Question 1

Aquamarine

Accepted Answer

Aquamarine is a beautiful blue to blue-green variety of the beryl mineral group, known for its serene, ocean-like color and excellent transparency. The name "aquamarine" is derived from the Latin words aqua marina, meaning "sea water," which perfectly captures its typical blue-green hue that evokes the colors of the sea.  Aquamarine typically ranges from pale blue to deep blue-green, with the most prized stones displaying a rich, clear blue. The color of aquamarine comes from the presence of iron in the crystal structure. The more intense the blue, the more valuable the stone.  It is generally transparent to translucent. High-quality aquamarine stones are often very clear, with few visible inclusions, which adds to their appeal.  It has a vitreous (glass-like) luster, meaning it shines brightly when polished, which enhances its visual appeal, especially in jewelry.  Aquamarine is a variety of beryl, and it is composed of beryllium, aluminum, and silicon.  The blue color of aquamarine is due to iron present within the crystal structure. The deeper the concentration of iron, the more intense the blue color.

Aquamarine is relatively hard, scoring 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it suitable for most types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, and necklaces, as it is resistant to scratching by most common materials.

Origin:  Aquamarine forms in igneous rocks, particularly in granite and pegmatite veins. It can also occur in hydrothermal veins. The mineral typically forms under high temperature and pressure conditions in these environments. Major sources are Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Mozambique, Nigeria and Russia.

Aquamarine is associated with various healing and spiritual properties, often connected to peace, clarity, and communication.  In many cultures, it was also thought to bring good luck and ensure successful relationships.

Care and Maintenance
Aquamarine is relatively easy to care for, though it does require some attention to ensure its longevity:
 • Cleaning: Clean aquamarine with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
 • Storage: Store aquamarine jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. It is best kept in a soft pouch or jewelry box with padded compartments.

Question 2

Alexandrite

Accepted Answer

Alexandrite is a rare and highly prized variety of chrysoberyl, known for its striking color-changing properties. It is considered one of the most unique and valuable gemstones in the world due to its ability to dramatically change color depending on the type of light it is exposed to. This fascinating characteristic, along with its beauty and rarity, has made alexandrite a highly sought-after gemstone, especially in fine jewelry.  The most remarkable feature of alexandrite is its ability to exhibit different colors under different lighting conditions. In natural daylight or fluorescent light, alexandrite typically appears as a bluish-green or greenish-yellow color. Under incandescent light (such as candlelight or artificial light), it shifts to a reddish-purple or purplish-red color. This phenomenon is due to the unique way the stone absorbs and reflects light, and it is a result of the presence of chromium in the crystal structure. 
 
Alexandrite is a relatively hard gemstone, scoring 8.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it durable enough for most types of jewelry, such as rings, earrings, and necklaces, though care should still be taken to avoid impacts that could cause damage.  Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl, a mineral that is composed of beryllium, aluminum, and oxygen. The presence of chromium in the crystal structure is what causes the color change from green to red. The level of chromium affects how vivid the color change is.   Chromium is the same element that gives rubies their red color, and in alexandrite, it absorbs light in such a way that it produces a shift from greenish hues in daylight to reddish hues under incandescent light.

Origin:  Alexandrite is a very rare gemstone that forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, typically in granite or pegmatite deposits. It is often found in alluvial deposits where it has been weathered and transported by natural forces. Major sources are Russia, Brazil, Sri Lanka, East Africa, Kenya, India and Madagascar.
Alexandrite was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in 1830, and it was named after Tsar Alexander II of Russia, as the discovery occurred on the day he came of age. It quickly became a symbol of royalty and was favored by Russian aristocracy. It was also considered a lucky and auspicious stone because of its ability to change colors.

In addition to its beauty and rarity, alexandrite is often associated with transformation and personal growth. Due to its color-changing properties, it is thought to symbolize the ability to adapt and shift with changing circumstances. It is considered a stone of balance, helping to align emotional, physical, and spiritual energy.  Some traditions associate alexandrite with bringing luck and prosperity. It is believed to attract wealth and good fortune, particularly in the form of business success or financial stability.

