Crystals and gemstones both provide healing powers that can assist with clarity, inspiration, and spiritual connection. Furthermore, many correspond to specific astrological elements, planets, or signs – this allows you to select an ideal stone to wear or use in ritualistic practices.

Gemstones and crystals do not share an identical composition. One key distinction is that crystals contain defined, organized atoms while some gemstones display more random arrangements of their constituent atoms.

Color and Saturation

Color is one of the key aspects of gemstones. Nearly all gems are prized for their hue and saturation; people largely judge a gemstone’s worth based on its hue or saturation alone.

Though numerous systems exist for classifying gemstone colors, the Gemological Institute of America’s color grading system remains one of the most accepted systems. However, one must keep in mind that gem color is highly subjective and subject to outside factors like ambient lighting conditions and personal experience when viewing gems.

General, pure and saturated hues without much gray presence are considered more desirable. A sapphire devoid of gray will receive the highest color grade while similarly colored rubies could receive lower ratings due to more obvious gray presence. Gems that exhibit unique phenomena such as rainbow effects in tourmaline or labradorescence in opal are also highly valued, adding even further value to each stone.

Carat Weight

Carat is the universal unit for measuring gemstones and diamonds. One carat equals 200 milligrams and has been divided into 100 points for greater accuracy and communication within the jewelry industry.

Gemstones and diamonds differ significantly in density, which explains why stones of equal carat weight may appear very differently. Furthermore, gemstone cut quality may make one stone appear larger or smaller than another of equal carat weight.

When purchasing multiple diamond rings, it is crucial to take note of their total carat weight (CTW). This measurement refers to the combined weight of all the stones present and may impact price and value. CTTW should not be confused with karat, which measures purity in gold purity; each unit of measurement requires careful consideration before purchase.

Cut and Polish

Many gem materials undergo treatments to enhance their appearance, such as changing their color, clarity, or cut.

Cutting gemstones involves extracting unwanted material and shaping it into precise flat surfaces called “facets”, which reflect light beautifully and create stunning gems that dazzle and sparkle with light.

Planning the cut is the first step of this process, as careful attention must be given to ensure its optical performance is maximized, creating a symmetrical masterpiece with brilliant facets and balanced weight loss. Addressing inclusions may also be required along with maintaining optimal proportions to allow light return.

Preshaping of faceted gemstones involves grinding them on a faceting lap using coarse and finer grits of grit paper for shaping and removal of extra material before progressing to finer grits for polishing. This step should take several hours, requiring careful attention and attention to detail – it is recommended to periodically check on progress, making adjustments as necessary and checking periodically on how things are going with regards to any changes or adjustments needed – Dremel tools work great for this step, though hand grinders or grinding wheels could also work just as well for this step if necessary.

Meaning

Crystals and gemstones have long been treasured for their beauty and healing properties, dating back to antiquity. Crystals can help soothe emotional stressors while supporting emotional wellness as well as providing spiritual insight. People also use crystals and gemstones for specific goals like manifesting wealth or finding clarity of mind.

Though gemstones and crystals share similarities, there are significant distinctions between them. One major distinction is that crystals possess defined crystalline structures while some gemstones such as amber and opal do not. Other differences include their luster, iridescence, chatoyance and patterns.

Although natural gemstones can be found in their raw state, many are mined and enhanced through heat or chemical processes to improve color and clarity. While this treatment does not affect its value directly, it’s essential that consumers understand its processes to make an informed purchase decision; some treatments could compromise a gemstone’s durability or integrity.