The Man Who Started It All: Swarovski Crystals and Gems

The famous chandelier used in the 2004 version of the Phantom of the Opera was spectacular and would you believe it, they were made from the Swarovski crystals which are highly valued nowadays. These famous crystals have been around for years but its popularity was revived only and flaunted all over the world around the late 80's and have not wavered a bit since then.

The Swarovski Dream
   
It was in October 24, 1862 when the world was so busy with so many things that the person who would revolutionize the crystals that we know today was born. Daniel Swarovski was born in Bohemia, Austria and worked alongside his father as a cutter when he was a young man.  It was in 1883 that he went to the First International Electric Exhibition to see Edison's invention. He was inspired by many other inventors such as Siemens and Schuckert, and thought that there might be other means to a more perfect cutting of crystals. Clearly, cutting by hand is not enough.

And so in 1892, he invented a precision cutting machine and after three years, he, together with friends Armand Kosman and Fanz Weiz became financiers to Swarovski's vision of expanding his crystal cutting business. It was known as A. Kosmann, Daniel Swarovski & Co which later eventually changed to K.S. & Co.

Then soon in 1908, he invented a furnace with his three sons that produced flawless crystal glass with amazing brilliance. He invented the Tyrolit, an effective grinding tool in 1919. He also invented the road-safety reflectors made of glass in the year of 1925.

Then in 1948, Daniel began to establish the Swarovski Optik, his own company. And in 1988, he changed the logo of the Swarovski brand from the initially designed Edelweiss flower into a different logo. After a while, Daniel Swarovski decided to change it into a swan logo within the year. He used special coatings for the crystals to create the rainbow spectrum, of which the Aurore boreale is the most common.

Swarovski made the famous opera house chandelier again in the remake of the movie Phantom of the Opera. Later in 2004 – Swarovski created the 550 lb, crystal star on top of the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center in New York City which is actually 9 feet in diameter.

And it was in 2007 that Swarovski accepted partnership with Philips to do manufacturing of various gadgets with "Active-Crystals".

Highlights on Swarovski Colors
   
Swarovski made sure that when he makes crystals, he will make them crystals of classic colors, but there are colors that are exclusive to the brand. Below is the list of Swarovski Crystal Colors available today exclusively available from Swarovski.

The Classic colors include Crystal, Emerald, Rose, Peridot, Light Siam while the Exclusive Colors is comprised of Indian Sapphire, Light Topaz, Morion, Dark sapphire, Light Azore, Turmaline and Burgundy. Exclusive Effects include Comet Argent Light, White Opal Star Shine, Volcano, Satin, Matte Finish and Meridian. Other crystals are further classified into Classic Effects which include the popularly known Aurore Boreale, Heliotrope, Glacier Blue and Vitrail Light. Really, whatever kind of crystals you need, at whatever color, you will find them with the Swarovski crystals!

Swarovski has earned so much respect from the world and the crystals which he has worked so hard to develop remain popular to this day. They are used in fashion, electronics and as collection. The crystals are not only sold as beads that were normally created as necklaces or any other fashion accessories. The famous "crystal swan" is in fact the logo of the Swarovski brand and has been imitated by other crystal cutting manufacturers for years.

Daniel Swarovski died in 1956, but the love for his inventions and the craze for Swarovski crystals and gemstones live on. He was a man whose vision ceased to become a dream; it has crystallized into tiny yet beautiful works of art.

The Crystal Truth About Crystals and Gemstones

In life, not everything that is shining is made of gold, but who would not want these splendid minerals on their bodies, their jewelry or their clothes when they just simply spell amazing? The words crystals and gemstones have most often been used interchangeably, but here we'll take an in depth look into these pricey minerals and describe their origins and the beliefs that were born over the years of using crystals and gemstones.

What's the Difference between Crystals and Gemstones?

They say that you recognize a crystal because it's clear but what about diamonds? Diamonds are clear as well making it so complicated to tell them apart. Most of the crystals and gemstones that we see today are already cut but when they are still in their original, mineral form, it is pretty easy to identify each. Crystals are sliced from symmetrically interwoven cuts of glasslike substance that appears like an ice formation. Gemstones, on the other hand, are actually carved and polished from stone formations.