Care and Maintenance
Due to its hardness alexandrite is relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, it is still important to treat it with care:
 • Cleaning: Clean alexandrite with warm, soapy water and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone, especially if it has any inclusions or fractures.
 • Storage: Store alexandrite separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. A soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with padded compartments is ideal.

Question 3

Amethyst

Accepted Answer

Amethyst is a variety of quartz, one of the most popular and widely recognized gemstones in the world. Known for its striking purple color, ranging from lavender to deep violet, amethyst has been prized for centuries not only for its beauty but also for its symbolic and metaphysical properties. Amethyst's color ranges from light lilac to rich purple. The best quality amethyst features a deep, vibrant purple with flashes of red or blue in the light. The color is due to the presence of iron impurities and is intensified when the stone is exposed to sunlight or heat. Sometimes, amethyst stones with a deeper hue are considered more valuable.

Amethyst has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for most jewelry applications. This means it is relatively resistant to scratches from everyday use, but it should still be treated with care to avoid damaging the surface.  Amethyst is composed primarily of silicon dioxide, which is the same as quartz. The distinctive purple color is due to trace amounts of iron, which is present in the crystal structure and interacts with natural radiation during the formation process.

Origin:  Amethyst forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, most often in hydrothermal veins. The mineral grows as crystals inside geodes (hollow rock formations), where the crystals are able to grow large and clear.  Major sources are Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, Madagascar and Mexico.  
Amethyst is widely regarded for its spiritual and healing properties. It is often associated with calming and soothing, Intuition and spiritual awareness and protection.

Care and Maintenance
Amethyst is relatively easy to care for and maintain due to its moderate hardness:
 • Cleaning: Clean amethyst with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these could damage the stone.
 • Storage: Store amethyst separately from other gemstones to avoid scratching. It is best kept in a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with padded compartments.

Question 4

Beryl

Accepted Answer

Beryl is a mineral that belongs to the silicate group and is known for its wide range of colors and its importance as a gemstone. It is composed of beryllium, aluminum, and silicon. The stone’s properties and color vary depending on trace elements that are incorporated into the crystal structure during its formation.  The different types of beryl are primarily distinguished by their colors, which are due to trace elements: Emerald: Green, caused by chromium or vanadium; Aquamarine: Light blue to blue-green, due to iron; Morganite: Pink to peach, due to manganese; Heliodor: Yellow to golden yellow, due to iron; Goshenite: Colorless, a less common form of beryl; Maxixe: A deep blue, sometimes described as a rare variety of beryl.

Beryl has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which makes it relatively durable for use in jewelry.

Origin:  Beryl forms in igneous rocks like granite and pegmatite and in metamorphic rocks. It typically forms under conditions of high temperature and high pressure. Beryl crystals are often large, and the mineral can be found in hydrothermal veins or metamorphic deposits. Major sources are Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Pakistan, Afghanistan and United States.

Care and Maintenance
 • Cleaning: Beryl gemstones can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
 • Storage: Store beryl jewelry separately from other gemstones to avoid scratching. Use a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with compartments.

Question 5

Chrome Diopside

Accepted Answer

Chrome Diopside is a striking and vibrant green gemstone that is part of the diopside mineral family. This gemstone has gained popularity for its beauty, rarity, and relatively affordable price compared to other green gemstones like emeralds.  Chrome diopside is most notable for its vivid green color, which ranges from a deep, forest green to a lighter, brighter green with subtle yellow or brown undertones. The color intensity can vary, but the best specimens display an intense emerald-green hue, often resembling high-quality emeralds.  Chrome diopside is a calcium magnesium silicate that contains chromium, which is responsible for its deep green color. While emeralds can have a more intense green, chrome diopside has a distinct brightness that many find appealing.

Chrome diopside ranks 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means it’s relatively soft compared to gemstones like sapphire or ruby. While it’s durable enough for use in jewelry, it should be handled with care to avoid scratches or chips. It’s best suited for earrings, pendants, and rings that are less prone to rough wear.

