Hunting the Beautiful Oregon Sunstone
Chris Ralph asked:
How many places in the US can you find good facet & gem quality cabochon material together in one location, accessible and open to the public for collection with no fee? There are only a very few places in the US where such materials can be dug, and nearly all are on private property or under claim, with a fee charged to rock hounds. However, in south central Oregon, northeast of Plush, the BLM has set aside 4 square miles for rock and mineral collectors to hunt for sunstones. No claims can be filled within the BLM sunstone area, and there is no charge to prospect. Even though thousands of rock hounds have visited this deposit, there are still plenty of gem stones to be found. There are also some pay to dig areas available where bull dozers and heavy equipment move the material around to make it easier for rock hounds.
The transparent feldspar gems from this area come in a variety of colors, including pale yellow, salmon pink, green and the highly desirable bright red. The area also produces a valuable adventurecent cabochon material with a bright copper sheen. The red facetable feldspar found at the Plush deposit is a distinctly American gem, being found only in Oregon. In addition, the quality of the copper colored sunstone material from Oregon is better than anywhere else in the world.
The great variety of feldspar gems found at the Plush deposit all formed in a similar manner. They are phenocrysts (large crystals) that grew in a basaltic magma before the flow solidified. As the basalt was slowly cooling, these feldspar crystals grew out of the melt. The original size of these crystals ranged from less than 1/2 inch to over 4 inches. Unfortunately, the forces associated with solidification of the basalt and subsequent weathering have shattered the originally large crystals into much smaller shards and fragments. No whole crystals are found and in fact very few fragments show any sign at all of the original crystal faces.
The most highly prized of the facet roughs are the bright red colored stones. The red color varies from light to a medium dark shade. When this material is properly cut it can be very striking. Proper orientation is an important item as the red and green colors often occur together in the same stone. Color zoning is very common in the red or green labradorite feldspars. In this material the color usually occurs concentrated in clots, commonly located near the middle of the stone. The color may occupy 20 to nearly 100 percent of the rough. This means that when the color spot is small, the cutter must carefully orient the stone so that the color fills the cullet area of the finished gem. This allows the color to permeate the entire stone when viewed from a face up position. When selecting rough for purchase, it is important to note a tendency in some red stones toward muddiness, sleepiness or a brownish color tone.
The last 20 or so miles to the BLM sunstone area is on fair to good dirt roads. In spite of this, however, getting to the Plush site is no problem, as long as long as the roads are not too muddy, and four wheel drive is not necessary. The area is in high desert sagebrush country, and consists of open flats with a few low rolling hills in the area of the deposit. There are many flat open spots suitable for camping at the BLM site. Most of these are suitable for trailers or medium sized motor homes.
If you plan a visit to collect at the sunstone deposit, the community of Plush, located about 18 miles from the deposit, is the nearest source of food and gas. Plush is a small town of not more than about a hundred souls. Be sure to stop in at the store, as they have a good amount of quality labradorite gems for sale both in cut and rough form. If nothing else, this will give the first time visitor a chance to see what he or she is looking for. The nearest town with full service accommodations and supermarkets is Lakeview, about 60 miles from the deposit. Lakeview is an old lumber town and has the only active geyser in the state of Oregon.
How many places in the US can you find good facet & gem quality cabochon material together in one location, accessible and open to the public for collection with no fee? There are only a very few places in the US where such materials can be dug, and nearly all are on private property or under claim, with a fee charged to rock hounds. However, in south central Oregon, northeast of Plush, the BLM has set aside 4 square miles for rock and mineral collectors to hunt for sunstones. No claims can be filled within the BLM sunstone area, and there is no charge to prospect. Even though thousands of rock hounds have visited this deposit, there are still plenty of gem stones to be found. There are also some pay to dig areas available where bull dozers and heavy equipment move the material around to make it easier for rock hounds.
The transparent feldspar gems from this area come in a variety of colors, including pale yellow, salmon pink, green and the highly desirable bright red. The area also produces a valuable adventurecent cabochon material with a bright copper sheen. The red facetable feldspar found at the Plush deposit is a distinctly American gem, being found only in Oregon. In addition, the quality of the copper colored sunstone material from Oregon is better than anywhere else in the world.
The great variety of feldspar gems found at the Plush deposit all formed in a similar manner. They are phenocrysts (large crystals) that grew in a basaltic magma before the flow solidified. As the basalt was slowly cooling, these feldspar crystals grew out of the melt. The original size of these crystals ranged from less than 1/2 inch to over 4 inches. Unfortunately, the forces associated with solidification of the basalt and subsequent weathering have shattered the originally large crystals into much smaller shards and fragments. No whole crystals are found and in fact very few fragments show any sign at all of the original crystal faces.
The most highly prized of the facet roughs are the bright red colored stones. The red color varies from light to a medium dark shade. When this material is properly cut it can be very striking. Proper orientation is an important item as the red and green colors often occur together in the same stone. Color zoning is very common in the red or green labradorite feldspars. In this material the color usually occurs concentrated in clots, commonly located near the middle of the stone. The color may occupy 20 to nearly 100 percent of the rough. This means that when the color spot is small, the cutter must carefully orient the stone so that the color fills the cullet area of the finished gem. This allows the color to permeate the entire stone when viewed from a face up position. When selecting rough for purchase, it is important to note a tendency in some red stones toward muddiness, sleepiness or a brownish color tone.
