World Famous Aquamarine Gems and Jewelries

    World Famous Aquamarine Gems and Jewelries

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    World Famous Aquamarine Gems and Jewelries

    by Madhubanti Rudra

    Brazil is the chief source of producing the world famous and finest quality aquamarines. Aquamarines also occur in some places in Africa, especially in Mozambique. They are distinguished from the “Santa Maria” category by the name “Santa Maria Africana”.

    Since the beginning of human history, the colorful world of gem stones fascinated mankind. Rich-poor alike were enthralled by their breath taking beauty. The mighty and powerful – they always wanted more and more of them. The emperors, the conquerors, the pirates – time and again they made expeditions to the remotest corners of the earth, thomped the seven seas, stirred the whole planet in search of the rarest and the costliest of its kind. All these opened up the casket of huge treasure hidden in the womb of mother nature. The tradition of these adventures continues also in the modern days.Only, the world famous geological scientists replaced the kings and pirates. Then, in addition to the traditional favourites like diamond, emerald or ruby, the semi precious stones like, amethyst or aquamarine caught their attention in a large way. Especially aquamarine with its azure hue swept the admiration of the modern world of 21st century. According to the legends, aquamarine, which originated in the treasure chaste of the mermaids, symbolizes love and loyalty. Presence of iron lends the blue tone to this beryl group gem, which is available in a range of blue shades, from pale to a greenish blue to a dark blue. The shades in aquamarine depend on the places of their origin and these two factors together command the value of the stone. Brazil is the chief source of producing the world famous and finest quality aquamarines. The world market of rough aquamarine crystals is dominated by this South American country. Among world’s most famous aquamarines, “Santa Maria” occupies the premier position.

    It is characterized by an intensely deep blue hue, which is very rare. They are found in the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Brazil. They are very much high priced and regarded as a collector’s delight. Similar coloured aquamarines also occur in some places in Africa, especially in Mozambique. They are distinguished from the “Santa Maria” category by the name “Santa Maria Africana”. Another category of Brazilian aquamarine named “Espirito Santo” acquired worldwide repute. They are not so intensely blue as the Santa Maria. “Martha Rocha” Which has been named after a Brazilian beauty queen also displays a unique blue colour. From time to time, large aqua crystal of high quality has been collected from the huge Brazilian mines. For example, in 1910, a 110.5 Kg crystal was mined at Marainba, Minas Gerais. Another famous big stone was, “Dom Pedro”. It weighed 26 Kg, and was cut in 1992 by Idar-Oberstein gemstone artiste Bernd Munsteiner. Till date it is the largest ever cut aquamarine.

    There is a 911 CT aquamarine from Brazil which is displayed in Smithsonian museum in Washinton DC in the Hall of Gems, along with other famous gems as the Hope diamond. Another well formed aquamarine crystal was found in Brazil in 1920 that weighed 243 lbs. It was 19/16 inchs., greenish on the outside blue on the inside and so transparent that objects were clearly visible through its length. The British museum of Natural History has a flawless aquamarine of 879 Cts., and the Los Angels Country Museum Of Natural History has a fine 638 CT stone. In 1935 the Brazilian government gave Eleanor Roosevelt a, 1847 CT aquarine. It is now in the museum of Hyde Park, the Roosevelt’s New York estate. The Madagascar aquamarines are also famous. Known as “Madagascar Aqua”, they usually display a medium dark blue colour.

    The African aquamarines that are found mainly in the countries like Namibia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe are famous for untreated deep blue colour that persist in even in the smallest cut stones. Some world famous aquamarines are also found in the Karakoram ranges in Pakistan and Afganistan. Nagar Aqua of Pegmatite origin is mined at the heights of some 15,000 Ft. in Nagar, Hunza. The sizes vary from a few cms. To 30 cms. Individual crystals of 2/3 gms. To 250 gms. Have also been discovered. Haramosh aquamarines are also found in the same Karakoram range. They display a fine light to dark blue shades. Jewelleries made out of aquamarines demonstrate a contemporary, yet classic look which is just perfect for the independent and fashionable model women.

    Hence it is no wonder that these days aquamarine Jewelleries have become quite a rage in the international market. Some of the aquamarine jewelleries created by world famous designers are in high demand in the international circuit of jewellery enthusiasts. Some of the very well known designs rival each other in their beauty and uniqueness. These days aquamarine has become hot favourite among the modern designers. With the touch of innovative cuttings, and through the fusion of colours with other semi precious gems, they are creating such pieces of art which are truly stunning visual delight for the connocieurs of jewelleries.