Origin:  Chrome diopside forms under high pressure and high temperature conditions in the Earth’s mantle, typically in igneous rocks like peridotite. It is often found in association with other minerals, such as garnet, olivine, and pyroxene, in certain types of metamorphic rocks. It is primarily found in the Russian Far East, especially in the Siberian region. Other notable sources include East Africa, India, and Pakistan. The Siberian chrome diopside is particularly prized for its deep, rich green color.

Chrome diopside has a particularly strong historical connection with Russia, where it was first discovered in the 1980s. The Russian Far East is the main source of high-quality chrome diopside, and the stone has become a symbol of Russia's mineral wealth and the beauty of its natural landscapes.
Chrome diopside is thought to have healing and grounding properties. It is believed to help with emotional healing, fostering inner peace and stability. The stone is said to promote self-love, compassion, and emotional balance, especially in difficult situations.

Care and Maintenance
 • Cleaning: Chrome diopside is easy to clean but should be handled with care due to its relative softness. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
 • Storage: Since chrome diopside has a relatively low hardness, it’s important to store it separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. A soft cloth pouch or a separate jewelry compartment is ideal for storage.

Question 6

Citrine

Accepted Answer

Citrine is a striking variety of quartz, known for its warm, golden-yellow to amber-brown color. It has been cherished for its vibrant appearance and metaphysical properties for centuries. Citrine ranges in color from pale yellow to deep amber or even brownish yellow. The most prized citrines are bright, golden-yellow stones, reminiscent of sunlight or honey. The color is caused by the presence of iron in the crystal's structure.  Citrine is a variety of quartz, a mineral that makes up a large part of the Earth's crust. Quartz is one of the most common minerals in the world, and citrine is one of its more colorful and attractive forms.  Its color comes from trace amounts of iron within the quartz crystal lattice. The iron impurities are responsible for the yellow to orange hues that characterize citrine.

Citrine ranks 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which measures a mineral's ability to resist scratching. This makes citrine durable and suitable for use in a wide range of jewelry, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.    
Citrine is typically formed in volcanic rocks and igneous formations, where it crystallizes over millions of years under high heat and pressure.   
Citrine is often called the "Merchant's Stone" or "Success Stone" due to its association with prosperity, abundance, and good fortune. It is believed to attract wealth and success.

Origin:  Brazil, Madagascar, Uruguay, Russia and United states.

Care and Maintenance
 • Cleaning: Citrine is easy to clean but should be handled with care. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
 • Storage: Citrine stored in a soft cloth pouch or a separate jewelry compartment is ideal.

Question 7

Garnet

Accepted Answer

Garnet is a group of silicate minerals that are widely used as precious gemstones and for industrial purposes. It is one of the most popular and well-known gemstones in the world, with a rich history and a wide range of colors. Despite the common association with red, garnets can occur in almost every color of the rainbow, depending on the specific variety.

Characteristics:  Garnet is not a single mineral, but rather a group of related minerals that have the same crystal structure but different chemical compositions. The different varieties of garnets are defined by the specific ions present in their structure.  While red garnets are the most common, green garnets (like demantoid and tsavorite) are some of the rarest and most valuable varieties.  Garnet comes in a wide range of colors, but it is most commonly found in red, which can range from deep, dark red to lighter, orangey-red hues. Other color variations include, Green, Yellow, Orange, Brown and Colorless.

Garnet is a relatively hard gemstone, scoring between 6.5 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. While it is durable enough for most types of jewelry, it is softer than sapphires (which score 9) or diamonds (which score 10). This means that it may be more prone to scratching, particularly if set in rings or bracelets that endure heavy wear.

Origin:  Garnets form in metamorphic rocks, such as schist, gneiss, and marble, under high pressure and temperature conditions. They are also found in igneous rocks like granite and alluvial deposits (in riverbeds and streams, where they may be weathered and rounded). Garnets can be found in various locations around the world, including India, Tanzania, Mozambique, Sri Lanka, Russia and Unites states (Arizona, California, New York).

Care and Maintenance
 • Cleaning: Garnet is easy to clean but should be handled with care due to its relative softness. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
 • Storage: It’s important to store it separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. A soft cloth pouch or a separate jewelry compartment is ideal for storage.

