Glowing Gemstones: Your Guide to Buying Brilliant Jewelry
Top 15 Popular Gemstones
Pendahuluan:
Apart from the five kings of the world, there is a category of gemstones that are highly sought after in the market, favored by international brand manufacturers and designers, and frequently featured in jewelry shows and print media known as popular gemstones.
The price point of popular gemstones is less prohibitive than precious gemstones, which can be purchased from a few dollars to thousands of dollars for a single carat. These gems can be found in everything from fashionable celebrities who love to use designer labels to moms who love to shop on TV to spiritualists who wear them for their spiritual practices and sayings. Here are the Top 15.
Daftar Isi
Section ⅠTourmaline
The name Tourmaline comes from the Sinhalese word “turmali” in Sri Lanka, meaning a gemstone of mixed colors. many businesses making Bi Ru into mobile phone charms, claiming to prevent electromagnetic waves; making it into mattresses, claiming to have far-infrared effects that can improve sleep quality; and using it in foot baths, which are said to promote metabolism and blood circulation.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Na,Ca)(Li,Mg,Al)(Al,Fe,Mn)6(BO)3)3Si6O18(OH) | Hexagonal crystal system | 7 ~ 7.5 | 3.0 ~ 3.25 (varies by element) | 1.615 ~ 1.638 | Large variation with composition | / | Shell-like |
Tourmaline has been famous for nearly twenty years; whether in jewelry stores, international brand counters, or social occasions among socialites, it has always been the focus of attention. The reason for the popularity of tourmaline is its vibrant colors, ranging from red, yellow, purple, blue-gray, and orange to pink, with the red series alone having five or six different shades. The international luxury brand Bulgari, which focuses on color in its designs, often uses tourmaline as a material to create various jewelry pieces, spreading its influence in the fashion world.
The second reason for the popularity of tourmaline is its affordable price. The colors of tourmaline are bright and uniform, second only to rubies and sapphires, with a fire similar to that of rubies, but its price is much lower than that of rubies and sapphires, making it the best choice for beginners in gemstones.
Standard tourmaline bracelets and necklaces often have many internal impurities, usually priced by the gram, with a quality bracelet ranging from several hundred to over thousand dollars; tourmaline pendants and carvings, often treated with resin, are also priced by the gram, with market prices for a pendant ranging from over US$312-938. As for cabochon, tourmaline tends to have slightly more impurities, usually priced at US$15-109 per carat. Depending on the weight of the highest grade faceted ruby tourmaline, the price per carat is US$93-312.
Tourmaline comes in various colors. The most famous are the Rubellite and watermelon tourmaline. The noble Rubellite is as eye-catching as a fiery red rose, sparkling and igniting mature women’s passion; the watermelon tourmaline, with its green and red hues, is even more irresistible. However, some people fall in love at first sight with the Bi-Color tourmaline, as its color barriers are distinct and unique, making it a favorite among collectors. As for the blue and Verdelite s, they each represent the affirmation of a man’s successful career and the shrewd qualities of a mature woman.
1. Rubellite
Because its color is very close to rubies, it is called Rubellite. Its colors range from purplish-red to rose-red, pink to deep red, making it the most popular color among tourmalines, with the Brazilian variety being the most famous. In recent years, most have been produced in Mozambique.
2. Verdelite
The green of Verdelite can range from light green, yellow-green, brown-green to dark green, with most coming from Brazil. The colors are usually quite deep, and the green of the gemstone can only be seen with penetrating light; however, the color can improve somewhat after heat treatment. The light yellow-Verdelite is another option for consumers who cannot afford emeralds. Generally speaking, for Verdelite s under 10 carats, the price is US$15-31 per carat; for sizes between 10 to 20 carats, the price is US$46-78 per carat.
3. Chrome tourmaline
Chrome tourmaline has a bright emerald green color due to the presence of chromium, which is very appealing. The main production area is Brazil, and most are cut into long columnar. The price of chrome Verdelite is generally below 10 carats, costing about US$62-78; a size of 10-20 carats is considered the market mainstream, priced at US$94-109; if it is over 30 carats, it is pretty rare, priced at US$125-156 per carat.
4. Dravite
Dravite can range in color from a bit coffee-colored, brownish-yellow, to earthy yellow, and its popularity is not as good as other colors. It is most commonly found in sizes of 1-10 carats, with a market price of US$15-47 per carat.
5. Indicolite
The blue series of tourmaline ranges from light blue to deep blue. Pure blue tourmaline is rare, while light blue, resembling high-quality aquamarine, is the most popular. Blue Beryl rarely exceeds 10 carats, with a market price of US$47-109 per carat.
6. Schorl
Tourmaline with a high iron content appears black, which is a color that most people do not prefer. Therefore, most Schorl is kept as specimens and rarely cut into gemstones.
7. Cat's-eye Tourmaline
Some tourmalines contain needle-like inclusions, and if polished along the vertical axis (C axis) to form a cabochon, they will exhibit a cat’s eye effect. Cat’s eye tourmaline is commonly found in red and green varieties. High-quality tourmaline cat’s eyes are rare, and most are opaque. When selecting a cat’s eye, look for a cat’s eye with a thin line, a flexible line when turning, and a line that is not broken or skewed.
8. Bi-Color Tourmaline
Bi-color tourmaline, as the name suggests, has two colors within tourmaline; usually, one end is red, and the other is green; there are also bi-color varieties with one end yellow and the other green. Since 1995, countries like Mozambique have produced a lot of bi-color tourmalines. The prices are as high as the favorite high heels of young women today, casually asking for 1 carat costs US$93-125; if the colors are distinct, 1 carat can cost over US$219-251; as for the top-grade ones, over 100 carats of bi-color tourmaline, the price per carat is likely to exceed US$313.
9. Watermelon Tourmaline
Watermelon tourmaline is like watermelon: green on the outside and red on the inside. Watermelon tourmalines are rarely clean and beautiful. The size is usually under 10 carats, US$31-47 per carat.
Selama itu adalah turmalin dua warna, banyak pedagang menyebutnya sebagai turmalin semangka.
Watermelon Tourmaline
10. Alexandrite Tourmaline
Watermelon tourmaline changes color under different light sources, such as sunlight and tungsten lamps. This is because sunlight and tungsten lamps absorb different wavelengths of light; sunlight is rich in green or blue, while tungsten lamps are rich in red light. Therefore, the tourmaline appears blue or green in sunlight or daylight lamps and red under tungsten lamps. Alexandrite Tourmaline is very rare and is mainly collected by gem collectors.
In addition, before 1995, Mozambique produced a considerable quantity of Tourmaline with a wide range of colors, including a deep purple closely resembling amethyst. The small ones range from a few tenths to 1-2 carats, the medium ones 5-20 carats, and the large ones are over 50-100 carats. The clarity and brilliance are good, and the price is not cheap, costing US$156-188.
11. Investment and Collection of Tourmaline
As long as the China economy thrives, Tourmaline’s price will not drop! Therefore, it is recommended if you find stock on the market in Taiwan of red Beryl over 10 carats, priced below 1 US$47; green Beryl below US$31; and two-tone Beryl below US$62, it would be an excellent time to buy. If you want to collect, the larger and cleaner, the better; 10-20 carats is the most commonly purchased size, and over 30 carats is considered a target for collectors. As for which Tourmaline colors should you acquire? Paraiba, Bi-Color tourmaline , rubellite, and Chrome Verdelite are all good choices, but it also depends on which colors you like.
What is Paraiba?
Discovered in 1989, it is named after the Paraiba region in Brazil where it is produced. Due to the presence of manganese, it exhibits deep blue-green, purple-blue, and even more vivid lake green colors, overshadowing the hues of emerald, turquoise, and sapphire. Because of its wide range of color variations, it is known as the “blue rainbow” of gemstones, and is one of the most expensive in the world. It is not surprising that high-quality Paraiba can cost between US$313-470 per carat. In recent years, Mozambique has also produced a batch of Paraiba, but the colors are lighter.
The blue tourmaline must contain iron and copper, and only the blue tourmaline that contains a significant amount of copper can be called Paraiba. Currently, China Taiwan has not identified all the instruments that can distinguish it. If it cannot be determined whether it contains copper, it can only be referred to as blue beryl, which is blue tourmaline. If a store claims it is Paraiba, it usually must have a GRS certificate for assurance. For certified Mozambique Paraiba, the market price for 1 carat is usually US$251-470.