Stones of Healing

Since pre-recorded history, stones and crystals have been used for their healing powers. Men and women have enjoyed using these materials due to their non-invasive, relaxing effects. It is said that stones and crystals absorb or relay energy to the seven primary chakras of the body, relieving tension and exuding relaxation when necessary.

Chakra refers to the seven force centers in the body, which emits energy and permits us to perform our daily activities. One energy deficiency on a particular chakra disrupts the whole energy system in the body creating "disease". And it is in these diseases that these crystals and gemstones are most often used; to gather, integrate or replenish energies. Since the stones and crystals emit very specific energies and are able to stimulate, make sure you properly place these materials at precise points in the body to heal what needs healing.

Fashionable Minerals

Before, prehistoric men wore rocks of various shapes, sizes and colors and have even used them as tools. And many years after, royalties mainly used these materials as necklaces and adornments, even turning them into crowns! Now, gemstones and crystals are everywhere! Be it on your earrings, bags, shoes and clothes. Fashion designers have long recognized its use in fashion designing. 

And nowadays, a woman can hardly live her life without setting hands upon any jewelry whether as a pair of earrings, a ring, a shoe embellishment or a decorative piece on her belt. Men's fashion, on the other hand, makes use of these minerals as cufflinks, necklace or rings regardless of their value.

Also, most people now have started using the affordable mineral beads as a form of passion or a hobby. This way, personalized beadworks of necklaces and other forms of jewelry have been made possible and available to everyone.  At one point, Swarovski crystals have become so popular to the point they appear on practically anything that can be beaded with crystals, most especially, on wedding dresses and evening gowns.

Why ladies love to wear crystals and gemstones is not at all surprising!  What with the crystals' undeniable beauty and splendor, no one could ever escape its lure! Crystals come in different sizes, uses and value. One might even use the crystals and other gemstones for healing purposes, or simply for making you look fabulous, or some other purposes.

Hollywood Stars Wearing Crystals and Their Gemstones

Hollywood doesn't seem to have enough stars to brighten up its gates, but the stars themselves keep wearing such fabulous, crystals and gemstones, as they love partnering such stones with amazing clothes while taking their walk on the red carpet. While some say they like wearing crystals and gemstones as their birthstones. Really, these trinkets are said to have the ability to enhance the natural aura of a person. Let's see what they can do to some of our popular stars' already bright future!

January – Garnet
Oprah Winfrey - January 29, 1954
Patrick Dempsey - January 13, 1966

Garnet is known to trigger the creative abilities of a person and activate the desire to help others sincerely. Oprah could very well be carrying this gem in her pocket with all the philanthropic work she's doing and clearly, the scrub suit isn't enough to bring out Patrick's natural passion to save lives.

February – Amethyst
Jennifer Aniston – February 11, 1969
Rihanna - February 20, 1988

We all agree that Jennifer and Rihanna could do well with a little calm and balance, with their bad break ups and trying relationships. The Amethyst could channel the calming energy towards their hearts enabling them to clear their thoughts, manage their emotions and sharpen their intuitions.

March – Aquamarine
Sarah Jessica Parker - March 25, 1965
Reese Witherspoon - March 22, 1976

Aquamarine emits energy that centers on spiritual experiences. In effect, it reduces fear, allowing a person to move forward in his or her life experiences. Sarah could benefit from the Aquamarine to balance her hectic work life and her spirituality for a holistic beauty. What better way to maintain her fashion iconic status! Reese, on the other hand, would enjoy the calm of the stone, allowing her to communicate freely and engage in new experiences.

April – Diamond
America Ferrera - April 18, 1984
Leighton Meester - April 09, 1986

While diamonds are often seen as a mere sign of engagement, we should also realize its immense ability to clear the mind and remove negativity! As new stars, America and Leighton could use a little bit of spiritual awareness to keep their minds healthy and hearts always compassionate despite the stress and cutthroat demands of show business.

May – Emerald
Robert Pattinson - May 13, 1986
Megan Fox - May 16, 1986

Being very busy and popular are the two common denominators of Robert and Megan. They could use a little Emerald to stimulate the over-all healing of mental and physical health, as they could usually falter due to stress. This stone could help them harmonize their personal lives while keeping them focused when at work.

June – Pearl
Angelina Jolie - June 4, 1975
Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen - June 13, 1986

The pearl is very effective in clearing out emotional imbalances. With the hectic schedule and non-stop drama in the lives of the Olsen Twins and the always in scrutiny tandem of Jolie and Pitt, these guys would really benefit from a little pearl exposure to absorb their stress and prevent them from behaving negatively.