    Aquamarine Facts

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    Aquamarine Facts

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    Aquamarine @ Jewel Info 4 U

    This stone is the treasure of sea mermaids and is as attractive as mermaids seen in stories. It owes its name to two different words from Latin language viz. ‘ aqua’ and ‘mare’ that means “water” and “sea” respectively. When both the words are joined together it creates a new name meaning seawater. Most of the properties of this semi precious gemstones relates to sea for example colour, clarity etc.

    Aquamarine as a birthstone

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    Aquamarine as a birthstone

    by Madhubanti Rudra

    Different gemstones have the power to harmonize different planetary influences. Based on the foundation stones of this notion, men have invested plenty of resources in search of the mystic powers of different gemstones corresponding to particular planets. The outcome of one such effort is the studies about birthstones.

    Chased by the fears of unknown, men have always endeavored to crack the mysteries of universe and prevail over the nature. Similarly he never agreed to remain a mere pawn in the hands of destiny. Instead, he always wished to become the master of his own future and curve the path of his own fate. In course of his struggle to overcome the challenges of destiny, thousands of years ago, our ancestors found out how planetary situations and cosmic energies control our lives. They also discovered that, different gemstones have the power to harmonize different planetary influences.

    Based on the foundation stones of this notion, men have invested plenty of resources in search of the mystic powers of different gemstones corresponding to particular planets. The outcome of one such effort is the studies about birthstones. Since long, birthstones have been regarded as important luck enhancers. Birthstones denote the particular gemstone corresponding to a particular calendar month. A person born in a particular month is supposed to wear the birthstone, assigned to that month; it is believed to enhance his luck. The genesis of modern western birthstones can be traced back to the Jewish history. It was believed to be associated with the “Breastplate of Judgement”, presented to Aaron by Moses and in Bibel, the Breastplate has been described as being set with twelve gemstones, each with an engraving of the name of twelve tribes of Israel.

    The order in which the twelve gemstones were used, was later came to indicate the order for the birthstones for particular months. In August 1912 American National Retail Jewellers Association (ANRJA) modified the list of stones, making it more commercially viable. The list gained its final shape in 1952 and acquired the approval of ANRJA, American Gem Society (AGS), NJA(National Jewellers Association) and ASIA(American Stone Importers Association). The list of birthstones established at that point of time continues till date. According to this list, aquamarine is the birthstone of March. The birthstones by the means of their vibratory forces are capable of producing significant effects on our physical and mental well being and that can change our subsequent life entirely. Similarly aquamarine birthstones work out its magic on the lives and minds of the March-borns.

    However, the students of Astrology maintained that the true value of the gems can be explored only in connection with the signs of Zodiac in which the sun or moon rested at one’s time of birth. According to this school, each sign of the Zodiac has a particular planet as its ruler. Now each planet has a particular gemstone that harmonizes the cosmic energy. Thus, one can wear a birthstone according to the sign which the sun or moon was tenants at the time of birth. So far as aquamarine is concerned, it is astrologically associated with the Zodiac signs of Aries (March 22 – April 20), Libra (September 23 – October 23) and Scorpio (October 24 – November 21). Either as a modern birthstone or a birthstone of Zodiac sign aquamarine produces great results on the mental or physical well being of the wearer.

    Through their measured radiation, aquamarine not only increases the psychological power of an individual, it also protects in from the evil effects of the planet by the means of its curative power. Found in the treasure chest of mermaid it has always been associated with sea and the lives of the sailors. In the ancient as well as middle ages, sailors always carried aquamarine in all their voyages to get protection from the perils of sea. It also works wonderfully against any kinds of seasickness. All over the world, this beautiful gemstone has been beloved by the women as it symbolized love, loyalty and honesty. It is believed to have the splendid power of kindling love in the lives of married couples. It also reawakens love in the lives of long married couples. Aquamarine is the anniversary gemstone of 16th and 19th years of marriage.

    Aquamarine also has splendid healing abilities. It was long believed that aquamarine soaked in water has excellent therapeutic values for eye troubles. In addition to that it also has curative power with respect to the respiratory diseases and nerve pain. The pale azure of aquamarine brings mental peace and harmony. It endorses the wearer with courage and strengthens his will. For many people aquamarine is an excellent stone for meditation. In addition to all these, aquamarine works against nerve pain, glandular problems, toothache and disorders of the neck, jaw and throat. It strengthens liver and kidneys.

    Aquamarine, a blue gem of important beryl family has achieved extensive popularity as birthstone and heeling aids worldwide. For a March-born Piscean or a Scorpion, wearing an aquamarine can create magic. However in order to enhance the charm of luck, one may wear aquamarine as rings, necklaces or earrings or even as bracelets. The jewellery should be fashioned in such a way that light must pass through the stone to the body. That is why the piece should be mounted and open-backed so that it comes into physical contact with the skin.