Section II Tanzanite
Tanzanite is produced in Tanzania. The rough stones of tanzanite are often found in association with rubies, and the colors range from deep purple-blue to light purple. The most expensive tanzanite is the one that has a blue hue with purple. In recent years, it has been highly regarded by Tiffany & Co., making it very sought after in the market. According to magazine surveys, in 2001, the total sales volume of tanzanite ranked third, only behind sapphires and pearls, making it a very popular gemstone in recent years, with its value comparable to high-quality sapphires and emeralds. The reason tanzanite has become a hot commodity in the market is due to its limited production, high potential for price increase in the future, and it can even rival beautiful sapphires, making it a favorite among many investors and collectors.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ca2Al3O | rhombohedral crystal system | 6.5 | 3.35 | 1.69 ~ 1.70 | Pink, Yellow, Brown, Green, Blue | Complete axial surface resolution | Semi-crustal |
In the United States, tanzanite prices are categorized very finely, with grades divided into AAA, AA, and A, and the prices are high. At one point, production was halted due to flooding in Tanzania, causing prices to soar, but later, due to economic downturns, prices gradually decreased. Generally, tanzanite under 5 carats is not considered significant, and depending on color and brilliance differences, prices below US$219 are considered cheap; for tanzanite of size 5-9 carats and top quality, prices below US$282 are considered reasonable; for tanzanite of size ten-19 carats, prices range from US$376-407; for 20-29 carats, the price for 1 carat is US$439-470; for sizes over 30 carats, 1 carat is about US$470-564.
The carat size of tanzanite is more significant than that of sapphires. If you want to invest, it is recommended to buy tanzanite over 20 carats; for wearing, most people choose gemstones around 10 carats. Buyers in China usually do not care about the price; the larger size, the better. Taking a 30-carat tanzanite as an example, they quote US$470 per carat, totaling about US$14120. This price can only buy a 1-carat GIA diamond of (E, VVS) grade (15,400 USD) or (D, VVS2) (15,500 USD) at about a 10% discount or buy a 6 ~ 8 carat Sri Lankan sapphire. Moreover, the origin of tanzanite is quite rare, and there are increasingly wealthy people in China. As long as 10,000 wealthy people buy it, you can imagine how much tanzanite over 20 carats will rise in price. It is expected that in 5 years, tanzanite over 30 carats will be very hard to find, and the price per carat could reach US$627-941, which is not impossible. If the economy in China grows faster, the speed will be even quicker, so friends who want to invest in tanzanite.
Section III Crystal
Crystal has long been used as a gemstone and decoration. Crystal clusters can be used as ornaments, and crystals can be polished into crystal balls, carved into crystal jewelry, and made into various crystal rings, earrings, and pendants. Crystals containing inclusions (such as Water gall, chlorite, tourmaline, pyrite, etc.) are the best collections for enthusiasts. Unique shapes (such as Backbone, scepter, double-headed tip, Japanese twin-crystal, etc.) are also favorites among collectors. Westerners firmly believe that spirits are hidden within crystals, and people gaze into crystal balls to tell fortunes or predict the future. Crystals can be used industrially to make lenses for eyeglasses, magnifying glasses, microscopes and camera lenses, etc., which have many functions. For more than 20 years, China has been staging a crystal legend, so crazy that even foreigners can’t help but marvel at it. The crystal stores lining the streets and alleys declare that the era of crystal has come.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SiO2 | Hexagonal crystal system | 7 | 2.65 | 1.544 ~ 1.553 | Blue, green, black, pink, etc. | Low grade | Berbentuk cangkang |
1. Mineral properties
When a crystal is subjected to pressure, it generates electricity, and when energized, it can produce vibrations; quartz watches and clocks are made using this property of crystal. The crystalline form of quartz is usually a hexagonal column with pointed ends, and the column faces usually have parallel growth textures. The inclusions are commonly rutile, mica, chlorite, actinolite, chlorocrystalline, tourmaline, etc., and sometimes there are crystals wrapped around crystals.
Crystals can be categorized into Coarsely Crystalline Quartz (Coarsely Crystalline), whose crystalline particles are visible to the naked eye, and Microcrystalline Quartz (Microcrystally), whose crystalline particles are visible only through a microscope. Coarse Crystalline Quartz has white crystal, amethyst, citrine, smoky crystal, pink quartz, aventurine, etc.; Microcrystalline Quartz has agate, chalcedony, tiger’s eye, jasper, silica wood and flint, etc..
1.1 Coarse quartz
Rock Crystal
Crystals are quartz with crystalline facets and are the most commonly seen by the general public. White quartz can grow individually, but it usually grows in clusters and occasionally coexists with other minerals like pyrite. When two crystals grow together and cannot be separated, it is called a twin. There are two types of quartz twins; the most common is the Interpenetrant Twin, while the other is the contact twin, where two crystals touch during their formation. When crystals has two termination points, American merchants call it Herkimer Diamond (known as diamond quartz).
Contact Twin
Interpenetrant Twin
Amethyst
Amethyst is the most noble color among crystals. In the past, most people believed it was purple due to manganese content, but the current reliable explanation is that it is caused by iron. Amethyst’s main production areas are Brazil, Madagascar, Zambia, and Uruguay. Domestic operators mainly import from Brazil, while the amethyst produced in Zambia, which has a bluish tint, is considered the finest among amethysts.
Amethyst usually has a pointed tip with a rhombohedral shape and lacks a prism face, but the purple part is often only at the tip, with color frequently distributed in bands. Light-colored amethyst heated to 400-500℃ will turn brownish-yellow or even green; when heated above 5750℃, it will become colorless. Most of the citrine on the market is amethyst, which has been altered by heating.
Citrine
The main reason for the yellow color of citrine is the presence of iron. The main sources of citrine are Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, the United States, and Spain. Another type, ametrine, which is half yellow and half purple, is found in Bolivia. Dark citrine exhibits pleochroism, but citrine that has been heat-treated does not show dichroism. Heat-treated citrine usually hints at red, while natural citrine is typically light yellow.
Smoky Quartz
Smoky quartz, which is brownish-black like smoke, is usually caused by radioactive elements. Countries that produce smoky quartz include South Korea, Russia, Brazil, and Madagascar. Exposure to radioactive elements can damage the quartz’s atomic structure, making it opaque. Most smoky quartz on the market is produced by strong radiation from nuclear reactors, and transparent quartz can quickly turn into smoky quartz after irradiation.
Amethyst
Citrine
Smoky Quartz
Rose Quartz
Rose Quartz, also known as pink quartz, is pink in color, and its coloration is due to the presence of titanium. If it has crystal faces, it is called rose crystal, but most on the market are still rose quartz. There are many rose quartz products in the granite of the Great Crystal in New York, USA. Jinwei quartz is usually polished into spheres or heart shapes, representing everlasting love.
Aventurine
Aventurine contains green or reddish-brown mica or hematite within the crystal. A typical fake aventurine on the market is made from glass with pure red copper pieces, but it can be easily identified with a magnifying glass.
1.2 Microcrystalline quartz
Agate
A type of banded microcrystalline quartz, usually filling the cavities in rocks (geodes). If the geode contains crystallized water, it is called water agate. The banded structure at the edge of the geode is a characteristic of agate. Many countries produce agate, such as India, the United States, Germany, and Mexico, with Brazil being the largest producer. Due to Brazil’s large agate production, its price is lower than crystals. Agate is usually cut into many small slices, used as small screens or strung into small wind chimes, polished into paperweights, etc. Most commercially available agate slices are dyed, and the dyed areas show pigment deposits, which can be seen with a magnifying glass. Other types of agate include Rainbow Agate, Fire Agate, and Onyx.
Kalsedon
Chalcedony is usually transparent or opaque and contains a small amount of water. Chalcedony that contains copper and appears blue is called blue chalcedony, and is not cheap. The Japanese especially like blue chalcedony. Some blue chalcedony from certain mining areas is prone to dehydration and discoloration, That’s why jewelry stores often soak chalcedony in water to prevent cracks from dehydration.
China Taiwan still has mining, but the blue chalcedony commonly seen in China Taiwan is mainly imported from the United States and Indonesia. Currently, China Taiwan ‘s three treasures are blue chalcedony, coral, and China Taiwan jade cat’s eye, which are also the favorite souvenirs of China travelers. In addition to blue chalcedony, there is also the reddish-brown red chalcedony, which is most famous from India; the green chalcedony (Chrysoprase), which appears apple green due to nickel, is imported from Australia and is often mistaken for jade, hence also called “Australian jade.” Production also exists in California, USA, and Germany.
High Translucent Purple Chalcedony Men's Lapel Pin, WANG CHEN LING Ivan's Fragrance Series, red wine Design and production.
Where there are lines, it is called agate, and where there are no lines, it is called chalcedony.