Question 8

Lemon Quartz

Accepted Answer

Lemon quartz is a bright yellow to yellow-green variety of quartz that is prized for its vibrant, citrus-like color. It is a natural variety of quartz, although its color is often enhanced or intensified through heat treatment to achieve the bright yellow hue. The stone's cheerful color makes it a popular choice in jewelry, especially for rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Characteristics:  As the name suggests, lemon quartz is typically yellow in color, resembling the bright, zesty hue of a lemon. The color can range from pale yellow to vivid yellow-green, with some stones exhibiting a light golden hue. The most desirable lemon quartz stones are those with a clean, clear, and intense yellow color, without too much brown or green.  It is composed of silicon dioxide. Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth, and lemon quartz is simply a color variation of the more common clear quartz.

Lemon quartz has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making lemon quartz a relatively durable gemstone. This hardness allows it to withstand everyday wear, which makes it suitable for a wide variety of jewelry pieces. However, it is not as hard as gemstones like diamonds or sapphires, so it should still be handled with care to avoid scratches or damage.

Origin:  Lemon quartz forms in hydrothermal veins, often in the same environments as other quartz varieties like amethyst, citrine, and smoky quartz.
Quartz crystals form in a variety of igneous and metamorphic rocks, and lemon quartz stones are often found in granite and pegmatite deposits. It is found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States.

Care and Maintenance
Lemon Quartz is relatively easy to care for and maintain due to its moderate hardness:
 • Cleaning: Clean lemon quartz with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these could damage the stone.
 • Storage: Store lemon quartz separately from other gemstones to avoid scratching. It is best kept in a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with padded compartments.

Question 9

Morganite

Accepted Answer

Morganite is a beautiful pink to peach-colored gemstone that belongs to the beryl family, the same family as emerald and aquamarine. It is valued for its soft pastel colors, which range from pale pink to deep peach and even salmon hues. Morganite is a relatively newer gemstone on the market compared to others, but it has quickly gained popularity due to its stunning appearance and accessibility.

Characteristics: Morganite is a variety of beryl, a mineral that contains beryllium and aluminum silicate. The gemstone’s color comes from the presence of manganese ions in its crystal structure. Just like other beryl such as aquamarine and emerald, but the presence of manganese gives it its characteristic pink to peach hue.

Morganite is fairly durable, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it a great choice for jewelry. It’s harder than many other gemstones (such as peridot or garnet), so it can withstand everyday wear, but it should still be handled with care to avoid scratching or chipping.

Origin:  Morganite is typically found in pegmatitic rocks, which are formed deep within the Earth’s crust. It forms in high-temperature conditions and is usually found alongside other gemstones like aquamarine and tourmaline in specific geologic formations. Morganite is found in various locations around the world like Brazil, Madagascar, Afghanistan, Mozambique and United States (California, Maine).

Fun Fact:  Morganite was named after J.P. Morgan, the famous American financier, by the gemologist George Kunz in 1910. Morganite was chosen for its soft pink color and J.P. Morgan's financial contributions to the gemstone trade.

Care and Maintenance
Morganite is relatively easy to care for, though it does require some attention to ensure its longevity:
 • Cleaning: Clean morganite with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
 • Storage: Store morganite jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. It is best kept in a soft pouch or jewelry box with padded compartments.

Question 10

Peridot

Accepted Answer

Peridot is a bright, green gemstone that comes in just one color—green, though the shade can vary from yellow-green to a more intense, olive green. The vibrant color of peridot is due to the presence of iron in its crystal structure. It is one of the earliest known gemstones, with a history stretching back thousands of years.

Characteristics:  Peridot is a variety of the mineral olivine. It is composed of magnesium and iron silicate. The amount of iron in the crystal determines the depth of its green color, with higher iron content resulting in deeper green shades. The magnesium gives peridot its characteristic bright green hues.  The most prized peridot stones come from sources that produce vivid green hues without too much brown or yellow.

Peridot is relatively hard, scoring between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it suitable for use in most types of jewelry, although it is softer than sapphires and diamonds. Peridot should still be handled with care to avoid scratching, especially when used in rings or bracelets.

