Gemology and symbolism of gemstones in India

1. Gemology
Fashion Accessories
01
Ms. Elizabeth John

2. What is Gemology?
Gemology is the science dealing with natural and artificial gemstone
materials
It is a geo-science and a branch of mineralogy
Some jewelers (and many non-jewelers) are academically trained
gemologists and are qualified to identify and evaluate gems
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3. Rudimentary education in gemology for jewellers and
gemologists began in the nineteenth century
The first qualifications were instigated after the
National Association of Goldsmiths of Great Britain
(NAG) set up a Gemmological Committee for this
purpose in 1908.
The first US graduate of Gem-A's Diploma Course, in
1929, was Robert Shipley, who later established both
the Gemological Institute of America and the
American Gem Society
There are now several professional schools and
associations of gemologists and certification programs
around the world.
Where?
History
03

4. The first gemological laboratory serving the jewelry
trade was established in London in 1925, prompted by
the influx of the newly developed "cultured pearl" and
advances in the synthesis of rubies and sapphires
There are now numerous gem laboratories around the
world requiring ever more advanced equipment and
experience to identify the new challenges - such as
treatments to gems, new synthetics, and other new
materials
Analysis and estimation in the gemstone trade usually
have to take place on site. Professional gemologists
and gemstone buyers use mobile laboratories, which
pool all necessary instruments in a travel case.
When?
History
04

5. Such so-called travel labs even have their own current
supply, which makes them independent from
infrastructure. They are also suitable for gemological
expeditions
Gemstones are basically categorized based on their
crystal structure, specific gravity, refractive index,
and other optical properties, such as pleochroism.
The physical property of "hardness" is defined by the
non-linear Mohs scale of mineral hardness
Gemologists study these factors while valuing or
appraising cut and polished gemstones.
Factors
History
05

6. Gemological microscopic study of the internal
structure is used to determine whether a gem is
synthetic or natural by revealing natural fluid
inclusions or partially melted exogenous crystals that
are evidence of heat treatment to enhance color
The spectroscopic analysis of cut gemstones also
allows a gemologist to understand the atomic
structure and identify its origin, which is a major
factor in valuing a gemstone. For example, a ruby
from Burma will have definite internal and optical
activity variance from a Thai ruby
Synthetic or Natural
History
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7. When the gemstones are in a rough state, the
gemologist studies the external structure; the host
rock and mineral association; and natural and
polished color.
Initially, the stone is identified by its color, refractive
index, optical character, specific gravity, and
examination of internal characteristics under
magnification.
Identification
History
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8. Significance, Benefits and Powers
Navaratna Gemstones
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9. In ancient Indian tradition, the meaning of
Navratna is an amalgamation of the nine
most precious gemstones that have great
power
It is made of nav (nine) and ratna (gems), the
9 precious gemstones
They include- Ruby, Natural Pearl, Red
Coral, Emerald, Yellow Sapphire, Diamond,
Blue Sapphire, Hessonite and Cat's Eye
Origin
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10. This term was used by Emperor Akbar in reference
to his nine most important court assistants
The healing properties of this collection of gems are
unique
It forms the basis of pranic or life healing
Each stone has a particular planet in its alignment
and corresponds to a particular Chakra
These nine stones have been referenced in the
ancient Vedic Scriptures as the key to counteract the
adverse karmic force that brings in negative energies
such as stress, disappointments or frustrations
Navaratna
Origin
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The end