Tiger’s Eye.
This is caused by replacing fibrous asbestos with silicon dioxide, retaining the fibrous structure. The most common tiger’s eye is brown or yellow. The blue tiger’s eye is sometimes called the hawk’s eye, and it is mainly produced in South Africa. A string of tiger’s eye bracelets costs US$9-15.
Hawk's eye beads bracelet
Tiger's Eye beads bracelet
Jasper
It is a type of red microcrystalline quartz containing hematite. Jasper is generally opaque, with a shell-like fracture, and its appearance resembles red bricks. India, the United States, Russia, Venezuela, and other countries are the main production areas. A seal craft costs US$6-9.
Chert
White Chert was used in ancient times as a fire starter, while black Chert was made into arrowheads, knives, and axes. It has no value as a gemstone.
Silicified Wood
Also known as petrified wood, it is formed due to tectonic movements, where wood is buried deep underground, and the silica in groundwater undergoes a replacement process to form it. Many manufacturers in China import silicified wood from Indonesia to make stone tables, stone chairs, and other furniture or ornaments.
Characteristics of chalcedony agate
| Nama | Reasons for coloration | Place of origin | Catatan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue chalcedony | Copper, silicon malachite | China Taiwan Coastal Mountain Range, USA, Indonesia | Dehydration easily loses color |
| Cornelian | Hematite or magnetite | The most famous in India | / |
| Chrysoprase | Ni | Australia, California, USA, Germany | Also known as Australian jade, impersonating jadeite |
| Colored chalcedony | / | / | The band is red, blue, and brown |
| Fire agate | Limonite | California, USA | 1. Color-changing like opal 2. Has red, green, blue, and purple fire |
| Onyx | Black oxide pot or red iron oxide | / | Tree branch shape or landscape scenery |
Other characteristics of quartz
| Nama | Reasons for coloration | Place of origin | Catatan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crystal Cave | / | Brazil | 1. The outermost layer is agate, hollow, with many crystals along the outer length. 2. Usually round or oval. |
| Tiger's eye | Quartz replaces asbestos while maintaining the original structure. | Africa | 1. Tiger's eye is yellow or yellow-brown. 2. The blue variety is called hawk's eye. |
| Jasper | Contains microcrystalline hematite and quartz | India, Venezuela, USA, Russia | Comes in red and green colors, known as "Blood and Heart" or "Fragrant Grass Connecting the Sky" |
2. Crystal prices revealed
Most people know about crystals starting from their “healing effects”: amethyst can enhance wisdom, citrine can attract wealth, and rose quartz can attract love, which is almost universally recognized. Wearing crystals also has various purposes; some do it for practicing qigong, some for spiritual cultivation, and some simply for their beauty. Because crystals are inexpensive, few people have them appraised, as the appraisal fee is usually one to two thousand New China Taiwan dollars each time. In contrast, a crystal ornament can often be bought for US$9-31. However, suppose you purchase a crystal ball worth several thousand dollars.. In that case, it should be appraised using infrared spectroscopy to check if the crystal is synthetic.
Among various types of crystals, rose quartz, amethyst, and citrine have always been bestsellers. Star rose quartz, in particular, is especially favored by female friends. The key to selecting rose quartz is that the pinker and more transparent it is, the more expensive it becomes, with prices calculated per carat. Rose quartz at 1 carat costs US$0.9-1.5, while star rose quartz costs US$1.5-6.2. An opaque rose quartz bracelet costs US$6.2-15.
When purchasing amethyst, one should look at the uniformity of color; the more bottomless and uniform the color, with no impurities, the higher the price. Amethyst from Brazil is generally cheaper than that from Uruguay. Amethyst is mainly cut into pendants, beads, bracelets, necklaces, and carvings, with a price of US$2.5-6.2 for 1 carat, and a bracelet of amethyst costs between US$15-94.
As for citrine, there are also variations in color depth, but most citrine is formed by heating amethyst to change its color, and general sellers will indicate “heat treatment,” making it cheaper than natural citrine.
Natural yellow crystals cost US$3-7. Additionally, a type of yellow jade appears lemon yellow, known as lemon crystal, which has particularly good fire-cutting but is cheaper than yellow crystal, priced at US$1.2-3.1 per carat. Whether it is rose quartz, amethyst, or yellow crystal, some can reach up to US$6.2-9.4, but the price does not very much, even with larger carat sizes.
In addition to being made into jewelry, amethyst geodes and yellow jade geodes are popular styles. Most people are drawn by the “therapeutic effect” of improving the magnetic field. It is said that Billionaire Wang Yongqing liked to place amethyst geodes in his office during his lifetime, which contributed to his robust health. The endorsement by a celebrity has also driven the popularity of amethyst geodes. When selecting amethyst geodes, pay attention to the color and size of the crystals. Generally, they are priced by the kilogram. For example, Brazilian amethyst geodes cost US$14-62; higher quality deep purple amethyst geodes from Uruguay range from US$62-94 per kilogram (about US$13-20). Yellow jade geodes are generally obtained by heating purple crystal geodes to change their color, priced at US$18-37 per kilogram.
In addition, purple-yellow crystals are also trendy among designers, primarily treated with heat, priced at US$4.7-9.4 per carat; smoky quartz, also known as black crystal, is the cheapest among crystals, priced at US$0.6-1.5 per carat (about5-11Chinese Yuan).
Including rutile, which appears as hair-like needle-like crystals, is also one of the best-selling products. The industry commonly used “full crystal” to describe the hair crystal full of hair, the fuller the price is more expensive! Commonly made into bracelets, bangles, beaded chains, pendants, rings, etc., they are priced in grams and range from tens to thousands of dollars. A complete crystal pendant is priced at US$94-313; a full crystal bracelet also costs US$156-470.
Amethyst and citrine
Rose quartz ring
There is also a new type of crystal called “green ghost,” which presents images resembling green phantoms or fake mountains due to the inclusion of chlorite within the crystal column. Green phantom crystals are mostly made into pendants or ornaments and can be bought for a few hundred to one or two thousand yuan.
Green Specter Pendant
Natural Yellow Hair Titanium Crystal Bracelet
3. Common Knowledge about Real and Fake Crystals
The most common question asked is how to distinguish between real and fake crystals, which is also a concern for many consumers.
Common crystals in the market include natural crystals, artificially colored crystals, and synthetic crystals. Due to the increasing demand for natural crystals, artificially colored and synthetic crystals have become more prevalent, and hydrothermal method crystals have also emerged. Crystals synthesized by this method are characterized by their transparency and clarity, similar to glass. Artificially colored crystals include green, yellow, and purple crystals; synthetic crystals include colorless, purple, and yellow crystals. Since their formation conditions are the same, it is difficult to distinguish between them.
Generally speaking, natural colorless crystals are clear and transparent, containing gas-liquid inclusions within the crystal, with uneven inner walls of the bubbles, a soft luster, and average purity. Natural amethyst has an uneven color, displaying an irregular flaky distribution, and contains gas-liquid inclusions. Artificially colored crystals have a uniform color, and irregular flaky color clusters are not visible within the crystal; synthetic crystals have characteristics similar to natural crystals, but synthetic crystals have a uniform color, with flaky crystal nuclei at the center and lower hardness and density. There is also a common type of crystal glass (Austrian crystal) on the market: glass made with added lead, making it heavier than regular glass. Additionally, due to the double refraction of crystals, a line can be seen splitting into two lines under a crystal ball (the larger the crystal ball, the easier it is to see).
Everyone knows that when gemstones are formed in nature, some impurities or inclusions are often trapped in the crystal, so one should be cautious about whether a transparent and flawless crystal is man-made.
Bagian IV Opal
The name “opal” comes from the Sanskrit word Upala (meaning gemstone) or the Latin word Opaius (meaning a collection of gemstones). The history of opal is as colorful and varied as the hues it emits. The Roman scholar Pliny described opal as having “the fiery red of rubies, the bright purple of amethysts, and the vivid green of emeralds, all colors emitting a brilliant fire together.” Its charm comes from its play-of-color characteristic, which produces different color changes when the gemstone is rotated.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SiO2 · nH2O | Sistem kristal isometrik | 5.5 ~ 6.5 | 1.98 ~ 2.23 | 1.37 ~ 1.47 | Variable, often red, blue, green, purple, yellow and other colors | Tidak ada | Berbentuk cangkang |
Opal is composed of tightly packed silica spheres with a diameter of 0.15-0.30 micrometers, which act like a fence to diffract light, creating a spectrum of various colors. The popularity of opal varies by region. For a time, at the international jewelry exhibition held in China Taiwan , no opal manufacturers were exhibiting, as there were few knowledgeable buyers and even fewer purchasers, leading manufacturers to skip the event.