The last 20 or so miles to the BLM sunstone area is on fair to good dirt roads. In spite of this, however, getting to the Plush site is no problem, as long as long as the roads are not too muddy, and four wheel drive is not necessary. The area is in high desert sagebrush country, and consists of open flats with a few low rolling hills in the area of the deposit. There are many flat open spots suitable for camping at the BLM site. Most of these are suitable for trailers or medium sized motor homes.
If you plan a visit to collect at the sunstone deposit, the community of Plush, located about 18 miles from the deposit, is the nearest source of food and gas. Plush is a small town of not more than about a hundred souls. Be sure to stop in at the store, as they have a good amount of quality labradorite gems for sale both in cut and rough form. If nothing else, this will give the first time visitor a chance to see what he or she is looking for. The nearest town with full service accommodations and supermarkets is Lakeview, about 60 miles from the deposit. Lakeview is an old lumber town and has the only active geyser in the state of Oregon.
Will jewelry stores buy my natural, uncut precious stones?
matt b asked:
I have in my possession some uncut precious stones, ruby’s, emeralds, sapphires, and I have already had them checked for authenticity. I just want to know where I should sell them? Will a jewelry store buy them?
I have in my possession some uncut precious stones, ruby’s, emeralds, sapphires, and I have already had them checked for authenticity. I just want to know where I should sell them? Will a jewelry store buy them?
Blue Semi-Precious Stones
Priyanka Arora asked:
There are quite a lot of semi-precious stones that are blue in color, with varying depths of hues and colors. Now although there are many semi-precious stones that could be artificially treated, there is nothing that could be better than the beauty of the natural color of blue gemstones.
One of which would be the Lapis Lazuli which is a semi-precious stone that has been used since ancient times. You could try to consider the blue stones that have been used during the times of ancient Egypt. They used both the Lapis Lazuli and the blue glass in ornamenting and embellishing different things. This semi-precious stone is generally a “massive” gemstone, which means that it is not made of clear crystals but is made from tiny particles that have been bonded together.
Probably the best deep purple blue gemstone can be found in Afghanistan and is extremely close to the blue of the ocean. Just recently, there has been a form called “denim lapis” which has been offered; however, this is actually the grayish light blue element that has been rejected due to its poor quality several years ago.
The more a lapis varies from being of a pure dark blue color, the lower its value. The term “denim lapis” has actually been a marketing term which used to sell the stone. Now although it is a lot less expensive compared to the ones with higher grade, the combination of the nice “denim” material actually works well in the more expensive pieces of jewelry and is quite attractive.
There are quite a lot of semi-precious stones that are blue in color, with varying depths of hues and colors. Now although there are many semi-precious stones that could be artificially treated, there is nothing that could be better than the beauty of the natural color of blue gemstones.
One of which would be the Lapis Lazuli which is a semi-precious stone that has been used since ancient times. You could try to consider the blue stones that have been used during the times of ancient Egypt. They used both the Lapis Lazuli and the blue glass in ornamenting and embellishing different things. This semi-precious stone is generally a “massive” gemstone, which means that it is not made of clear crystals but is made from tiny particles that have been bonded together.
Probably the best deep purple blue gemstone can be found in Afghanistan and is extremely close to the blue of the ocean. Just recently, there has been a form called “denim lapis” which has been offered; however, this is actually the grayish light blue element that has been rejected due to its poor quality several years ago.
The more a lapis varies from being of a pure dark blue color, the lower its value. The term “denim lapis” has actually been a marketing term which used to sell the stone. Now although it is a lot less expensive compared to the ones with higher grade, the combination of the nice “denim” material actually works well in the more expensive pieces of jewelry and is quite attractive.
How to Create Decorative Hanging Postcards and Hanging Crystals
A. Labedzki asked:
These postcards become delightful wall hangings. You can also hang them over a doorknob or handle of a cupboard door. You can create these using old postcards or your own old greeting cards from family and friends. Be creative with your embellishments. Add your own personal touch and use your favorite colors. Find old chandelier crystals or buy some inexpensive crystals from your local craft store. You can hang your decorated crystals along a window using wire. You can also use scraps of ribbon, string or fishing line and cut to the length you desire. Hang wherever desired, even along a mirror in a hallway or bathroom, with nails or decorative hooks and pins.
Postcards:
Materials:
Vintage postcards, photos and greeting cards ( if you don’t have any you can find them in thrift stores)
Spray adhesive
Cardboard or acid free paper (optional)
Ruler
Ribbon
Trims
Hot glue gun
Embellishments; beads, buttons, jewelry
Decorative cording
Basic Method:
If you want to protect your photo or postcard then use a spray adhesive to attach acid free paper or cardboard on the back. Make sure to leave some extra room around the outer edges for the frame. Now measure the outer edges of the postcard and cut a piece of ribbon or trim to length. Glue around the edge with a hot glue gun. Try using wallpaper as a unique frame. You can now also add special embellishments such as silk flowers, beads, or jewelry. Attach a ribbon or cord at the two top corners of your card for hanging. You can also frame the handwritten notes from the back of some of your cards.
