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From Ore to Beautiful Gem: Do you know how amazing this process is?
When you wear a sparkling gemstone, you may never have thought about how spectacular and mysterious its birth process is. The formation process of gemstones is not only a miracle of nature, but also involves human wisdom and efforts. This article will take you into this magnificent world and reveal the magical journey from minerals to jewelry.
Definition and characteristics of gemstones
Gemstones, also known as fine gemstones or jewelry, are composed of mineral crystals that are cut and polished to make jewelry or other decorations. Some rocks, such as lapis lazuli, opal, and obsidian, and even non-mineral organic materials such as amber and pearls are sometimes used, are also considered gemstones.
Most gemstones are highly hard, but some softer minerals, such as brazilian pyroxene, are used in jewelry for their color and luster, among other aesthetic values.
Classification of gemstones
According to ancient Greek tradition, gemstones can be divided into precious stones and semi-precious stones. Today, precious stones include emeralds, rubies, sapphires and diamonds, while others are semi-precious stones. This classification reflects the rarity and quality of these gemstones, with all precious stones being transparent and possessing good color in their purest form.
Modern gemologists define and classify various gemstones by analyzing their chemical composition and structure.
Factors affecting value and price
The value of a gemstone depends on a variety of factors, including clarity, rarity, freedom from imperfections, and beauty. Today, the jewelry market is valued at US$1.55 billion and is expected to grow to US$4.46 billion by 2033.
For different colored gemstones, market supply and demand will affect the price, and the price of diamonds is more complicated.
Gem cutting and polishing
Most gemstones are cut and polished during use, processes that optimize the gem's internal optical properties. Gemstones can be divided into dome-shaped smooth beads and double-sided gemstones with multiple flat facets. The fineness of the cutting technology directly affects the value of the final gemstone.
The purpose of cutting and polishing is to maximize the reflection and refraction of light to make the gem sparkle.
The mystery and influence of color
The color of gemstones is due to the nature of light. When light strikes a gemstone, most of the light is absorbed and only certain wavelengths of light are reflected back. This explains why the same gemstone appears in different colors due to different impurities.
Gemstone treatment
Many gemstones receive various treatments to enhance their color or clarity. Common treatment methods include heat, radiation and wax oil filling, which have existed in ancient times, such as the Minoan era, when metal foil was used to enhance the color of gemstones.
These treatments can effectively enhance the appearance of a gemstone, but may affect its value to some extent.
Socioeconomic issues in the jewelry industry
The socioeconomic dynamics of the jewelry industry are often not discussed, yet changes in market demand and prices can have a significant impact on the lives of workers engaged in jewelry mining and trading, especially in developing countries where this industry is an important source of income. . Many miners were driven into poverty due to dangerous working conditions and low wages.
Considering these factors, have you ever thought about how many unknown stories and hard work are behind every crystal clear gemstone you wear?
