What is Gemology? History, functions and areas of use
Gemology is not just concerned with describing the properties and characteristics of gemstones. It also works on the formation, source, extraction, processing, marketing and counterfeiting of gemstones.
What is Gemology?
Gemology is a science that deals with the scientific study, identification, classification, processing and commercial use of gemstones and minerals. Gemstones include naturally occurring minerals such as diamond, sapphire, emerald, ruby, amethyst, tourmaline and opal.
It has a history that goes back hundreds of years. Gemstones have been valued and used by people since ancient times. However, the science of gemology has started to develop in modern times. The first gemology lab was established in the US in 1931. Today, gem laboratories are located all over the world.
Gemologists have many different sources of information about gemstones. For example, the Mohs hardness scale is used to determine how hard a gemstone is. Various tests are also carried out to determine the purity, colour, translucency, light diffusion and other properties of a stone.
History of Gemology
Gemology is a science that deals with the properties, classification, processing and use of gemstones and minerals. The history of gemology is as old as human history, dating back to the Stone Age.
Gemstones have been objects of interest throughout history. Initially, the stones were collected and used as ornaments because of their natural beauty. Later, the value of the gems was discovered and used for commercial purposes. Especially in ancient Egypt, gemstones became symbols and were used by members of the royal family and clergy.
The acceptance of gemology as a modern science began in Europe in the late 14th century. The Italian writer and scientist Cennino Cennini gave information about the classification and processing of stones in his work “Il Libro dell’Arte” in 1390. Later, in the 16th century, the Belgian physician and botanist Anselmus Boëtius de Boodt gave extensive information about gemstones and minerals in his book “Gemmarum et Lapidum Historia”.
In the 17th century, scientific studies of gemology gained momentum and research into the optical properties of stones revealed the chemical compositions of gemstones. In the 19th century, along with the science of crystallography, gemology advanced and more detailed information was obtained about the internal structures, crystal structures, colors and sources of stones.
Today gemology works with many different disciplines. In particular, disciplines such as geology, chemistry, physics, optics, mathematics and history make important contributions to gemology. Topics such as the classification, recognition, evaluation, processing and sale of gemstones are one of the most important areas of gemology. In addition, gemology also plays an important role in the fight against counterfeiting.
Areas of Use of Gemstones
Gemstones are rare and beautiful stones that have attracted people’s attention for centuries. The aesthetics and rarity of the stones make them valuable. In addition, the hardness and durability of stones also play an important role in industrial and technological use. Here are a few examples of using gems:
Jewellery
Gemstones are used for jewelry making, which is one of the most common uses. Stones such as diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, rubies and tourmalines are used in the formation of jewelry such as diamond rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets. These stones are preferred for their durability and their aesthetic value.
Industrial use
Gemstones are also used in industrial production. Due to its hardness and durability, diamond is used in industrial tools such as cutting tools, drills, cutting discs and drills. In addition, diamonds are used in the formation of thin films, which are also used in the manufacture of semiconductors.
Medical use
Gemstones are also used in medicine. For example, laser technology has become possible thanks to the properties of stones. Diamond is used in surgical instruments due to its high hardness, while opal is used in x-ray equipment used for medical imaging.
works of art
Gemstones are also used in making works of art. Gemstones are used in handmade decorative items, as well as in sculptures and jewelry. For example, gems can be used to decorate precious vases and furniture.
Symbolic and spiritual use
Gemstones are also used for their symbolic and spiritual applications. For example, diamond rings are considered a symbol of marriages and engagements. Opal can also be used as a symbol of good luck and positive energy.
Formation of rocks and properties of minerals
Gemology is a science that deals with the properties, classification, processing and use of gemstones and minerals. The properties of gemstones are directly related to the properties of the minerals from which they come. Therefore, mineralogy is the basis of gemology.
Minerals can be defined as naturally occurring crystal structures with specific chemical compositions. These crystals are formed as a result of various processes within our planet. For example, processes such as cooling of magma and lava, metamorphism and sedimentation are effective in the formation of minerals.
Gemstones are usually composed of precious minerals. Gemstones such as diamonds, emeralds, sapphires and rubies are formed by natural processes under high temperature and pressure. Another gemstone, opal, is formed as a result of volcanic activity.
Properties of minerals depend on their chemical composition, crystal structure and other physical properties. Different chemical compositions cause minerals to have different colors, hardnesses, densities, and other properties.
Hardness refers to a mineral’s ability to scratch other minerals. The measurement of hardness is known as the Mohs hardness scale and plays an important role in the classification of gemstones. Density is the weight per unit volume of the mineral and a mineral has a unique density. Color depends on the optical properties of a mineral and may appear differently under different lighting conditions.
The crystal structures of minerals are formed as a result of the combination of their atoms in a regular pattern. The shape of crystals depends on the way atoms and molecules are bound together. These crystals determine the internal structure of the stones and are studied by gemologists and used in the classification and recognition of stones.
What does gemology mean?
Gemology is a science that studies the properties, origins, sources, properties and industrial uses of minerals and gemstones.
What does gemology entail?
Gemology is a combination of many different sciences such as mineralogy, crystallography, chemistry, physics, optics, geology, geography and engineering.
Why is gemology important?
Gemology provides information about the origin, qualities and market value of natural stone. This information aids in the proper appraisal of jewelry, protecting customers from deceptive sales tactics, and detecting counterfeit and counterfeit jewelry.
What do gemologists do?
Gemologists analyze the properties and qualities of natural stone. This helps them identify the quality, type, purity, processing and imitation of the jewelry. Gemologists can also identify the sources of natural stones and help them properly orient customers.
What does it take to become a gemologist?
To become a gemologist, you must study gemology in universities or schools of gemology. However, licensing may not be required in the gemological profession, although in some countries gemologists must meet a certain standard.
What is the most precious stone in jewelry?
Diamond is considered the most precious stone in the jewelry world. However, factors such as rarity, clarity, cut and carat weight affect a diamond’s value.
What is the difference between natural stone and lab-produced stones?
Natural stone is created through natural processes over the years. Lab-made stones, on the other hand, are man-made and mimic the chemical, optical and physical properties of natural stone. While natural stones are generally rarer and more valuable, lab-made stones can be cheaper and look the same.