Crystals:
Materials:
Crystals
Hot glue gun
Scissors
Fabric strips or trims
Glitter paint or watercolor markers.
Basic Method:
Use old jewelry, beads, silk flowers, ribbon, rhinestones and feathers. Once you’ve chosen the item glue around the top of your crystal using a hot glue gun. Cut and knot
trim, ribbon or fabric strips securely in place for hanging. You could also apply a layer of gold paint, glitter paint or watercolor marker on the back of the crystal. This gives the illusion of stained glass.
Both of these wonderful projects make for great and unique gifts especially at Christmas!
These postcards become delightful wall hangings. You can also hang them over a doorknob or handle of a cupboard door. You can create these using old postcards or your own old greeting cards from family and friends. Be creative with your embellishments. Add your own personal touch and use your favorite colors. Find old chandelier crystals or buy some inexpensive crystals from your local craft store. You can hang your decorated crystals along a window using wire. You can also use scraps of ribbon, string or fishing line and cut to the length you desire. Hang wherever desired, even along a mirror in a hallway or bathroom, with nails or decorative hooks and pins.
Postcards:
Materials:
Vintage postcards, photos and greeting cards ( if you don’t have any you can find them in thrift stores)
Spray adhesive
Cardboard or acid free paper (optional)
Ruler
Ribbon
Trims
Hot glue gun
Embellishments; beads, buttons, jewelry
Decorative cording
Basic Method:
If you want to protect your photo or postcard then use a spray adhesive to attach acid free paper or cardboard on the back. Make sure to leave some extra room around the outer edges for the frame. Now measure the outer edges of the postcard and cut a piece of ribbon or trim to length. Glue around the edge with a hot glue gun. Try using wallpaper as a unique frame. You can now also add special embellishments such as silk flowers, beads, or jewelry. Attach a ribbon or cord at the two top corners of your card for hanging. You can also frame the handwritten notes from the back of some of your cards.
Crystals:
Materials:
Crystals
Hot glue gun
Scissors
Fabric strips or trims
Glitter paint or watercolor markers.
Basic Method:
Use old jewelry, beads, silk flowers, ribbon, rhinestones and feathers. Once you’ve chosen the item glue around the top of your crystal using a hot glue gun. Cut and knot
trim, ribbon or fabric strips securely in place for hanging. You could also apply a layer of gold paint, glitter paint or watercolor marker on the back of the crystal. This gives the illusion of stained glass.
Both of these wonderful projects make for great and unique gifts especially at Christmas!
Fluorescent Diamonds – What is Diamond Fluorescence and What Causes It?
James Greene asked:
Buying a diamond is a big step for many individuals. There are many key factors which one needs to know before simply pointing out a gemstone and pulling out their wallet to pay for the item. Some may think that the only thing they need to know about the diamond is what it looks like and how much it costs. Although these are both important factors, there is a whole lot more which goes into buying this type of gemstone. One concept which many may be unfamiliar with is that of fluorescence. The concept of fluorescent diamonds will be described below so as to provide individuals with a better understanding of this topic.
Definition and Causes of Diamond Fluorescence
Fluorescent diamonds are ones which seem to change their color depending on the type of light to which they are exposed. The ultraviolet light from the sun as well as fluorescent lighting will make the stone change its appearance when under these conditions. Fluorescence is detailed on diamond grading reports in a few different ways. The grading report will describe the level of fluorescence as well as provide the color which is emitted when under ultraviolet light or in fluorescent lighting conditions. The main colors which fluorescent diamonds produce include blue, white and yellow.
Issues Associated with Fluorescent Diamonds
Fluorescent diamonds are not bad things to have in and of themselves. In fact, depending on the type of fluorescence, a diamond may actually have more appealing traits in the end. However, there are a few issues surrounding fluorescence. First, an individual may not know what their diamond really looks like until they purchase it and get it home. The light at home may make the diamond look different from how it looked in the store.
Secondly, certain fluorescent stones will be worth more than other types of fluorescent diamonds so it is important to know about the fluorescence aspect up front. This will help the consumer to find a diamond which is not only the perfect color for them but also the perfect price when viewed alongside the type of fluorescent diamond. In general, a blue fluorescent diamond will often be worth more than one which has a yellow fluorescence to it.
Ways to Discover More About Diamond Fluorescence
Since fluorescence can affect the overall appearance of a diamond, it is important that one learns as much about fluorescence as possible. There are a few ways in which one can gather information about this subject and be prepared when it comes time to make your purchase. The first way to learn about fluorescence is to use the Internet or books to research the topic. Although it can be a bit difficult to understand in the beginning, it is not an overly exhaustive process to learn about this subject. Once one gains the initial insight into fluorescence, learning about it is quite easy.
