TYPES OF GEMSTONE BEADS AND THEIR USES
Gemstones: Versatile and Intricate
Gemstone beads have been prevalent throughout history and worldwide. For jewelry makers and enthusiasts, gemstone beads are a versatile and essential jewelry item. Whether you want to add a splash of color to an outfit with a strand of beads or incorporate multiple strands to create a more intricate look, gemstone beads for jewelry making are an excellent choice. Depending on the types of gemstone beads you choose, can use them as pendants or combine them with other types of jewelry, like rings and necklaces, to suit any style or occasion.
Gemstones come in various forms like ruby, sapphire, quartz, and tourmaline, as well as opal, moonstone, turquoise, and lapis lazuli. These beads are a great choice for anyone looking to embellish their wardrobe. It has a long history of use in fashion and jewelry design, as you can create something casual and understated or dazzling and high-end with gemstone beads. There are also several benefits of wearing gemstones that are shared around the world. Whatever your budget may be, there is bound to be a variety of beads that will fit your needs.
Gemstone Varieties
Minerals vs. Non-Mineral or Organic Gemstones
Gemstones are prized for their beauty and durability. Although most gemstones can be classified as mineral, certain gemstones are non-minerals. Minerals are inorganic substances that occur naturally within the earth's crust. They have specific chemical compositions and crystalline structures, which give them distinctive characteristics such as color, crystal form, hardness, specific gravity, luster, fracture, and tenacity. The rare and magnificent minerals are often termed gemstones, such as diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, garnets, amethysts, and topaz. Mineral beads add excitement and are sought after for their beauty.
Organic gems like pearl, coral, amber, ivory, and jet are classified under non-mineral gemstones. These gemstones are derived from living organisms transformed by natural processes such as fossilization or petrification. While they may vary widely in appearance compared to mineral beads, one thing in common is their enduring beauty.
No matter what types of gemstone beads you select, gemstone varieties are welcome additions to any piece.
Precious vs. Semi-Precious Gemstones
One significant distinction in classifying gemstones is whether they are precious or semi-precious stones. For a gemstone to be precious, it must have all three characteristics: beauty, durability, and rarity. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires are all considered precious gems, given their extreme rarity and incredible beauty.
In contrast, semi-precious gemstones have only one or two of these qualities. These gemstone beads are valuable in their own right and are frequently used in jewelry and other adornments. Gemstone beads made from semi-precious stones such as onyx, jasper, amethyst, or aquamarine add a unique flair to any piece of jewelry.
Natural vs. Synthetic Gemstones
Gemstones are some of the most beautiful and sought-after materials in the world. Natural gems, such as rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, are mined from the earth and crafted into beads for jewelry making and other decorative items. However, these precious stones may undergo heat treatment or chemical processes for improved color or clarity. These treatments affect the stone’s value, with intensive processes having a greater impact on its price.
Not all gemstones are naturally occurring, and many gemstone beads are created artificially in laboratories using machines and precise chemical processes. Due to their relatively common origins, synthetic gems are often less valuable than those found in nature. But they are very frequently used in creating stunning pieces of jewelry.
Simulant Gemstones
Simulant or imitation gemstones are items that resemble natural gemstones but lack the same physical characteristics or chemical composition. Most simulant stones are made from glass or plastic materials and can be easily identified by a jeweler due to their texture, color, and reflectivity. Regardless of the material used to produce these imitation gems, they are a popular choice for jewelry makers who want to create beautiful jewelry without spending a fortune on rare and precious stones.
Health Benefits of Gemstones
Amber: It is a unique and beautiful gem formed from the hardened resin of ancient trees. This organic gem has been valued for its medicinal and spiritual uses for centuries. Known for its distinctive yellow, brown, or red color, Amber is believed to help alleviate pain and promote healing by drawing out illness from the body. The benefits of wearing gemstones in amber are believed throughout the world. In addition, amber is also used to relieve headaches and reduce stress, making it an ideal stone for releasing negative energy.
Amethyst: It is a stunning purple gemstone that has long been associated with strength, courage, and peace. Many believe that these qualities make the amethyst an excellent choice for promoting healing and aiding recovery from various mental health conditions and addictions. With its tranquil qualities, the amethyst is also a great stone for anyone seeking to tap into their creative potential or to find relief from stress and anxiety.
Aquamarine: It is among the largest cut gemstones, making Aquamarine an ideal choice for jewelry lovers looking to make a statement. Beyond its striking appearance, aquamarine is also believed to have numerous healing properties and the ability to solve digestive issues, improve eyesight and dental health, and even serve as a positive force that helps its wearers cope with grief.
Citrine: It is a vibrant and dazzling gemstone, making it a perfect choice for all kinds of jewelry, from earrings and necklaces to bracelets. This unique gemstone has long been associated with positive energy and emotional well-being. People looking to boost their mood or manage common health problems like poor digestion, sleep issues, hearing difficulties, pain, and inflammation, should wear a Citrine.
Garnet: These are a genuinely remarkable type of gemstone, known for their stunning variety of colors and incredible healing properties. Garnets are believed to be great for boosting overall health, revitalizing both mind and spirit, and enhancing one's sense of confidence and emotional well-being.
Moonstone: Throughout history, white or clear moonstone has been treasured as a powerful and protective gemstone. This versatile gemstone is said to have calming effects, making it an excellent remedy for anxiety, depression, and insomnia. It is also a popular choice among artists and other creative people for its assumed ability to enhance creativity and intuition.
Pearl: Known for its calming and rejuvenating qualities, the pearl is often touted as a "stone of happy and positive energy." It had a special place in traditional Asian medicinal systems and was used for treating various health issues, from digestive disorders to heart problems. Today, pearl powder is often added to skincare products, such as makeup and facial scrubs, to achieve a glowing complexion and treat various skin disorders like rosacea.
Rose Quartz: Rose-hued quartz is one of the most popular gemstones for jewelry and is often recommended for those going through difficult emotional situations or heartbreak. This beautiful gemstone is believed to promote self-love and acceptance and help open the heart to new possibilities.
Shop Gemstone Beads For Jewelry Making
Gemstone beads for jewelry making are a great way to add natural beauty and uniqueness to your designs. No two gemstones are exactly alike, so you can be sure that your design will be one-of-a-kind. The Bead Traders offers a wide selection of high-quality gemstone beads for jewelry making in various shapes, colors, and patterns. Whether non-mineral gemstones or mineral beads, their beauty is unparalleled. So if you want to add a special touch to your next jewelry project, check out our selection at The Bead Traders! Allow your clients to enjoy the benefits of wearing gemstones.