A mineral form of iron oxide, this stone is red when cut or powdered, and its name comes from the Greek for “blood”. Unlike other precious and semi-precious stones, hematite is opaque and does not diffract light. Its surface has a magnificent metallic shine and it can look similar to silver when polished. Sheila has used polished hematite stones in several pieces inspired by Orkney’s history such as her Ogham cufflinks, Runic torque bangle and magnificent Celtic penannular brooch. Onyx A gem’s shape and cut are distinct from one another. Shape creates a gem’s initial visual interest with an outline. The cut intensifies it, referring more specifically to the facets, and their style, amount, and arrangement. So, you have a geometric figure (the shape), including classics like round, heart, pear, oval, square, and octagon. Then there’s how the shape is whittled and emboldened (the cut). Gem Cutting Process For centuries, this regal purple stone was the reserve of kings, popes and the very wealthiest of society. A gorgeous gem with a fascinating history. Brilliant, step, and rose cuts are the staple gem cut designs. Each cut style has a certain number of facets, or flat planes, to define a gem’s shape and pattern. Cuts are used to create a more brilliant or colorful gem. What does cut mean for gems? Care must be taken when cleaning pearls and they should never be placed in silver dip. Have a look at our Caring for your Jewellery guide for more information. Hematite (Haematite)

An introduction explains geology, chemistry and gemstone properties in clear and accessible terms. Key aspects of gemstones are explained such as crystal structures and optical and physical properties.

Remember we talked about cabochon cuts above – when a gemstone is polished into a dome? Certain gemstones have formed in such a way that there are fibrous inclusions that, when a gemstone is polished in the right way, will reflect a sharp beam of light out of the gem. When this beam is a single line across the surface of the stone, it is known as ‘chatoyancy’, or the ‘cat’s eye’ effect. The gemstone Tiger’s Eye Quartz is known for and named after this effect. Sometimes, this beam of light will create a glorious star on the surface of the gemstone instead, which is known as ‘asterism’ or the ‘star’ effect. Star Rubies and Star Sapphires are famous for this. Twenty Gems To Start Your Collection With Vintage or modernized, crosses or quarter moons — your gem’s cut doesn’t have to be standardized. Brilliant Earth offers one-of-a-kind gemstones to craft what works for you or your loved one. A dazzling bracelet featuring a total of 2.00ct natural Amethyst stones and a total of 0.20ct of G/SI grade round diamonds set in 9k yellow gold, with a grain setting. The 9K yellow gold has a polished finish. The bracelet… read more View Product Brilliance Delve into the one-of-a-kind characteristics, colours, and attributes of more than 130 gemstones with this compact visual guide. For easy classification, each stone's entry includes annotated photographs to highlight distinguishing features and concise details about the attributes of gems. The most famous gem of them all? Almost certainly, and all thanks to its remarkable fire, effortless brilliance and clarity to die for. Essential.

The symmetry and proportion of each flat, polished plane is what contributes to (or detracts from) a gem’s sparkling brilliance. Faceting all but guarantees the gem’s performance as a stunner. Essentially, forging its facets by hand (or machine) increases the gem’s “fire,” meaning you’re getting the most light possible from your stone. Honing in on how light enters and exits your gem ensures its brightest — and subjectively best — appearance. For transparent gems, this often means greater clarity. Parts of a Faceted Gemstone Traditionally found either colorless or in imperial yellow hues, recent advancements in technology have allowed us to bring you Topaz in a variety of fantastic colors. Again, the name gives it away. The facets are rectangular and ascend and descend in a series of treads, like a staircase. Picture the elongated emerald and baguette cuts. With fewer facets, the step gem cut’s allure is more about color and clarity than the way it glistens.Assessment: The expert considers the gem’s current quality to decide what cut will accentuate its finer features, such as color and clarity. There are only four stones in the world classified as precious gemstones and we are proud to say we use them all in our jewellery and rings. The “Big Four” are: Diamond Here is a simple yet gorgeous ladies 9K yellow gold torque bracelet with a lovely twisted rope effect on the bangle. With gold balls set with a total of 0.20ct of G/SI graded diamonds and a total of 2.13ct of… read more View Product It has been said that nothing green is greener than Emerald, and its ‘jardin’ inclusions help to make each piece unique, like a fingerprint from Mother Nature.

Adamantine Silky. Greasy? Gemologists use various evocative terms to describe gemstone luster. This refers to the appearance of a gem’s surface when it reflects light.The second and main section supplies complete descriptions of a wide range of gems, organized by chemical composition, for instance: