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Gemology
Gemology is the scientific study of gems, their physical, chemical and
optical properties as well as their formation, distribution, and even a little bit of their
history. Each type of gem possesses its own characteristics that help identify it or distinguish
it from another gem type. Once we have identified the type of gem we are studying, we need
tools, or rules and procedures to help describe or grade the individual stone.
We are all familiar with the 'four C's' of gemology, Color, Cut, Clarity and
Carat weight, but there is so much more to describing a gemstone. Hardness, streak, refractive
index, and dozens of other characteristics may be measured in a gem. It is these that allow a
stone to be identified even before the gem is cut and the 'four C's' come into play.
Through the links at the left, under the 'Gemology' folder, we explore some
of the questions about gemology. Come back and see us often as this section is always growing
and always changing.
Copyright © 2005 by Gem And Mineral Info.com.
All descriptions and images, except where noted, are the property of
Gem And Mineral Info.com
Where noted images and descriptions are used with permission of copyright
holder as indicated.