Amethyst Gemstone Jewelry

Amethyst gemstone jewelry is, perhaps, the most desirable among all gemstones that are available today. The gemstone has obtained the appeal of the public because of the fantastic color range of the amethyst stone. The color of amethyst that most wearers are familiar with is a medium transparent purple. However, the color of the amethyst gemstone itself can vary from light lilac to deep purple and can even be seen in periwinkle blue or yellow. The variety of these shades that are present in the gemstone indicates that it is easy to look for a shade that can match anyone's skin color or complexion.

Amethyst is common at every level of quality, from rough crystals to beads and cabochons in casual jewelry, to very fine gemstones that command thousands of dollars in fine jewelry. It is all amethyst, so when shopping it is important to understand the chararcteristics that define the different classes of quality.

The settings used for amethyst jewelry are nearly as diverse as its color shades. Amethyst jewelry are available with either sterling silver or gold settings. It can then be worn as casual or as formal as you would like. Amethyst gemstone jewelry can be small and delicate, picture a little faceted amethyst heart on a dainty gold chain. It can even be as bold as you please, a chunky silver ring set with amethyst cabochons and other semi-precious stones.

The amethyst is recognized as a semi precious gemstone. Because it can be found in either silver or gold setting, it is easy to find this jewelry fitting to whatever your spending budget is. The gem can match your mood as well as your personal style. If you are feeling quiet yet sophisticated, you can get a pair of these faceted amethyst stud earrings. If you are feeling romantic, you can opt for dangling amethyst earrings. For those who are fond of wearing casual clothes, donning a rough cut amethyst chip necklace or stretch bracelet is best.

Amethyst jewelry can either be simple and understated or glittering and bold. Wear it with a pair of jeans or wear with your formal gowns. With amethyst gemstone jewelry, your option for clothing possibilities is endless.

Jewelry and Gemstones Buying Guide: Colored Gemstones

Terms used to describe optical effects in faceted and non-faceted gems

Physical characteristics of colored stones are often described in terms of the way light travels through them, their unique visual effects, and the way they are cut. Here are a few terms you need to know:

Transparent. Light travels through the stone easily, with minimal distortion, enabling one to see through it easily.
Translucent. The stone transmits light but diffuses it, crating an effect like frosted glass. If you tried to read through such a stone, the print will be darkened and obscured.
Opaque. Transmits no light. You can not see through it even at a tin edge.
Special optical effects

Adularescence. A billowy, movable, colored cloud effect seen in some gemstones, such as moonstones; and internal, movable sheen.
Asterism. Used to describe the display of a star effect (four or six rayed) seen when a stone is cut in a non-faceted style. Star ruby, garnet, and sapphire.
Chatoyancy. The effect produced in some gemstones (when cut in a cabochon style) of a thin, bright line across the stone that usually moves as the stone is moved from side to side; sometimes called a cat's eye effect.
Iridescence. A rainbow color effect produced by a thin film of air or liquid within the stone. Most iridescence seen in gemstones is the result of a crack breaking their surface. This detracts from the value, even if it looks pretty.

Luster. Usually refers to the surface of a gemstone and the degree to which it reflects light. Seen as the shine on the stone. Diamond, for example, has much greater luster than amethyst. Pearls are also evaluated for their luster, but pearls have a softer, silkier looking reflection than other gems. The luster in pearls is often called "orient."
Play of color. Used frequently to describe the fire seen in opal.
Cut

Colored gems can be faceted or cut in the cabochon, or non-faceted, style. Generally speaking, the preference in the United States until recently was for faceted gems, so the finest material was usually faceted. However, this was not always the case in other eras and other countries; in Roman times, for example, it was considered vulgar to wear a faceted stone. Preference also varies with different cultures and religion and the world's finest gems are cut in both styles. Don't draw any conclusions about quality solely on style of cut.

Cabochon. A facet-less style of cutting that produces smooth rather than faceted surfaces. These cuts can be almost any shape. some are round with high domes; others look like square shape domes (the popular "sugar-loaf" cabochon); others are "buff-topped," showing a some what flattened top.
Many people around the world prefer the quieter, often more mysterious personality of the cabochon. Some connoisseurs believe cabochons produce a richer color. Whatever the case, today we are seeing much more interest and appreciation for cabochons around the world, and more beautiful cabochons than have been seen in the market in many years.

