Gemstones

Gemstones

When trying to correctly identify a gemstone, be sure not to jump to conclusions based purely on its visual appearance. In identifying different gemstones we look firstly at their colour, hardness, lustre, dispersion and brilliance. If we are still unsure of the gem type we can accurately measure its refractive index, specific gravity, cleavage, and fracture. Many gemstone display optical characteristics such as: asterism, chatoyancy, pleochroism and double refraction, which can also be used to help distinguish one variety from another.

To be classed as a gemstone, a mineral must be: Beautiful, Available and Durable

For a gem material to be truly the gemstone, it must be beautiful enough to make someone want to buy it, be Durable enough to withstand a lot of wear and tear, and to be Available enough to supply a large market of demand.