Gemstones are simply a piece of mineral that is cut out and formed to shapes and sizes and then polished. Most gemstones are hard, but in case of jewelry making, soft minerals are also considered because of their physical properties that present aesthetic value, such as their luster. It is valued most especially because of its rarity since minerals are hard to mine. They are mostly used in jewelries and other adornment. Gemstones are divided into two categories namely the precious and semi-precious stones that date back from the Ancient Greeks.

The Precious Stones and their Meanings

                Precious stones are classified because of their rarity and its translucence, though colorless diamond is an exemption. They are also classified for their hardness ranging from 8-10 from the Mohs scale. The most common of them are diamond, sapphire, ruby and emerald. Listed below are the gemstones meanings:

1.  Diamond: Diamond is considered as Crown Jewels. It is the hardest of all crystals and minerals. They symbolize innocence and constancy.
2.  Sapphire: Sapphire is “blue” in the Greek. They are the symbol for the joyful devotion to God and heaven.
3. Ruby: Ruby is known to be the most powerful gem in the universe. Ruby is the means love and friendship. It is also a symbol for vitality and royalty.
4.   Emerald: The Goddess Venus holds emerald as her sacred stone. It has long been symbolizing faith and hope. It is also believed to be the stone for prophecy. And it was thought by many to preserve love.

The  Semi – Precious Stones and their Meanings

                There are many kinds of semi-precious stones that can be seen, at least 130 of them. They are also classified according to their color, hardness and translucence. The most common of them are amethyst, topaz, rose quartz, jade and turquoise.

1. Amethyst: Amethyst is a Greek word meaning “without drunkenness” because it is worn to protect from drunkenness and instill a much sober mind. It symbolizes sincerity, humility, piety and spiritual.
2. Topaz: It promotes forgiveness and truth.
3. Rose Quartz: Rose quartz is known to be a love stone. It is the stone of universal love and love in marriage.
4. Jade: Jade is a powerful symbol used to attract love. It is also used to bring money and as a protective stone. It symbolizes successful love.
5. Turquoise: Turquoise is known by the ancients to be a symbol of wealth. It also symbolizes friendship and can bring peace to every home.

Here are some of the stones that may represent you. Find your own birthstones and look for the true meaning behind them.