Checklist: Buy a sofa you love!

Already in the store or online store? My quick sofa-buying checklist for you:

1st tip: Determine the function of the room

Before you start looking for a sofa, think about how the room will be used. Should the sofa be used for entertainment purposes, be a cozy retreat or include a TV or fireplace? The function of the room will influence the choice of sofa.

Determine space utilization:

• Define the purpose of the room (e.g. living room, guest room, study).
• Think about how often the sofa is used (daily, occasionally).

2nd tip: Measure the room

Carefully measure the room in which the sofa is to be placed. Pay attention to the room dimensions to ensure that the sofa fits in well without overcrowding the room or appearing too small.

Measure the room:

• Record the exact room dimensions (width, length, height).
• Check whether the sofa fits through doors, corridors and stairs.

3rd tip: Consider the style and aesthetics

Think about the desired style and aesthetics of the sofa. Should it be modern, classic, vintage or Scandinavian? Choose a design that suits your personal taste and the interior design.

Observe style and aesthetics:

• Consider the desired furnishing style (modern, classic, Scandinavian).
• Keep an eye on the color palette and design of the room.

4th tip: Pay attention to the quality

The quality of the sofa is crucial. Make sure it has a solid wooden frame, ideally made of kiln-dried hardwood. High-quality upholstery and hard-wearing covers are also important. A high-quality sofa offers comfort and durability.

Check quality:

• Look for a stable frame made of solid wood or plywood.
• Evaluate the quality of the upholstery and cover material.

5th tip: Think about the color and the cover

Choose a color and upholstery that suits your room and lifestyle. Consider the care requirements of the upholstery fabric, especially if there are pets or children in the household. Sofa trends range from timeless classics in gray to statement sofas.

Select color and cover:

• Consider cover materials such as leather, fabric or microfiber.
• Determine the color tone of the sofa based on the room colors and personal preferences.

6th tip: Test the seating comfort

Try out the sofa by sitting or lying down. Seating comfort is subjective, so it’s important to test the sofa before you buy to make sure it’s comfortable and meets your needs.

Test seating comfort

• Test sit to assess comfort and support.
• Check whether the seat depth and height are comfortable.

7th tip: Check the price-performance ratio

Compare the prices of different sofas and check the price-performance ratio. A more expensive sofa can be a long-term investment, but it should also offer the desired quality and style.

Check the price-performance ratio:

• Set the budget and look for options in this price range.
• Assess the value of the sofa in relation to the price.

8th tip: Compare different retailers

Look around at various dealers to see a wide selection of sofas.

Explore different dealers:

• Visit various furniture stores and online retailers.
• Compare brands, offers and availability.

9th tip: Delivery and installation – do it yourself?

Think about the delivery and assembly of the sofa. Make sure it will fit through doorways and hallways and that the retailer offers delivery and assembly services if needed. You can find plenty of assembly instructions, for example on YouTube.

Consider delivery and installation:

• Ensure that the sofa can be delivered to the room.
• Check availability of assembly and delivery services.

10th tip: Read reviews and ask for recommendations

Read reviews from other buyers and ask friends or family for their recommendations. The experiences of others can be helpful when choosing the perfect sofa.

Read reviews and get recommendations

• Research online reviews and experiences of other buyers.
• Ask friends, family or interior designers for recommendations.

With this detailed checklist, you can make sure you find the sofa that perfectly suits your room and your lifestyle. Good luck in your search for your dream sofa!

Elements of Feng Shui: Materials & Furniture in Harmony

Feng Shui is mainly about designing your living space in harmony to maintain your life energy and let it flow. The Chi – also written “Qi” – plays a central role. According to the ancient Chinese teaching of Feng Shui, which literally means “wind” and “water”, these two elements form the basis of the life energy that flows through everything: Chi.

In terms of your interior design, you can think of chi as a current, it can flow quickly or slowly depending on the furniture and shape. Ideally, the Chi flows in pleasant, moderately fast paths around your living areas. The five elements of Feng Shui are particularly important: wood, fire, earth, metal, water. Matching your furniture and accessories to these will have a positive effect on your chi.

Tip! Whether bedroom, living room or terrace: Guide – Furnishing rooms.

Wood: cork, bamboo, rattan and wicker furniture

The element wood is the symbol for life and growth. It stands for the colors green and light blue and can be implemented with wooden, cork, rattan, bamboo or wicker furniture. High and slender forms also stand for the element wood in Feng Shui.