Origin:  Peridot is formed in igneous rocks, especially in volcanic basalts, and is also found in meteorites. The mineral olivine, from which peridot is derived, is also abundant in the Earth's mantle, and peridot gemstones often form in volcanic eruptions. Major sources of peridot are Egypt, United States (Arizona), Myanmar, Pakistan and China.  While it is generally less expensive than some other gemstones, fine-quality peridot stones, particularly those from renowned sources like Arizona, can fetch high prices, especially if they are larger and display intense green color.

Fun Fact:
The Zebara Mountains in Egypt were known in ancient times as the source of the famous "emeralds" of Cleopatra, though those stones were actually peridot, which was often mistaken for emerald due to their similar green color.

Care and Maintenance
Peridot is relatively easy to care for and maintain due to its moderate hardness:
 • Cleaning: Clean peridot with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these could damage the stone.
 • Storage: Store amethyst separately from other gemstones to avoid scratching. It is best kept in a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with padded compartments.

Question 11

Rhodolite Garnet

Accepted Answer

Rhodolite garnet is a variety of garnets that is prized for its beautiful color and brilliance. It is a pyrope-spessartine garnet, meaning it is a mixture of the two garnet species pyrope (which is typically red) and spessartine (which can be orange to red orange). Rhodolite garnets are most commonly rose-pink to purplish red in color, though the exact hue can vary depending on the specific blend of pyrope and spessartine.

Characteristics:  Rhodolite garnets are known for their stunning pinkish-red to purplish-red color, which is a result of the mix of the two garnet types. The color can range from raspberry red to soft, rose-like pink. Some rhodolite garnets may have subtle purple or violet overtones, giving them a slightly different hue compared to traditional red garnets. The richness and saturation of the color is what makes rhodolite garnet especially popular in jewelry.  They are also known for their excellent brilliance, thanks to their high refractive index (around 1.74–1.76). When cut well, they can reflect light brilliantly, creating a lively, sparkling appearance.

Rhodolite garnet is relatively hard, scoring between 7 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear, although it should still be handled with care to avoid scratches or damage, especially when set in rings that might be exposed to rough wear.

Origin: Rhodolite garnet is typically found in metamorphic rocks, such as schist and gneiss, and sometimes in igneous rocks. Major sources of rhodolite garnet are East Africa, Sri Lanka, Brazil, India and Madagascar.

Care and Maintenance
Rhodolite Garnet is relatively easy to care for, though it does require some attention to ensure its longevity:
 • Cleaning: Clean rhodolite garnet with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
 • Storage: Store rhodolite garnet jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. It is best kept in a soft pouch or jewelry box with padded compartments.

Question 12

Sapphire

Accepted Answer

Sapphire is one of the most beloved and sought-after gemstones in the world, renowned for its stunning color, brilliance, and durability. It is a variety of the mineral corundum, the same mineral group that also includes rubies. While rubies are specifically red corundum, sapphires encompass all other colors of corundum, with the most famous being blue, but they can occur in a wide range of colors and are highly prized for their beauty and value.

Characteristics:  While blue is the most iconic and well-known color for sapphires, they can occur in almost every color except red (which is classified as ruby). Some of the common sapphire colors include, Blue, Pink, Yellow, Green, Purple, Orange known as padparadcha, this is a rare and prized color, a mix of pink and orange, Colorless and Star Sapphires which has a star-like reflection on the surface, caused by inclusions of needle-like rutile crystals. 
 
Sapphires are incredibly hard and durable, scoring a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, just below diamonds (which score 10). This makes them one of the hardest gemstones, highly resistant to scratching and wear. Because of their hardness, sapphires are often used in not only jewelry but also in industrial applications, such as in watches and electronics.

Origins:  Sapphires are formed in metamorphic and igneous rocks under intense heat and pressure over millions of years. They can be found in a Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Australia, Madagascar, Kashmir and Montana (USA).

Famous Sapphires:
 • The "Star of India": One of the most famous star sapphires, weighing 563.35 carats. It is on display at the American Museum of Natural History.
 • Princess Diana’s Engagement Ring: A famous 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds, now worn by Kate Middleton.
 • The Kashmir Sapphire: Known for its rare and deep blue hue, Kashmiri sapphires are considered some of the finest in the world.