However, in the annual jewelry show held in Hong Kong in March, June and September, there are a number of Australian opal manufacturers exhibitors. A lot of opal artwork such as rhinos and koalas, which are pretty cute, and the opals on the carvings display a rainbow of colors. Generally speaking, the price varies depending on the color variation and distribution of the opal on the carving, ranging from US$62-156.
1. Types of Opal
The most famous opal is the Australian opal, divided into two types: black and white. Among them, the black opal with a black base and a colorful surface is considered the best. The white opal has a white base of light green and light yellow, which is relatively cheap. Another common type is the Mexican fire opal, which is primarily in shades of orange and has the highest price due to its colorful sheen. Some opals have a white base with transparency and a colorful luster.
Boulder Opal
Australian Opal Brown Bear Carving purchased from Hong Kong Jewelry Show.
2. Opal Prices Revealed
The above types are all precious, especially the black opal from Australia, which has a market price of over US$625-938 per carat. Some opals may have layers, commonly seen as double layers and triple layers. Double-layered means the opal is triple-layered between the host rock, while a triple layer consists of opal, host rock, and glass. The price for opal pendants or rings with layers in Australia is around 100 US dollars.
As for Ethiopian fire opal and Mexican fire opal usually weigh less than 3 carats, with 4 to 10 carats considered medium size and over 10 carats regarded as very large. The price difference between Ethiopian fire opal and Mexican fire opal is significant, with Ethiopian opal priced at US$9-62 per carat; Mexican fire opal can range from US$31-312 per carat.
Australian fire Opal pendant, soap colorful charming.
Australian red purple Opal pendant
Australian turquoise Opal pendant
3. Maintenance of Opal
Opal is charming, but maintenance is important because, like pearls and amber, it is very sensitive to heat and sunlight. Especially under strong light, it can easily dehydrate; if dehydrated for too long, it may develop permanent cracks. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly wipe it with clean water and avoid prolonged exposure to strong light. Additionally, the layers can easily come off if layered opal is left in a dry environment or exposed to heat for a long time.
Ethiopia has three opal mining areas, each producing opals with slightly different characteristics. Generally, polished Ethiopian fire opals will gradually dehydrate and turn white in the air (usually within ten to fifteen days). If soaked in clean water for 10-30 minutes, they will slowly develop a transparent, colorful appearance without cracking. Therefore, regular care should include soaking in water and sometimes applying baby oil to maintain the colorful luster of opals.
Are there synthetic opals?
There are also artificial opal. In 1974, artificial opal appeared on the market, followed by black opals. Synthetic and natural opals have the same composition and cannot be distinguished by the naked eye; they can only be observed under a microscope. Under a microscope, artificial opal have a honeycomb, snakeskin, or fish scale structure. Therefore, when purchasing opals from reputable jewelry stores, it is important to know the origin, as price differences can be significant based on the source.
Section V Garnet
Generally, people think garnet is a single mineral, but it is composed of many elements with the same molecular structure but different compositions (heterogeneous isomorphism). Accurately determining the composition of garnet requires complex and expensive instruments to complete.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A3B2(SiO4)3 A1: Mg,Fe,Mn B1:Al A2:Ca B2:AI,Fe,Cr | Sistem kristal isometrik | 6.5 ~ 7.5 | 3.5 ~ 4.6 (change with composition) | 1.72 ~ 1.895 | Red, brown, yellow and orange,Green and black | Tidak ada | Shell-like |
Garnets can be divided into two major series based on their chemical composition: Pyrope- Almandite-Pyralspite Series and Grossularite- Andradite- Ugrandite series. In nature, garnets are rarely found in pure chemical compositions. The following introduces these two major series of garnets.
1. Pyrope- Almandite-Pyralspite Series
1.1 Pyrope
The term Pyrope comes from the Greek word Pyropos, meaning fire-like red. Pyrope is generally red or rose red. It has a glassy luster and good transparency. Typically, Pyrope has a slight pinkish-red hue, which is quite popular among consumers, with a standard size of about 1-10 carats, and the price per carat is not significantly different, ranging from US$9-31
Garnets containing both iron-aluminum and magnesium aluminum components are called Rhodolite. Its color is more purple compared to Pyrope , and its price is similar to that of Pyrope, making it popular among young people.
1.2 Almandite
Almandite is the most commonly seen garnet among general consumers. Almandite comes from the Latin Alabandine, named after the garnet discovered by the ancient Roman philosopher Pliny in Alabanda, Turkey. Due to its higher iron content, Almandite tends to be dark red. Standard sizes are 1-20 cars. For Almandite under 5 carats, the price is 1 carat US$3-15; for sizes between 5 to 10 carats, the price is US$15-31 per carat; for sizes of 10-20 carats, the price is US$46-109 per carat (approximately 330-770 Chinese Yuan). This is the most accessible entry point in the ruby series regarding price. When selecting Almandite , choose one that is not too dark; the more brilliant of the fire, the better.
1.3 Spessartite
Spessartite is named after its first discovery in the Spessart region of Germany. The colors range from yellow-orange to orange-red. Spessartite, which contains a bit of Pyrope, was discovered by early Dutch explorers in Africa and presented to the royal family; also known as Dutch stone. Spessartite is quite difficult to distinguish from orange topazes and need to be identified by instruments. Spessartitet is not cheap, and due to its brilliance, it is a relatively rare type among orange-yellow gemstones. The size is usually around 1-20 carats, and anything over 10 is rare. Generally, a 1-5 carat Spessartitet costs US$15-93; for a size of 5-10 carats,1carat costs US$109-125; for over 10 carats, 1 carat costs US$187-218.
Spessartite Ring
Spessartite Ring
2. Grossularite, Andradite, Ugrandite series
2.1 Grossularite
Grossularite comes from the Latin word “resembling a gooseberry,” initially referring to the green fruit. Due to its rich colors, it has become popular among the public. The colors range from brownish-yellow, yellow-green, and emerald green to deep green. The emerald green grossularite, due to the presence of chromium or vanadium, resembles emeralds.
Tsavorite
A type of grossularite is also translated as Sphene. Sphene was discovered in 1973 in Tsavo, Kenya, and was named after its place of origin by the American company Tiffany in 1974, significantly increasing its popularity. In the past one to two decades, it has remained popular and valuable. Given its high price, why do people like Tsavorite? First, because its hardness reaches 7.5; second, its refractive index is similar to that of rubies; third, the jade green color is pleasing and looks comfortable. The whole gemstone will be brilliant as long as the hardness and refractive index are high and the cut is good.
2.3 Carat Sphene Pendant
Sphene Ring
Sphene is predominantly deep green and is mainly produced in Tanzania. Some say Sphene is the “poor man’s emerald.” There is a significant price difference compared to high-quality emeralds, but the price per carat of Sphene is not inferior to that of Chrome Verdelite. The market price for a 1-carat Sphene is between US$312-469; for a 2-carat size, it costs US$625-781per carat; for a 3-carat size, the price is US$1094-1251 per carat; for sizes over 4 carats, high-quality ones are scarce, with prices reaching US$1563-1873 per carat. Share over 5 carats is challenging to find, and prices are negotiable. Smaller Sphenes are often used as green accent stones and are quite sought after in the market, available from 0.8-5 millimeters, but the smaller the accent stone, the harder it is to carve, leading to higher labor costs and thus higher prices. The mainstream size used by designers is around 1-2 millimeters, with a price of about US$31-62 per carat. Among green gemstones, besides jade, emerald, and Sphene, Sphene closely follows in value, indicating its preciousness.
Hidrogrossular
Translucent to opaque green Hydrogrossular, referred to by merchants as ” Transvaal Jade ” , is a substitute for jade and is sometimes mistakenly identified as jadeite by novice gem enthusiasts. Hydrogrossular usually contains inclusions, making finding a perfect, flawless specimen difficult. Generally, the size of Hydrogrossular ranges from 1-5 carats, with a unit price of US$25-37.
Hessonite
The orange-brown Grossularite is called Hessonite, which can easily be confused with the orange-yellow Dutch stone and requires scientific instruments for differentiation; the price difference between the two is also significant. Hessonite typically ranges from 1-10 cars. A Hessonite of 1-5 carats costs US$9-25; for sizes between 5 to 10 carats, it costs US$37-62.
Alexandrite Grossularite
Since 2007, Africa has been producing a Alexandrite Grossularite that shifts from blue-green to reddish-brown, with variations in the intensity of the color change. 1-carat Alexandrite Grossularite priced at US$62-93. Alexandrite Grossularites of 2-4 carats are pretty rare in the market, costing US$156-187; those over 5 carats are even scarcer, priced at US$312.