    TANZANITE RING

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    TANZANITE RING

    by Madhubanti Rudra

    This unique colour gem looks equally great in any piece of jewellery, be it an exquisite ring or large pendant. So far as rings are concerned, small stones always look better on them. A Tanzanite ring can be the ideal choice for a truly fashionable person because its unusual blend of colour renders each and every piece of jewllery a really exclusive look.

    Tanzanite RingIn the middle of 1967, a Portuguese fortune hunter named Manuel d’souza was traveling along the eastern part of Africa in search of rare quality ruby and sapphire. Flanked by Maasai tribesmen, he came near a pace just below the Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania, where he happened to stumble upon a heap of gleaming blue rocks, which, at first was mistaken by him as sapphire. Little at that point of time, could he imagine, that one day this newly discovered stone would take the world by storm. Soon, this unassuming stone was christened as tanzanite after its pace of origin and gained immense popularity among the gem-lovers across the globe, especially in America, Europe and Japan.

    The fact that, original tanzanite is a very rare kind of tone, occurring only in a small place in Tanzania, known as Merelani Hill, Arusha, added to its demand and high value. In the absence of sophisticated mining techniques and inadequate financing, production never attains the level where supply ever complements the demand satisfactorily. As a result, the price of tanzanite always remained very high in the international market and never settled to equilibrium till date. Today tanzanite in the 1 to 3 Carat size range and in moderate colour quality along with visible inclusions is available for $400 per Carat. Top quality tanzanites command a price over $1000 per Carat. So far as chemical composition of tanzanite is concerned, it is actually a variety of Zoisite, which is the member of Epidote group, a silicate of calcium and Aluminium. Straight from the ground, in its primary form, it displays a brown shade, mixed with a light orange tinge.

    Tanzanite is always given a heat treatment approximately at 700 degree Celsius temperature, which enhances its colour. A moderate heat treatment brings out the colours ranging from light bluish-violet to an intense bluish-violet. The most important price determining factor in tanzanite is its unique colour combination. Borrowing the royal ness of rich blue sapphire and stealing luster from purple amethyst, tanzanite creates such a magic with colour, that earns it a rare place of distinction in the world of gemstones. The mot prized colour in tanzanite is a rich violet-blue. A pure blue tanzanite is very rare, as tanzanite is always mixed with a purple overtone. So naturally blue tanzanites are more desirable and sold at a higher price. Currently it has been noticed that presence of blue or purple colour components in tanzanites no longer dictates the difference in their pricing. However, with the aid of skillful cutting, its blue or violet colour components can be emphasized. However, tanzanite is highly tri-chroic, it changes its colour under different amount of light.

    It displays a lighter shade, mostly lavender, in smaller sizes. The larger the gem, more saturate its colour. Recently, a green variety of Zoisite has been discovered, which goes by the name, green tanzanite. When tanzanite was first discovered, people got confused because of its colour. It closely resembled sapphire. But laboratory tests revealed that the stone was far too soft to rival corundum family, to which belong the sapphires. On Mohs scale of hardness, tanzanite measures 6 to 7. It has a perfect cleavage, but the fracture is uneven and brittle. It also reacts poorly to heat and pressure. Tanzanite stones however have a very clarity usually with very few inclusions. In October 2002, the American Gem Trade Associations agreed to endorse tanzanite in the family of birth stones. It has been conferred the honor of being treated as the additional birth stone for the month of December.

    According to the contemporary jewelers’ Anniversary Gemstone List, tanzanite is the anniversary gemstone for 24th year of the marriage. Like other blue gems tanzanite brings a cooling effect over one’s body and mind. When life becomes chaotic under tremendous pressure tanzanite is believed to bring the composure of self. Enhancing personal inside and vision, it reaffirms one’s individual will. Gold brings with it the energy of sun and the stone represents the power of moon. So if tanzanite is worn, teamed with gold. Beautifully blends in it the energies of the sun and the moon. Although tanzanite lacks in luster, it is the unusual colour of this tone that stole the hearts of millions all over the world. Whether worn as a ring or a necklace, as an earring or a bracelet, it has the potential of becoming the ultimate eye catcher. Although wearing tanzanite jewelleries require special care and protection, it always speaks of one’s refined taste and high sense of aesthetics.

    Emerald Cut Aquamarine

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    The shape of the stone refers to the physical outline when looking at it from the top. The most popular shapes are round, marcuise, peer, heart, oval and cushion. The work of faceting is of utmost importance so far as emerald cut is concerned. The term faceting is related to the cutting style of transparent stones. Simply faceting gives a mirror-reflecting-light effect. That is, how the light entering the stone is reflected from inside the gem, back to the viewer…..

    Facts about Tanzanite

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    Facts about Tanzanite

    by Madhubanti Rudra

    Original tanzanite is a very rare kind of tone, occurring only in a small place in Tanzania, known as Merelani Hill, Arusha. It is actually a variety of Zoisite, which is the member of Epidote group, a silicate of calcium and aluminium.

    Summary: Original tanzanite is a very rare kind of tone, occurring only in a small place in Tanzania, known as Merelani Hill, Arusha. It is actually a variety of Zoisite, which is the member of Epidote group, a silicate of calcium and Aluminium.

    In the middle of 1967, a Portuguese fortune hunter named Manuel d’souza was traveling along the eastern part of Africa in search of rare quality ruby and sapphire. Flanked by Maasai tribesmen, he came near a pace just below the Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania, where he happened to stumble upon a heap of gleaming blue rocks, which, at first was mistaken by him as sapphire. Little at that point of time, could he imagine, that one day this newly discovered stone would take the world by storm. Soon, this unassuming stone was christened as tanzanite after its pace of origin and gained immense popularity among the gem-lovers across the globe, especially in America, Europe and Japan.

    TanzaniteThe fact that, original tanzanite is a very rare kind of tone, occurring only in a small place in Tanzania, known as Merelani Hill, Arusha, added to its demand and high value. In the absence of sophisticated mining techniques and inadequate financing, production never attains the level where supply ever complements the demand satisfactorily. As a result, the price of tanzanite always remained very high in the international market and never settled to equilibrium till date. Today tanzanite in the 1 to 3 Carat size range and in moderate colour quality along with visible inclusions is available for $400 per Carat. Top quality tanzanites command a price over $1000 per Carat. So far as chemical composition of tanzanite is concerned, it is actually a variety of Zoisite, which is the member of Epidote group, a silicate of calcium and aluminium. Straight from the ground, in its primary form, it displays a brown shade, mixed with a light orange tinge.

    Tanzanite is always given a heat treatment approximately at 700 degree Celsius temperature, which enhances its colour. A moderate heat treatment brings out the colours ranging from light bluish-violet to an intense bluish-violet. The most important price determining factor in tanzanite is its unique colour combination. Borrowing the royal ness of rich blue sapphire and stealing luster from purple amethyst, tanzanite creates such a magic with colour, that earns it a rare place of distinction in the world of gemstones. The mot prized colour in tanzanite is a rich violet-blue. A pure blue tanzanite is very rare, as tanzanites are always mixed with a purple overtone. So naturally blue tanzanites are more desirable and sold at a higher price.

    Currently it has been noticed that presence of blue or purple colour components in tanzanites no longer dictates the difference in their pricing. However, with the aid of skillful cutting, its blue or violet colour components can be emphasized. However, tanzanite is highly tri-chroic, it changes its colour under different amount of light. It displays a lighter shade, mostly lavender, in smaller sizes. The larger the gem, more saturate its colour. Recently, a green variety of zoisite has been discovered, which goes by the name, green tanzanite. When tanzanite was first discovered, people got confused because of its colour. It closely resembled sapphire. But laboratory tests revealed that the stone was far too soft to rival corundum family, to which belong the sapphires. On Mohs scale of hardness, tanzanite measures 6 to 7. It has a perfect cleavage, but the fracture is uneven and brittle. It also reacts poorly to heat and pressure. Tanzanite stones however have a very clarity usually with very few inclusions.

    In October 2002, the American Gem Trade Associations agreed to endorse tanzanite in the family of birth stones. It has been conferred the honour of being treated as the additional birth stone for the month of December. According to the contemporary jewelers’ Anniversary Gemstone List, tanzanite is the anniversary gemstone for 24th year of the marriage. Like other blue gems tanzanite brings a cooling effect over one’s body and mind. When life becomes chaotic under tremendous pressure tanzanite is believed to bring the composure of self. Enhancing personal inside and vision, it reaffirms one’s individual will. Gold brings with it the energy of sun and the stone represents the power of moon. So if tanzanite is worn, teamed with gold. Beautifully blends in it the energies of the sun and the moon. Although tanzanite lacks in luster, it is the unusual colour of this tone that stole the hearts of millions all over the world. Whether worn as a ring or a necklace, as an earring or a bracelet, it has the potential of becoming the ultimate eye catcher. Although wearing tanzanite jewelleries require special care and protection, it always speaks of one’s refined taste and high sense of aesthetics.

    Mystical and Healing Powers of the Aquamarine

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    Mystical and Healing Powers of the Aquamarine

    by Nalini Naik

    The aquamarine, according to legend, is blessed with many mystical powers. It is supposed to bring good fortune and harmony to the wearer. The divine and eternal blue of the aquamarine is supposed to bring good luck to married couples by strengthening the ties of marriage. Wearing this stone ensures a long lasting relationship because it evokes feelings of trust and harmony.

    Throughout history, gem stones have been valued not only for their beauty and value, but also for their mystical and healing powers. Beautiful jewelry has been crafted by using all kinds of gem stones and worn by both men and women from olden times. Gems have been used not only as adornments, but also for healing ailments, both mental and physical. Long worn as charms by the ancient Romans, who staunchly believed in their magical and healing powers, even today they are used as healing agents. Ancient medicine men used gems not only for healing, but also to ward off evil spirits. It is widely believed that luck and good fortune favor the wearer of certain gems.

    Aquamarine, a gemstone belonging to the family of Beryls, is one such gem. The name of this gemstone has been derived from the Latin word ‘Aqua’ meaning water and ‘Mare’ or sea. No wonder then that the beautiful, translucent blue of the sea is reflected in this gemstone. Men and women have always coveted this stone and worn it in the form of different ornaments. Aquamarine jewelry is worn not only to enhance one’s beauty but also because it is supposed to posses healing powers. This gem is particularly lucky for a person whose birthstone it is. Aquamarine has given birth to all kinds legends concerning its origin and the strange mystical power it is bestowed with. A saying goes that that the aquamarine is part of a mermaid’s treasure trove and is supposed to have been blessed by sea goddesses.

    Thus it is a lucky stone for all sailors. It is supposed to protect them and bring them luck while at sea. The aquamarine, according to legend, is blessed with many mystical powers. It is supposed to bring good fortune and harmony to the wearer. The divine and eternal blue of the aquamarine is supposed to bring good luck to married couples by strengthening the ties of marriage. Wearing this stone ensures a long lasting relationship because it evokes feelings of trust and harmony. No wonder then that the aquamarine is often gifted for rte sixteenth as well as nineteenth marriage anniversaries, maybe to strengthen the marital bonds. Wearing this gem is also good for other relationships like friendship and companionship as the stone is believed to awaken not only feelings of love and mercy, but also honesty and loyalty. As such, this makes an ideal gift for close friends too. This gem is not only lucky but also protects the wearer against infidelity and deceit.

    People also wear it to bring luck in new ventures and ensure financial success. Legend has it that when Scorpios i.e. people born between October twenty-third to November twenty-first, whose birthstone it is, wear the aquamarine, their psychic powers are honed. Aquamarine magnifies occult powers and brings serenity of mind. Apart from the mystical nature of the aquamarine it has been proved to have a lot of healing powers too. Aquamarine, which has the translucent blue color of the sea, is supposed to have life giving properties of the sea. The earliest mention of the aquamarine as a healing agent is found in Roman history. The Romans called the gem ‘water of the sea’ and believed it had healing powers to cure many diseases. They even used goblets carved out of aquamarines, believing this would aid digestion, retention of water in the body etc.

    Its modern use as a healing agent is well known. The aquamarine, which is associated with the sea, is strongly believed to aid in the cure of all ailments relating to kidneys, bladder, retention of fluid in the body etc. The modern use of this gem as a diuretic is known by all. By wearing the aquamarine, the balance of water in the body is maintained and the body flushes out excess body fluid. In other words, the equilibrium of the fluid in the body is maintained. Other kidney and bladder disorders are also cured by wearing the aquamarine. Aquamarine also helps in repelling chronic ailments .For chronic disorders of the stomach, like indigestion, flatulence etc, it is supposed to be very helpful. Drinking the water from a ceramic vessel in which the aquamarine has been immersed, has proved to be extremely beneficial. This water has been known to aid people suffering from acidity problems and even ulcers and other inflammations in the stomach as well as the mouth.

    Wearing the aquamarine around the neck or as earrings is believed to cure sore throats and even tonsillitis. This gem is also very beneficial for easing toothaches. Looking into the translucent core of this stone everyday is supposed to be very soothing for the eyes. Not only does the aquamarine heal physical ailments, this magical gem is supposed to ease mental stress and depression and grief. This gem has been known to sharpen mental clarity and improve memory. It brings serenity of mind to the wearer. The gem is also believed to inspire the wearer and stimulate creativity. It is used for calming and relaxing the mind and decrease nervous tension. It is also good for circulation of the blood. Remember, in order to benefit most from the aquamarine, it should be worn next to the skin.

    Amethyst mines

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    Amethyst mines

    by Madhubanti rudra

    The place of origin is a valuable yardstick for determining the authenticity of a stone on the basis of its unique characteristic features. For a stone like amethyst, which occurs in several places of the world it is particularly important to know the special traits corresponding to a particular region, so that a collector can differentiate them and make their proper valuation.

    Summary: The place of origin is a valuable yardstick for determining the authenticity of a stone on the basis of its unique characteristic features. For a stone like amethyst, which occurs in several places of the world it is particularly important to know the special traits corresponding to a particular region, so that a collector can differentiate them and make their proper valuation.Amethyst Mining

    Many geological coincidences result into occurrence of large quantity of mineral deposits over a long stretch of area. These sites are of great interest to the gemstone collectors all over the world for a number of reasons. For an expert, origin of a gemstone is a major price determining factor. The quality and characteristics of the gemstone vary with the regions which they came from. So there are chances for the uninformed customers to cough up an exorbitant amount on a gemstone which is not at all worth of that much. So the study about a particular gemstone also involves rigorous research about their sources.

    The stone with lustrous purple hues and handsome crystalline structure, amethyst is found in almost all parts of the world. The unparallel color scheme of this stone due to the presence of iron in varying proportions could have made it very expensive but due to its wide-spread global deposits, amethyst has never become very expensive.

    But the stones mined in different parts of the world are not similar either in appearance or in color. They have their own distinguished features unique of their source region and sometime even a particular mine. Depending on such features as color and shape variation, presence of inclusion, association with other crystals and the background of formation the gemologists can easily decipher the source of a particular piece of amethyst .

    Each piece of amethyst has different tales to narrate regarding their mining. As a mineral specimen, the clusters of amethyst vary from region to region. While American Amethysts are large in size, the Brazilian small amethysts will steal your heart with breathtaking hues. If you are not aware of these differences with regard to cut, color and clarity etc, you can not deduct what should be the real price of the stone. There are even chances that you bring home some imitation gemstone in the name of a pure or rare kind of amethyst. So here lies the importance of knowing the gemstone of your collection in terms of their source of origin.
    The following is a list of the most important amethyst mines cluttered all over the globe and unique features of their produce.

    Mexican
    It is truly amazing how nature has codified unique traits for the gemstones mined in different regions of the world. When we speak of amethyst the name of the exotic mines of Mexico automatically flashes in our mind. This is the region probably having the largest deposit of this Royal stone.
    Two largest amethyst mines of Mexico are situated in Vera Cruz and Guerrero.

    The mines of Vera Cruz are famous for producing the variety of amethyst that is typically phantomed, characterized by a transparent interior and darker outer part. Generally they come in forms of prismatic crystals in light purple shades with higher transparency. Another interesting feature is their double termination on both ends.

    The amethysts mined from Guerrero on the other hand are more expensive variety with higher color saturation resulting in deeper and darker hues. The crystal has a single, termination point from which it radiates outwardly. Guerrero amethysts are phantomed just the opposite fashion the Vera Cruz varieties are; the Guerrero amethysts have a dark interior with a clear or white exterior. Some of the costliest amethysts of the world belong to these Guerrero phantom categories.

    American Amethyst
    Among the connoisseurs of gemstones, the American amethysts are an object of interest. American amethysts in general are distinguished by their medium to high color saturation and their smoky or translucent crystallization. The amethyst deposits can be found over a long stretch extended all over the United States. Maine, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Montana and Colorado are the main source of amethyst in the USA. In the states like Georgia, Arizona, Rhode Island and Virginia, there are mines that produce amethyst in small quantity.

    The Maine and the Carolinas both are famous for producing dark colored amethysts. The amethysts from North Carolina carry an extra bluish stint, which is typical of that region.

    Over a large area of Colorado, amethysts are found to occur inside the cavities of sandstone. Sometimes they are also found on top crust of green fluorite. They are formed into dark colored crystals, but they are smoky in appearance and rather small.

    In Pennsylvania however, large clusters of amethyst occur within the fractures of metamorphic rock. The Pennsylvanian amethysts generally display brownish purple hues but they have inconsistent patches of color.

    Brazilian Amethysts
    Amethysts of this country are renowned for their handsome crystal shapes. The mining belts comprising the mines of Minas Gerais, Rio Grande do Sul, Bahia and Maraba are the main supplier of amethysts in Brazil.
    The Brazilian amethysts are composed mainly of volcanic materials like lava and magma and found within the cavities in a form of lined crystals. The amethyst crystals mined in Minas Gerais and Rio Grande do Sul are full of inclusions like gas bubbles and cacoxenite which were created at the time of heat convection. In these regions large clusters occur along with gray, white and blue agate leaving a greenish tinge on the stones. Deposit of calcite on some of the clusters is not uncommon of these mines. They are in general characterized by pale to medium lilac color. The saturation of color takes peak in the tips of visible termination point in each crystal.
    The Bahian variety amethyst comes with a reddish and smoky appearance.
    In Maraba amethysts occur as large crystals. These pale colored amethysts have unattractive surfaces. These stones are ideal to be carved or cut into slices.

