Guide to semi-precious stones
In previous articles we have introduced diamonds, gems and pearls. Now it’s time to focus on semi-precious stones, which you can also find in my jewellery. These are citrine, amethyst, onyx and topaz.
Citrine
Citrine is currently one of the most popular and available yellow stones. Its vibrant colour, from which its name is derived (from the French citron), and its attractive price have made it the best-selling yellow stone on the market. It belongs to the macrocrystalline quartz and its palette ranges from pale yellow to deep brown-orange, honey. Its main deposits are found in Brazil, Spain and Madagascar. It ranks number 7 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the most durable quartz.
Citrine is said to attract the power of the sun and good energy, which encourages creativity and imagination. It helps to encourage positive thoughts and find solutions to problems. It is also considered a stone of abundance and wealth, especially in business.
Amethyst
Amethyst also belongs to the group of quartz and gained its popularity mainly due to its deep shades of purple colour, which was popular with the oldest civilizations. The name of the stone is derived from the Greek “amethystos”, a term for sobriety. The ancient Greeks believed it was the ideal protection against poisoning and drunkenness. It became a popular amulet. Amethyst deposits are found in Brazil, USA, Zambia, Russia and India.
Amethyst is said to bring protection, patience and balance to its wearer. It strengthens intuition and protects the wearer from bad dreams and stress. Some religions also consider amethyst to be the stone of love, so it can be placed in an engagement ring, for example, and is also suitable as a Valentine’s Day gift.
Onyx
Onyx, the stone of the night, is a popular gemstone used extensively in both women’s and men’s jewellery. Its name comes from the Greek ‘onux’, meaning claws, which symbolize white lines on a black surface. The largest deposits of Onyx are in India, South America and Madagascar. The most famous colour of this stone is black, but it also comes in shades of brown, green or red.
It is a protective stone that helps in conflicts of all kinds and gives strength. It also plays a significant role in the area of sex, not only does it give confidence and control sexual desires, in the past it was also used to reduce labour pains. It also acts on teeth, bones, bone marrow, cures blood disorders and foot problems.
Topaz
Topaz is one of the most famous and oldest gemstones. According to one theory, it was named after the island of Topazos in the Red Sea; others believe that the name comes from the Sanskrit word tapas, meaning fire. It has one of the widest colour ranges. It can be clear, white, yellow, pink, blue, grey, orange, green, purple. The colour of the stone is influenced by the specific composition of the chemical elements. It has many deposits, especially in Brazil, the USA and Sri Lanka.
Topaz is shrouded in all sorts of myths and legends, which vary depending on the colour of the particular stone and also on culture and religion. They are linked by their therapeutic effects; for example, it was used as a remedy for eye diseases. The ancient Greeks believed it would make them invisible. The Indians considered it the stone of immortality. Nowadays, Topaz is said to protect against negativity, alleviate fear, anger and help against depression. It brings joy to the wearer and strengthens health.
