Gemstones are organic materials or mineral crystals that are cut and polished into beautiful objects by skilled craftsmen. Minerals are naturally occurring, solid, inorganic chemical compounds found in rocks.
Each mineral has a fixed chemical composition and a precise atomic structure which gives it its specific hardness and color. Many natural unique gemstones with strong healing powers are quite attractive to display. However, most of these crystals are rectangular and polished to enhance their appearance.
Only a few gemstones that are called organic come from plants and animals. These gemstones are amber, ivory, and pearl. There is a category of gemstones known as plastic. They do not come from nature and are made in a laboratory.
Gemstones have the same physical properties and chemical composition as natural gemstones. Gemstones are usually measured by their weight in carats.
A gemstone is considered as beautiful, rare, and durable. Its natural crystal form is rare, which means they can only be found in certain parts of the world. Their shortcomings make them valuable in the market.
The mineral color must be attractive for the gemstone to look beautiful. Gemstones need to be durable, which means they have to be hard enough to withstand damage and scratches.
The gemstone’s most important characteristic is its color. Colored gemstones such as rubies, emeralds, and sapphires are available at high prices. Diamonds are colorless, but the clever cut shape makes them beautiful and shiny.