http://www.americangemstones.com/ Weekly Information on Precious and Semi Precious Gems http://www.americangemstones.com/tips.php
Beauty is subjective, but the modern standard for gemstones is for evenly tinted, transparent stones.

The durability of the gem depends on its hardness and lack of tendency to split in any one direction. A gem must be sufficiently hard to resist everyday abrasion, chemicals and dust.

Rarity is one of the most important factors in establishing the price of a gemstone. Gems such as the diamond and ruby are rare, in addition to being durable and beautiful, and so are priced at a premium.

Learn more about gemstones at
http://www.americangemstones.com]]> Fri, 19 May 2006 08:46:26 -0400 http://www.americangemstones.com/tips.php
Blue turquoise is the more desireable. The green shades in many specimens is the result of the presence of iron in the stone.

Turquoise has a porous structure and should be protected from grease, moisture, and dirt.

Sunlight and heat can also negatively affect turquoise.

Find out more about Turquoise at http://www.americangemstones.com]]> Fri, 19 May 2006 08:46:26 -0400 http://www.americangemstones.com/tips.php
Today the cabochon cut is generally used for opaque stones. Jade, jasper, bloodstone, opal, petrified wood, lapis, and many other stones work well with this cut. You'll also still find colored stones in this cut, particularly imperfect stones.

The cabochon cut is usually made with a curved or rounded top and has curved or straight sides. The outline is usually round or oval, but can be of practically any shape.

Read more about gem cuts at http://www.americangemstones.com]]> Fri, 19 May 2006 08:46:26 -0400