Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise ~ by Grace Augustine

December is another one of those odd months with three birthstones. The Traditional gem for December is turquoise. Tanzanite and Zircon
were added later. Let's look at the properties of these beauties individually.

Photo courtesy: Deposit Photos

The Zircon is a luminescent tetragonal with with prismatic crystals that are often twinned. This gem comes in a variety of colors, with ice blue being the most common. The stone is found world-wide, especially imbedded in granites.

It is often mistaken for cubic zirconia, which it is not. It is a gem of it's own, not manmade. When cut properly, the zircon closely resembles the diamond. Even though this gem mimics the diamond, the zircon is rarer than the diamond.

On the MOHS scale, it comes in at a 6, a relatively soft gem compared to the diamond that is a 10. To read more about the zircon, please visit  gemsociety.org

Photo Courtesy: Deposit Photos

The Tanzanite  In it's natural state, the gem, also known as zoisite, is a reddish brown. With heat treating it turns a beautiful blue or violet color. Virtually all tanzanite is heat treated to bring out the luster and color of the gem.

Their relative softness requires tender treatment when wearing and cleaning. A simple bump of the gem may cause non-repairable issues.

Zoisite is named after Baron Sigmund Zois, who presented the first specimens to Abraham Gottlob Werner, a great mineralogist. The name Tanzanite is the Tiffany & Co. trade name for blue zoisite, named after it's country of origin.

For more information on this lovely gem, please visit gemsociety.org

The Turquoise This gem is well-known, especially in the southwestern United States. It's traditional blue to green colors are normally set in silver. When you think of this gem, you can't help but think of the beautiful squash blossom necklaces.

Photo courtesy: Hoel's Indian Shop

This gem is moderately priced, making it a collectible for many. Its softness, coming in on the MOHS scale at a 5-6 at best, lends for delicate care. The stone was first brought to Europe from Iran.

Turquoise is formed by bubbling ground waters in aluminous rocks where copper is present. It can be found in Iran, Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Tibet, and here in the United States in New Mexico and Arizona.

For more information on this traditional December birthstone, please visit gemsociety.org

If you have enjoyed this series on gemstones, please click HERE to visit my members page where the other blogs posts are listed.

Opals and Tourmaline ~ by Grace Augustine

I've always wanted a mother's ring. However, having children born in the months of April (diamond) and October (opal), and my birthstone being an amethyst, it would cost a small fortune that I don't have.

This month we explore the beautiful opal and tourmaline. October is

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one of those months with more than one birthstone. I guess there is a traditional and a modern gemstone, and I'm not sure which is which. So, we'll start alphabetically with the Opal.

Did you know that opals are mineraloids? That means their water content is between 6% and 10%. It is also a hydrated amorphous form of silica. The opal has a pearly, waxy look to it. They come in many colors: black, pink, white, grey, blue, green, purple, yellow, red, brown, and orange. (you can see the various colors at https://geology.com/gemstones/opal/ )And you will always find a fire (known as a 'play of color') in the gemstone. Their MOHS ranking is a 5.5-6.5, making it one of the softer gems, so be careful not to scratch these beauties.

In the early 1900's, numerous discoveries of opal assured Australia

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the leader in production and export of this gemstone. Fire Opals are found in Mexico and Ethiopia. Common and fancy varieties are found in Hungary, Indonesia, Brazil, Peru, Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Slovania, and the Czech Republic. Opals have also been found here in the United States in Nevada, Oregon, Idaho, and Louisiana.

If you want loyalty and faithfulness, then wear opals. This seductive stone intensifies emotional states and releases inhibitions.

The Tourmaline is classified as a semi-precious stone and has a

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hexagonal crystal system. This crystalline mineral is found in a variety of colors: green, black, pink, blue, red, yellow, purple, white, grey, orange, and brown (you can see all of the colors and shapes here (https://geology.com/minerals/tourmaline.shtml ) It's appearance is opaque to transparent and on the MOHS scare of hardness, the tourmaline comes in at a 7.0-7.5--a fairly hardy gemstone.

Brazil has been the lead source for tourmaline for over 500 years. The first commercial tourmaline mine was found in 1821 near the town of Paris, Maine, however, the most important source here in the States are the mines in Southern California.

This beautiful gemstone is known for it's power in reducing toxin

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related illnesses. Wearing tourmaline also will aid in reducing stress, improve circulation, and strengthen the immune system.

In this photo, you can see the hexagonal point watermelon tourmaline.





