A gemstone or gem (also called a precious or semi-precious stone, or jewel) is a piece of attractive mineral, which—when cut and polished—is used to make jewelry, adornments or for healing. A crystal or crystalline solid is a solid material, whose constituent atoms, molecules, or ions are arranged in an orderly repeating pattern extending in all three spatial dimensions. The process of crystal formation via mechanisms of crystal growth is called crystallization or solidification. The word crystal is derived from the Ancient Greek word "krustallos", meaning "rock-crystal" but also "ice". The word once referred particularly to quartz, or "rock crystal". A mineral is a naturally occurring solid with a definite chemical composition and a specific crystalline structure. A rock is an aggregate of one or more minerals. (A rock may also include organic remains and mineraloids). Minerals grow as components of igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic rocks and can sometimes be found more than one type of rock. Some minerals crystallize from hot water moving through the rocks long after the host rock formed.
Rocks are usually combination of two or more minerals. The portions of different minerals making up rocks may vary, and the combination of minerals may change within rocks of the same name. Rock crystal and gemstones are valuated depending on its perfection, transparency, luster, and length of the crystals.
The positive magical quality of crystals impressed humankind far back in antiquity, for in most respects, gems and crystals are generally looked upon favorably, having properties for good luck, for healing, and in aiding in psychic abilities.
Search through our tumbled stones , crystal jewelry , spheres , clusters , crystal lamps, or unique crystals and specialty gifts of rough and polished stones to suit the serious collector, the metaphysical healer and interior decorators. We take special care in hand selecting quality crystals and minerals for every order. We want every customer to be satisfied and for you to feel comfortable ordering crystals and minerals over the internet.
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