Gemstones A-J

	Aventurine is also known as Aventurine Quartz. This form of quartz has metallic glittery appearabce caused by small crystals of green fuchsite mica which reflect beautiful light and give a range of colors. Aventurine are found is Brazil, india and Russia.
	Agate is a banded concentric shell like chalcedony which occurs in nodular masses in rocks such as volcanic lavas. All agate are said to foster love and have a calming effect.
	Amazonite is blue-green, semi opaque alkali feldspar which is named after the Amazon river. Its striking color is due to the presence of lead.  The type of gem stone is commonly used in jewelry making because of its cool and refreshing color.
	Amber  is the fossilized, harden resin of the pine trees. Amber is said to be the timeless beauty, and has the color of golden yellow to golden orange. Transparent to translucent, it usually occurs as nodules or small, irregular shaped masses. It is believed to bring love, wisdom and life.
	Amethyst  is the most highly valued stone in the quartz group.  This crystalline quartz has shades of lilac, purple or mauve.  The name means “not drunken” in Greek and was worn as an amulet against drunkenness.  This stunning gem is sometimes heat treated to produce a variety of colors.
	Aquamarine in Latin means "water of the sea". Dark blue is the most desired color. The striking color is due to the presence of lead. The preferred cuts are steps (Emerald) and brilliant-cut with rectangular or long oval shapes.
	Carnelian is a form of chalcedony which in its natural state, is rich in color and has a waxy look. Carnlian is probably named after the color of the kernel cherry and often heat treated to produce the finest color.
	Citrine is the yellow or golden yellow variety of quartz. The striking color is due to the presence of quartz and is responsible for its name. Natural citrine is usually pale yellow and most citrine on the market is heat treated amethyst. It is said to be mind stimulating.
	Emerald derives its beautiful green color from the presence of chromium and vanadium. The most preferred cut is step cut.
	Fluorite is formerly called fluorspar and has vitreous lustre. Rainbow fluorite is known for its range and blend of colors including yellow, green, lilac and purple.
	Garnets derives its name from the Latin for “grain” because of the rounded crystals which look like red kernels of the pomegranate. The striking deep and rich red color is due to the presence of lead. For centuries, Garnets have always been a symbol of passionate love and fidelity.
	Hermatite  in Greek is ‘blood” and some countries name it “bloodstone”. When cut into very thin plates, hematite is red and transparent; when polished, it is metallic and shiny.
	Jade consists of two separate, distinct minerals namely known as jadeite and nephrite. In history, jade is believed to cure sickness and protection against diseases. In China, jade was used for centuries in stones carvings and personal adornment.
	Jasper is a massive, fine-grained, opaque chalcedony and its name is derived from the Greek word meaning “spotted stone”.