To view the other posts in my gemstone series, please visit my members page by clicking HERE

Beautiful Blue Beauties--Sapphires ~ by Grace Augustine

photo: Pinterest

The most famous of all sapphires is, of course, the beautiful 2.5c sapphire surrounded with diamonds that graced the hand of Princess Diana. The ring has since been passed on to the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, who proudly wears this remembrance of Prince William’s mother.

Sapphire is the birthstone for the month of September. This precious gemstone is a variety of the mineral corundum. As the third hardest precious gemstones, it comes in at a 9 on the Mohs scale.  It’s durability makes this stone one to be worn daily. 

photo: Deposit Photos

Ruby and Sapphire are both forms of corundum, but each forms in different ways. While the ruby forms in marble, the sapphire forms in granitic pegmatites or corundum syenites. Sapphires that are completely untreated are more valuable than those that have. Sapphires are mined in East Africa, Madagascar, Myanmar, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Australia, and the United States. 

photo: Deposit Photos

One place to mine sapphires in the US is in my home state, Montana. Spokane Bar Sapphire Mine, outside of Helena, and Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine, outside of Philipsburg, have all of the equipment needed. When you visit, you can sift through your own purchased bucket of dirt, hoping to find one of the blue beauties. Please check out their websites.  https://gemmountainmt.com/
https://www.sapphiremine.com/

The sapphire comes in a variety of colors and is mined in many different locations worldwide. Kashmir sapphires set the standard high with intense color and velvety hue. The Padparadscha sapphire is a rare pinkish-orange gem whose name means “lotus flower.”

During the Middle Ages, Greeks would wear the sapphire while visiting the Oracle of Delphi and to find favor with the god Apollo. In Medieval times, the stone was associated with the tranquility and majesty of the heavens. Because many believed it symbolized heaven, clergy wore sapphires. Kings and Queens wore the precious gemstone for protection and to attract wealth. The sapphire was also found in the breastplates of the High Priest of Israel.

photo: Pinterest/Blue Earth

“From antiquity, gemstones have been thought to possess mysterious powers. Sapphire is said to be the wisdom stone, stimulating concentration, enhancing creativity, and promoting purity and depth of thought. It is believed to focus and calm the mind as well as remove unwanted thoughts, depression, and mental tension. It is known as the stone of new love and commitment and is claimed to be useful in encouraging faithfulness and loyalty. Sapphire is thought to bring peace of mind, serenity, and prosperity.” (Fire Mountain Gems)

Clean sapphire stones with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse the stone well after washing it. Ultrasonic treatment and steam cleaning may be used; however, like many gemstones, sapphire should not be boiled.

Ruby, Ruby, Ruby Will You Be Mine? ~ by Grace Augustine

Photo: Deposit Photos

Did you know that the ruby is considered the “king of all gems”? I’m assuming that is because of the beautiful, vibrant color and belief that the stone carries the properties of love, health, wisdom, and good fortune. Rubies aren't only for women, as evidenced by this gorgeous men's ring below.

The deep red of the ruby comes from the mineral corundum. The more corundum, the more color. The finest of all would be if the gem had a touch of purple, referred to as ‘pigeon’s blood’.

On the Mohs scale of hardness, the ruby is second only to the diamond for durability.

“In ancient India, ruby was called the “king of precious stones” for its rarity, hardness (second only to diamond), beauty and seemingly mystical powers. Long associated with the life force blood, ruby was a symbol of power and youthful energy in Indian jewelry. In past centuries, some believed this birthstone for July could predict misfortune or danger, and others claimed it would cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger. Burmese warriors believed it made them invincible in battle. Medieval Europeans maintained that rubies bestowed health, wisdom, wealth and success in love.” **


Rubies are most prominently found in Myanmar, Vietnam. Mozambique, Thailand, Cambodia, and Madagascar.

Caring for this precious gem is easy…a simple wash in a mild soapy solution and make sure to completely dry your stone. For more information on this beauty, please visit 

https://www.jewelsforme.com/ruby-meaning

 https://www.gia.edu/birthstones/july-birthstones

 

To read more of my birthstone series, please visit my page by clicking HERE.

**information from gia.edu.

**Jewelry photos courtesy of Riddle Jewelers

June, A Three Birthstone Month ~ by Grace Augustine

June babies are lucky. They have a choice of birthstones in today’s society. Traditionally, the pearl is known as June’s gemstone. In later years moonstone and Alexandrite were added. One theory for that is because of the zodiac sign of Gemini which encompasses a part of the month. Another theory is that other stones were chosen because of the rarity of the birthstone.

