Precious Gemstones

Welcome to the Cushion Cut Company Gemstone Guide. This comprehensive resource will help you understand the beauty, significance, and rich history of various gemstones used in our jewelry.

Diamond

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Color: Typically colorless, but can be found in various colors

Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale

Birthstone: April

Significance: Symbolizes eternal love, strength, and clarity

Diamonds are prized for their brilliance and durability. They are graded based on the 4Cs: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight.

Historical Significance

The word "diamond" comes from the Greek word "adamas," meaning invincible or indestructible. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed diamonds were tears of the gods and splinters from falling stars. Diamonds have been used in engagement rings since 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy.

Fun Fact: The largest diamond ever found was the Cullinan Diamond, weighing 3,106 carats. It was cut into several smaller diamonds, including the Great Star of Africa, which is set in the British Crown Jewels.

Ruby

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Color: Red

Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale

Birthstone: July

Significance: Associated with passion, protection, and prosperity

Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum. The most prized rubies have a deep, vivid red color often described as "pigeon's blood".

Historical Significance

Rubies have been revered since ancient times, often associated with power and royalty. In many Asian countries, rubies were used to ornament armor, scabbards, and harnesses of noblemen. Ancient Hindus believed that those who offered fine rubies to the god Krishna were granted rebirth as emperors.

Fun Fact: The world's most expensive ruby is the Sunrise Ruby, a 25.59-carat Burmese ruby that sold for $30.42 million in 2015.

Sapphire

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Color: Blue (most common), but can be found in various colors except red

Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale

Birthstone: September

Significance: Symbolizes wisdom, loyalty, and nobility

Like rubies, sapphires are a variety of corundum. While blue is the most famous color, sapphires can be found in nearly every color of the rainbow.

Historical Significance

In ancient Persia, people believed the Earth rested on a giant sapphire, which gave the sky its blue color. During the Middle Ages, clergy wore sapphires to symbolize Heaven, and common folk believed the gem attracted heavenly blessings. Sapphires have adorned royal crowns and scepters for centuries.

Fun Fact: The engagement ring given by Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer (and later to Kate Middleton) features a 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds.

Emerald

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Color: Green

Hardness: 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale

Birthstone: May

Significance: Associated with growth, peace, and balance

Emeralds are a variety of the mineral beryl. They are known for their lush green color and are often treated with oil to enhance their clarity.

Historical Significance

Emeralds have been prized for over 4,000 years. Cleopatra was known for her passion for emeralds, and the gem was mined in Egypt as early as 330 BC. In many cultures, the emerald symbolized eternal spring and rebirth. Spanish conquistadors discovered rich emerald mines in Colombia, which remain the world's primary source of fine emeralds.

Fun Fact: The Chalk Emerald, one of the world's finest Colombian emeralds, weighs 37.82 carats and is displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

Pearl

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Color: White, cream, black, golden (among others)

Hardness: 2.5-4.5 on the Mohs scale

Birthstone: June

Significance: Symbolizes purity, integrity, and loyalty

Pearls are unique among gemstones as they are created by living organisms. They can be natural or cultured and come in various shapes and colors.

Historical Significance

Pearls have been treasured for millennia. Ancient Chinese civilizations believed pearls were raindrops swallowed by oysters. They've been used as adornments since ancient Rome, and in the Tudor period of England, they were so valued that only nobility were allowed to wear them.

Fun Fact: The largest known pearl in the world is the Pearl of Lao Tzu (also known as the Pearl of Allah), weighing 6.4 kg (14.1 lb).

Amethyst

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Color: Purple

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale

Birthstone: February

Significance: Associated with peace, balance, and spiritual growth

Amethyst is a variety of quartz and is the most valuable purple gem. Its color can range from light lilac to deep purple.

Historical Significance

The word amethyst comes from the Greek "amethystos," meaning "not drunken." Ancient Greeks wore amethyst and made drinking vessels from it in the belief that it would prevent intoxication. In medieval times, soldiers wore amethyst amulets as protection in battle, believing the stones heal people and keep them cool-headed.

Fun Fact: Before large deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 19th century, amethyst was as valuable and expensive as rubies and emeralds.

Care and Maintenance

Each gemstone requires specific care to maintain its beauty. Generally, avoid exposing your gemstone jewelry to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and prolonged sunlight. Clean your gemstone jewelry gently with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water, or bring it to us for professional cleaning.

At Cushion Cut Company, we offer a wide range of gemstone jewelry, each piece carrying its own unique history and significance. Our expert staff can help you choose the perfect gemstone piece that not only matches your style and budget but also resonates with its rich cultural heritage. Visit our showroom or contact us for personalized assistance in selecting your next treasured gemstone jewelry piece.