Care and Maintenance
Due to its hardness sapphire relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, it is still important to treat it with care:
 • Cleaning: Clean alexandrite with warm, soapy water and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone, especially if it has any inclusions or fractures.
 • Storage: Store alexandrite separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. A soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with padded compartments is ideal.

Question 13

Sphene

Accepted Answer

Sphene (also known as Titanite) is a rare and striking gemstone that is prized for its exceptional brilliance and fire. It is a titanium-rich mineral that can produce dazzling flashes of color when light is reflected from its surface. Sphene is typically found in shades of green, yellow, brown, and gray, but its most prized stones are often green and yellow-green.

Characteristics:  Sphene is a calcium titanium silicate mineral.  The presence of titanium gives sphene its high refractive index.  Sphene is known for its incredible brilliance and fire (the dispersion of light into different colors), which is even greater than that of diamonds. This is due to its high refractive index (around 1.88–1.98) and strong dispersion, which means it exhibits flashes of light in a wide range of colors when viewed under bright light. Its fire can rival that of diamonds, making it a standout gemstone in any setting.

Sphene is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, scoring between 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it somewhat susceptible to scratching and damage, and relatively delicate .  It is best suited for jewelry that will not experience rough wear, such as earrings or pendants.

Origin:  Sphene is typically found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, gneiss, and marble. It can also occur in igneous rocks. It forms in environments with high temperatures and pressures, and is often found alongside other minerals like tourmaline, garnet, and quartz. Major sources are Sri Lanka, Brazil, Madagascar, United States (California, Colorado) and Pakistan.   
Sphene is a relatively rare gemstone. The green and yellow-green varieties, particularly those with strong brilliance and minimal inclusions, are the most valuable. Larger stones are more expensive due to their rarity, though sphene is generally more affordable than diamonds and other precious gemstones.  Sphene's exceptional fire and brilliance make it a favorite among gem cutters who want to maximize the stone's visual impact.

Care and Maintenance
 • Cleaning: Sphene is easy to clean but should be handled with care due to its relative softness. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
 • Storage: Since sphene has a relatively low hardness, it’s important to store it separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. A soft cloth pouch or a separate jewelry compartment is ideal for storage.

Question 14

Spinel

Accepted Answer

Spinel is a gemstone that has long been overlooked but is now gaining more recognition for its beauty, durability, and wide range of colors. Spinel is an aluminum oxide mineral that is chemically related to corundum (the mineral group that includes sapphires and rubies), but it has its own distinct properties. It is considered one of the more underrated gemstones, despite being highly prized for its clarity, brilliance, and vibrant hues.

Characteristics:  Spinel comes in a broad spectrum of colors.  Red is the most famous and highly prized spinel color, often deep and vibrant. Historically, some famous "rubies" (such as the Black Prince's Ruby in the British Crown Jewels) were actually spinel.  The wide variety of spinel colors like blue, pink, purple, and lavender is due to trace elements such as chromium (for red), cobalt (for blue), and iron (for green or black).  Spinel is generally very clean compared to other gemstones. It has excellent clarity, meaning it often has few inclusions (internal flaws), which is a major plus for gem enthusiasts and jewelers.

Spinel is quite durable, with a Mohs hardness of 8. This makes it resistant to scratches and suitable for everyday wear in rings, necklaces, and other jewelry items. It's slightly softer than sapphires (which have a hardness of 9) but still harder than most other gemstones.  Although spinel is not as rare as some other gemstones, fine-quality spinel, particularly in desirable colors like red or blue, can be quite rare. Red spinel from Myanmar (Burma) are among the most coveted and valuable.

Origin: Spinel is found in a variety of locations worldwide in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Vietnam, and Madagascar. Spinel's value depends on its color, size, and clarity. Red spinels (especially those from Myanmar) are the most valuable, followed by blue and pink varieties. Like other gemstones, larger stones and those with fewer inclusions or better color saturation command higher prices.

Famous Spinel:
 • The Black Prince's Ruby: A 170-carat spinel that is part of the British Crown Jewels, often mistakenly thought to be a ruby due to its rich red color.
 • The Timurid Spinel: A large red spinel, also part of the British Crown Jewels, with an impressive history dating back to Central Asia.