The Pearl
“Ancients from the Middle East believed that pearls were teardrops

Photo courtesy DepositPhotos

fallen from heaven. The Chinese fancied that the June birthstone came from the brain of a dragon. Christopher Columbus and his contemporaries thought that mollusks formed pearls from dew drops.”**

We all know that pearls grow inside oysters or mollusks. To explain a bit about that…a particle of sand or other medium infiltrates the shell of the oyster/mollusk, which secretes a substance called nacre, and covers the infiltrate. This is how a Natural Pearl is formed. Cultured Pearls are a bit different. A technician places a piece of mantle tissue or a mother of pearl shell bead into the oyster/mollusk and it is again covered with nacre. However, these mollusks/oysters are in “farms” that are taken care of by humans and protected from predators.

A symbol of purity and innocence, the pearl has been given for centuries as gifts at weddings. The beneficial properties of pearls include prosperity, long life, alleviating indigestion, improving eyesight, and quelling depression.

Pearls require special attention when caring for them since they are one of the softest gems we have, coming in at a 2.5-3.0 on the mohs scale. Store your pearls separately from other jewelry so they will not be damaged by metal. Never store them in a plastic bag, and always put on your pearls AFTER use of hairspray and perfumes. They should be cleaned with a soft cloth after each use.

THE MOONSTONE
“Moonstone is the best-known gem of the feldspar group of

Photo courtesy Pinterest

minerals. It is renowned for its adularescence, the light that appears to billow across a gemstone, giving it a special glow. The finest moonstones show a blue sheen against a colorless background. This June birthstone has been associated with both the Roman and Greek lunar deities. Hindu mythology claims that it is made of solidified moonbeams. Moonstone is often associated with love, passion and fertility; it is believed to bring great luck.” **

The Moonstone was added to the June birthstones during the 60’s flower child movement and again in 1990 during an insurgence of New Age artwork.

Moonstones are found North Carolina, New Mexico, and Virginia, but also in a variety of countries around the world, most notably Sri Lanka and India.

The moonstone isn’t a stable gem, meaning it can crack under pressure. So, no ultrasonic cleaning for this beauty. A light solution of soapy water and a soft brush will suffice then a gentle polishing with a soft cloth.

THE ALEXANDRITE
This gem is named after the young Russian, Alexander II, the heir

Photo courtesy Riddle Jewelry

apparent to the throne in the 1800’s. Alexandrite’s colors are the same as the military of Imperial Russia.

“Alexandrite is the rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl that changes color in different lighting. Most prized are those alexandrite birthstones that show a vivid green to bluish green in daylight or fluorescent light, and an intense red to purplish red in incandescent light. When certain types of long, thin inclusions are oriented parallel to each other in this June birthstone, they can create another phenomenon, called chatoyancy or the cat’s-eye effect. Few gems are as fascinating – or as stunning – as cat’s-eye alexandrite.” **

Due to mining, the deposits of Alexandrite in the Ural Mountains were depleted. Most of this gem is mined in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa. It is one of the more expensive colored gems because of its scarcity.

Coming in on the Mohs scale at an 8.5, this gem is fairly hard and because of that is a great choice for an everyday wear. Caring for your Alexandrite is as simple as a swish in warm soapy water and drying with a soft cloth.

To view the other posts in this series or any of my others, please click HERE.

**information in italics is from http://www.gia.edu

What is in a Lump of Coal...Fact or Fiction? ~ by Grace Augustine

depositphotos/graceaugustine

And the question remains today…are diamonds formed from coal?

To answer that, simply, no. For a broader description, please visit  GEOLOGY.COM

Today we will explore diamonds: shapes, sizes, colors, meanings—anything and everything you’ve ever wanted to know about these beauties. (Well, maybe not everything.)

The very first diamonds were found in India in the 4th century. So, you see, they’ve been around for a long time. The majority of these gems were moved between India and China on what became known as the Silk Road. What is the Silk Road, you ask? It was a network of routes used for trading and connected the East with the West in the 2nd through 18th centuries. They were integral to the economic, political, cultural, and religious interaction between the countries who used the routes.

Back to the theory of coal and diamonds. Ironically, both are from the most common of substances…carbon. The difference between the two is found in the molecular atom arrangement. Diamonds are formed when carbon is heated to extremely high temperatures and pressures found 90-240 miles within the earth. (According to  BRILLIANCE.COM )

The use of rings as a symbol of commitment dates back to ancient

Photo courtesy Riddle Jewelry

history, specifically to the betrothal (truth) rings of the Romans. These early rings, often formed from twisted copper or braided hair, were worn on the third finger of the left hand. The placement of the ring was significant, as Romans believed that a vein in the third finger (vena amorous) ran directly to the heart. For Romans, betrothal rings were given as a sign of affection or friendship and did not always represent the rite of marriage.