July – Ruby
Lindsay Lohan -July 2, 1986
Daniel Radcliffe - July 23, 1989

Obviously Lindsay and Daniel have talent in common, and there's no better way to ensure that the artistic juices keep flowing in their careers than to wear some pieces of ruby. It stimulates energy in the body to assist a person while achieving one's goals. This equilibrium in the mind helps create stability and confidence at the same time, warding off negativity.

August – Peridot
Hayden Panettiere - August 21, 1989
Madonna - August 16, 1958

Peridot is an effective stimulant of regenerative hormones in the body. Therefore, Madonna and Hayden's athleticism will need support from this stone to aid in muscle relaxation. Peridot is also known to ease the mind during stressful situations, thereby eliminating feelings of nervousness and fear.

September – Sapphire
Beyoncé Knowles - September 04, 1981
Keanu Reeves - September 02, 1964

Artistic people are known to be very emotional, and the sapphire could help them balance their body chemicals at the same time normalize their moods. Sapphire stones are known to promote tranquility and inspiration. Clearly, Beyonce and Keanu are both very artistic and creative and might need a little sapphire to soften their naturally intense emotions.

October – Opal
Zac Efron - October 18, 1987
Simon Cowell - October 07, 1959

It is extremely interesting how the gemstone Opal promotes clarity in making decisions and Simon Cowell is on our list. His name is synonymous to big talent shows that produce stars today and his thoughts simply matter. For Zac Efron, whose career is just about taking off, Opal could be helpful in reducing the effects of fatigue in his career life.

November – Yellow Topaz
Miley Cyrus – November 23, 1992
Scarlett Johansson - November 22, 1984

Popular, beautiful and talented Miley and Scarlett have their schedules pretty full that hardly have any time left to relax. And because of this, they need to have the gemstone, the Yellow Topaz which integrates the busy mind to the refreshing energies of the world. It promotes trust and clarity in communication and encourages the wearer to be in touch with his or her higher desires. Truly ideal for these two stars who are so pretty much wrapped up in their busy careers.

December –Turquoise
Brad Pitt - December 18, 1963
Taylor Swift - December 13, 1989

Taylor Swift would definitely do well wearing turquoise as this gemstone keeps the mind focused at one's goals especially when he or she is too busy achieving his or her goals. Swift's talent and success is amazing and the gemstone turquoise would help her keep a more objective look at what she dealt with on her way to the top. As for Brad, this is a great stone to help attune his mind and spirit. Wearing the gemstone turquoise will surely help bring clarity and calm to him.

Really, people have used various kinds of stones for many years and these gems are priced not only for their value but for their inherent ability to pull energies. More than piece of accessory to complete our stars' awesome wardrobes, various crystals and gemstones might just be able to further improve what is already a great life for them!

The Beginning of Crystals and Gems

Indeed, everything that God created was beautifully and perfectly made, including man. Man was created to have total dominion over all of God's creations, the trees and plants, the animals and the nature including the countless precious elements found in our surroundings, such as the crystals and gemstones.

Yes, these stones are one of those most fascinating things that awaken man's interests. A gemstone or gem is made up of minute fragments of natural minerals. These are then smashed into undergoing a series of mechanical and chemical changes to bring out an expensive jewelry or adornment out of a simple stone.

A gemstone can be described and distinguished being a precious or semi-precious stone rooted from the ancient Greeks. From the ancient times until now, precious gemstones serve as accessories and adornment, and could sometimes determine one's social status in life. While these gemstones such as the diamonds and emeralds are subdivided according to varieties and groups and sometimes, according to their species.

Treatments for Gemstones and Crystals

Gemstones, just like any other product, must undergo several treatments for their mysterious beauty and quality. Treatments such as heating, radiation, waxing and fracture filling are required for the gemstone to appear as attractive as it can. Despite the beauty and glamour a gemstone can bring, there are also a lot of synthetic or fake stones which are available today such as the stones cubic zirconium and moissanite.

That is why today, experts have become rigid in identifying true gemstones. These gemologists or gemstones experts have the skills to easily determine a piece of beauty that is fake or unreal. However, nowadays, the technology has become so well advanced that even without a gemologist; we can already determine the value of these precious gemstones.