    The Uruguay amethysts
    The Uruguan amethysts are no less in prestige and value. Like its Brazilian counterpart amethysts here occur within large “vugs”, the volcanic rock pockets. The vugs in Uruguay have a gray or brownish exterior containing stalactites. On top of these vugs the formation of amethyst druses (crystalline crusts showing the pointed terminations) takes place. Unlike the Brazilian varieties, Uruguayan crystals are more or less uniformly colored. The crystals often bond with multicolored agate leaving sometimes a yellowish or reddish tinge on the stones.

    Canadian Amethyst
    Thunder Bay is one of the important contributors of amethyst in the international market. Better known as the gemstone of Ontario, the Canadian amethysts are reddish purple in color as a result of red hematite inclusion slightly under the surface of each crystal. The amethysts in this region occur as druses on the surface of metamorphic rocks.

    African Amethyst
    In African continent amethysts are produced mainly in two countries, Zambia and Namibia. Formed as druses, the amethyst crystals found in Africa are large in size with a paler exterior and a darker interior. They are particularly praised for their outstanding clarity.

    Italian
    The Italian amethysts occur as large parallel growth clusters. The crystals are large, pale in color but depict evenly distributed color saturation.

    German
    They are also pale in color and often occur bonded with other crystals like agate.

    Ural Amethyst
    They are very dark colored with a reddish hue. These extremely clear amethysts are rare and expensive. After being cut and polished these dazzling stones are used for the jewelleries.

    Since the beginning of history, amethyst remained an inseparable part of the Royal glamour. Their availability and extensive mining has brought their prices within the affordable ranges of today’s common men. While rare pieces gathered from exotic remote mines ignite the collectors’ passion, the beautifully cut dazzling amethysts are wardrobe essential of every fashionable lady, thanks to the heavy mining of amethysts all over the world.

    Tanzanite Pendants

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    Tanzanite Pendants

    by Madhubanti Rudra

    Pendant is a very important piece of jewellery, in as much as it is supposed to highlight the most prominent part of the body. The shape, the size, and the colour –these three factors together amount to the beauty of a pendant which in turn performs the duty of adorning the upper part of one’s figure.

    Summary: Pendant is a very important piece of jewellery, in as much as it is supposed to highlight the most prominent part of the body. The shape, the size, and the colour –these three factors together amount to the beauty of a pendant which in turn performs the duty of adorning the upper part of one’s figure.

    Trends of modern fashion

    Tanzanite PendantDazzling designer ensembles, teamed with glittering jewelleries-today’s fashion savvy generation know that, there is much more than this, associated with the word, fashion. The boom in information technology, and the invasion of the remotest parts of the world, by the satellites overhead, has revolutionized the way of lives of common people all over the world. The very definition of styling has transformed. A fashionable get-up today is viewed as an entire package. To look stylish, not only the outfit, you have to take good care of your accessories as well. Today’s fashion experts are of the view that, proper accessorizing can bring out the x factor hidden within you, which can set you apart from everybody else. Although the objects like wrist watch, handbag or shoes have become important as accessories, a piece of jewellery is the most traditional and sophisticated among them. The choice of right jewellery is a matter of vast imaginative thinking. The jewllery industry seems to have traveled a long way in recent years, emphasis being shifted from conventional to fusion and exotic. The jewellery industry is flooded by some really gifted designers, who with their innovative genius creating the real pieces of art. The novelty of their efforts lies in their experimentations with new metals and new stones. In this process, world came to witness the rise of some newcomers in the world of gems and jewelleries, which have been unknown to the world even 2 or 3 decades ago. Among them, most interesting is the case of Tanzanite, whose climb to the position of prominence surprised even the specialists in this field.

    Facts about tanzanite pendants

    Pendant is a very important piece of jewellery, in as much as it is supposed to highlight the most prominent part of the body. The shape, the size, and the colour -these three factors together amount to the beauty of a pendant which in turn performs the duty of adorning the upper part of one’s figure. The pendant should be rightly paired with attire. Not only the colour and size of the pendant should match the dress, it should provide the right backdrop to the overall purpose of dressing. Formal as well as informal outfits are to be strategically teamed with different pattern and types of jewelleries. An important advantage concerning a tanzanite pendant is that, because of its flexible colour arrangement, a tanzanite pendant in any shape and size, become indeed spectacular. Not only that, its unique colour can efficiently back any outfit-formal or informal, western or oriental. Fusion being the guiding force of present international jewellery industry, tanzanite pendants carry that extra potential of bringing out the contemporary and exotic appeal simultaneously.

