Gemstone Guide

Gemstones & minerals have been mined & used for centuries by mankind for unique benefits it provides. Here we are covering some of the gemstones which are used by Shwasam to create fascinating jewelry. 

AMETHYST

Gemstone Physical Composition: A semi precious crystalline Quartz stone whose distinctive colour is caused by the presence of both iron and manganese at the point of formation. It is a formed in silica-rich liquids deposited in gas cavities, or geodes, in lava. It occurs in crystalline masses, but the crystals are generally not well developed, so they are generally found as clusters of crystal points. It is closely related to Citrine, which is created when Amethyst is exposed to heat when forming. When Amethyst and Citrine are found together it is called Ametrine and is very sought after.

Gemstone Physical Characteristics: Always purple, lilac or mauve in colour with occasional red dots or blues hues.

Gemstone Colour Variations: n/a

Gemstone Sources: Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Russia, South Korea and the United States.

Gemstone Hardness: 7 on Mohs Scale of Hardness.

Gemstone Therapeutic Properties : Used for meditation, cleansing, whilst giving relief from insomnia, grief, and addictions. The Greeks and Romans used it as way to remain sober.

Birthstone: February (Wisdom, spirituality, sobriety, security).

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius and Gemini

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CITRINE

Gemstone Physical  Composition: Citrine is a clear yellow variety of Quartz. It occurs in proximity to Amethyst and the two can be found mixed as Ametrine. In fact much of the citrine on the market today is actually heat-treated amethyst. All that is required is for a kiln to reach and hold a specific temperature for long enough and a purple amethyst will turn to citrine. Natural citrine is not common and occurs in lighter hues than the heat-treated material. It is found in only small deposits and is therefore quite rare.

Gemstone Physical Characteristics: A clear yellow gemstone, which ranges from light to dark.

Gemstone Colour Variations: Variations across the yellow colour spectrum – ranging from pale yellow to yellow brown, and occasionally deep red.

Gemstone Sources: Brazil, France, Hungary, Russia and Spain.

Gemstone Hardness: 7 on Mohs Scale of Hardness.

Gemstone Therapeutic Properties: Good for digestion as well as the heart, liver and muscles. It is said to  encourage clarity of thought and creativity. It is energizing, invigorating, and positive. It increases motivation and relieves feelings of inertia.

Birthstone: November (Hope, cheerfulness, youth, health, fidelity).

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio.

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