As a matter of fact, in one of Germany's premier cities, Munich, an International Exhibit will be anchored this year starting October 30th till 1st of November, entitled "Mineralientage Munchien 2009". It will feature gemological instruments and activities that will include international sales exhibition for minerals, fossils, crystals, gemstones, technical literatures and accessories. This event would surely bring joy to gemstones enthusiasts and will surely be another milestone in the field of Gemology, the science and study of Gemstones.

Gemstones as Trinkets or Lucky Charms

Aside from being an object of art and beauty, gemstones have evolved today as a reliable and constant companion of man. They are believed to bring luck and prosperity as well as abundance and love; and people use them as birth stones as well to pull positive energies towards them.

These gemstones are also used as amulets and lucky charms like in Cleopatra's wheel, Mystic Star, Samadhi, Lucky Tree and so on. Anyone who wants to make the love of their life successful, all they have to do is get their own "Love Come Back to Me" or the "Aphrodite's Heart Necklace" gemstones as trinkets or lucky charms.

Truly, crystals and gemstones are considered to be one of the most attractive and precious elements of nature man had ever seen. Gemstones continuously fascinate man through its timeless beauty and elegance. And indeed, the Bible is absolutely true that everything God created was awesomely and wonderfully prepared for the use of mankind.

The Crystals And Gemstones Awareness

How many of you have been fascinated by the crystals and gemstones? Were you entranced at the belief that they have healing properties? Or were you just amazed at the beauty and splendor that the various colors, sparkles, and magnetic presence that they convey?

You may be finding it hard to believe in that belief, but crystals and gemstones do have natural healing properties in them that can be used for that purpose. And although there are still no scientific explanations behind them, not only one but many people of various history and cultures are advocating for their healing use.

If you haven't tried it before, you can use malachite or amethyst. Put it under your pillow at night and observe what it has done to your sleep and dreams. If it has affected your dreams, that is how healing property of that stone is working on you.

The fact is crystals and gemstones can be truly a healing instrument only if you open up to that idea. If you believe in them, it can actually help heal physical, emotional, mental and spiritual state.

Proven Science and Practical Self-Improvement Alternatives

While these days, proven science thrives to be the stronger force behind medical discovery and application, it is not entirely surprising that other self-improvement methods for healing are also getting into the scene. Take for example the alternative medicines.

Although there are many people who are still skeptical towards this new healing trend, many are unarguably in the faith that alternative medicines are genuine and have properties that can actually help in self-improvement.

Crystal and gemstones are only one of the mediums used to provide a practical self-improvement solution. The difference of the proven science is that many scientists, researches, and medical experts have studied it to prove that it is safe and healing to the people.

While alternative solutions, on the other hand, can still be called science though unproven, were long been used by the ancient people and been introduced to the succeeding generations that up until now are still popular among the many individuals around the world.

Considering the gray areas still linked with alternative healing mediums, like the gemstones and crystals, it is a surprise that many people around the world turn to their use to rely on their benefits. More surprisingly still that after using and trying, there are still many individuals who are fascinated and hooked that they continue to use them.

The Vibrational Patterns

But crystals and gemstones are believed to have healing properties through the vibrational patterns inherent in them. The vibrational pattern is that which affects the vibrations and frequencies of the people causing them to react in a healing manner.

Various stones and crystals are available here on earth and what's good about them is that each holds unique vibrational pattern from each other so that there is a particular gemstone or crystal that corresponds to certain need.

It is also believed that the longer that you are exposed to them, the more that it can give an impact or effect on you as the vibrational patterns found in the stones or crystals naturally and automatically are drawn or aligned towards the vibrational patterns in you.

By using different crystals and gemstones, the combination of vibrational patterns affects different aspects of your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual anatomy.

Crystals And Gemstones: The Embodiment Of Unique Healing Properties

The crystals and gemstones have become a fascinating and interesting subject of today's many people of different walks. Whether they become simply adornment or embellishment to one's look or the deeper center of attraction to healing aspects, they are the target of many individuals' skepticism, raise of the eyebrows, and recognition of their use alike.

In fact, the many people that question the validity of the claim that they have natural healing property in them, the more we see people utilizing and wearing them. Whether for the purpose of jazzing up the look or to benefit from the healing characteristic, we don't know.