    How to buy tanzanite pendants

    Possessing stone studded jewelleries speaks of one’s sophisticated tastes. But buying them is not an easy task. This is also true for the tanzanite jewelleries. So before losing your heart to any particular piece, you must check out for the details of tanzanites. Like all other gemstones, 4cs (cut, clarity, colour and carat weight) are important also for tanzanites. Among them foremost of importance is its colour.

    The colour of tanzanite is one of the most important factors behind its immense popularity. Although the bluish violet is the most common colour in tanzanite, the intensity of blue or violet varies with its size. Blue tanzanites which are very rare, come only in big pieces of stones, weighing over 10 ctweight.The small stones in the category of 1-3 cts display soft velvety tone. Another peculiarity relating tanzanite is its shifting of colour under different lights. With different backgrounds of white or yellowish light, it exhibits varying degree of red yellow or orange flashes. So, in order to test the authenticity of the stone, always examine it under the background of sorts of lights.

    Cut is important not only for bringing out its brilliance, a skillful cutting determines, which one of the colour component-blue or violet-will get the prominence.

    So far as the clarity or clearness of the stone is concerned, tanzanite is known for its transparency with almost no inclusions. Cleavage is said to be perfect. But being a soft stone, the fractures inside are brittle. However, as for other gemstones, so for the tanzanites, presence of natural inclusion is a proof of their being real. Because, glass or any other imitation stones don’t have such inclusions.

    Care: The most important aspect of buying a tanzanite is knowing about its care. This stone belonging to zoist family, is a softer variety of gemstone, that ranks in Mohs scale,6-7. This implies, wearing tanzanite jewellery needs special care and protection. It is very prone to develop cracks by sudden temperature change, pressure or bumps. Simple use of brush and soap water is the best way of cleaning tanzanite .Professionals however ,recommend ionic solution for their cleaning. Also tanzanite pendants should be preserved with care in separate cotton lined box.

    Treatment: Another important information regarding tanzanite is its treatment. Its fine violet-blue colour is the result of gradual heating of the stone at a temperature of 500 to 700 degree Celsius. The colour thus created is permanent and in no way comes in the way of its durability. So, heat treatment does not affect its price adversely.

    Price: The low availability of tanzanite has made it a costly gem. In international market, rare big tanzanites sell for $1000 per carat, while, small and more common, purple coloured tanzanites come with a lower price tag of nearly $400 per carat.

    Now you have all the information to be a proud owner of a beautiful tanzanite pendant. Best of luck. On the basis of the above guide, the piece of your choice is definitely going to be a show-stopper.

    White Aquamarine

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    White Aquamarine

    by Farhan Jaffar

    The white aquamarine can be transparent or opaque white. The luster is vitreous and not exceptional. The white aquamarine is well complimented with yellow gold. The contrasts are highlighted when this combination is used. Using silver, platinum or white gold will hide the brilliance of the white gemstone.

    The white aquamarine is a high priced semi-precious gemstone. It is the birthstone of people whose star sign is Pisces. Aquamarine means water of the sea in Latin. Aquamarine usually is blue colored. It is the member of the beryl family of gemstones, which also include the emerald and the goshenite. Aquamarine has a hexagonal crystal structure. Heating white aquamarine between 725 to 850 degrees Fahrenheit will change to its color to permanent blue. This gem is considered to be a symbol of happiness and eternal youth. It is known as the sailor’s gem because it was used to combat seasickness by sailors.

    It is said to enhance one’s attractiveness in the eyes of the opposite sex. It brings about love and understanding. It also helps to control one’s temper and is helpful in combating ego problems. This gem is recommended for people who are involved in humanitarian causes. The white aquamarine can be transparent or opaque white. The luster is vitreous and not exceptional. The white aquamarine is well complimented with yellow gold. The contrasts are highlighted when this combination is used. Using silver, platinum or white gold will hide the brilliance of the white gemstone. White aquamarines usually are cut in oval shapes. Square shaped white aquamarines are unique and can be used in rings and pendants.

    The clearer the white aquamarine the better it is. There should not be any grayish specks on the gemstone. High quality white aquamarine is almost colorless. Cabochon shaped white aquamarines are used as beads in necklaces. When a well-cut aquamarine is viewed from different angles it shows different colors. This parameter should be used when buying this gemstone.