.com.au

Citrine Tanzanite And Smoky Quartz  

Flying Lizard 14KT Goldfilled Citrine, Tanzanite, and Smoky Quartz Flower Charm Necklace

Natural Citrine On Flickr – Photo Sharing!

Natural Citrine. … Natural Citrine. Natural Citrine by schwigorphotos. To take full advantage of Flickr, you should use a JavaScript-enabled browser and install the latest version of the Macromedia Flash Player. 

Citrine Crystal

Does anyone know what are the dark spots on citrine crystal?? ? I’ve got a citrine crystal and its nice and yellow but I’m wondering what are the dark spots.  

Light And Dark Amethyst Crystal Belt Buckle

For those who love purple, check out this beautiful light and dark Amethyst crystal buckle. All buckles include a genuine hand tooled leather strap in your choice of color. Black, Brown, or Antique White.

Amethyst Crystal On Flickr 

One of the most beautiful quartz minerals in my opinion. From my mineral collection. Best seen in full size!  

Technorati Tags: amethyst, citrine crystals, crystal, gemstone, handmade, jewellery, jewelry, silver, types