For many of us, the amulets carried or worn by different people, such as the catholic cross, rosary beads, lucky rabbit's foot, unique healing necklace and a lot others, have been familiar daily sightings in the streets causing more of us to just take them for granted.

However, those you see are beyond our meager imagination. They usually are stuff that have been carried and passed around since the ancient times. Both civilized and primitive individuals in fact wear them for many reasons including, to drive evil away, to heal, to enhance spirituality, and yes, to attract love.

The word amulet has the Latin word version of amoletum, which means, a defense medium. People use it because of the belief that it holds special powers that can be used for protection against evil organisms such as witchcraft, ghosts, evil spirits, calamities, misfortune, illness, and other disaster kinds. Also, amulets are believed to carry good fortune and luck that many people refer to as talisman.

It is amazing that all the way from primitive era, the modern era with the sets of societies comprising it, still believe in the powers of amulets, specifically and supposedly deriving their powers from connections made with religious associations, from rituals made, and with the natural forces. In the old days, you will find these amulets worn or carried, locked in an area desired to be endowed with influence of the powers.

As mentioned, amulets come in various types. But in the modern world, crystals and gemstones seem to have become more popular now seeing the many collections and varieties of them in different sizes, shapes, types, colors, and variations. These crystals and gemstones have also went into the hands of fashionable designers that they have gone integrated into jewelry pieces like the necklaces, pendants, bracelets, wands, and rings.

Crystals and gemstones are also now found in zipper pulls, key chains, bag charms, key fobs, and a in a lot other designs gorgeously presented that now they have become not only as form of amulets but fashionable representations as well. But a fact not to ignore, the magic of healing properties still remain giving many people primary reason to wear them.

Some others wear them because of the entertaining and accessorizing effect they give to the wearer. While others are focused on the fact that crystals and stones have color symbolism, planetary influences, chakra representations, and astrological correspondences.

To name some of these crystals and gemstones include the amethyst, quartz, garnet, ruby, emerald, agate, tourmaline, opal, rose quartz, sodalite, goldstone, peridot jade, malachite, and a lot, lot more. Each of these is an embodiment of unique and spiritual healing properties. With the characteristics that they possess, it is no wonder that the traditional penchant for people to wear these gorgeous and symbolic pieces will continue to the next generations and generations.

The Benefits Of Crystals And Gemstones

Thousands of years ago, amulets have been carried by the primitive people supposedly to ward off evils, to have good luck, and attract fortune and even love. There were different forms back then and they are carried and worn or placed in a specific area where people want to be influenced by the magical powers the amulets provide. Crystals and gemstones were one of those forms that are seen used up until now; but only that in a better and more gorgeous form.

Even then, crystals and gemstones are used by the people as jewelry. In fact, the diamonds have remained their characteristics and unchanged all those years, and continuing to become the most sought after highly-valued stone due to their durability, beauty and mesmerizing effect. Up to now, people, especially the women, will do everything just to own pieces of diamonds.

But crystals and gemstones like the diamonds are more than mere crystals and stones that women and men use to adorn their looks. As mentioned a while ago, thousands of years ago, they were used for many purposes. Among them are to achieve balance in life, heal from sicknesses, and improve their luck and fortune. This tradition has been happening for as long as humans were around.

Here are the benefits that humans continue to enjoy from using crystals and gemstones:

•    Healing physical disorders associated with crystals and gemstones is not a new science to people. In fact, it has been used by the people from the primitive era. The scientific explanation points to the ability of the crystals and stones to have the electric conductivity.

The human body, and all other living things for that matter, has the special characteristic of possessing energy, which when aligned with electric conductivity of the crystals and stones produce force. The energy in the body interchanges at points and moves in circuits, and this is called the chakras. It is believed that when crystals or stones are placed on these chakras, it helps heal the organs of the body and help them perform better.
•    Crystals and gemstones are also beneficial to plants and animals. Some people believe that placing them in the pots will help the plants grow better. Likewise, they believe that placing small crystals in the drinking water of their pets will improve their condition and find them refusing to drink other normal water.
•    Crystals and gemstones are also utilized by the feng shui experts. By placing crystals and stones in some strategic areas around one's house, it is believed that positive energy flow will be accommodated and will enhance luck of the occupant. Example of this is placing huge citrine ball by any cash register in the belief that it will help draw more finances to the merchants.
•    Crystals or gemstones that are used for rings have benefits too. Astrologers associate with improving luck wherein the wearer experiences positive luck. However, a specific crystal ring must be worn by the individual according to their astrological birth chart in order to realize the goal.

