Thursday, October 2, 2008

High Quality Gemstones and Where to Find Them

By Chris Channing

It is not hard work to find high quality gemstones. Specific Values for these gemstones and their varieties are determined by many different factors. Different sizes and varieties of the same gemstone may be worth more.

Finding Lapis Lazuli can be simple in many parts of the world. It has some variations in consistency as it is a stone made up of many different minerals. The most valuable coloring would be a dark blue with small flecks of gold pyrite. If there are calcite veins or large pyrite inclusions, the value of the lapis lazuli may go down, but finding patches of pyrite on the lapis lazuli help to determine that the stone is genuine and does not affect it's value.

The Topaz is a very beautiful gemstone that comes in many varieties. It can come in many colors, and can be coated with chemicals to make it iridescent. It can be found in many places of the world and has been found as clear large boulders. Using irradiation techniques, it's color can be changed to varying shades of blue.

The beautiful Peridot can be found anywhere where volcanoes and other lava sources are located. Gem quality peridot is actually a very rare type of Olivine. Olivine forms at high temperatures while magma sets into lava. This causes the olivine to be deposited onto the lava over time. Depending on how much iron it contains it can form as clear olive green crystals or dark brown, greenish crystals.

Finding higher quality gemstone is best at the sources where they are mined. Instead of the smaller gemstones you can find at your home town gem dealer, you can find much larger higher quality raw gemstones at the mining locations throughout the world. High quality gemstones are found with many other gemstones and minerals at the same mining locations. You may find other gemstones that you like there as well.

You can also find high quality stones such as the ones above, as well as others online. While there is a greater risk associated with using online services; they can also pay off. Try finding a site that offers guarantees as well as plenty of customer reviews. Even finding small samples is a good way to learn about a stone. Take care with using companies, especially if they seem a bit overpriced.

Closing Comments

No one wants cheap and low quality gemstones, so finding high quality pieces can be important to your collection. Jewelry can look gaudy instead of classy if they use cheap stones. Research qualities online, or in bookstores. Don't be shy about asking jewelers plenty of questions!

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