Faceted. A style of cutting that consists of giving to the stone many small faces at varying angles to one another, as in various diamond cuts. The placement, angle, and shape of the faces, or facets, is carefully planned and executed to show the stone's inherent beauty; fire, color, brilliance, to the fullest advantage. Today, there are many faceted styles, including "fantasy" cut which combine rounded surfaces with sculpted backs.
The importance of cut

Cutting and proportioning in colored stones are important for two main reasons:

They affect the depth of color seen in the stone.
They affect the liveliness projected by the stone.
Color and cutting are the most important criteria in determining the beauty of colored stone, after which carat weight must be factored in; the higher carat weight will usually increase the price per carat, generally in a nonlinear proportion. If a colored gemstone was a good quality material to begin with, a good cut will enhance its natural beauty to the fullest and allow it to exhibit its finest color and liveliness. If the same material is cut poorly, its natural beauty will be lessened, causing it to look dark, too light, or even "dead."

Therefore, when you examine a colored stone that looks lively to your eye and has good color; not too dark and too pale, you can assume the cut is reasonably good. If the gemstone's color is poor, or if it lacks liveliness, you must examine i for proper cut. If it has been cut properly, you can assume the basic material was poor. If the cut is poor, however, the material may be very good and can perhaps be re-cut again into a beautiful gem. In his case you may wan to confer with a knowledgeable cutter to see if it is worthwhile to re-cut, considering cutting costs and loss in weight.

Evaluating the cut of a colored gem

When examining the gemstone for proper cut, a few considerations should guide you:

Is the shade pleasing, and does the stone have life and brilliant?
If the answer is yes to both questions, then the basic material is probably good, and you must make a decision based on your personal preferences and budget.

Is the color too light or too dark?
If so, and the cut looks good, the basic uncut material was probably too light or too dark to begin with. Consider purchase only if you find the stone pleasing, and only if the price is right, i.e., significantly lower than gemstones of better color.

Is the gemstone's brilliance even, or are there dead spots or flat areas?
Often the brilliance in colored gemstone is not uniform. If the color is exceptional, subdued brilliance may not have a dramatic effect on its allure, desirability, or value. However, the less fine the color, the more important brilliance becomes.

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Birthstone Gemstones - Jewelry Gift Ideas

Birthstones are not only beautiful gemstones full of sparkling colour, they each also have been represented in history and myth for ages. All throughout history, birthstone gems have been written and wondered about, appearing in folklore tales and Biblical texts from long ago.

Gemstones are actually human creations. After minerals are formed by pressures and gasses in the earth, we excavate them from deep below. After we excavate these precious or semiprecious stones, we cut and polish them into specific shapes, or cuts. It is then that they are considered to be gems. Gemstones are most often set into gold, silver, or some other precious metal and worn as jewellery. Only stones with high levels of colour, clarity, cut, and durability are considered to be gemstones.

Birthstone history and lore have been a part of various cultures' belief systems for centuries. We have long held the belief that a special birthstone is dedicated to each month of the year, and that each stone possesses special properties or virtues that it can transmit to those born in that month.

Beginning within the traditions of Judaism and Christianity, there is speculation that the twelve stones in the great breastplate of the Jewish High Priest might have had some influence on this evolution. Centuries ago, the interpreters of Revelation began to ascribe to each of these stone attributes of the twelve apostles.

Whatever the origin, even today it's within our nature to covet jewellery that is more intimately associated with our personality like a birthstone piece of jewellery. The concept that birthstones possess extra metaphysical significance to the wearer contiunes to hold a spell over the hearts of whoever possess it. The scope of information about birthstones and coloured gems is long and detailed, and may even stir the imagination of a steadfast cynic.

Quest for a Stunning Piece of Jewelry

Looking for a stunning piece of jewelry? Whether you are choosing a engagement ring or a wedding ring or perhaps a anniversary gift. Whatever be the occasion that you are buying jewelry for, why settle for the same run of the mill stuff? Why not go for something unique?