For example, it is not advised to wear sapphire ring if it is not your astrological birth chart as this does not attract positive energy at all. If constantly worn, it is believed that the wearer will have positive luck flown into their life.

Do Crystals And Gems Really Give Curative Effects?

Crystals and gems are most valued for their healing properties. Their curative effects have been known for many centuries although treatment with crystals is still recommended only when done with modern conventional medical practices.
These fine rocks of various colors were long used as amulets, able to emit energy and enhance the body's vibrations. Whether this is true or not scientifically proven, many crystal healing practitioners and patients have testified on its effectiveness

Crystals & Their Meanings

•    Violet/Purple – this color is related to the clarity of mind and wisdom, it is most effective in harnessing spiritual growth and awakening passion for life
•    Pink – this color is associated to love, it is most effective if you intend to make someone feel they are loved or if there are pains that need to be alleviated.
•    Clear – this color is for clarity of intuition and effective communication. Use this in moments of decision making
•    Green – this is the color for healing
•    Indigo – this color is for meditation and discernment. It is most effective when you feel blinded or hampered by negative thoughts
•    Red – this is the color of energy and is often used to alleviate depression and boredom
•    Yellow – this color is for controlling the activities of the mind. Use this when you feel indecisive in your life's direction
•    Blue – this color is associated with peace, so you may use this when you feel restless, anxious or nervous
•    Black – this is most powerful for all the colors are within, this will help you gain insight on all possible decisions or situations in life
•    Orange – this is associated with friendliness and influence. This would be useful in times of insecurity.

How to Choose Your Crystal
   
You can choose a crystal by intuition. When you look at the variety of crystals, you would often find one that automatically grabs your eye. If you don't feel any connection by sight, try touching the crystals. Some could be cold to the touch and some warm, whatever feels comfortable in your hand could be the one. Since you already know the crystal colors and their meanings, you may choose one according to what you think you would use it for. You can buy an array of them in different colors that you can use on specific occasions.

Caring for Crystals

Vibrations and energies can be left imprinted on a crystal so have it cleansed first when you buy it. You would need to neutralize whatever energies are left on the crystal by others who may have touched it. Then you are now free to impress your personal intentions so that the energies of the crystal would be faithful to you.
   
You may use salt to cleanse the crystal. Just leave it submerged in a container of salt for about 24 hours. However, never use salted water to clean crystals as they can discolor the crystals if you do so. Also, to freshen up your crystal's energy, wash it with water and place it under the sun or play soft, flowing music to remove any negative energy that may have attached to the crystal.

There could be many reasons why you would want to buy a crystal. Before doing so, make sure that your intentions are clear.  Will you use it for therapeutic purposes? Or will you be using them as accessories? Anyway you want to use them is up to you, but remember that crystals and gemstones have energy and they will continue to emit energies regardless of how you use them. So, choose a crystal that's not just aesthetically pleasing, but one that you feel is rightfully yours.

Crystals And Gemstones: Their Very Own Unique Properties

Crystals and gemstones are one of the most fascinating and exciting objects that people continue to adore and explore of their essences. Even before the recorded history, the use of these objects was seen in mankind. Up today, people collect crystals and gemstones. Not only to enjoy the preciousness and value integrated into jewels in a box but for healing and self-improvement purposes as well.

The mystical nature that these commodities hold is precious to the mankind and is seldom questioned. However, its very own nature is hard to determine. People base the history, value, and wisdom of the gemstones to their combination of utility and beauty. Subsequently, the precious characteristics that they possess motivate men and women to create artistic works out of them so that jewelry pieces will be enjoyed by them, whether for embellishment or any other use.

Many kinds of gems and crystals are in abundance. The civilization is aware, so that jewels created out of them remain the most utilized from the beginning up to this era. The oldest inhabitants of this earth have a strong historical record how people back from that era indicated how powerful their general acceptance and love for precious metals and stones.

