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When you look at the fine array of brightly colored gemstone you cannot help but gasp at the sheer beauty of these stones that are nature’s gift to mankind. These vividly colored gemstones when transformed into some magnificent pieces of jewelry are indeed hard to resist. Blessed with vivid hues that are not only distinct but also distinguish one gemstone from the other, each of these fascinating stones have a unique look and appeal. So let us here talk about gemstones, their characteristics and of course their unparallel beauty.
Most gemstones are found from the pit of the Earth and are nothing but mineral compositions with varying components. Once mined, the gemstones are cleaned, treated, cut and polished after which they acquire the look we are familiar with. Interestingly there are certain gemstones that are known as precious gemstones while others are called semi precious. Although there is no scientific way of discerning the most common way of distinguishing between the two is to consider their rarity. So while diamonds, sapphires, emeralds and rubies are known as precious gemstones while others fall into the semi precious category.
The quality or worth of gemstones is determined by carefully looking into the four characteristics namely color, cut, clarity and carat also known as the four C’s. Gemstones are also graded according to these four discerning yardsticks. The GIA or Gemological Institute of America happens to be the most recognized organization in the world that grades gemstones on the basis of the qualities they possess.
There are other such bodies across the world as well like the IGI (International Gemological Institute), AGS (American Gemological Society) and EGL (European Gemological Laboratory) to name a few that also deal with gemstones and their grading. The certificate issued by these institutes holds great importance as it gives the detailed information about all the traits of the gemstone as well as its estimated value.
It is interesting to note that gemstones hardly resemble the stunning form we know them to possess when they are first mined and it is only after a long and carefully conducted procedure of cleaning and treatment that they acquire the their color. While most gemstones are heat treated there are also some softer varieties that are oil treated or treated with the use of wax that help them attain their lovely hues. The latter process includes cutting of the gemstones to give them not only a particular shape but also a shimmer that transforms them from mere rocks to dazzling and vibrant gemstones.
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