Alexandrite Grossularite, which exhibits different colors under yellow and white light.
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2.2 Andradite
Andradite is named in honor of the Portuguese mineralogist J. B. Dandrada Esilva. The colors include black, yellow-green, and green.
Demantoid
The green Demantoid is called Demantoid. Due to its rarity, its price is not cheaper than emeralds, and those larger than 1 carat are extremely rare. The main source is the Ural Mountains in Russia. It is bright and dazzling, with a high refractive index and dispersion. Many gemologists wish to collect a favorite with tail inclusions, but they have become rare. In the United States, a 1-carat Demantoid is priced at $1,000, and many loyal collectors are still eager to buy. At the 2010 Sotheby’s autumn preview, a 7-carat Demantoid was exhibited, which sparked a fierce bidding frenzy among collectors.
2.3 Uvarovite
The naming of Uvarovite is mainly to commemorate the president of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Uvarov. Its color is emerald green, primarily found in chromium-rich serpentinite in the Ural Mountains. The grains of Uvarovite are not large, not exceeding 2 millimeters, making them difficult to cut, so it is very rare to find it used as a gemstone on the market.
Section VI Spinel
Spinel comes from the Latin word “Spina,” meaning small thorn, primarily referring to the pointed tips of the crystals. Because of its sharp crystalline shape, it is named spinel. Spinel is a gemstone that closely resembles ruby and is often found in association with it. In Thailand, merchants refer to it as a “soft gem” to distinguish it from ruby, meaning it is softer in hardness; At the same time, raw spinel can be purchased in Myanmar, with a crystalline shape resembling a pyramid, and like diamonds, it is also octahedral.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MgAl2O4 | Sistem kristal isometrik | 8 | Approximately 3.58 to 3.98 | 1.71 ~ 1.73 | Variable, showing purple, blue, green, gray, black, red, and purple-red colors | Poorly developed | Poorly developed |
The colors of spinel include purple, red, yellow, and grass green, with red and blue-gray being the most common. Red spinel can easily be mistaken for ruby at first glance, making it a target for unscrupulous merchants to pass off as ruby, while blue spinel does not resemble sapphire due to its slight gray tint. If the red spinel is close in color to ruby and has brilliant fire, 1-carat size can sell for over US$312; however, if the color is not as deep red, a 1-carat spinel can be purchased for US$15-31ently, many experts favor Alexandrite Spinel, sourced from Sri Lanka and available in various sizes usually ranges from 1 to 3 carats, and the quality depends on the degree of discoloration and cleanliness, so the price of a good quality spinel with beautiful color and few imperfections is not cheap. Spinel have significantly fewer inclusions than rubies, so when selecting, the closer the color resembles that of rubies or sapphires, the better.
It is essential to note that one should not buy synthetic spinel. Typically, natural spinel contains slight octahedral spinel inclusions, which can confirm it is natural spinel. The easiest way to distinguish between ruby and spinel is to use a polarizing microscope; spinel is isotropic and does not polarize, while ruby does. Additionally, blue cobalt spinel is often synthesized by the flame fusion method on the market, which have curved stripes and tiny bubbles, clearly different from natural spinel.
spinel
ruby
Burmese spinel and Burmese ruby have very similar refractive indices, making it difficult for the average consumer to distinguish between them. A spectroscope, refractometer, and polarizing microscope are necessary for observation and differentiation.
Section VII Pearl
The Chinese love for pearls is no less than the foreign love for diamonds. If diamonds are the kings of gemstones, then pearls must be the queens. 30 Years ago, in China Taiwan, wearing a necklace of Japanese cultured pearls measuring 7-8.5 millimeters at a wedding was a dream for many bridals. Nowadays, whether among foreign royals, celebrities, entrepreneurs, supermodels, or ordinary office workers and civil servants, everyone can afford a string of pearls to wear (depending on the type of pearl).
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CaCO3 | - | 3 | 2.71 | 1.53 ~ 1.68 | Yellow, white, pink, black, gray, copper blue | - | - |
1. Types of pearls
Mutiara Air Tawar
As the name suggests, freshwater pearls are cultivated in lakes or rivers. The main production areas are lakes near Shanghai on the China, Taihu Lake, the Hangzhou area, and places like Lake Biwa in Japan.
Freshwater pearls have irregular shapes, resembling grains of rice or eggs, and sometimes appear flat or triangular, with perfectly round freshwater pearls being rare. They come in various colors: white, creamy white, pink, golden yellow, and orange. Most finished products are sent to Guangzhou and Shenzhen for sorting, drilling, stringing into necklaces, or making other products. Since a single mussel can have several pieces of meat implanted, the yield is quite large, and the prices are relatively cheap. Choosing freshwater pearls with good luster, few blemishes, and consistent shapes is advisable. Typically, a string of freshwater pearls that is 40 centimeters long and has a diameter of 5-6 millimeters can range from tens to thousands of dollars., depending on the roundness, blemishes, and luster.
Due to their low prices, freshwater pearls are often dyed in black, red, purple, blue, green, and other colors and made into various necklaces and bracelets to increase their selling points. The common feature is that the entire string has too consistent and uniform colors, which feels too artificial. Consumers should ask clearly before purchasing to avoid disputes
Saltwater Pearl
Pearls cultivated in the sea or bays are called seawater pearls. Seawater pearls can be divided into Japanese pearls and South Sea pearls. Japanese pearls are one of the most favored types of pearls, with their charming pink and white colors attracting many female consumers, especially the Japanese pearls that are white with a hint of pink, which have become the most beautiful accessories for many brides on their wedding day. Japanese pearls typically have a diameter of no more than 10 millimeters. Generally, vendors classify them by diameter into 6-6.5 mm, 6.5-7 mm, 7-7.5 mm, 7.5-8 mm, 8-8.5 mm, and 8.5-9 mm grades.
Pearls with a diameter of less than 7.5 mm are suitable for consumers around 20-35 years old; pearls of 7.5-8.5 mm are suitable for consumers of 35-50 years old; pearls of 8.5-9.5 mm are pretty rare and ideal for consumers over 50 years old (of course, it also depends on the consumer’s economic capacity). A string of Japanese cultured pearls of 6-6.5 mm, about 40 centimeters long, usually has a market price of US$312-938. As for Japanese cultured pearls of 8.5-9 mm, due to their rarity, the market price can reach US$2501-3127, depending on luster, blemishes, and color.
South Sea Pearls
South Sea pearls are mainly produced in the South Pacific region, including the waters of Myanmar, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, and other countries. Most South Sea pearls are cultivated by gold-lipped or silver-lipped oysters, which have a diameter of about 30 centimeters, roughly the size of a hand, making them the largest type of oyster. The pearls produced can range from a diameter of 9-18 mm. The general cultivation time is 1.5-2 years, shorter than Japanese cultured pearls ( 2-3 years), with a thickness of about 1 mm.
The colors of South Sea pearls are usually silver-white, pink, yellow, and golden yellow, with pink being the most favored by people. South Sea pearls have had good sales performance in China in the past decade.
The shape of South Sea pearls is mostly irregular; next is bulbous shape; tear drop or pear shape is better, most suitable for making pendants or earrings; the least common is semi-oval and round shapes. Taking a perfectly round pearl with a diameter of 14 mm and a pinkish luster as an example, the market price is about US$625-1250; if it is oval-shaped, the market price is US$312-938 Size, quantity, and distribution of the bumps or depressions on the pearl’s surface are also important factors affecting the price. If a South Sea pearl has a yellowish luster, the price is relatively lower, but golden yellow pearls are particularly precious. A natural golden pearl necklace, if it has a diameter of 14-15 mm, would cost over US$31341 to buy; one must be very careful when purchasing to avoid buying dyed golden pearls. If a strand of golden pearl necklace is sold for US$4701-6268, the price is too low, so one must pay special attention to whether it is dyed golden pearls.
South sea white pearls jewelry set including necklace and ring, earring.
Tahitian peacock green black pearls Jewelry set including necklace and ring, earring
Black pearl
The islands of French Polynesia, particularly Tahiti, are famous for producing large, high-quality black pearls. In addition, small quantities of black pearls are made in the Philippines and Okinawa. The average size of Tahitian black pearls is 8-11 mm, and a diameter of 12-14 mm is considered quite large. Occasionally, a black pearl with a diameter of 18 mm is found, which is truly a gift from God!