Fashion nowadays continues to evolve, keeping forward and contemporary, but nevertheless suggesting penchant for these commodities will never wade, and even made stronger. Only how they are made will be seen with change, but not their use to the consumers. Also, the market may continue to experience ups and downs, and cause value of gems and crystals to diminish and increase, however their storing value will remain in the years to come.

The value of the gems and crystals is primarily based on the durability, beauty, and rarity. For many centuries, these unique properties are criteria well established that people continue to use up to this date. The colors of each gemstone is also identifying characteristic used to asses the richness and pureness of the object. Another gem property is the specific gravity, typically measured by heavy liquids.

Gem testing is done by a gemologist. They identify precious stones and crystals nondestructively. This means that a limited manner of testing available is for physical and optical measurements, without the chemical analysis and scratching methods for they can destruct the value and beauty of the object. Often features are visibly characteristic of specific gems that sole visual identification can be accurately carried on with certainty.

Although color is a property, it is not a reliable testing manner for it can be always misleading. However, color identification can help the gemologist narrow down possible choices. Widely used tool for this activity is the binocular microscopic, as well as hot needle for turquoise and amber testing, solvents for removal of dyes and coatings, simple magnet, and dilute acids.

The art of cutting gem is called lapidary. It is a hobby that is becoming the fastest around the world. In America alone, ten thousands of hobby magazines feature this hobby. Also, you can find numerous books published covering on all lapidary craft aspects, from setting the gems into handmade jewelry to grinding cabochons. It is no wonder crystals and gemstones continue to become the most fascinated and followed interest of the people. Even semi-precious stones and synthetic stones were largely patronized by different people attesting to the fact that human kind will always place these commodities in a special place of their life.

Crystals And Gemstones: Facts And Tips

There are people who believe in the power of crystals and gemstones to have profound energy medical tool. After all, this belief has been around for many centuries for many cultures, religious associations, and empires. The history tells it that the beautiful stones and crystals are mystical tools that have the capacity to heal people. 

The significance revolves around the fact that these objects can bring positive changes both in body and mind. The healing method associated to crystals and gemstones is alternative medical practice which is aimed at healing the minds as well as strengthening the human body. They are believed to posses vibrational rates, which when placed and worn within the person's aura, they positive energy collide and work together with the energy emitted by the human body.

One of the ways to use these objects for healing purposes is by wearing high-quality crystals or beads around one's neck. It is not advised to use metals with the crystals and gemstones as they supposedly inhibit the healing properties. Strings or ropes are recommended in this aspect.

Love and money crystals and stones

Love stones and money stones are among the most popular. In hope of finding relationship or improving marriage life, stones and crystals such as jade, turquoise, romance crystal gold, rose quartz, emerald, moonstone, rainbow jasper, and imperial topaz are some of the most suggested. In the aim of attracting monetary energy to flow through, there are the garnet, malachite, citrine, adventurine, and smokey quartz.

Healing crystals and stones

Physical, spiritual and emotional healing are other purposes of the wearer. There specific stones and crystals for this purpose and as it is a more sensitive topic must be used with care. This is believed to work by placing the objects within the personal or aura atmosphere, where specialists trust that they heal both physical and emotional condition.

Crystal healers conduct the process usually at home. They seek to improve health especially if one is suffering from indigestion, fatigue, inflammation and headaches. It is recommended that only the right and good quality crystals and stones are used in order to achieve their effectual goal.

How to select the right gemstones

Smell them. A strong smell given off by the object is an indication that there has been an application of coatings to enhance the color but actually is enough to weaken or dampen the energy of the stone.

Check for irradiation. Considered the worst artificial treatment process, this is used to remove imperfections and bring out the color. Unfortunately, this causes the energy of the gems or crystals to become weak, and worse, dead.

Check for bad dye jobs. Also one of the worst artificial treatment procedures done, it is used to enhance the color. A weakened energy state of the stone is created when you see uneven color application or color that is easily rubbed off.

Also avoid those that look too beautiful to be true. There are fakes crystals and gemstones everywhere. You don't want to be victimized by being carelessly enchanted by the flawless- and gorgeous-looking fake commodities. 

Identify the 3 C's. Clarity, cut, and color. These are the most important characteristics you should check out. If you don't know how, ask the experts.

Ask questions or research. It never hurts to always ask about the crystals and gemstones. And don't be afraid to ask many questions. Remember that any dealer you are talking with should exude suggestion that they are much well-informed and are giving the information you need.