Green Gemstones

Did You Know That There Are 51 Different Types of Green Gemstones?

If you are anything like me you are probably find it difficult to tell the difference between the different types of gems. There are so many typed of gems and each one seems to come in such a wide varieties of colours. Take green gemstones for example.  Most of us relate green gemstones to emeralds, but actually there are at least 51 different types of green gemstones existing.  

Green gemstones are one of the most common coloured stones there are. They make exquisite unique jewelry. A lot of of the precious and semi-precious stones such as diamonds, sapphires, garnets and amethysts come as green gemstones as well as the usual colours we associate with them. It is quite hard for the ordinary person to differentiate between the different green gemstones existing.  In the following paragraphs I will highlight some of the characteristics of  the more familiar green gemstones used in jewelry:- 

1.    Emeralds

When I think of green gemstones I think of Emeralds, the birthstone for May. The best emeralds are pure verdant green gemstones with a high degree of transparency. They are all green gemstones, and do not come in any other colour. However some emeralds may have a yellow or blue secondary hue. Emeralds were the favourite of Cleopatra because she believed they would offer her eternal youth. Emeralds usually have inclusions and surface fissures which makes them quite fragile. Perfectly smooth and transparent emeralds are rare and very valuable. 

2.    Diamonds

We all think of diamonds as being colourless and transparent but in actual fact diamonds can occur naturally in many different colours including green gemstones which are extremely rare and expensive. Colored Diamonds are called Fancy Coloured Diamonds and form naturally when they contain certain  impurities. The green gemstones variety are formed both naturally or under laboratory conditions as a result of irradiation of pure diamonds. Most of the green gemstones available today are actually irradiated then heat treated in the lab. The most famous is the Dresden Diamond which is a 41 carat natural green gemstone. Diamonds are the birthstone for April.

 

3.    Sapphires

Most people think of sapphires as blue to match the sky, but they in fact occur naturally in many colours such as black, yellow, pink and green gemstones. Coloured sapphires belong to a group called Fancy Coloured Sapphires. Technically speaking a ruby is chemically a red sapphire. All sapphires belong to a group of minerals called corundum. Sapphire is the birthstone for those born in  September.

Star Sapphires can also be found as green gemstones

4.     Alexandrite

Alexandrite is a fascinating stone because it changes colour. They are green gemstones during the day but change  to red at night under incandescent light. It is a form of chrysoberyl.  Different varieties of alexandrite produce different colors. Alexandrite is one of the birthstones for June.  

5.    Garnet

As well as the usual red, garnets also found naturally as yellow, black and green gemstones. There are several species of garnets which all possess similar physical properties and crystal forms, but differ in chemical composition.

The green gemstones can be found in three different garnet species which are chemically different.

1)      The andradite species which is further subdivided into the varieties topazolite (golden-yellow variety), Melanite (black) and demantoid .  The Demantoid garnet is the most expensive kind of garnet and one of the most precious of all gems due to a combination of its rarity and incredible luminosity. The demantoid are bright green gemstones with a slight yellow hue.

2)      Grossular garnet which includes the Tsavorite which are very rich bright green gemstones

3)      Uvarovite, one of the rarest garnet species, are beautiful and consistently green gemstones

  Color-changing varieties of garnet also exist. Garnet is the birthstone for January.

6.    Tourmaline

 Tourmalines are usually black, red (rubellites) and yellow, but they also occur as green gemstones, also known as verdelite which comes from Brazil. Tourmaline belongs to a complex family of aluminum borosilicates and several species are known.  Watermelon tourmaline are green gemstones on one end and pink on the other. 

7.     Peridot

 Peridot are green gemstones from the mineral olivine. Like emeralds and citrine, peridot is one of the very few stones that have only one color but ranges from olive green gemstones , to brownish, to almost yellow — all with a glassy luster. Peridot is the birthstone for the month of August and along with emerald was a favourite of Cleopatra.

8.    Prasiolite

 Prasiolite or vermarine as it is also known are the semi-precious green gemstones of amethysts.  Amethysts are made of violet quartz, and citrine is made of yellow quartz. Natural prasiolite crystals are rare, with small supply coming from Brazil, Poland and Canada. Most prasiolite stones sold in the market are treated amethyst.

9.    Opal

Opals come in a range of gorgeous colours but one of the prettiest are the green gemstones, especially those which fire against white background. However a black body tone is much more valuable. Most opals with a greenish hue come from Australia. 

10.     Spinel

The most popular type of spinel is red but it also is found as black, yellow, white, and green gemstones. Spinel can be glassy to dull in luster. However the green gemstones are gray or dark in intensity and are not very appropriate for jewelry. The yellow and the green gemstones are quite rare, and most end up with collector’s.

