Sought-after for their rarity, symbolism, special beauty and durability, gemstones turn jewelry into a true poem for the soul. Nowadays, gemstone jewelry is worth considering when you want to stand out from the crowd or are looking to buy the perfect gift.

Being considered the most valuable gifts of the earth, gemstones become a unique expression of your personality, which will fascinate with the lyricism hidden under the exquisite elegance of the jewelry you wear. So here's what you need to know about gemstones.

Gemstones - a brief history

The oldest gemstone jewelry dates back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence supports that precious and semi-precious gemstones have been used all over the world in everything from jewelry to weapons and healing solutions.

The history of gemstone jewelry begins in 4000 BC. BC, when Egyptians used steatite beads and stones of carnelian, chalcedony, lapis lazuli and amethyst. Gemstones were also used in weapons or as a means of contact with gods and goddesses.

In ancient China, the earliest mention of gemstones dates back to Nephrite jade in 3,600 BC. Found in gem-tipped needles, elixirs, jewelry or tools, gemstones were equally useful in ancient China.

Precious stones were also used by Greeks and Romans. While the Greeks used them on soldiers to increase their strength, the Romans believed in their metaphysical powers. In fact, in 500 BC. In 500 BC, the Romans created the first gemstone amulets (sapphires, garnets and pearls) to heal the body and mind.

In addition to jewelry, gemstones were also used in India for their physical and spiritual power in Ayurvedic medicine, especially in powdered form. Later, in 300 BC. BC, diamonds were first mentioned in world history as an export from India.

Later, they gained cultural significance becoming stunning accessories in the fashion world. From a classic sparkle to exotic hues, gemstone jewelry has become popular among celebrities, politicians and other important people.

Gemstones - what are they?

Gemstones are minerals, extracted from the earth or sea, which are prized for their beauty and rarity. In their raw state, gemstones are asymmetrical, which is why they usually go through a process of cutting and polishing before being included in jewelry. Gemstones come in a variety of colors, cuts and consistencies.

Gemstones - how do they appear?

Used for decorative purposes since the dawn of time, gemstones come into being in different and very specific natural circumstances, requiring the presence of certain chemicals, rocks or formations. Although we recognize beautiful gemstones by their characteristic shine and colors, in their natural form they look unrecognizable. This is why it is necessary to have a specialist who can distinguish a gemstone from any other rock formation in nature.

Gemstones - what types are there?

The main types of gemstones are:

• Diamond - is a colorless or nearly colorless concentration of pure carbon. Known as the most powerful known mineral in the world, it forms under high heat and pressure deep in the earth. Although diamonds are often colorless, they can be found in a variety of colors. Diamonds have been associated with health and long life. On the other hand, diamond jewellery offers clarity and rationality to the wearer, while for others it symbolizes lasting love.

• Sapphire - is created from aluminum oxide, exposed under high heat and pressure for thousands of years. Found in a variety of colors, there is no limit to the tone and saturation of color in a sapphire. Colors differ depending on the content of other minerals found in the sapphire. A blue sapphire contains traces of titanium, while a pink sapphire contains traces of chromium. On the other hand, a chemically pure sapphire is colorless. However, the most prized sapphire is blue. Sapphire jewelry is a representation of restoring balance, helping to align the spiritual, mental and physical planes and bringing peace of mind and a sense of serenity. In addition, they serve as a symbol of justice.

• Ruby - made of aluminum oxide, ruby is actually a form of sapphire, with an intense metallic chromium content. Since ancient times, ruby jewellery has been loved for its brilliant red hue, a color associated with love and passion. Ruby is also said to bring harmony to the wearer's life.

• Emerald - is made of beryllium aluminum with inclusions of iron, vanadium and chromium, which give it its green or blue-green color. When it comes to rare and expensive gemstones, most of us immediately think of diamonds. However, emeralds are over 20 times rarer than diamonds, which is why they can be more expensive. In terms of symbolism, emeralds are associated with true love or wealth. In addition, the color green symbolizes growth, renewal, healing and hope.