Black Pearl Ring
Peacock Green Black Pearl Ball
The shape of black pearls can generally be divided into spherical, pear-shaped, irregular, and button shapes. The highest grade is the spherical shape, which also has the highest price. Of course, luster, color, and degree of blemishes will also affect the cost. The luster of black pearls is different from that of white pearls; if the luster of white pearls is good enough, they appear more gentle, while if the luster of black pearls is good enough, it resembles a bright mirror. Black mop produced by black-lipped oysters can be black, gray, green, blue, and coffee colors. The darker the body color of the black pearl, the higher its value. Recently, the most sought-after in the market is a type of green pearl based on black, also known as peacock green, which has the highest price and is the most popular in the black pearl market.
2. How to choose pearls?
Pricing of pearls
The selection of pearls prioritizes color and luster, blemishes, and shape. Even irregular pearls can be transformed into beloved little accessories with the designer’s ingenuity. They still have their selling points as long as the color is beautiful and the surface is smooth. Prices are usually determined by diameter; the rounder they are, they become more expensive.
The combination of skin tone and pearl color
You should place pearls on your skin, especially your neck, to see if the pearl colors match your skin tone. Women with fair skin can boldly try black, yellow, and pink pearls; women with darker skin should choose white or pink pearls. Pearls and clothes color matching, still with black pearls with light-colored clothes, contrast, the most conspicuous. Additionally, silk fabrics can prevent pearls from being scratched and can better highlight the softness of the pearls.
How to choose a pearl necklace
Choosing a pearl necklace is a significant study; besides considering your body shape and the thickness ratio of your neck, it is also closely related to the style of your clothing neckline. Short necklaces are suitable for V-neck tops; princess-length ( 40-50 cm) pearl chains can be worn with pendants and look good with round-neck shirts; wearing multiple strands of pearls layered is currently the most popular way to wear freshwater pearls; two short chains are suitable for pairing with boat-neck dresses.
How to choose a pearl Ring
Wearing rings with horizontal lines, multi-layered settings, and round and square gemstones is very suitable for long fingers. For friends with short fingers, choosing pear-shaped, oval-shaped, or straight-line bracelets is advisable, as they can make the fingers appear longer.
3. Genuine pearls or fake pearls, just bite, and you will know.
The method passed down by the older generation for identifying pearls is to bite them. That’s right! Both cultured and natural pearls will have a rough feeling like sand, while plastic pearls will feel smooth. However, this method can only be tested at home behind closed doors; generally, merchants will not allow consumers to do this test in the store, not to mention what if you bite and damage it. I also do not entirely agree with this. Some gem books suggest using specific gravity liquid to measure density and using a refractometer to test pearls. I disagree with either because these liquids can cause a lot of damage to the pearls. Additionally, wiping the surface of pearls with alcohol or acetone can dissolve the dye, but this method will also damage the pearls and is not worth trying.
The best way to distinguish between real and fake pearls is to use a high-powered magnifying glass or microscope to observe the surface of the pearl. Under a 50-60-fold microscope, it is easy to see the seams, pits, or bumps on the surface of the pearl; fake pearls, on the other hand, have a relatively smooth surface. Additionally, imitation pearls may show signs of skin peeling at the drilled holes.
In addition to plastic and glass imitation pearls, dyed pearls and those that change color due to radiation exposure have flooded the pearl market in recent years. Dyed black pearls are made by soaking white pearls in silver nitrate to turn them black. To identify them, you can use a magnifying glass to check if the color appears dull and if the color is more profound in the cracks; furthermore, a relatively new identification method involves using a Chroma filter to observe dyed black pearls and those that change color due to radiation. Under light, the color appears dark red, while natural and cultured pearls do not change color under the filter. If the pearls are strung together, you can check if the thread color matches the pearls to make a judgment.
A type of shell pearl on the market is made by grinding shells into beads and then coating the surface with color. A necklace of shell pearls with a diameter of 9 mm can sell because all these liquids can cause a lot of damage to the pearls. US$125-156in department stores, while at the Jade Market, it can be bought for only US$15-47. The way to identify them is that each bead is almost identical, flawless, with a smooth surface, and the luster is not as natural as that of cultured pearls.
4. How to care for pearls?
When it comes to pearl care, readers must first understand its composition and physical properties. The mineral composition of pearls is mainly aragonite and calcite. Generally, aragonite is more prevalent, and both mineral components are calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Still, aragonite has a specific gravity of 2.93- 2.95 and a hardness of 3.5-4.0 , while calcite has a specific gravity of 2.71 and hardness of 3. When fresh pearls gradually lose moisture under heat and fire, they transform from aragonite to calcite, known as “the aging of pearls.” With this knowledge, one will have a basic concept of pearl care. Jewelry stores typically teach consumers to clean pearls with tap water, which is a very mistaken notion. The pH value of tap water is generally around 4, and when it is less than 7.8, calcium carbonate will dissolve, corroding the pearls.
It is recommended to wipe and clean with water at a pH value of 8.0-8.5 or use distilled water to prevent the aging of pearls. Additionally, pearls should avoid direct contact with the skin; they can be isolated with clothing or a ring holder to prevent sweat erosion. After using perfume or hair gel, please avoid direct contact with these before wearing them. In overheated places like a sauna, pearls should be worn as little as possible. Wear soft silk clothing to reduce the chance of scratching the pearls. The climate in China Taiwan is quite hot, so wearing a pearl necklace requires maintenance every night, just like taking care of your own skin; this way, the pearls will remain as good as new.
5. Can eating pearl powder make the skin whiter?
I am often asked this question, which makes me curious as well, so I investigated the situation of consuming pearl powder in a community. Among the 35 people, 26 were female, and 6 had taken pearl powder during pregnancy. As for whether it had a noticeable effect on the baby’s skin, they had different opinions. One People took it during her first pregnancy but not during her second, and as a result, the first child had whiter and more elastic skin than the second. Other students felt they couldn’t notice any effect because pearl powder was too expensive, and they didn’t take much of it.
I am not a doctor and cannot make any recommendations, but it is true that consuming too much of anything can put some burden on the body. Therefore, it is essential to follow the doctor’s instructions when taking it, pay attention to the dosage, and be careful not to consume counterfeit products (powder made from shells).
Section VIII Feldspar
Feldspar is one of the most common minerals on Earth. The feldspar family has a wide variety, with common gemstones including moonstone, sunstone, Labradorite, and amazonite.
1. Moon Stone
The composition of moonstone is a semi-transparent Labradorite, named for its appearance that emits a light similar to moonlight. Moonstone sometimes exhibits white light, pale blue sheen, cat’s eye (containing needle-like inclusions), and starstone phenomena.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KalSi3O8 | monoclinic crystal system | 6 | 2.57 | 1.52 ~ 1.53 | 1.52-1.53 Colorless, gray, white, flesh red, black, orange predominates | Complete (often fuzzy) | Uneven to shell-like |
How to choose Moonstone
Moonstone has been shining in the market in recent years due to the promotion by the international silver jewelry brand George: Jason. After George. Jason launched the Moonlight series; there has been great interest in this gem that emits a bright moonlight from the fashion industry, designers, and general consumers alike.
The cleavage of moonstone is well-developed, with a texture that is as transparent as glass, subtly emitting a blue light. The price varies depending on color and texture, with the most expensive being the transparent, glass-like blue moonstone resembling deep sea blue, followed by semi-transparent and opaque blue moonstone. The cheapest is the opaque moonstone. Opaque moonstone comes in colors such as black, gray, silver-gray, pink-orange, and orange, with varying prices. It is not expensive, priced at US$0.7-1.5 per carat, making it ideal for friends new to metalworking to practice their creations.
The top-grade transparent blue moonstone, which is as clear as glass, is priced based on its clarity and the intensity of its blue color. Those over 10 carats are relatively rare, with a market price of US$ 62-94 per carat; for moonstones sized between 5 to 10 carats, the price is US$ 25-37 per carat; and for those sized between 1 to 5 carats, it is US$ 12-25 per carat. If the moonstone has internal cracks, the price can vary significantly; sometimes, semi-transparent blue moonstones with cracks, weighing over ten carats, can be found for only US$ 15-31.
2. Sun Stone (Oligoclase)
Sunstone, solar stone, or sunlight stone primarily comprises oligoclase. The crystals often contain slight inclusions of needle-like iron ore, biotite, and hematite, which reflect a dazzling golden-yellow light, giving it its name.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Na,Ca)Al1-2Si2-3O8 | Triclinic crystal system | 6 ~ 6.5 | 2.62- ~ .65 | about 1.54 | Golden, reddish brown. glittering | Completely | uneven to shell-like |
Sunstone Selection
Sunstone can be purchased at online auctions or the Jade Market. 1-carat costs between US$3-6, considered a very affordable gemstone and a favorite among many friends in the silver and gold industry. Many young sellers create products featuring sunstones to highlight their design styles and auction them online, achieving good sales performance. Sunstone often has stone patterns; choose those that are not on the surface.