Spinel vs. Ruby:
Due to its rich red color and similar appearance, spinel is sometimes confused with ruby, but the two are distinct minerals. While both belong to the corundum family, rubies are corundum with traces of chromium, while spinel is its own separate mineral with a different crystal structure and chemical composition.

Care and Maintenance
 • Cleaning: Spinel can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
 • Storage: Store spinel jewelry separately from other gemstones to avoid scratching. Use a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with compartments.

Question 15

Tanzanite

Accepted Answer

Tanzanite is a precious gemstone known for its striking blue to violet hues. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite and was discovered relatively recently, in 1967, near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania—hence the name "Tanzanite." It has quickly become one of the most popular and sought-after gemstones in the world due to its unique color, rarity, and beauty.

Characteristics:  Tanzanite exhibits a unique range of colors, from deep blue to vibrant violet, often with hints of purple. The most prized tanzanite are those with a rich blue-violet color. The gemstone can also show different colors when viewed from different angles due to its pleochroic nature, meaning it appears to change color depending on the viewing angle.  This characteristic adds to its allure and makes it even more fascinating for gem enthusiasts.

Origin:
It is exceptionally rare because it is found only in a small area of the world: the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This exclusive geographical origin makes it a one-of-a-kind gemstone.

It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which is somewhat softer than gemstones like sapphires or diamonds. It requires careful handling to avoid scratches or damage, especially in rings that see frequent wear.

Fun Fact:
Tanzanite is often marketed as a "one-generation gemstone," meaning it is thought to be so rare that it may not be available in the future.  In addition to its rarity and beauty, tanzanite has been a favorite in fine jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Care and Maintenance
 • Cleaning: Tanzanite is easy to clean but should be handled with care due to its relative softness. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
 • Storage: Since Tanzanite has a relatively low hardness, it’s important to store it separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. A soft cloth pouch or a separate jewelry compartment is ideal for storage.

Question 16

Topaz

Accepted Answer

Topaz is a precious gemstone that is valued for its clarity, wide range of colors, and exceptional durability. It is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum silicate combined with fluorine and hydroxide. Topaz is one of the most popular and recognized gemstones worldwide, often used in fine jewelry, from rings to necklaces.

Characteristics:  Topaz comes in a variety of colors, from subtle pastels to vibrant hues. The most common colors are, Yellow, Blue, Imperial Topaz, a rare and highly prized variety with peach, pink, and golden hues, Pink, Clear, Green, and Red.  The color of topaz is primarily determined by trace elements in the mineral, with chromium giving a pinkish hue and iron contributing to yellow and blue varieties.

Topaz is quite hard, scoring 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it durable and resistant to scratching, making it an excellent choice for jewelry that will be worn regularly.

Origin: Topaz is usually found in granite rocks, pegmatites, and alluvial deposits (sedimentary deposits), and it often forms in volcanic environments. It is commonly found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Russia, Pakistan and United States.

Topaz vs. Other Gemstones:
Topaz is sometimes confused with other gemstones, particularly citrine (a yellow quartz) and aquamarine (a blue beryl). However, topaz is chemically different and generally has a more brilliant shine and harder surface.

Famous Topaz:
 • The Topaz of the Czars: A large, 1680-carat golden topaz that is displayed in the Russian Crown Jewels.
 • The Braganza Diamond: A famous 1,640-carat gemstone, which is sometimes considered a large topaz due to its golden yellow color.

Care and Maintenance
Topaz is relatively easy to care for, though it does require some attention.
 • Cleaning: Clean Topaz with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
 • Storage: Store Topaz jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. It is best kept in a soft pouch or jewelry box with padded compartments.

Question 17

Tourmaline

Accepted Answer

Tourmaline is a fascinating and diverse gemstone group known for its wide range of colors and unique properties. It is one of the most popular gemstones in the world due to its beautiful hues, variety of forms, and relative affordability. Tourmaline is actually not a single mineral, but a group of silicate minerals that share a similar crystal structure but differ in chemical composition. This variation in composition leads to a wide range of colors, making tourmaline one of the most colorful gemstones.