Another way to find out more about fluorescence in general as well as the fluorescent aspects of a particular diamond is to inquire with the jeweler who is selling the item. Ask if the jeweler can describe the concept and show different examples of how a diamond will look underneath different types of lighting. This is a great way to determine if the diamond which you are considering purchasing is one which will give off the best possible color in all lighting conditions. In addition, one should ask to see the diamond grading report to determine the fluorescence level and color of a particular diamond.
Buying a diamond is a big step for many individuals. There are many key factors which one needs to know before simply pointing out a gemstone and pulling out their wallet to pay for the item. Some may think that the only thing they need to know about the diamond is what it looks like and how much it costs. Although these are both important factors, there is a whole lot more which goes into buying this type of gemstone. One concept which many may be unfamiliar with is that of fluorescence. The concept of fluorescent diamonds will be described below so as to provide individuals with a better understanding of this topic.
Definition and Causes of Diamond Fluorescence
Fluorescent diamonds are ones which seem to change their color depending on the type of light to which they are exposed. The ultraviolet light from the sun as well as fluorescent lighting will make the stone change its appearance when under these conditions. Fluorescence is detailed on diamond grading reports in a few different ways. The grading report will describe the level of fluorescence as well as provide the color which is emitted when under ultraviolet light or in fluorescent lighting conditions. The main colors which fluorescent diamonds produce include blue, white and yellow.
Issues Associated with Fluorescent Diamonds
Fluorescent diamonds are not bad things to have in and of themselves. In fact, depending on the type of fluorescence, a diamond may actually have more appealing traits in the end. However, there are a few issues surrounding fluorescence. First, an individual may not know what their diamond really looks like until they purchase it and get it home. The light at home may make the diamond look different from how it looked in the store.
Secondly, certain fluorescent stones will be worth more than other types of fluorescent diamonds so it is important to know about the fluorescence aspect up front. This will help the consumer to find a diamond which is not only the perfect color for them but also the perfect price when viewed alongside the type of fluorescent diamond. In general, a blue fluorescent diamond will often be worth more than one which has a yellow fluorescence to it.
Ways to Discover More About Diamond Fluorescence
Since fluorescence can affect the overall appearance of a diamond, it is important that one learns as much about fluorescence as possible. There are a few ways in which one can gather information about this subject and be prepared when it comes time to make your purchase. The first way to learn about fluorescence is to use the Internet or books to research the topic. Although it can be a bit difficult to understand in the beginning, it is not an overly exhaustive process to learn about this subject. Once one gains the initial insight into fluorescence, learning about it is quite easy.
Another way to find out more about fluorescence in general as well as the fluorescent aspects of a particular diamond is to inquire with the jeweler who is selling the item. Ask if the jeweler can describe the concept and show different examples of how a diamond will look underneath different types of lighting. This is a great way to determine if the diamond which you are considering purchasing is one which will give off the best possible color in all lighting conditions. In addition, one should ask to see the diamond grading report to determine the fluorescence level and color of a particular diamond.
Diamonds – Cushion Cut Diamonds
Kirsten Katz asked:
The Cushion Cut Diamond was an extremely popular diamond shape a century ago. Cushion cut diamonds have once again become extremely popular as a diamond choice especially with Hollywood movies stars and celebrities, they are often found in antique style rings and are similar to old cut diamonds but with a more refined facet pattern.
Cushion shaped diamonds have a romantic look about them unlike other fancy shape diamonds and they have lent themselves to the ‘Halo’ and ‘micro pave’ ring designs which are at present hugely popular.
Cushion cut diamonds are also sometimes referred to as “pillow Cut” diamonds. Modern cushion cuts are based on the antique style cuts, which are a combination of a round and square outline with a softened square or “pillow” shape.
Some of the most famous diamonds in the world are cushion shaped diamonds. These include the 45.52ct blue Hope Diamond, the 317.40ct Cullinan II Diamond and the 128.54ct fancy intense Tiffany Yellow.
Cushion shaped diamonds have rounded corners and larger facets to increase their brilliance. These larger facets highlight the diamond’s clarity, so if you choose a diamond with a SI clarity grade, be sure to review the clarity plot on the diamond certificate.
This cut of diamond can vary in the degree of rectangular shape that they have. For a diamond that has an almost square look but elegant and classical charm a length to width ratio of 1.1 – 1.2 is best.
Cushion cut diamonds are an interesting alternative to oval shape diamonds or a modern princess cut diamond because they have the ability to display a high degree of returning light and brilliance and a sparkle which is dazzling. Cushion cut diamonds come to life, yet they still possess a dreamy quality.
The Cushion Cut Diamond was an extremely popular diamond shape a century ago. Cushion cut diamonds have once again become extremely popular as a diamond choice especially with Hollywood movies stars and celebrities, they are often found in antique style rings and are similar to old cut diamonds but with a more refined facet pattern.
Cushion shaped diamonds have a romantic look about them unlike other fancy shape diamonds and they have lent themselves to the ‘Halo’ and ‘micro pave’ ring designs which are at present hugely popular.