3. Labradorite
Labradorite is named after its discovery in Labrador, Canada. It is semi-transparent and exhibits green, blue, yellow, purple, and golden-red colors. The play of colors is mainly due to Labradorite’s parallel twin crystal planes, which create interference patterns when light hits different planes.
The Labradorite produced in Finland is also known as Spectrolite, just like a prism that separates the sunlight spectrum into a rainbow. The Labradorite from Utah, USA, is a slightly yellowish transparent variety; the Labradorite from Canada is found on the coast of Labrador; hence, it is also called “Labradorite.”
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Na,Ca)Al1-2Si2-3O8 | Triclinic system | 6 ~ 6.5 | 2.7 | 1.559 ~ 1.568 | Colorless, yellow, brown, light to dark gray | Complete | Uneven to flaky |
How to buy Labradorite
Spectrolite is relatively inexpensive, and most of it is made into silver jewelry items. Finished products can be bought for just a few dozen dollars at jade markets or online auctions, with a maximum of over US$31. Clean specimens of Spectrolite are rare; pay attention to its rainbow colors. Spectrolite rough stones and raw materials can be found in online auctions or jade markets for 1 carat at US$06-0.9, making it a favorite among beginner metalworking students.
4. Amazonite
Amazonite, also known as Amazonite, is primarily composed of microcline and is sky blue or green. It features cross-shaped net-like stripes and is usually opaque. Some merchants may use Amazonite as a substitute for jade, with the main difference being their specific gravity.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KalSi3O8 | Triclinic crystal system | 6 ~ 6.5 | 2.56 ~ 2.62 | 1.518 ~ 1.527 | light yellow | Complete | Uneven to lobed |
Selection of Amazonite
Amazonite products are not commonly seen on the market, mostly sold as raw stones, with prices ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars depending on size.
5. Andesine
Neutral feldspar, also known as andesine, has appeared in large quantities in the international market since 1997, attracting attention to this emerging gemstone. The primary colors are red and orange, produced in the United States, Africa, and China. It contains many needle-like inclusions, and the uniformly colored neutral feldspar looks like ruby, selling for 40-50 dollars per carat on the market.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Na, Ca) Al1-2Si2-3O8 | Monoclinic system | 6 | 2.57 | 1.52 ~ 1.53 | Red, orange | Complete (often vague) | Berbentuk cangkang |
Section IX Amber
Like pearls and coral, Amber is an organic gemstone that consumers love for its beautiful color and soft texture. Amber is a fossilized tree resin from 30 to 60 million years ago and is classified as an organic material. Its main component is resin, and it has a very low hardness. During its formation, Amber often encapsulates insects, with flies, ants, and ant-like creatures being the most common, while those containing scorpions are the rarest and most valuable; the more insects it contains, the more useful it is. It is mainly produced in the Baltic Sea, China, Italy, Romania, and Myanmar. In Dominican amber, approximately one out of every hundred raw stones contains insect inclusions; in Baltic amber, only one of every thousand includes insects.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| - | Amorphous | About 2 to 3 | 1.05 ~ 1.12 | About 1.54 | The male has opaque wax in yellow and colors like blue and green. | - | - |
Besides being made into ornaments, Amber is also a type of traditional Chinese medicine that can be purchased in Chinese medicine shops. Unprocessed Amber has a resinous luster, and after polishing, it presents a resinous luster close to glass luster. Generally, it is distinguished by color: opaque waxy yellow is called beeswax, golden yellow is called golden Amber, red is called crimson amber, blue is called blue Amber, and opaque black is called black Amber. Suppose the light can be seen under the transparent red called orange color amber. Blue Amber is relatively precious and will exhibit blue fluorescence under fluorescent light.
Blue Amber Pendant
Amber Gourd
1. How do we distinguish between genuine and fake Amber?
Natural Amber is becoming rare, so recycled Amber, mixed Amber (real amber combined with chemical components), and fake Amber have become prevalent.
Commonly seen recycled Amber on the market is made by heating amber fragments until they melt and then reshaping them. During manufacturing, the producers creatively add insects, flower petals, and more. How can you distinguish between real and fake? It depends on the degree of struggle of the insects in the Amber. Generally, the wings and limbs of insects in recycled Amber appear stiff. If the insect struggles and dies in the resin, its body and legs will be separated, and the wings will be spread out, showing an attempt to escape. Additionally, There are tiny air bubbles in Amber because insects exhale their last breath when they finally die in the resin. It is also because when recycled Amber cools, the uneven internal heat dissipation produces record-like oval flakes (commonly known as sunflowers), which is the best way to recognize recycled Amber.
Additionally, because recycled Amber cools unevenly, it can produce oval-shaped objects similar to records (commonly referred to as sunflowers), which is also the best method to identify recycled Amber. Moreover, there is a simple method: place the Amber in saturated saltwater (add salt to the water and stir until the salt can no longer dissolve). If it sinks, it is fake because it is heavier. However, if it floats, it is not necessarily real; it could be a counterfeit specially adjusted for weight. This method can only confirm that the one that sinks is fake. If the Amber has various colorful swirls (commonly red, green, and purple), it indicates that it is artificially made.
2. Market information revealed
Amber is commonly made into bracelets, prayer beads, necklaces, etc., generally priced by the gram, with 1 gram usually costing US$9-15; a bracelet costs around US$31-125; a necklace can range from a few thousand to US$312-624; the most expensive and rarest blue Amber is priced at 1 gram for US$15-46. Fake Amber (plastic beads) can be bought for a bracelet at US$9-15. Consumers can compare prices to find affordable and desirable Amber.
Hematurgical Rose Tableware
In commercial terms, transparent amber is called amber, while opaque amber is called beeswax; in fact, their composition is the same.
3. How do you choose and maintain?
When selecting beads, it is essential to ensure the size and color tone are consistent; when purchasing carved ornaments, it is advisable to choose those with fine craftsmanship and uniform texture.
Amber is a fossil resin sensitive to heat, abrasion, sunlight, and strong acids and bases (ammonia, fertilizers, detergents, perfumes, and hair sprays) and is prone to cracking. It should be kept away from heavy impacts or fire. If it gets dusty, wipe it clean with water. If you have olive oil, you can apply a thin layer on the surface to restore its luster. Yellow amber will gradually darken over time, turning into a reddish or brownish hue, which collectors highly seek after.
Section X Topaz
Topaz is known as aluminum fluorosilicate in geology, and yellow topaz is easily confused with citrine, so it is now commonly referred to as topaz in the market, with some calling it “yellow topaz,” with the transparent ones being the finest.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al2SiO4(F, OH)2 | Orthorhombic | 8 | 3.4 ~ 3.6 | 1.62 ~ 1.63 | Colorless, yellow, pink, wine yellow, green, and golden | Completely | Berbentuk cangkang |
champagne-coloured topaz
1. Market information is public.
Topaz comes in white, golden yellow, light orange-red, pink, blue, champagne, and other colors, with blue and champagne being the most common in the market. Since it is called yellow topaz, it is strange that it is not commonly seen in the market. This is mainly because yellow topaz (also known as Imperial Topaz, ranging from golden yellow to light orange-red) is primarily found in sizes of 1-3 carats, with 1 carat costing about US$31-37, making it significantly more expensive than blue or champagne topaz.
Blue topaz is classified by color into three types: London blue, royal blue, and Swiss blue. London Blue has a hint of black, Royal Blue is the darkest blue, and Swiss Blue is a lighter blue. Blue topaz is lighter and cheaper, with 1 carat costing US$3-4, and deeper colors costing 1 carat US$6-12. As for pink topaz, the color is mostly artificially treated, with 1 carat on the market costing US$6-9.
Because topaz has large crystal particles, sizes of 50-150 carats are also very common in the market. Due to high production, prices have not fluctuated much over the past decade, and sizes can be customized. If the topaz is cut in a millennium style, the price per carat is US$9-15.
royal blue topaz pendant
Swiss Blue Topaz gem Emerald cut
London Blue Topaz gem pear cut
2. How do you choose topaz?
Topaz is a timeless gemstone that always stays in style. Because it is affordable, it is also an entry point for consumers to engage with gemstones. Topaz is prone to chipping and breaking, so special care should be taken when collecting it to avoid scratches.