11.    Pearl

The most familiar pearls are white, cream or black but they also come in a diversity of colours including green gemstones. Light green gemstones are produced by Japan’s Akoya oysters, while the dark green gemstones are produced by the black pearl oyster, whose pearls are often a variation of black. Pearl is the birthstone June.

12.  Topaz

As well as the yellow and red we all know so well, topaz also occurs as green gemstones. These semi-precious stones are fairly rare and only occur naturally in a number of localities, including Brazil, the United States, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. Colorless topaz can also be treated a gem lab to create green gemstones.

13.   Jade 

There are two types of jade , jadeite and nephrite. Jadeite is a green gemstone and is the most expensive variety of the jade stones. It comes in many shades, the most valuable being the translucent and intensely green gemstones. The other variety of jade, nephrite,  is more abundant than jadeite but also occurs as a green gemstone. Neprhrite has fewer colour varieties than jadeite which has a broad range of colours. While green gemstones are most recognizable as jade, jadeite is more commonly found in white,  gray-green,  pale blue-gray, or even a pale purple.  Jade has been used for eons in China and Central America as an ornamental and religious stone of deep significance.

14.   Amber

Amber as we know it is most often yellow. But it can also occur as red, blue or green gemstones. Amber is fossilized resin from evergreen trees preserved under high pressure. The thing I love about amber is that it is warm to the touch. The green gemstones are more valuable if they have fossil inclusions.

15.    Agate 

Green gemstones of agate are found as a banded variety of chalcedony, which is a member of the quartz group of minerals. Several types of agate produce stones with the greenish hues in the stripes. Agate is the birthstone for June.

16.  Moss agate

Moss agate is not technically an agate because it is really a different variety of chalcedony. Green gemstones of moss agate lack the concentric banding that characterizes agate. Moss agate is distinguished for its inclusions, which resembles   moss against the clear quartz.

17.   Moonstone

Moonstone is made of feldspar comparable to orthoclase, labradorite, andesine, sunstone and oligoclase. While moonstone is best known for its opalescent white colour on blue, it can also occur as brown, black or green gemstones. Moonstone is the birthstone for August. 

18.  Bloodstone

 Bloodstone is chalcedony which is also called heliotrope. It is similar to jasper, carnelian, onyx and agate. Bloodstones are green gemstones which are speckled with red intrusions, which may be red jasper. These semi-precious stones are the birthstones for December.

19.   The Other Varieties of Green Gemstones

 Other green gemstones which are used in jewelry manufacture are Serendibite, Sphene,  Chrysoberyl, Zircon, Smithsonite, Andalusite, labradorite (Andesine), Idocrase, Bowenite, Sphalerite, Kornerupine, Apatite, Chrome Diopside, Enstatite, Sunstone, Hiddenite, Moldavite,  Zoisite, Maw-sit-sit, Malachite, Fluorite, Chrysoprase, Chrome Chalcedony, Aventurine, Prehnite, Gaspeite, Jasper, Seraphinite, Variscite, Amazonite, Chrysocalla, Unakite, Fuchsite and Maripolite.

There are too many to discuss in this article but I hope I have given you a basic understanding of the basics of gemology. Quite frankly I find it quite difficult to differentiate between the different types of green gemstones and would need to rely on the services of a jeweller or a gem lab to ensure that I was truly getting what I was paying for.

From the limited description above you can see that green gemstones come in all forms varying from very rare and valuable to relatively inexpensive varieties.  As I said at the beginning there are 51 types of green gemstones so having the expertise to differentiate between them all is very important. I love the earthy look and feel of green gemstones which when used in jewelry creation indicate a degree of beauty, elegance and sophistication.  

December’s Birthstones - Tanzanite

The second of December’s birthstones is Tanzanite. 

Tanzanite is a comparatively new stone in gemmology because it was just found in the 1960s in Tanzania.  It is found only in a small area of Tanzania. The American Gem Trade Association nominated it as a December’s birthstone in 2002 when it was recognized as a powerful violet flame crystal which facilitates healing and transformation.  

Tanzanite crystals possess a high vibration level which makes them very precious stones for metaphysical healing. It promotes the development of  psychic powers and accelerated spiritual growth. Tanzanite is believed to have mellowing properties and provide balance in busy, stressful lives.

Although tanzanite is valued for its deep violet-blue color, the fact is that it in reality it has to be heat treated to bring out the blue violet of the natural stone.  The color varies from blue to purple, but the most valuable tanzanites are medium dark in tone, vivid in saturation, and slightly violet blue. 

Tanzanite is renowned for its tendency to trichroism. This means it looks sapphire blue, violet or burgundy depending on the crystal orientation. Natural tanzanite is   a reddish brown in its untreated state and is very rare.  

