We are certainly not experts in this field however we do carry a small range as they are beautiful strung on their own or combined with other beads. With winter on our doorstep, these stones are perfect for our winter wardrobe.
In the West, the classification between precious and semi-precious gems goes back to the Ancient Greeks but similar distinctions exist in other cultures. In the modern world, the precious stones are diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires while all other gemstones are classified as semi-precious. Before the discovery of bulk amethyst in Brazil, in the 19th century, they were also classified as precious, as are pearls and opals, despite the fact that they are not strictly speaking a gemstone.
A gemstone is any attractive mineral that when cut and polished is used for jewellery and adornment. But certain rocks, such as lapis lazuli, and certain organic materials, such as amber and jet, are also included in the semi-precious classification.
Through the ages, various cultures have attributed supernatural powers to gemstones and they have been used to heal physical ills, bring about emotional equilibrium and endow with spiritual powers. There are several excellent sites on the subject – my favourites may be found on the Links page.
