Semi Precious Gemstone Jewelry

An endless variety of semi precious gemstone jewelry is sold on the Internet. A search will yield a great number of independent jewelry makers. Handmade gemstone jewelry is interesting because each designer brings his or her own special style and interpretation to the piece being fashioned. While the designs themselves may range from classic to outlandish, each item is influenced by the skill, personality and experience of its designer.

Traditionally, gems classified as precious were designated in this way because they were rare or had some type of ceremonial or religious significance. At first, these 'cardinal' gems were limited to five varieties: diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds and amethysts. However, after large deposits of amethysts were found in Brazil, the stone was no longer included in this category, for it was now much more available and could be afforded by the general public. There are more than 130 types of stones which are classified as semi precious these days. Some consider these categories outdated and useless, because the difference between the grades of the stones is not clear cut.

Diamonds have the only internationally accepted grading system. Yet a low quality diamond may be worth less than a piece of high quality semi precious gemstone jewelry. Therefore, value is a somewhat fluid concept. Most jewelers would suggest that budget and personal preferences lend greater appeal to a gem than the classifications do. In this regard, many couples are incorporating handmade gemstone jewelry in addition to, or even in place of, diamond engagement rings. These gemstone jewelry items are less expensive, which allows greater flexibility in choosing a high quality setting. This also allows couples to create a unique expression of their relationship.

Ring designs may vary. Some are simple solitary gemstones, while others are part of a group design. This is part of the appeal of semi precious gemstone jewelry -- it can be whatever the individual wants it to be. Couples can have artists create a truly unique piece of handmade gemstone jewelry. Sometimes, the ring is a starting point for a set of jewelry, which may be added to over time.

Even for more of a fashion piece, the lower price and greater availability of semi precious gemstone jewelry allows for items to be found in an array of styles. Thus, there is great emphasis on chosing an item which will fit one's own personality and expectations. Many sites which feature handmade gemstone jewelry include articles about the history and legends associated with each stone. Some even offer information about where the stones are mined and other information specific to each stone.

One aspect of the information which may be troubling to a Christian is that some sites are quick to promote the supposed healing qualities or other properties of this handmade gemstone jewelry. Although this is probably mostly a marketing technique used to attract potential buyers who may be susceptible to such claims, it is troubling in that if there are indeed any such medicinal properties to these gemstones, it is because they have been placed there by the Creator, much as certain plants have medicinal attributes for our good. Otherwise, one may be found guilty of giving the creation, rather than the Creator, credit for these attributes. In addition, such practices can be a gateway to participation in occult beliefs and practices. Instead, one should look to God's Word for guidance, and trust in His personal and providential care instead of ' luck' and 'good fortune'. After all, Jesus claimed that ...I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10.7-10) Who needs luck and fortune when one is under the providential care of the Creator?

The distinction between precious and semi precious gems is considered nearly meaningless these days. Actually, the concept itself is no older than the 19th century, and had more to do with economic realities than the actual value of the gems. As noted above, amethyst was reclassified after significant finds increased the supply of the formerly rare commodity. If that is the only qualification for inclusion in the 'precious' category, then the diamond should be considered semi precious gemstone jewelry. Diamonds are not rare, as is often supposed. A cartel controls the amount of diamonds allowed on the market. Originally, this was to safeguard the investment of financiers after a large amount of diamonds were discovered. Previously, the production of diamonds was small -- only a few pounds a year. However, with the discovery of a large amount of diamonds in South Africa in 1870, production rose into tons of the gem. Therefore, the cartel was needed to protect the investment. Also, an advertisement campaign to associate the diamond with love, courtship and marriage has been extremely successful, to the point where it became traditional to offer a diamond engagement ring. If diamonds have eluded the semi precious classification despite the fact that they are not rare, some 'semi precious' gems have migrated back and forth from the precious category. Pearl and opal once were considered precious, and to some extent enjoy a higher regard than other semi precious gems. Alexandrite, several varieties of garnet and tanzanite can be just as expensive as rubies and sapphires. Fine examples of tourmaline, spinel or aquamarine also command high prices. Since the distinction between the categories is nearly meaningless, the US Federal Trade Commission has considered banning the use of the term 'semi precious' to describe gems, in order to avoid confusion.