 Tanzanite was first used as a more affordable sapphire substitute, but it has grown in popularity and now valued for its own beauty and brilliance. It makes fabulous affordable jewellery and is perfect for gifts.

It is interesting to note that TURQUOISE, the oldest gemstone known and TANZANITE the youngest, are both December’s birthstones.

December’s Birthstones - Turquoise

December‘s Birthstones include Turquoise, Tanzanite and Blue Topaz.

Blue turquoise is one of the December’s birthstones. It is rich in wisdom and tradition and has been adopted my many different ancient cultures since at least 6000 BCE. Used for the production of jewelry and idols it was popular with people of the Middle East, Egypt, Persia (Iran), India, the Aztecs in Central America, and the Native American Indians. 

Over the many centuries it has been used to make necklaces, beads, rings, scarabs and was even used in the construction of the Taj Majal. Turquoise is a holy stone revered by American Indians even to this day, who believe that the turquoise is a magic stone providing protection against harm. Turquoise rings, in particular, are believed to keep away the evil spirits. This ancient protective stone protects both horse and rider on long journeys and guarantees success and power to men.   

Turquoise is a symbol of beauty. During the Middle Ages it was used to offer women a sense of happiness and contentment making them more virtuous and loyal. Turquoise is regarded as a love charm as well as a symbol of good fortune, prosperity and success. Turquoise has always been a favorite with royals.

 

The traditional metaphysical properties offered by the turquoise are open communication, protection against all diseases, regeneration, and strengthening. It is used to boost creativity, serenity, spiritual bonding and relieves negative feelings and improves low self-esteem.

Turquoise said to be a master healer. Turquoise can be used to treat diseases of the throat, lungs, asthma, teeth, depression, eye disorders and general infection. It aids the absorption of nutrients and strengthens the body, relaxes the mind and  protects against environmental pollutants.

Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones used in jewellery and idols. Its name   came from the 13th century French expression Pierre tourques which stands for Turkish stone.

Turquoise is a blue stone which ranges in color from a greenish-blue to sky-blue, and its may vary from translucent through to opaque. Turquoise is a still a particular favorite in the American Southwest where the native community design and produce an outstanding array of turquoise jewellery.

 

If cold December gave you birth,
The month of snow and ice and mirth,
Place on your hand a turquoise blue;
Success will bless whate'er you do

November’s Birthstone - Citrine

The other November’s birthstone is the Citrine 

November’s birthstone, the Citrine, symbolizes truth and integrity. Citrine gets its name from the Latin word citrina which means yellow. The warm yellow color supports vitality and health while encouraging and guiding hope, energy and warmth. Citrine encourages success, abundance, clear thinking and creativity.

 

Citrine is known as the healing quartz.  It removes negative vibrations and eliminates self-destructive tendencies. It strengthens the heart, the kidneys, the red blood cells, the digestive tract, the liver and is a muscle healer. It has been used to cure appendicitis and gangrene.  Citrine has been known to help hearing.  In ancient times it was carried as a protection against snake venom and evil thoughts.

Citrine is a type of quartz found in a variety of shades ranging from pastel yellow to dark brownish orange. It is reasonably rare to find natural citrine  so most gems on the market are heat-treated amethysts or smoky quartz. 

Visually it is almost impossible to differentiate between citrine and yellow topaz. But they are unrelated mineral species. Historically all yellow gems were once incorrectly called topaz. Sometimes citrine and amethyst can be found together in the same crystal which is called ametrine. 

  November’s birthstone citrine makes beautiful jewellery and exquisite, affordable engagement rings and a perfect gift.

November’s Birthstone – Topaz

  November's birthstones are the  yellow TOPAZ and the CITRINE 

One of November’s birthstones is the yellow topaz, one of the most powerful gemstones which have been used for many thousands of years. Historically the yellow topaz has been associated with Jupiter and was used as a symbol of the power and wisdom of a ruler.  It got its name from the Indian Sanskrit word tapas meaning fire or from the Arabic word topazos meaning found. The Bible describes yellow topaz as one of the protective stones of the New Jerusalem. In ancient Mexico the yellow topaz was used to determine the truth.

Topaz symbolizes love and affection. Topaz is associated with reliability, loyalty, faithfulness and friendship. It gives the wearer increased strength and intellect, opening a person’s mind to higher wisdom and guidance and helps them to find their true pathway in life. It stands for the joy of life.

The traditional metaphysical properties of topaz relate to strength, release of tension and the balancing of emotions. It helps in times of stress, enhancing spiritual rejuvenation and feelings of joy and happiness. It also provides protection from greed and calms passions. It is a useful aid for meditation.

