Precious stones have always caused awe and fascination to human eyes throughout the history of civilization. Not by chance, as they are shiny and have an incredible variety of colors, shines and textures. However, can you tell what the origin of gemstones is and how gemstones are classified?
To clarify these and other doubts regarding the subject, we have prepared an article that aims to highlight the main gems of animal, vegetable and mineral origin and how they are produced by nature. Read on and learn more!
Pearl
The pearl is the only gemstone manufactured from a living organism, that is, it is the result of the defense system against external agents, which try to penetrate a shell. When trying to invade the oyster, grains of sand and other elements are covered by pearly calcium particles. The process is slow and, therefore, the pearl is considered a luxury item and reaches high values in the jewelry market.
Currently, pearls are produced through aquaculture – a process invented by the Japanese, which aims to grow the gems in captivity. It is worth adding that distinguishing a natural pearl from a cultured one is very difficult, as the similarity between the two is striking!
Diamond
The diamond is one of the gems of plant origin most coveted among the various peoples around the world. When cut, it becomes shiny and is generally used in luxury jewelry and souvenirs. The industry also uses diamonds in the production of machinery that requires state-of-the-art technology.
Amber
Amber is the name of the stones originated by the fossil resins found in trees and, therefore, it is considered of vegetal origin. With a yellowish hue, this gem is widely used in the manufacture of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, in addition to being complements to some art objects.
Jet
The origin of precious stones, such as jet, causes curiosity among men. This is because it is the result of the organic fossilization of wood and coal and, therefore, it is characterized as vegetable and animal. It has color variations, ranging between brown and black, and is widely used to produce sculptures, as it has a velvety appearance.
Coral
Coral is produced from the formation of skeletons of marine organisms and is easily found in seas and oceans. The color chart of corals includes shades ranging from white, pink, and red to blue, black, and gold. The market uses this gem a lot to make accessories such as necklaces, earrings, and rings!
As you may have noticed, the origin of gemstones differs quite a bit from each other. And what defines the degree of the preciousness of each gem is how easy or difficult it is to find. The rarer the gemstone is, the more valuable the gemstone is, and consequently the more expensive the items in which it is placed!