Crystal Identification: 

How to Differentiate Gemstones Like a Pro

For many, the world of gemstones and crystals is not only fascinating, but deeply mysterious. Each crystal and gemstone is unique, with its own story, characteristics and properties. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a novice drawn to their charms, knowing how to distinguish and identify these treasures is a fascinating and valuable skill. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into how to distinguish gemstones like a true crystal expert.

Before we delve into the specific characteristics that help identify gemstones, let's talk about the basic tools that every crystal enthusiast should have:

Magnifying Glass: A small magnifying glass used by gemologists to accurately examine the minute details and inclusions of a gemstone.

Hardness Kit: A set of tools to test the hardness of a gemstone, which is the primary factor in gemstone identification.

Since we are not targeting professional jewellery appraisers, the two basic appraisal tools above are sufficient for the average person! With these tools, you can start identifying gemstones. Let's explore the characteristics to look for.

Gemstones are recognised primarily by their crystal system, which is determined by the arrangement of atoms within the stone. There are seven crystal systems:

Cubic: Gemstones such as diamonds and garnets belong to this group, and their crystals form symmetrical cubes.

Hexagonal: Examples include emerald and quartz. These crystals form hexagonal prisms.

Tetragonal: stones such as zircon and rutile exhibit this structure.

Orthoclase: Topaz and peridot are good examples.

Monoclinic: Gypsum and jade fall into this category.

Triclinic: found in stones such as turquoise.

Amorphous: Not a true crystal system, but includes opal and amber, which lack a structured lattice.

Understanding these requires not only theoretical knowledge but also practical examination of the various gemstones to understand the nuances. If you are very interested in crystal gemstone identification, you can also take a more systematic study by attending a professional jewellery identification course, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the International Gemological Institute (IGI).

Colour is perhaps the most talked about and loved aspect of gemstones. It actually consists of three qualities:

Hue: The dominant colour of a gemstone.

Tone: The degree of lightness or darkness of a colour, ranging from light to dark.

Saturation: The intensity of the colour, ranging from dull to vivid.

The colour of a gemstone is influenced by a variety of internal and external factors, and sometimes small variations in hue and saturation can have a significant impact on the value and rarity of a gemstone.

Inclusions are natural imperfections found inside gemstones. While to a layman they might seem like flaws, to a gemologist, they're like fingerprints; unique identifiers that can sometimes even pinpoint the exact location a gemstone came from. Examining inclusions under a loupe can reveal:

Gas bubbles, mineral deposits, or internal cracks

Unique patterns: For example, rutile inclusions in sapphires are known as "silk."

Color zoning,which is uneven color distribution within a crystal.

The clarity and number of these inclusions play a pivotal role in identifying and valuing gemstones.

The way a gemstone interacts with light is an important clue to its identity. Transparency describes how light travels through a gemstone and can be transparent, translucent or opaque. Lustre, on the other hand, refers to how light reflects off the surface of a gemstone. Different gemstones have different lustres, for example:

Vitreous Lustre: Glassy lustre, common to quartz and most gemstones.

Pearly lustre: resembles a pearl and is common in opals.

Metallic: Similar to metallic, commonly found in pyrite or hematite.

Submetallic: Slightly less reflective than metallic lustre, common in some hematites.

Understanding these properties requires not only a discerning eye, but also a good light source, preferably natural light.

The Mohs hardness is an important starting point for identifying gemstones based on their ability to scratch or be scratched by other substances. For example, if a material can scratch glass (about 5.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness) but not topaz (8 on the Mohs scale of hardness), this narrows down its identification.

Density is another method of identification, usually using a heavy liquid or scale. The density of a gemstone is a direct indicator of its specific chemical composition and structure.

Gemstone appraisal is a perfect combination of art and science. It requires an understanding of scientific principles and an aesthetic appreciation of beauty. While tools and techniques are essential, the real skill lies in experience and intuition gained over time.

Whether you are evaluating gemstones for their metaphysical properties, personal appreciation or investment purposes, remember that every gemstone has a story. Just like RAPHAE products, each piece has its own unique gemstone properties as well as its own symbolism. The more you know, the more you will be able to relate to the fascinating world of crystal gemstones.

With this knowledge and a keen eye, you'll be able to distinguish and appreciate gemstones like a seasoned pro. Embrace the learning curve and enjoy a journey into the world of sparkling gemstones!