Topaz helps to relieve health problems involving the following conditions - asthma, gout, blood disorders, haemorrhages, sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis and insomnia. It can help reverse aging by general tissue regeneration and by stimulating the endocrine system.

Topaz comes in a wide range of colors - yellow, pink, purple, orange, and the many popular blue tones. November’s birthstone is the yellow topaz. The most popular color is the Imperial topaz with its magnificent orange body with pinkish undertones. Topaz makes such fabulous jewellery.

 Who first comes to this world below
With drear November's fog and snow,
Should prize the topaz’s amber hue,
Emblem of friends and lovers true.

October’s Birthstones - The Tourmaline

Another of October’s birthstones is the tourmaline. 

Tourmaline is well-known for its charisma and ability to raise vibrations and understanding of the universal law. Tourmaline improves both concentration and eloquence. It dispels fear and negativity. It is used to help the  grieving process for those who have lost, calming nerves  and providing tranquil sleep to those who need rest. 

 

From a health point of view the tourmaline offers relief with genetic disorders, cancer and regulates hormones.  Similar to opals the tourmaline's curing powers are associated to their color:

• Black tourmalines are specifically used to cure symptoms arising from arthritis, dyslexia, syphilis, heart diseases, anxiety and disorientation. They enhance unselfishness, stop negativity and thwart bad energies such as resentment and insecurity.

• Red tourmaline otherwise known as rubellite enhances creativity. It is also used to cure fertility problems and soothes a passive or aggressive nature.

•  Green tourmaline opens the heart chakra. It has a good effect on the immune system, blood pressure and asthma. It balances, getting rid of conflict from within and other psychological problems. It induces creativity.

•  Blue tourmaline otherwise known as indicolite helps disorders of the lungs, larynx, thyroid and the parasympathetic nervous system.

• Watermelon tourmaline is a heart chakra healer, stimulating a sense of humor. It is eliminates guilt and insecurity and provides self-containment.

Tourmaline is available in a wide range of fabulous colors. Individual stones are also found in multi-colors, bi-colors or tri-colors.  Tourmaline stones which contain many color combinations and have clear distinct tones are highly valued.  Watermelon tourmaline features green, pink, and white bands and when the gemstone is cut into thin slices they have a pink center, white ring, and green edge. 

Tourmaline, one of October’s birthstones are magical stones which make really interesting jewellery and are a good alternative for the opal if you are a little bit superstitious

October’s Birthstone- The Opal

 October's Birthstones are the opal and tourmaline

 One of  October’s birthstone is the opal which symbolizes hope, innocence and purity. But beware, many people believe it is a portend of bad luck and witchcraft and say it should only be worn if it is your birthstone.

 

In mythology the gods cherished opals as the magical personification of all the beauty of all precious gemstones wrapped into one.  In India and the Far East the opal is worn as a lucky charm and a symbol of eternal hope. Opal necklaces are worn to repel evil and to protect eyesight.

The opal’s name comes from the Latin word opalus, meaning precious jewel or the Greek word Opallos, meaning to see a change of color. The magic of the opal lies in is ability to reflect various colors.

Opals are amazing gems which range in color from milky white to black with flashes of yellow, orange, green, red, pink, turquoise, cherry red, and blue. An opal's beauty is attributed to the contrast between its color play and its background. The fire opal is particularly beautiful with the red-orange sparkles in it. The most valued opal of all is the white opal with its milky white background with its gentle rainbow iridescence. 

The traditional metaphysical properties attributed to the opal are happiness, inspiration, faithfulness, loyalty and confidence. Opals enhance visualization, imagination, dreams and healing.  

 The opal has powerful healing properties and is particularly good for the eyes and eye infections. However their healing properties however relate to their color

·         Cherry opals are good for blood disorders as well as depression, apathy, lethargy, intuition. They offer joy.

 

 ·         Dark opals are good for the reproductive organs, the spleen, pancreas and bone marrow as well as red and white blood cell production. They are used to treat depression and sexual dysfunction. They help to balance emotions and enhance creativity and innovation.

 ·         Jelly opals help cure diseases of the spleen, abdomen, particularly with the absorption of nutrients, and also with cellular reproductive problems. They minimize mood swings and enhance spiritual thoughts.

 ·         Light opals balance the left and right brain hemispheres in neuro disorders. They cure abdomen, pituitary and thymus diseases, and stimulate white blood cell production. They enhance mystical experiences. 

 Opals which are one of October's birthstones are the most amazing stones and make beautiful jewellery. Give opals is a gift for your love born in October but if she is at all superstitious she will not want to wear an opal if October is not her birth month. Give a tourmaline instead.

.

 October's child is born for woe,
And life's vicissitudes must know,
But lay an opal on her breast,
And hope will lull those woes to rest.