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Gem in the Spotlight: Tanzanite

FJU Category: Gemstones | Tags: Gem Spotlight, Gemology, Tanzanite, Zoisite

Beauty and rarity are two wonderful traits in a gemstone. Tanzanite has them both. In fact, it is estimated that Tanzanite is 1,000 times rarer than diamond. But, what makes Tanzanite … mix of blue and purple. The deep hues of violet, indigo, and blue come together in an unrivaled blend only found in tanzanite. Yet, even with its rarity and dynamic look, tanzanite is still less in price than more commonly known gems like … of Tanzanite Gemologists refer to this gem as blue zoisite. The vast majority (current estimates are around 95%) of tanzanite is heat treated to help bring out the vibrant blues. The stones that haven’t been heated by humans were heated …

Styles of Earring Backs

FJU Category: General Info | Tags: Comparison, Earring Backs, Stud Earrings

Earrings come in many different styles. Here we will explore the more common types of earring backs, highlighting some of the… the proper name for it. Maybe you are looking for the perfect gift. Maybe you are having trouble with your current earrings and are looking for alternatives. Or maybe you are simply interested in expanding your general jewelry knowledge. … backs,” and sometimes “push backs.” These are undoubtedly the most common style of earring back. They work on earrings with posts, using friction to secure the earring in place–hence the name. Often times the post has a notch so that the …

Gem in the Spotlight: Iolite

FJU Category: Gemstones | Tags: Colored Gemstones, Folklore, Gem Spotlight, Gemology, Iolite, Jewelry History

… of the list. Iolite’s color range of blue, blue-violet, and violet competes for public attention with sapphire, tanzanite, and amethyst. They may have name recognition, but iolite has a rich, unique color and great gem value on its side. It …absolutely wonderful in jewelry. The subtle range of hues from blue to violet makes for elegant rings, pendants, and earrings. All in all, iolite is a great

Gem in the Spotlight: Tourmaline

FJU Category: Gemstones | Tags: Colored Gemstones, Folklore, Gem Spotlight, Gemology, Jewelry History, Tourmaline

…index of 1.624 to 1.644 and a Mohs hardness of 7 to 7.5 which makes it softer than topaz or sapphire and harder than tanzanite or opal. Tourmaline is found in a huge variety of colors (sometimes even within the same gem), and some of these … birthstone. Care and Cleaning of Tourmaline Tourmaline makes a great gem in a ring for occasional wear or a pendant/earrings for daily wear. Because it isn’t exceptionally hard (Mohs hardness of 7-7.5), it should be stored away from other …

FJU Category: Gemstones | Tags: Birthstones, Folklore, Gemology

… for this month. Learn more about Topaz and Citrine December’s Birthstones: Turquoise (Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite) Turquoise is found in Egypt, Persia (Iran), Tibet, and the Americas. It has been treasured for its beauty from … is associated with Innocence. Present day additions to December’s birthstones are Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, and Tanzanite. Learn more about Topaz , Tanzanite , and Blue Zircon

Gem in the Spotlight: Aquamarine

FJU Category: Gemstones | Tags: Aquamarine, Birthstones, Colored Gemstones, Folklore, Gem Spotlight, Gemology

… said to aid seafarers. Sailors often wore amulets of aquamarine to give them courage and tame the ocean waves. One myth says, “to dream of aquamarine signifies the making of new friends.” Another saying is, “to wear aquamarine earrings brings love and affection.” Aquamarine as a precious stone has always been popular. In ancient times, the aquamarine was believed to instill courage in those who wore them.  Ancient Indians wore aquamarine in amulets, and the Egyptians …