Cushion cut diamonds are also sometimes referred to as “pillow Cut” diamonds. Modern cushion cuts are based on the antique style cuts, which are a combination of a round and square outline with a softened square or “pillow” shape.
Some of the most famous diamonds in the world are cushion shaped diamonds. These include the 45.52ct blue Hope Diamond, the 317.40ct Cullinan II Diamond and the 128.54ct fancy intense Tiffany Yellow.
Cushion shaped diamonds have rounded corners and larger facets to increase their brilliance. These larger facets highlight the diamond’s clarity, so if you choose a diamond with a SI clarity grade, be sure to review the clarity plot on the diamond certificate.
This cut of diamond can vary in the degree of rectangular shape that they have. For a diamond that has an almost square look but elegant and classical charm a length to width ratio of 1.1 – 1.2 is best.
Cushion cut diamonds are an interesting alternative to oval shape diamonds or a modern princess cut diamond because they have the ability to display a high degree of returning light and brilliance and a sparkle which is dazzling. Cushion cut diamonds come to life, yet they still possess a dreamy quality.
Caring For Your Semi-Precious Stones
Priyanka Arora asked:
Semi-precious stones are easily one of the valuable things on earth. Their value or worth is enough reason to ensure that proper care is given for them. One could cost a fortune and even an impurity or a scratch could ruin their value. Now, although some of them are strong and durable, they could easily end up being scratched, broken and even just dirtied if mishandled or not given enough care. Though there is not much we could do to actually care for them, there are some necessary precautions we must keep in mind.
Remember that regardless of the hardness of a substance, it could still ultimately be broken down to small bits once pressure is applied at the right points. And s, before setting out for a workout routine at the gym, it would be advisable to take off any rings or other jewelry which have semi-precious stones as they could end up smashed or banged on various hard equipment, causing damages or breaks.
The process of cleaning semi-precious stones also requires some level of knowledge about the said stones. Generally, there are two kinds of gemstones: the transparent ones and the opaque ones. The transparent gemstones would make dust visible even when it gathers behind the gemstone that is on a ring or on any form of jewelry which holds them. Usually, these are single stones and so, the application of water would not be affecting them too much. Using a soaked cloth in cleaning the dust gather behind it would not be a wrong move. You could even make use of a brush in cleaning the dust.
Semi-precious stones are easily one of the valuable things on earth. Their value or worth is enough reason to ensure that proper care is given for them. One could cost a fortune and even an impurity or a scratch could ruin their value. Now, although some of them are strong and durable, they could easily end up being scratched, broken and even just dirtied if mishandled or not given enough care. Though there is not much we could do to actually care for them, there are some necessary precautions we must keep in mind.
Remember that regardless of the hardness of a substance, it could still ultimately be broken down to small bits once pressure is applied at the right points. And s, before setting out for a workout routine at the gym, it would be advisable to take off any rings or other jewelry which have semi-precious stones as they could end up smashed or banged on various hard equipment, causing damages or breaks.
The process of cleaning semi-precious stones also requires some level of knowledge about the said stones. Generally, there are two kinds of gemstones: the transparent ones and the opaque ones. The transparent gemstones would make dust visible even when it gathers behind the gemstone that is on a ring or on any form of jewelry which holds them. Usually, these are single stones and so, the application of water would not be affecting them too much. Using a soaked cloth in cleaning the dust gather behind it would not be a wrong move. You could even make use of a brush in cleaning the dust.
Crystals: How To Cleanse Them
Sharon Jacobsen asked:
Crystals have been used for healing and divination for thousands of years. But just as they give off energy, they take in energy, too.
In order to rid a crystal of any unwanted energy, whether a piece of crystal jewellery, a crystal pendulum for divination purposes or individual rocks used for crystal healing, it’s important that each crystal is properly cleansed before it’s used in any kind of healing or divination procedure.
How To Tell Whether A Crystal Needs Charging?
Whenever you acquire a new crystal, it should always be cleansed. All sorts of impressions will have been made on it between the time it was mined and the time it came into your ownership.
This unwanted energy isn’t necessary negative, although some of it may be. Even if there’s no negative energy within your crystal, it’s important that it’s tuned in to you and you alone. Only then can you endow the crystals with your own personal energy.
Sometimes, a crystal will appear dull. This is most obvious in crystal prisms, but can also be seen in stones such as Jasper and Tiger’s Eye. There are two reasons for this dullness. One is that the crystal is resting, in which case you shouldn’t ask anything of it. The second is that it needs cleansing.
If you think your crystal needs to rest, leave it in a quiet place for 24 hours. If it’s still dull after 24 hours, you can be certain it needs cleansing.
Even if nobody else has handled your crystal, it may have picked up other energies from the atmosphere around you, especially if it’s been used in particularly intense or emotional work. Those used for crystal healing need cleansing often.
Crystals used to protect or bring positive energy to the home or workplace will probably need to be cleansed more often than those that are kept in a dark place and only brought out occasionally. Again, check their shine–if they’re dull, they’re either tired or need charging. Home or workplace crystals that are tired should be remove and left in a quiet place to rest.