When purchasing, choose a color you like, but be particularly aware that blue topaz is usually produced from white topaz that has been irradiated. It is generally left for more than six months to allow radioactive materials to decay and become non-radioactive before being sold. This is an accepted practice in the global jewelry industry.
Section XI Zircon
Most people would think zircon is Cubic zirconia, but this is a misunderstanding. Zircon is natural zirconium silicate, while Cubic zirconia is made of artificial zirconia. The refractive index of hyacinth is high, especially for Blue Zircon, which has particularly good fire and can resemble beautiful diamonds, unlike Cubic zirconia, which cannot replicate it.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZrSiO4 | Tetragonal crystal system | 6 ~ 7.5 | 3.95 ~ 4.73 | 1.78 ~ 1.85 | Often appears in light green, yellow, brown, blue, and | - | Berbentuk cangkang |
Blue Zircons are mostly below 1-3 carats, with 1 carat costing US$15-21; zircon of 5-10 carats are relatively rare, with 1 carat costing between US$31-46; those over 10 carats are very scarce, costing US$93-156 per carat.
Blue Zircon is the best entry-level option for Sapphires, with a brilliant deep blue color akin to diamonds, making it an excellent material for jewelry designers to showcase their creativity. If you can’t afford blue diamonds, consider getting a 5-carat Blue Zircon to indulge!
In addition to Blue Zircons, there are also yellow, brown, green, and red ones, mainly produced in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Laos, Myanmar, and other places. The dazzling colors are worth savoring.
Yellow Zircon gems oval cut
Yellow Zircon gems oval cut finger ring
Section XII Spodumene
Spodumene, also known as Kunzite, is named after Dr. George Frederick Kunz (1856-1932), who discovered it in 1902. Dr. Kunz was a crucial contemporary gemologist in the United States, showing his passion for gemology at a young age. The globally accepted unit of gem weight, “carat,” was advocated and established as an international standard by Dr. Kunz in the early 20th century. The primary sources of spodumene are in the United States, Brazil, and Pakistan.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LiAISi2O6 | monoclinic crystal system | 6 ~ 7 | 3.18 | 1.660 ~ 1.676 | Often pinkish purple to dark purple, yellow, green | Fully stigmatic | jagged to lobed |
Initially, spodumene was mainly used to extract lithium (Li) elements, but later, it was cut and polished into gemstones due to its captivating colors. In addition to the violet-colored Kunzite, there is also yellow spodumene, which resembles light yellow crystals and is not commonly found in the market; the green spodumene is called hiddenite, which can rival jadeite or emerald, with its deep green hue making it hard to look away!
Purple spodumene
Yellow spodumene
Green spodumene
Selection and Maintenance
Kunzite has become very popular in recent years, mainly driven by the international brand Tiffany, making many people pay attention to this violet-colored Kunzite. Kunzite comes in light pink, pink, and violet colors, with prices depending on the depth of color. The average cost for light pink Kunzite is US$ 6-12 per carat; pink Kunzite is US$15-31; violet is the highest grade, with an average price of US$37-62 per carat. In addition to selecting the color, one should also consider the quantity of inclusions and the brilliance of the cut.
Kunzite under 10 carats is standard, while the best-selling size is around 10-30 carats. Larger Kunzite can reach up to 30-100 carats, and those over 100 carats are pretty rare in the market, with many jewelry stores using them as store treasures.
Due to the unstable colors of the spodumene family, Kunzite is a rare natural gemstone that can fade when exposed to sunlight, earning it the title of “evening gemstone,” making it most suitable for wearing at evening events. When storing, remember not to expose it to intense light; it is best kept in a jewelry box. When set as a loose stone, it is also essential to remind the setter not to apply direct heat or electroplating. Once the color lightens or even turns white, it cannot be restored, and its value will immediately disappear. Additionally, Kunzite has perfect cleavage, so it should be kept from impacts to avoid scratches or damage.
Section XIII Prehnite
At first hearing, the name “Prehnite” might suggest a purple gemstone, but its main colors range from yellow-green to emerald green. It is named after Colonel Pliny because its crystal shape resembles grapes. Five or six years ago, glamor swept across China, and many designers adopted Prehnites to create various accessories. In those years, more than half of the world’s production of Prehnites was sold to China.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ca2Al(AlSi3O10) (OH)2 | Rhombohedral | 6 ~ 6.5 | 2.8 ~ 2.95 | 1.61 ~ 1.63 | Colourless to grey turning yellow, yellow-green or white | Inconspicuous | Uneven |
The price of Prehnite mainly depends on its color and clarity. The higher the price, the greener, more transparent, and flawless. Cheap Prehnite of 1 carat costs US$0.9-1.5, most of which have internal stone patterns. Light yellow or pale green clean Prehnite costs US$1.5-6 for 1 carat; medium-grade color Prehnite is priced at US$12-18 for 1 carat. As for flawless Prehnite, which is as green as glass-like jade, due to the local raw materials in Thailand being out of stock, polished rough stones have not been seen for over a year. What is available in the market is mainly from a few years ago, with the price being US$46-62 for 1 carat.
The characteristic of Prehnite is its oily feel, with large crystalline particles that can reach 40-50 carats, mostly cut into cabochons, with a small portion carved into pendants. It has a hardness of 6 and is prone to wear, so avoid collisions. Light yellow-green color is the most common in the market.
Prehnite mines look like clusters of grapes.
Prehnite Pendant
Section XIV Sphene
The name of the Sphene comes from the Greek word “wedge,” its crystals are relatively flat and wedge-shaped. It has an intense fire and rich colors, with a brilliance that exceeds that of diamonds. The colors are mostly yellow, brown, and green, with solid pleochroism and strong double refraction, so the overlapping phenomenon of the back facets can be seen from above.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CaTi (SiO5) | Monoclinic system | 5 ~ 5.5 | 3.52 | 1.90 ~ 2.034 | Green, yellow-green, brownish-yellow. Brown | Columnar cleavage | Shell-like to irregularly fractured |
Sphene has suddenly risen in popularity in the last three years. In the Japanese market, Sphene over 10 carats cost more than US$ 312 per carat, and it is difficult to find large stones. The most expensive is green Sphene, followed by yellow-green, then yellow-brown. Typically, the maximum size is 1-3 carats, and they often contain inclusions, with clean ones being rare. For Sphene under 3 carats, the price is US$ 15-31 per carat; for those around 10 carats, it is US$ 31-78; green Sphene over 10 carats is the rarest, usually costing US$156-218 per carat.
When selecting Sphene, pay attention to the cut, fire, and shape; the more robust the fire, the better. Since Sphene has a hardness of only 5.5, avoid collisions and friction.
Section XV Peridot
Peridot is one of the earliest minerals formed during magma crystallization and is associated with volcanic basalt. It can be found in places like Penghu Bay and Green Island in China Taiwan. Peridot has a lot of inclusions, making it difficult to find specimens with high clarity. The colors include yellow-green, green, and dark green, with the Burmese emerald green Peridot being the most popular and expensive. Burmese Peridot in the size of 5 to 10 carats costs between US$ 37-62 per carat; for those over 10 carats, it costs between US$ 78-109. The characteristic of Peridot is that it has a slight haziness, unlike other green gemstones that are more transparent.
| Komposisi | Crystal system | Kekerasan | Specific Gravity | Indeks refraksi | Warna | Cleavage | Fracture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Mg, Fe)2SiO4 | Orthorhombic | 6.5 ~ 7 | 3.27 ~ 3.48 | 1.654 ~ 1.690 | Yellow-green, often appearing from light green to deep green. | Not completely clear. | Berbentuk cangkang |
it was pretty challenging to find Peridot over 10 carats, as the main ones visible on the island then were from Jilin. However, in recent years, it has been found that there are also many Burmese Peridots over 10 carats, although many have stone lines or black inclusions; in Thailand & Pakistan, some Peridots close to 30 carats with dark green, and the price is relatively low.
Since 2008, a lot of Peridot has been released from China and Pakistan; thus, the price has also dropped significantly. A 1-carat Pakistani Peridot can be bought for US$3-6; a 1-5-carat Peridot costs US$9-15; for sizes between 5 to 10 carats, it costs US$31-46; for 10-20 carats, it costs US$62-78; for over 20 carats, it costs US$109-125. A 1-carat Peridot is cheap so that it can be custom-cut into various shapes and sold in bulk to silver jewelry factories, or set into pendants or rings for sale. In the Taipei Jade Market, small Peridot chips can be bought for ten Dollars per small pack, which can be strung into necklaces or bracelets. Peridot is relatively soft, not resistant to impact, and should not be stored together in a pile.