How Gems Are Formed? What is a gemstone? Gemstones are minerals that have been chosen for their beauty and durability, then they are cut and polished and then used as jewelry. They are also known as gems, precious stones, jewels, or semi-precious stones.
Most gems are minerals, but some like pearl and amber are organics. Living organisms create these materials. A mineral is created inside the earth. For gemstone buyers, durability and wearability is usually a high priority. Most gemstones are hard but some soft minerals are used as jewels because of there luster and other physical properties. Uniqueness is another characteristic that provides value to gems. The most popular gems are particularly delicate. Pearls and opals have been valued as gems throughout history and across many cultures. These beautiful gems have chemical compositions that are different from other gems and need extra care before, during, and after cleaning. Pearls in general last about duration as jewelry stones due to their timidity. The simple act of wiping off the dust will slowly wear away their coating. Perfumes or hairspray also stain or damage the pearls.