Unique Gemstone Necklaces

From LoveToKnow Jewelry

There is nothing like a unique gemstone necklace to make someone feel special. Gemstones have a quality all of their own, with each one being naturally formed over millions of years.

Every Gemstone is Unique

Uniqueness of Gems

No two gemstones are truly the same. While to the untutored eye they may look identical in size and shape, tiny inclusions in the stone or variances in color mean that each stone is different. These variations can sometimes be extremely subtle, however on other occasions these can be dramatic. The unusual color markings or inclusions of a gemstone means that the jeweler can really create something wonderful and different with that stone. Necklaces are an ideal way to show off an unusual or unique gemstone. Often special gemstones are large, and look wonderful set in a pendant.

Choosing a Gemstone

People will choose a gemstone for different reasons. Some people will pick a gemstone because of the color or shape, others because of the inner healing qualities of a stone. This is a largely personal choice and the jeweler or retailer will be able to advise and help with the purchase decisions.

The type of stone will reflect on the finished price of the jewelry. Some gemstones are now rare or difficult to mine and these stones are significantly more expensive than stones that are readily available. The increasing rarity of some gemstones also means that a unique gemstone can also represent a good investment.

There are some highly unusual gemstones available and often jewelers will be able to find special stones to meet your requirements and create a customized piece of jewelry.

There are some key features that need to be decided upon when buying gemstones, these include:

Color of Gemstone

Gemstones are available in the whole spectrum of colors from the palest of pink to the deep greens of jade, or the mauves and purples of amethyst. The darkest shades are found in the deep black of onyx or metallic gray of hematite.

Some stones are heat treated. This does two things: it helps to stabilize the stone and also enhance the color. Heat treated stones should be clearly identified. While heat treated stones are not necessarily inferior to natural stones, people wanting a completely natural stone may prefer not to have one that has been chemically altered.

Stones can also be dyed. While this is more typically found in shells and shell items such as mother of pearl, some stones are also dyed various colors. This can fade and again, the stones or shell should be clearly marked as being dyed.

Style of Gemstone

If the gemstone is to be set into a pendant it is likely to be cut. There are many different types of cut, although these fall roughly into two types, cabochon and facet.

Cabochon : Cabochon cut stones have a flat back and a domed surface. These are typically set in rub over settings which means that they are fitted snugly into a setting of metal which is gently rubbed along the contours of the stone to hold it tight.

Facet : Facet cut stones are cut with many tiny cuts that catch and reflect light. Facet cut stones are typified in diamonds and precious stones, however any stone can be facet cut and some highly unusual stones can be found.

Natural : Some stones, typically crystals are left uncut. These can be extremely dramatic and are much loved by those who believe in the healing qualities of stones. Gemstones can also be tumble polished and these naturally shaped stones are often used by wire wrapping artists who can work with the unusual and natural shape of a gemstone to produce a highly unusual and individual item of jewelry.

Buying a Unique Gemstone Necklace

Buying unique jewelry can be extremely satisfying. A one of a kind piece of jewelry helps to demonstrate your individuality and can make a dramatic statement. A good quality unique item of jewelry can form the center of a great jewelry collection. Even mass produced jewelry items will be complemented by a great piece of individual jewelry.

Many jewelers will stock a range of unusual and unique items of jewelry, and of course it is possible to buy direct from an artisan jeweler.

Some useful stores to look at are:

Major online stores such as Etsy.com and eBay.com are also worth looking at, although do take a good look at a sellers feedback before purchasing.


Wearing a unique piece of jewelery is a wonderful feeling and knowing that the gemstone is as individual as the wearer makes it that extra bit special.



 


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