Describing Gemstones
Specific Gravity
Specific gravity is a measurement of density. As a point of reference, gemologists compare the density of a gemstone to the density of the same mass of water.
Hardness
Just as it sounds, hardness describes how well a gemstone resists scratches and abrasions. Experts test this by trying to scratch one gem with another. They rank them from 1-10 on the Mohs Hardness scale, invented by German geologist, Friedrich Mohs, in 1812. For example, diamond ranks at 10 on the Mohs scale, the hardest naturally occurring substance. Corundum, which is what makes up rubies and sapphires, is the next hardest on the Mohs scale.
Being aware of a gemstone's hardness can help you determine what type of jewelry they are best suited for, as this will determine how much wear and tear they will be exposed to and can withstand. Hard gemstones can withstand daily wear beautifully and are ideal for everyday jewelry use. This is one primary reason why diamonds are the most widely used gemstone in bridal jewelry. Softer stones are best suited for earrings and necklaces or special occasion rings and bracelets rather than everyday staples. It is important to protect delicate gemstones that are prone to damage.
Rarity
Rarity presents a gemstone with uniqueness and unparalleled value. These qualities are what increase people’s desire to possess them. Rarity is one of the most decisive factors used to determine the price of gemstones and their elusiveness. Some prevalent stones can also be deemed rare because of exceptional color or clarity, making them more coveted than their typical counterparts.
Color
Everyone agrees that the color of a gemstone is an important characteristic. The colors we see come from the minerals within the stone and how a gem reflects light. For example, the natural, clear color of a diamond comes from its stunning purity and crystalline shape. The presence of other minerals in a diamond can give it unique color hues, such as yellow, pink, or black. Color is the main appeal of vibrant gems like rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and amethysts. Still, many jewelers regard color as the most critical evaluation criterion of all gemstones—hue, tone, and saturation influence the final color of these dazzling jewels.
Luster
Much of how we perceive a gemstone’s beauty lies in how intricately light reflects and refracts throughout the stone.
Optical Phenomenon
Many gemstones possess unique properties that allow them to display special light effects that make them even more appealing. Most of these optical occurrences are dependent on how the gemstones are cut. Let's explore some of the spectacular special effects that stones are capable of displaying.
Color Change
Some gemstones will display dramatic changes in color when viewed in different lights like incandescent lighting or daylight. Alexandrite is the most well-known example of a color-changing gem when in incandescent light. It will absorb all spectral colors except for red, which is then reflected back to the eye. When viewed in natural light, alexandrite will absorb red light and reflect blue. While it is pretty rare, some sapphires can change color and can shift from pink to green or from blue to purplish-blue, depending on the light it is being viewed in.