How To Cleanse Your Crystals
How to thoroughly cleanse and re-charge a crystal depends a lot on the type of crystal. Just as each have their own qualities, they also have their own requirements. However, there are general methods that can be used.
Cleanse With A Pendulum If you want to cleanse several crystals at once, lay them in a ring. Hold a clear crystal pendulum–preferably an amethyst or rose quartz crystal–either over the single stone or in the middle of the circle. Pass the pendulum over the crystals in an anti-clockwise fashion, for the number of times that feels ‘right’ for you. Now dip the pendulum in cold water the same number of times you moved it over the crystals and shake dry. Move the crystal pendulum over the crystals again, for the same number of times, but now in a clockwise direction. The first passing will cleanse them – the second passing will empower them. Cleansing with Earth Energies If you’re close to place where earth energies are strong, this is a good choice. Such places include stone circles, burial mounds and fairy hills. If it feels charges with positive energy, it’s probably a good place. Find a flat stone and lay your crystals on it. If a flat stone isn’t available, lay the crystals at the foot of a tall, pointed stone. Leave the crystals for 30 minutes while the earth cleanses and recharges them. Cleansing With Nature Leave your crystals in moonlight for 24 hours, or in a rainstorm for 5-10 minutes. The day of full moon is the best time for cleansing crystals in this manner. Using Amethyst Wrap your crystals in a smooth cloth along with a piece of unpolished amethyst. Leave the crystals in a dark place for 24 hours to recharge.
Clean ‘busy’ crystals at least once a week. If you consult your crystal pendulum daily, it’s best to have two so that there’s always one to use while one’s being cleansed. The same goes for stones used in crystal healing.
It isn’t difficult and we owe it to our crystals. After all, they rarely refuse to work for us.
Crystals have been used for healing and divination for thousands of years. But just as they give off energy, they take in energy, too.
In order to rid a crystal of any unwanted energy, whether a piece of crystal jewellery, a crystal pendulum for divination purposes or individual rocks used for crystal healing, it’s important that each crystal is properly cleansed before it’s used in any kind of healing or divination procedure.
How To Tell Whether A Crystal Needs Charging?
Whenever you acquire a new crystal, it should always be cleansed. All sorts of impressions will have been made on it between the time it was mined and the time it came into your ownership.
This unwanted energy isn’t necessary negative, although some of it may be. Even if there’s no negative energy within your crystal, it’s important that it’s tuned in to you and you alone. Only then can you endow the crystals with your own personal energy.
Sometimes, a crystal will appear dull. This is most obvious in crystal prisms, but can also be seen in stones such as Jasper and Tiger’s Eye. There are two reasons for this dullness. One is that the crystal is resting, in which case you shouldn’t ask anything of it. The second is that it needs cleansing.
If you think your crystal needs to rest, leave it in a quiet place for 24 hours. If it’s still dull after 24 hours, you can be certain it needs cleansing.
Even if nobody else has handled your crystal, it may have picked up other energies from the atmosphere around you, especially if it’s been used in particularly intense or emotional work. Those used for crystal healing need cleansing often.
Crystals used to protect or bring positive energy to the home or workplace will probably need to be cleansed more often than those that are kept in a dark place and only brought out occasionally. Again, check their shine–if they’re dull, they’re either tired or need charging. Home or workplace crystals that are tired should be remove and left in a quiet place to rest.
How To Cleanse Your Crystals
How to thoroughly cleanse and re-charge a crystal depends a lot on the type of crystal. Just as each have their own qualities, they also have their own requirements. However, there are general methods that can be used.
Cleanse With A Pendulum If you want to cleanse several crystals at once, lay them in a ring. Hold a clear crystal pendulum–preferably an amethyst or rose quartz crystal–either over the single stone or in the middle of the circle. Pass the pendulum over the crystals in an anti-clockwise fashion, for the number of times that feels ‘right’ for you. Now dip the pendulum in cold water the same number of times you moved it over the crystals and shake dry. Move the crystal pendulum over the crystals again, for the same number of times, but now in a clockwise direction. The first passing will cleanse them – the second passing will empower them. Cleansing with Earth Energies If you’re close to place where earth energies are strong, this is a good choice. Such places include stone circles, burial mounds and fairy hills. If it feels charges with positive energy, it’s probably a good place. Find a flat stone and lay your crystals on it. If a flat stone isn’t available, lay the crystals at the foot of a tall, pointed stone. Leave the crystals for 30 minutes while the earth cleanses and recharges them. Cleansing With Nature Leave your crystals in moonlight for 24 hours, or in a rainstorm for 5-10 minutes. The day of full moon is the best time for cleansing crystals in this manner. Using Amethyst Wrap your crystals in a smooth cloth along with a piece of unpolished amethyst. Leave the crystals in a dark place for 24 hours to recharge.
Clean ‘busy’ crystals at least once a week. If you consult your crystal pendulum daily, it’s best to have two so that there’s always one to use while one’s being cleansed. The same goes for stones used in crystal healing.