Characteristics:  One of the most remarkable characteristics of tourmaline is its extensive color range, which includes virtually every color of the rainbow. Some common colors include, Pink and Red due to the presence of chromium or manganese , Green can range from light to deep green, often due to iron or vanadium, Blue caused by the presence of iron or copper, Yellow due to iron content, Multicolored, and Black.

Tourmaline is relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of 7 to 7.5, which makes it durable enough for most types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and earrings. However, care should still be taken to avoid scratching or chipping. Like tanzanite, tourmaline also shows pleochroism—meaning it can appear to be different colors depending on the angle from which it is viewed. This effect is particularly noticeable in some of the more vivid tourmalines, like the green or blue varieties.

Origins:  Sri Lanka, Europe, United states, Brazil

Tourmaline is highly regarded in alternative medicine and metaphysical circles. It's believed to possess various healing properties, such as Promoting emotional healing and stress relief, Balancing energy fields and providing protection against negative energies, Helping with physical healing, especially related to the nervous system and circulation.

Fun Fact:
Tourmaline is often called the "gemstone of the rainbow" due to its incredible range of colors. It is one of the few gemstones that can show multiple colors in a single crystal, making it particularly popular in custom jewelry designs.

Care and Maintenance
 • Cleaning: Tourmaline can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, especially for emeralds, which may have oil treatments to enhance clarity.
 • Storage: Store tourmaline jewelry separately  from other gemstones to avoid scratching. Use a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with compartments.

Question 18

Tsavorite

Accepted Answer

Tsavorite is a rare and vibrant green variety of the gemstone grossular garnet, which is part of the larger garnet family. It was first discovered in the 1960s in the Tsavo region of Kenya (hence the name "Tsavorite"), and it is also found in parts of Tanzania. Tsavorite is prized for its vivid, intense green color, which can range from light to deep green, and it is often compared to emeralds due to its rich hue.

It is relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of 7 to 7.5. This makes it suitable for a variety of jewelry applications, such as rings, earrings, and necklaces.  
Tsavorite is rarer than emerald, especially in larger sizes. This makes high-quality Tsavorite gemstones highly valued and often more expensive than emeralds of similar size and color.  Due to its rarity, beautiful color, and durability, Tsavorite is a highly sought-after gemstone in the world of fine jewelry.

Origins:  Tsavorite comes mainly from the Tsavo region of Kenya and Tanzania, and it is sometimes found in smaller quantities in other parts of East Africa.

Characteristics: Tsavorite’s most striking feature is its bright green color, which is caused by trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. The best specimens exhibit a deep, vivid green, although lighter shades are also found.

Care and Maintenance
 • Cleaning: Tsavorite can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
 • Storage: Store Tsavorite jewelry separately rom other gemstones to avoid scratching. Use a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with compartments.

Question 19

Zircon

Accepted Answer

Zircon is a naturally occurring mineral made up of zirconium silicate (ZrSiO₄). It is found in a variety of geological environments, often as a component of granite and other igneous rocks, as well as in sedimentary deposits. Zircon is well-known for its durability and resistance to heat and chemical weathering, which makes it useful in several applications, from dating ancient rocks to jewelry.

Zircon has a hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively hard and durable, though it is still susceptible to scratching by harder materials.   Its brilliance and fire, caused by the way it reflects light, make it a popular substitute for diamonds in some cases.

Characteristics:  Zircon comes in a wide range of colors, including colorless, yellow, brown, green, and red, though the most common are brown and yellow. Its brilliance and fire can sometimes make it resemble diamonds. However, it is denser than diamond and has a different crystal structure.

Origins: Zircon is typically found in pegmatitic and metamorphic rocks, as well as in heavy mineral sands. Some of the oldest known minerals on Earth are zircons, with some crystals dating back over 4.4 billion years.  It is Found in 
Australia, South Africa, India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, Brazil, United States.

Care and Maintenance
Zircon is relatively easy to care for, though it does require some attention to ensure its longevity:
 • Cleaning: Clean Zircon with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
 • Storage: Store zircon jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. It is best kept in a soft pouch or jewelry box with padded compartments.