An Introduction to Gemstones

Why wear gemstones, really? Even though gemstones have been revered and worn
since ancient times, it’s only recently that thorough scientific research
has identified their various benefits, and the process is still in an early
stage of development. While most buyers still look at gemstones as a unique
form of jewelry, they really do have a host of benefits that should help the
individual, depending on what problem he or she is going through.

First, a little history and science about Gemstones. It have almost
always a mineral origin. Most gemstones have a carbon or a silicon origin.
In fact, except diamond and a few other varieties of gemstones, most of them
are a derivative of quartz (with traces of various metals in them). Quartz
is silicon dioxide. It’s these metal traces which give gemstones specific
colors.  Ancient doctors used to prescribe ground gemstone powders as
medicine for many different kinds of ailments and the practice is still
sometimes followed. Gemstones have been widely used in the histories of
ancient India, Mesopotamia, Egypt and China. The Aztecs and Incas in early
South America also used them. They were also prevalent in ancient Greece and
Rome.

Gemstone mineral composition can be easily absorbed into the body, even by
contact with skin. This makes sense when talking about healing properties –
it’s not just miraculous powers!  Today, they are classed into precious and
semi-precious gemstones – precious gemstones include diamond, ruby and
sapphire. Semi-precious gemstones are being used in a wide variety of
applications – some of them are being used as a cheaper replacement of
gemstones as well. For example, white sapphire is considered to be a good
replacement of the much more expensive diamond. From here on, we will
explore gemstones in deeper detail, especially about the fact that they are
so good for your health!