It isn’t difficult and we owe it to our crystals. After all, they rarely refuse to work for us.
The Fiery Red Ruby – The Most Valuable Gem of All
Chris Ralph asked:
The very finest, top quality ruby is so rare that it has been the world’s most valued gemstone for thousands of years. In fact, even today, flawless top quality rubies are more valuable and rare than top quality colorless diamonds. A 16 carat ruby sold at auction for US$227,301 per carat at Sotheby’s in 1988. A 27.37 carat Burmese ruby ring sold for US$4 million at Sotheby’s in Geneva in May 1995, or $146,145 per carat. A 32 carat ruby sold for US$144,000 per carat at Sotheby’s in 1989. In contrast, eight D-color internally flawless diamonds over 50 carats were sold in the past 9 years and the largest, a pear-shape of 102 carats, fetched a mere US$125,000 per carat. Top rubies are so rare even the world’s top gem dealers must incessantly comb through wealthy estate sales and auctions to find them. Clean bright stones in sizes above five carats are particularly rare.
Ruby is the gem quality form of the mineral corundum, and one of the most durable minerals which exists, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. Corundum has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale and is also extremely tough. In its common form, corundum is even used as an abrasive. Colors of Corundum other than red are known as Sapphire. The element Chromium is responsible for the red color of this gem, but too much Chromium can actually turn corundum emerald green in color. Heat treatment is very common in ruby gemstones (as is true for all forms of corundum) and is used to dissolve “silk” inclusions, which results in a more transparent, more intensely colored stone. The heat treatment is considered permanent and does not usually detract from the value of the stone.
The most famous source of fine rubies is Burma, which is now called Myanmar. The ruby mines of Myanmar are older than history: stone age and bronze age mining tools have been found in the mining area of Mogok. Rubies from the legendary mines in Mogok often have a pure red color, which is often described as “pigeon’s-blood” although that term is more fanciful than an actual practical standard in the trade today. Myanmar also produces intense pinkish red rubies which are also vivid and extremely beautiful. Many of the rubies from Burma have a strong fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet rays like those in sunlight, which layers on extra color. Burma rubies have a reputation of holding their vivid color under all lighting conditions.
Fine rubies are also found in Thailand. Thai rubies tend to be darker red in tone: a real red, tending toward burgundy rather than pink, as Burma rubies do. This makes them very popular in the United States where consumers generally prefer their rubies to be a darker red rather than a darker pink. Some Thai rubies have black reflections, a phenomenon called extinction, which can make their color look darker than it really is. But Thai rubies can also have a rich vivid red that rivals the Burmese in intensity. Sri Lankan rubies can also be very beautiful. Many Sri Lankan stones are often pinkish in hue and many are pastel in tone. Some, however, resemble the vivid pinkish red hues from Burma.
Rubies from Kenya and Tanzania surprised the world when they were discovered in the sixties because their color rivals the world’s best. Unfortunately, most of the ruby production from these countries has many inclusions, tiny flaws which diminish transparency. Rubies from the African mines are rarely transparent enough to facet. However, their fantastic color is displayed to full advantage when cut cabochon style. A few rare clean stones have been seen which are top quality.
The most important factor in the value of a ruby is color. The top qualities are as red as you can imagine: a saturated pure spectral hue without any overtones of brown or blue. An intense pure, red color, uniform color is the most valuable gem. Clarity is also of secondary importance, but a fine colored gem with slight flaws is still highly valued. Large sizes rubies are more rare than diamond and a value of fine gem ruby increases significantly (more so than other gems) with increased weight.
The word red is derived from the Latin for ruby, ruber, which is derived from similar words in Persian, Hebrew, and Sanskrit. The intensity of color of a fine ruby is like a glowing coal, probably the most intensely colored substance our ancestors ever saw. It is no wonder they ascribed magical powers to these fires that burned perpetually and never extinguished themselves.
After color, the other factors which influence the value of a ruby are clarity, cut, and size. Rubies that are perfectly transparent, with no tiny flaws, are more valuable than those with inclusions which are visible to the eye. Cut can make a big difference in how attractive and lively a ruby appears to the eye. A well-cut stone should reflect back light evenly across the surface without a dark or washed-out area in the center that can result from a stone that is too deep or shallow. The shape should also be symmetrical and there should not be any nicks or scratches in the polish.
Ruby sometimes displays a three-ray, six-point star. These star rubies are cut in a smooth domed cabochon cut to display the effect. The star is best visible when illuminated with a single light source: it moves across the stone as the light moves. This effect, called asterism, is caused by light reflecting off tiny rutile needles, called “silk,” which are oriented along the crystal faces. The value of star rubies and sapphires are influenced by two things: the intensity and attractiveness of the body color and the strength and sharpness of the star. All six legs should be straight and equally prominent. Star rubies rarely have the combination of a fine translucent or transparent color and a sharp prominent star. These gems are valuable and expensive.
