GEMSTONE EDUCATION
Peridot
Peridot is a captivating gemstone renowned for its vibrant green color, ranging from olive to lime green. It is a variety of the mineral olivine and gets its distinctive hue from iron. Peridot is formed deep within the Earth's mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity or tectonic movement. It is associated with positive energy, renewal, and abundance, and is often considered a symbol of protection and prosperity (August birthstone).
Moonstone
Moonstone is an enchanting gemstone renowned for its ethereal and captivating glow, reminiscent of the moon's soft light. It belongs to the feldspar mineral family and is known for its adularescence, a phenomenon where light appears to shimmer and float across its surface. Moonstone is typically milky white or translucent with a blue sheen, but it can also occur in peach, gray, and other hues. With a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, moonstone is relatively soft and requires gentle care.
Onyx
Onyx is a captivating gemstone renowned for its sleek and glossy appearance. It is a variety of chalcedony, composed of parallel bands of different colors, most commonly black and white. Onyx has a smooth and polished texture, making it a popular choice for ornamental carvings and jewelry. It is believed to possess grounding and protective energies, helping to ward off negative influences and promote inner strength and stability.
Garnet
Garnet is a captivating gemstone known for its rich and varied colors, including deep red, vibrant orange, and lush green, among others. It is a group of minerals with similar crystal structures and different chemical compositions. The most common variety is the deep red Pyrope garnet (January birthstone).
Pearl
Pearl is a timeless and exquisite gemstone created by living organisms known as mollusks, primarily oysters and mussels. Unlike other gemstones, pearls are not minerals but rather organic gems formed when an irritant, such as a grain of sand, enters the mollusk's shell, prompting it to secrete layers of nacre to protect itself. Pearls come in a range of colors, including white, cream, pink, and black, with varying shapes and sizes. They are prized for their lustrous and iridescent qualities, captivatingly reflecting light.
Amethyst
Amethyst is a captivating gemstone renowned for its stunning purple color, ranging from delicate lilac to deep violet. It is a variety of quartz and owes its distinct hue to trace amounts of iron and other impurities. Amethyst has been highly valued throughout history and is considered one of the most popular and esteemed gemstones. With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is relatively durable and well-suited for various types of jewelry (February birthstone).
Sapphire
Sapphire is a precious gemstone known for its rich blue color, although it can occur in a variety of hues (pink, yellow, orange, red, green, and red). It is a form of the mineral corundum and is highly valued for its hardness and brilliance, making it a sought-after choice for exquisite jewelry pieces (September birthstone).
Emerald
Emerald is a captivating gemstone known for its lush green color, which evokes feelings of nature and renewal. It belongs to the beryl mineral family and gets its distinctive hue from traces of chromium and vanadium. With a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, emerald is a relatively durable gemstone, but it may require some care due to its potential for inclusions (May birthstone).
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is an exquisite gemstone renowned for its mesmerizing blue-violet hue, often described as a velvety blue with purple undertones. It was discovered relatively recently in 1967 and is exclusively found in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It has gained immense popularity for its rare beauty and is often associated with spiritual growth, transformation, and bringing a sense of calm and clarity to its wearer (December birthstone).
Ruby
Ruby is a highly prized gemstone renowned for its captivating red color, often referred to as "pigeon blood" red. It belongs to the corundum mineral family, with its distinctive hue derived from the presence of chromium. As one of the hardest gemstones, ranking only second to diamond on the Mohs scale, ruby is cherished for its durability and exceptional brilliance (July birthstone).
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a stunning gemstone celebrated for its soothing blue color, reminiscent of the tranquil waters of the sea. It belongs to the beryl mineral family and derives its delicate hue from traces of iron. Known for its clarity and transparency, aquamarine exhibits a vitreous luster that enhances its overall beauty. With a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, aquamarine is a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear (March birthstone).
Citrine
Citrine is a radiant gemstone cherished for its warm, sunny yellow to golden-brown hues. It is a variety of quartz, one of the most abundant minerals on Earth. The vibrant color of citrine comes from iron impurities within the crystal structure. With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, citrine is relatively durable and well-suited for everyday jewelry. It is often referred to as the "healing quartz" and is associated with positivity, abundance, and manifestation of one's desires (November birthstone).