The history of the engagement ring began in 1215, when Pope Innocent III, one of the most powerful popes of the Middle Ages, declared a waiting period between a betrothal and the marriage ceremony. The rings were used to signify the couple’s commitment in the interim. It was around this same time that rings were introduced as a major component of the wedding ceremony, and it was mandated by the Roman government that all marriage ceremonies be held in a church. In addition to serving as symbols of an intention to marry, these early rings also represented social rank; only the elite were permitted to wear ornate rings or rings with jewels.

The first recorded presentation of a diamond engagement ring was in 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed marriage to Mary of Burgundy. Although engagement rings were common at this time, diamonds were a rarity and were reserved for royalty and the upper elite class.”

In 1866 a 15 yr. old boy found a 21.25 carat diamond in South

Photo: Pinterst Cullinan Diamond

Africa. The largest diamond ever found, the Cullinan Diamond, found in 1905, weighed in at a whopping 3,106.75 carats. It was named for Thomas Cullinan, chairman of the mine where it was harvested. Today, it’s estimated worth is $400,000,000, it is not up for sale because it is part of the Crown Jewels and owned by the UK.

The DeBeers Diamonds held a monopoly on the diamond marked for years, beginning in the early 1800’s. Thanks to them, the diamond has become the symbol of love. You can read more about the DeBeers rise and fall in the diamond industry HERE .

The diamond is the birthstone for the month of April. It is the hardest substance known and is used not only in jewelry, but as cutting tools, stereo needles, and in the health industry. It marks the 60th wedding anniversary.

A diamond’s worth is based on the 4 C’s—Cut, Color, Clarity, and

Photo courtesy Riddle Jewelry

Carat. Diamonds are used in engagement and wedding rings, set in necklaces, and worn as studs in the ear.

A symbol of purity and innocence, this precious gem also embraces the aspects of truth and trust. The owner and wearer of diamonds can revel in its power. The diamond is known to improve the wearer’s energy, endurance, and love life. It is believed to bring inner peace and positive mental attitude. When worn around the neck or on the third finger of the left hand (because of a vein-vena amoris-that is said to go from your finger straight to your heart) the diamond’s power increases.

The diamond will always be a favorite among those preparing for a proposal. The stone can be cut in many ways that enhance and showcase the facets of the particular stone. Pear, Round, Princess, Marquis, Cushion, Emerald, Radiant, and Oval are the major shapes for cutting.

Photo courtesy Riddle Jewelry

And, diamonds aren’t only for women, although, with settings in

rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, you can see why they are purchased for women. Men, too, enjoy a little sparkle in a ring, tie clip, or cuff links.

If you enjoyed learning about the Diamond, please check out  MY PAGE for other gemstone posts. In May, we will explore the beauty of the Emerald. Until then, Sparkle on!

Photos are used with permission of Riddle Jewelry and Deposit Photos via Grace Augustine.

Aquamarine~ by Grace Augustine

Today, we continue our series on birthstones, exploring the beauty,

Photo: Riddle Jewelry

property, and meaning of the AQUAMARINE. As the birthstone of March, it is the perfect color to usher in Spring.
     The word “aquamarine” means water of the sea and is evident in the bright beautiful color of this gem. It’s translucent turquoise color makes it a popular addition to most fashioned jewelry collectibles. It is a hard and durable gem, but prone to cracks if the stone hits a surface, such as a counter or other household item. It’s beautiful color may fade because of sunlight exposure.
     Most of the aquamarine that is harvested is from Brazil. However it is also found in Pakistan, Myanmar, Mozambique, Kenya, and here in the United States in the state of Colorado.
     From the beryl family of stones, aquamarine is often mistaken for blue topaz, a gem that is much less expensive. 

Photo: Riddle Jewelry

     Folklore has it aquamarine was kept in treasure chest by mermaids who doled it out to protect their favorite sailors. With its light to deep turquoise sea color, it is easy to see how this stone could be a protectant to those who traverse water. In Medieval times, it is said to have enhanced the happiness of marriages. Today, it is the official gemstone to gift on the 19th wedding anniversary.