The very finest, top quality ruby is so rare that it has been the world’s most valued gemstone for thousands of years. In fact, even today, flawless top quality rubies are more valuable and rare than top quality colorless diamonds. A 16 carat ruby sold at auction for US$227,301 per carat at Sotheby’s in 1988. A 27.37 carat Burmese ruby ring sold for US$4 million at Sotheby’s in Geneva in May 1995, or $146,145 per carat. A 32 carat ruby sold for US$144,000 per carat at Sotheby’s in 1989. In contrast, eight D-color internally flawless diamonds over 50 carats were sold in the past 9 years and the largest, a pear-shape of 102 carats, fetched a mere US$125,000 per carat. Top rubies are so rare even the world’s top gem dealers must incessantly comb through wealthy estate sales and auctions to find them. Clean bright stones in sizes above five carats are particularly rare.
Ruby is the gem quality form of the mineral corundum, and one of the most durable minerals which exists, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. Corundum has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale and is also extremely tough. In its common form, corundum is even used as an abrasive. Colors of Corundum other than red are known as Sapphire. The element Chromium is responsible for the red color of this gem, but too much Chromium can actually turn corundum emerald green in color. Heat treatment is very common in ruby gemstones (as is true for all forms of corundum) and is used to dissolve “silk” inclusions, which results in a more transparent, more intensely colored stone. The heat treatment is considered permanent and does not usually detract from the value of the stone.
The most famous source of fine rubies is Burma, which is now called Myanmar. The ruby mines of Myanmar are older than history: stone age and bronze age mining tools have been found in the mining area of Mogok. Rubies from the legendary mines in Mogok often have a pure red color, which is often described as “pigeon’s-blood” although that term is more fanciful than an actual practical standard in the trade today. Myanmar also produces intense pinkish red rubies which are also vivid and extremely beautiful. Many of the rubies from Burma have a strong fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet rays like those in sunlight, which layers on extra color. Burma rubies have a reputation of holding their vivid color under all lighting conditions.
Fine rubies are also found in Thailand. Thai rubies tend to be darker red in tone: a real red, tending toward burgundy rather than pink, as Burma rubies do. This makes them very popular in the United States where consumers generally prefer their rubies to be a darker red rather than a darker pink. Some Thai rubies have black reflections, a phenomenon called extinction, which can make their color look darker than it really is. But Thai rubies can also have a rich vivid red that rivals the Burmese in intensity. Sri Lankan rubies can also be very beautiful. Many Sri Lankan stones are often pinkish in hue and many are pastel in tone. Some, however, resemble the vivid pinkish red hues from Burma.
Rubies from Kenya and Tanzania surprised the world when they were discovered in the sixties because their color rivals the world’s best. Unfortunately, most of the ruby production from these countries has many inclusions, tiny flaws which diminish transparency. Rubies from the African mines are rarely transparent enough to facet. However, their fantastic color is displayed to full advantage when cut cabochon style. A few rare clean stones have been seen which are top quality.
The most important factor in the value of a ruby is color. The top qualities are as red as you can imagine: a saturated pure spectral hue without any overtones of brown or blue. An intense pure, red color, uniform color is the most valuable gem. Clarity is also of secondary importance, but a fine colored gem with slight flaws is still highly valued. Large sizes rubies are more rare than diamond and a value of fine gem ruby increases significantly (more so than other gems) with increased weight.
The word red is derived from the Latin for ruby, ruber, which is derived from similar words in Persian, Hebrew, and Sanskrit. The intensity of color of a fine ruby is like a glowing coal, probably the most intensely colored substance our ancestors ever saw. It is no wonder they ascribed magical powers to these fires that burned perpetually and never extinguished themselves.
After color, the other factors which influence the value of a ruby are clarity, cut, and size. Rubies that are perfectly transparent, with no tiny flaws, are more valuable than those with inclusions which are visible to the eye. Cut can make a big difference in how attractive and lively a ruby appears to the eye. A well-cut stone should reflect back light evenly across the surface without a dark or washed-out area in the center that can result from a stone that is too deep or shallow. The shape should also be symmetrical and there should not be any nicks or scratches in the polish.
Ruby sometimes displays a three-ray, six-point star. These star rubies are cut in a smooth domed cabochon cut to display the effect. The star is best visible when illuminated with a single light source: it moves across the stone as the light moves. This effect, called asterism, is caused by light reflecting off tiny rutile needles, called “silk,” which are oriented along the crystal faces. The value of star rubies and sapphires are influenced by two things: the intensity and attractiveness of the body color and the strength and sharpness of the star. All six legs should be straight and equally prominent. Star rubies rarely have the combination of a fine translucent or transparent color and a sharp prominent star. These gems are valuable and expensive.
How many different kinds of crystals are there?
Jules asked:
My son is doing a science project on crystals, we need to find out how many different kinds/types of crystals there are. At least how many have been identified. I have tried looking this information up in the library, as well as the internet (maybe I am not wording right when I search) Any help would be appreciated.
My son is doing a science project on crystals, we need to find out how many different kinds/types of crystals there are. At least how many have been identified. I have tried looking this information up in the library, as well as the internet (maybe I am not wording right when I search) Any help would be appreciated.