Articles: Gems / Gem Lore
Congratulations, Tanzanite... You've Been Named the New December Birthstone
The birthstone list, like the United States Constitution, is rarely amended. However, such is the enthusiasm for one gem - velvet blue tanzanite - among both jewelers and the public alike, that it was recently added to this exclusive group. Tanzanite has joined zicon and turquoise as the commemorative gems for December birthdays.
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Garnet Family of Gems Includes Rainbow of Varieties
What is a garnet? If "red" and "January birthstone" are the only words that come to mind, you're missing out on a virtual rainbow of dazzling gemstones.
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Gemstone Corner The Big Three...
Who can forget the stunning "Heart of the Ocean" sapphire necklace worn by Kate Winslet's Rose in the "Titanic," and later thrown back into the ocean? Or Audrey Hepburn's Holly Golightly window-shopping in the opening scene of "Breakfast at Tiffany's?"
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Birthstones Brim With Luck and Lore
Most gem scholars agree that the tradition of birthstones began with the Breastplate of Aaron: a ceremonial religious garment set with 12 gemstones that represented the 12 tribes of Israel and also corresponded with the 12 signs of the zodiac and the 12 months of the year.
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Dazzling Beryl Family Includes Emerald and Aquamarine
Containing some of the most beautiful and versatile gemstones in the world, the beryl category includes such favorites as the emerald and aquamarine, lesser-known gems such as morganite and golden beryl and some virtually undiscovered gems such as heliodor and goshenite.
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'Newer' Gems Dazzle the Market
While most of us are familiar with rubies, emeralds and sapphires, there is a whole new world of color out there beyond the "big three" gemstones.
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Amethyst and Citrine Anchor Quartz Family of Gems
Quartz is one of Earth's most abundant minerals and one of the most versatile. Although quartz can mimic expensive gems for a fraction of the cost, it is more than worthy of its own admiration. In fact, there are actually a number of gem-quality quartz varieties available.
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What Does Your Favorite Color Say About You?
Everyone has a favorite gem color. But did you know that your color preference says a lot about you and your personality? Read on.
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Sapphire: September’s Favorite Gem
The Samba Collection from designer Mark Patterson sizzles. Various sizes and tones of sapphires evoke the movement of the sexy dance.
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Delicate Gems Need a Litte TLC
Some gemstones are considerably more fragile and delicate than others. Emeralds, opals, pearls, tanzanite, peridot, tourmaline and others require careful selection and loving maintenance to ensure that they keep their beauty.
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Vibrant Summertime Jewelry
Just when you think you've seen it all, something new finds its way into the world of fashion jewelry. These beautiful, hand-made creations are fabulous statement pieces to wear with any summer dress or for any formal engagement.
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World's Rarest Gemstones
The French essayist Jean de la Brueyere wrote that the rarest things in the world, next to a spirit of discernment, are diamonds and pearls.
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