So your quest for that special unique piece of handcrafted jewelry does not start in the plush jewelry showroom chains, but you will have to take pains to search out those artisans who create those exquisite pieces in their workshop. This may not be easy to find but it is worthwhile taking all the pains to find the right artisans.

When you buy pieces of jewelry from the showrooms, how ever exquisite it may be, chances are that you will find many people including your colleagues and neighbors wearing the same pieces. The showrooms place orders in bulk and buy the same jewelry that is currently the running trend. Therefore you will find everyone wearing the same thing at the same time.

The individual designers who have their own workshop and boutiques do not take orders and make jewelry as per the market trends. They tend to design unique pieces as per their own style and ideas. Therefore the designs you get are original and unique too.

You don't go and buy jewelry every month and it is once in a few years that you get an occasion to day so.

By talking to the jeweler you get an insight into his designs and will be able to math the design to your style and taste. The jeweler will give you individual attention and might make a unique piece just for you. Such things are not possible in showrooms.

Yes on the face of it, going to a local showroom and buying ready made pieces off the shelf looks simple and easy. But when you spend some time with the designer at the local boutique, understand more about the jewelry and spend time in developing your own design, the value of the piece that you get will be very high in terms of beautify, uniqueness of design and handcrafted quality too.

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Jewelry and the Darkside: Fashionable Gothic Jewelry

No, by jewelry and the darkside, we are not referring to Darth Vader's dark side of the force. However, the idea of jewelry inspired by Anakin Skywalker, the Sith and his Emperor sure is tantalizing. Here, if you think more about the likes of Morticia Addams of the Addams family, then you're on the right track. Gothic jewelry is the type of jewelry that the likes of her would wear: mysterious, brooding, yet elegant. Viewed this way, jewelry and the darkside certainly can go hand in hand.

Gothic jewelry, or darkside jewelry, as opposed to 'light,' evokes images of the macabre and the preternatural: vampires, the dead and undead, spirits, black magic and the black arts. As such, artisans craft items that would appeal to a person's dark or gothic side. There is an abundance of e-commerce websites and specialty stores whose emphasis is on jewelry and the darkside. In these places, a person will be able to find gothic jewelry such as pentacle pendants, gothic cross necklaces, spider-and-web piercings, and more.

Also known as pagan jewelry, gothic body ornaments are made from many types of materials, but they are typically available in gold, sterling silver and pewter. They may come plain or be encrusted with jewels. Many pieces of gothic jewelry have their roots in esoteric sources, such as signs and symbols used in ancient Egyptian lore or those employed in Celtic rituals. Other pieces of gothic jewelry are timeless icons representing the eerie: coffin-shaped rings, heavily ornate cross brooches, earrings shaped like the heads of howling wolves.

Slave bracelets, also known as handflowers or maille bracelets, are also popular examples of gothic jewelry. These look like chain mail, or pieces of woven metal. They are different from conventional bracelets in that they are worn not just on the wrist, but on practically the whole hand, and their intricate patterns are sure to attract attention. Bib and choker necklaces are also popular gothic accessories. Catalogues of gothic jewelry oftentimes include so-called 'poison' rings or bracelets. These items have a small compartment where the wearer can presumably keep very small or fine materials, such as powder. Maille, chandelier or dangling earrings are also available to complete one's overall look of mystery.

Gothic jewelry is easy to wear and can be used to dress up or dress down. They are easily available and the variety offered is endless. Because they depict arcane symbols and figures, gothic jewelry imparts a sense of mystery and secrecy. Popular among both the young and not-so-young, gothic jewelry may be dark, but not dreary; ornate, but not tawdry. In fact, it is just the opposite: jewelry and the darkside - a hauntingly beautiful combination.

Fashion Jewelry - Perfect For Casual and Formal Wears

The Fashion Jewelry is the most common accessory that comes to mind when going out for a casual or for an auspicious day. These are wonderful units which are worn to spice up any outfit. Designer jewels are opted for by girls as they are really cheap. Earlier, individuals were inclined towards gold and silver ornaments but now they have inclined towards this type as well. The main reason that account for such a change in preference is that they are less expensive and provide same look which is given by any costly amulet.