Photo: Riddle Jewelry

Because of its soothing, go-with-the-flow energies, it is used frequently in crystal healing. Known to open the heart chakra, the aquamarine also enhances the throat chakra for healing with immunity issues. It works to clear and cleanse the water element within our body (because our bodies are made up of 70% water) which allows energies to flow as they should.
     The aquamarine contains vibrant powers of ancient seas. It has evolved over millions of years, this gem plays an essential role in calming emotions of grief and loneliness. It also encourages inner strength and bravery.

     Modern mermaids (you and I) can benefit from the aquamarine

depositphotos/Grace Augustine

by adding its rejuvenating properties into our daily beauty ritual. 
     It’s important to cleanse all of your crystals with warm filtered water, making sure the gems are free of dirt and any other particles. Once they are clean, put them in a crystal bowl and cover them with filtered water. Set the bowl in direct sunlight at sunrise so the gem can absorb the sun’s power. 

     Save the water!  It is now infused with not only the power of your aquamarine, but also the sun. You can splash this on your face and hands both morning and evening. Make sure to say affirmations that speak to your soul. Refill the bowl with water and return it to either sunlight or moonlight so you always have an unending supply.   

   

New Series--Birthstones ~ by Grace Augustine

With so much of the red/pink festivities going on around us, I thought I'd do something completely different. A special shout out to RIDDLE'S JEWELRY in Coralville, Iowa for allowing the use of their photos.

Today begins a new series. Each month I will post information on  birthstones...their meanings, origins, and colors. I'm excited because there are 3 of us in our Originality by Design founding members whose birthdays are in February. So, get ready to know all there is to know about the beautiful February birthstone...

AMETHYST

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Polished or carved amethyst has been part of history as far back as 4000BC in Egypt. It was Catherine the Great’s favorite gem. The Greeks were known to wear amethyst to ward of becoming drunk when at a party and went so far as to believe if they drank from an amethyst cup they wouldn’t be inebriated at all. Hebrews believed if they wore the stone, they would be protected.

Small amounts of amethyst have been found throughout the world, but the most significant mines can be found in Brazil, Uruguay, Morocco, South Africa, as well as in the United States. 

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The only mine (commercial) in the US is the FOUR PEAKS MINE in Arizona. Amethyst arrowheads have been found nearby this location, proving that the Native Americans knew about this gemstone. It’s thought that some of the gems in the Spanish crown jewels may be from this mine.

Amethyst, a form of quart, is among the most popular gemstones in the world. Its variance in color ranges from the lightest of lavenders to the deepest, richest royal purple. This beautiful stone when cut and tumbled is fashioned into one of a kind pendants, rings, earrings and lapel pins.

It is a very affordable gemstone. It’s durability and price make it

courtesy of Riddle Jewelers

one of the hot commodities to crafters and jewelry makers world-wide. Amethyst scores a 7 on the Mohs scale (hardness of gemstones) and does not break by cleavage (meaning cleavage is the break of a crystal face where a new face (resulting in a smooth plane) is formed.) 

According to geology.com, “Amethyst crystals grow slowly, and the composition of the waters from which they grow can change over time. As the composition of the water changes, varying amounts of iron are incorporated into the surface of the crystal. Later, radiation emitted by minerals in the surrounding rock modify the iron to produce the purple color. This can cause the crystal to have zones of different color intensity. Each of these zones records a time interval in the growth of the crystal similar to the growth rings of a tree. Although this is geologically interesting, the most preferred amethyst gems have a rich, uniform color.”

courtesy of Riddle Jewelers

While there is not scientific proof that gemstones hold healing properties, the amethyst is one of the leading gemstones today that are used in healing rituals. It is equated to the “crown” chakra, the seventh chakra said to connect us to the Universe.

Amethyst is a Greek word meaning “awake”. It symbolizes honesty, kindness, peace, good-fortune, peace of mind, and purity. It has long been associated with royalty and is now the favored gem to give as a token of first love. 

In today’s society, many are looking to alternative medicine. Amethyst could be part of that regimen. While amethyst are thought to be the chief stone in protection, they also have many other properties: purifying and cleansing the mind, cleansing the darkness of stress and anxiety, emanating prosperity, facilitating intuition and communication, and an overall state of well-being.

Do not wear your amethysts while cleaning because they could be

courtesy of Riddle Jewelers

damaged by the solvents you are using. To keep the sparkle in your amethysts, clean them with a mild solution of soap and warm water and use a soft cloth to wipe them dry. If you have amethyst crystals, they can be set out in the sun for a cleansing and infusion of new energy.

For me, amethyst is my favorite gemstone--more than diamonds, more than sapphires, more than emeralds, more than pearls. 

Those born in February tend to be lovers of all things purple…and I certainly fall into that category. 

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