Cool Stuff
|
Collecting Gemstones
Gemstone collecting not only makes a great hobby, but also an excellent way of
creating an investment, whenever you purchase a gemstone or piece of jewelry
with precious gems and metals you are making an investment. An investment that
will only appreciate in value.
Some of the different types of gemstones I
collect:
Star Sapphires
A star sapphire is a lovely gem that
exhibits a six pointed star because of the intersection of six thin intersecting
inclusions. When the gem is lit from above, the inclusions become quite visible
and the star shape appears. One of the most stunning star sapphires in the world
is housed in the Smithsonian Institute. The Star of Bombay is a stunning oval
star sapphire, 182 carats in size. The quality of a star sapphire varies
depending upon a number of factors. The size, color, and clarity of the stone
are, of course, just as important as they are with other stones. The inclusions,
which are normally made of the mineral rutile, also add or detract from the
value of the stone. If the star is quite visible, then the star sapphire is
likely to be quite valuable. Inclusions that are less visible, or murky, will
not yield a highly valuable star sapphire.
Rubies
Rubies, the
birthstone of July, are precious gemstones. Next to diamonds, rubies are the
hardest gems, with a 9 rating on the Mohs scale. Their hardness makes them ideal
for jewelry of all kinds, because one does not have to be especially careful
when wearing them. Shade of red varies, but the most desirable rubies are deep
red, sometimes called pigeon’s blood. Lighter variations can make for lovely
stones and are less expensive. As with most natural gems, rubies are not
perfect. However, many search for rubies with an asterism, or unflawed stones
that have the greatest clarity. With greater clarity and fewer flaws, prices
skyrocket.
Emeralds
Emeralds are highly valued, deep green
gems, deriving their color from chromium. They are the traditional May
birthstone, though those born in May might require deep pockets to obtain a good
quality emerald. The nature of their formation leads to a greater number of
flaws in emeralds than in some other gems. Therefore, a relatively unflawed gem
is rare and expensive.
Purchasing a rare and beautiful gemstone that will
significantly appreciate is an opportunity for everyone to enjoy and benefit.
Making a return or to pass down through the generations, gemstone collecting can
be a rewarding and profitable hobby.
Return to EZ Blogger Hot Topics
Privacy Policy
|