People can buy Fashion Jewelry from varied places. They can browse several online outlets or various physical stores which offer huge assortments in their display. Such items can be used to accessorize casual as well as formal wears. So, individuals can own exquisite charms according to their own preferences. Even a simple causal outfit can be accentuated with an appropriate kind of jewel. A normal denim and tee can be dressed up with cool necklace, bracelet and earrings to attain that perfect look of a diva. They are perfect to cater to changing tastes of women who are always looking for sparkling and glittering ornaments.

Bulky Fashion Jewelry has gained favoritism as it truly enhances one's look. There is no point in wearing an accessory unless people are able to view it properly. Due to this, ladies wear really exquisite chunks which make them look all the more stunning. One such ornament in demand is big rings. Rings are the most common essentials which truly boost the beauty of fingers and hands. Among all new forms introduced, glass-zirconia rings are the most popular. These rings are extremely exotic as these can be obtained in varied colors and shapes. Even teenage girls are fond of such charms as they truly signify trend with elegance.

Rings are one such Fashion Jewelry which is the most favorite among all ladies. For teenagers, such amulets are crafted with materials like copper, brass, silver and more. On the other hand, more expensive ones are designed with highly qualitative gold, silver, platinum and white gold. These trinkets are more expensive if they are made with superior quality materials. Moreover, some of them are accompanied with precious gems. These stones are used in combination with zircon to have more innovative designs. They can be worn to suit some special occasions or can be used for all day long. Due to this, such novel chunks have become immensely popular among women of all age groups.

The glass rings made with varied color combination is another form of popular Fashion Jewelry. This is because these jewels provide great choice of hues and can be found in more than one color. An astonishing fact pertaining to these jewels is that they are not inclusive of paints rather they emit different colors due to light effect over them. Since these trinkets are hand crafted so they are the most ethnic ways to look pretty. High tech equipments are used along with labor intensive techniques to prepare these forms of ornaments. In addition to this, girls can flaunt other jewels type as well which are emblems of high quality at low rates.

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Navajo Indian Jewelry Gemstones

One of the most popular art forms among the Southwest Indian tribes is jewelry. Navajo jewelry in particular, has the most prominent reputation among all Southwest Indian jewelry with pendants, bracelets, necklaces, rings and earrings.

There are some regularly used gemstones found in Navajo and other Southwest Indian jewelry including turquoise, hematite, jasper, malachite, aventurine, amethyst and rhodonite. This article gives a brief description as well as the Southwest Indian spiritual significances behind each gemstone.

Of course, blue color turquoise is probably the most common gemstone used in Navajo and other Southwest Indian jewelry. Turquoise is thought to promote healing and good luck. It is a stone that is also used in Southwest Indian religious ceremonies.

Hematite is a metallic gray color stone. It is used to revitalize and energize with positive effects on the bloodstream. The brownish red jasper stone is considered nurturing and protects against negativity. Jasper also promotes healing to the kidneys, liver, spleen and bladder.

Malachite, which comes in dark greens, clarifies emotions, removes obstructions and facilitates insights. This gemstone also represents fidelity and loyalty. Adventurine, which comes in light greens, boosts tranquility and releases anxiety or fear. It is a stone that promotes decisiveness and leadership.

The purple color amethyst aids intuition, conducts peaceful energy and interestingly enough, encourages freedom from addictions. Finally, rhodonite, which is a rose color stone with black and brown specs promotes positive thinking. Rhodonite is said to also help in regaining mental stability and overcoming difficulties.

www.made-from-india.com maintains an authentic directory for manufacturers, suppliers, exporters and wholesalers of different types of jewelry. Different categories of jewellery at www.made-from-india.com consists of Artificial & Imitation Jewelry, Beaded Jewelry, Beads, Corals & Coral Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Diamond Jewelry, Fashion Jewelry, Fine Jewelry, Gemstone Jewelry, Gold Jewelry, Handmade Jewelry, Jewelry Tools & Equipment, Metal Jewelry, Pearls & Pearl Jewelry, Platinum Jewelry, Precious & Semi-Precious Stones, Silver Jewelry and Synthetic Gemstones. Gemstones from india are the best to be bought.