Fire: candles & lamps in pointed shapes

In Feng Shui, fire stands for the shades red and orange and can be supported with candles, lamps or a fireplace. In addition, furniture and accessories made of leather or wool set the element beautifuly in scene. The element is found in pointed and angular shapes in furnishings.

Earth: ceramic, clay & stone elements

The earth embodies the center in Feng Shui. It is stable and protective and stands for groundedness, durability and reliability. This element can be implemented with yellow and brown tones, as well as flat shapes such as stone, ceramics and clay.

Metal: Deco in white, silver & gold

Metal represents prosperity and success and is associated with white, silver and gold tones. Furniture and accessories can have round and domed shapes, be shiny or matte. Objects such as crystals or glass allow the chi to flow well.

Water: Pictures & Accent Wall

The last element symbolizes luck and success in private as well as business life. Flowing, soft fabrics such as silk or even glass can be used here. Also, pictures with rivers or wetland plants can be brought in, as well as the colors black, purple or blue, for example, with a dark blue accent wall.

Feng Shui Colors of Harmony – White, Pastel & Co.

With the use of wall color, rooms can be divided and structured, but above all it strengthens the flow of energy and weakens negative vibrations at the same time. The colour in which a room must be designed depends on which of the five elements underlies the room in order to create a positive effect.

Living room: earthy tones & friendly colours

For the living room are most ideal white, pastel and earthy tones. These radiate cosiness. Highlights can be set off with green or lilac decorative objects. Seasons also play an important role: in winter, replace the spring colours with red or purple tones.

Lamps, windows & light: light sources for a harmonious soul

Sufficient light and brightness are an extremely important aspect of Feng Shui. Different sources of light are crucial in this respect. Of course, the most important is sufficient daylight, which comes through the windows into the apartment. Curtains and blinds should be as translucent as possible, where not enough light arrives, the Chi flow can wither. Therefore, illuminate dark, inanimate corners with different light sources, even in windowless rooms such as the hallway, a single ceiling lamp should not be the only source of light.

The type of light should also be taken into account: in the kitchen and study, somewhat brighter light is suitable, in the living room and bedroom rather a softer glow.

Living room to relax in: Sofa, coffee table & co.

Your living room is the centre of communal life. This is where family, friends and acquaintances come together, a meeting place, the most public room in the house. But also to relax, watch TV or read, you sit down in the “good room”. Accordingly, the Chi should flow well and harmoniously in this very room. We tell you how to do that.

Arrangement of the living room according to Feng Shui

To ensure that the chi is retained and does not escape again immediately, the living room door should not be directly opposite a window. If this is the case, plants on the window front protect against negative influences from the outside and from the chi escaping too quickly. If possible, place seating against the wall and avoid the line between the door and the window. The middle of the living room ideally remains free – so the Chi can spread undisturbed and strengthen the inhabitants.

Furniture in curved lines – how the chi flows: arrangement & tips

Avoid clean lines or sharp-edged furniture: harmony is created with a U-shaped sofa. This triggers a sense of well-being in your guests, as everyone can sit opposite each other. Organic, curved shapes create the perfect flow of chi. Instead of a rectangular coffee table, an oval or one in a kidney shape is better. The floor should be left wide open, yet a cute round rug may be placed under the sofa or coffee table – as long as the center of the room remains clear. High, massive cupboards are a no-go: they look heavy and destroy harmony.

Bedroom: ideas and selection according to Feng Shui

The bedroom is undoubtedly the most important room in the whole house. It is the ultimate retreat, where relaxation and recreation should meet a well-cared-for sleep. Create your own oasis so that the right energies flow in your bedroom. Love happiness can also be greatly influenced by the chi in the bedroom. A couple is more likely to find mutual support and success in their relationship when the chi flows harmoniously.

Location of the bedroom: view into the garden

In Feng Shui, the location of the rooms is also assigned a special meaning. The bedroom is best located in the back of the house. Facing the garden, away from negative energy currents such as roads, noisy cars, dirt and noise. Attention should also be paid to the location of the bedroom within the house. It should never be above a garage or storage room and should not be in close proximity (i.e. next to, above, opposite or below) the kitchen or toilet.

Bed: alignment and the best place for restful sleep

The bed is the central element of your bedroom. Place it against a stable wall, preferably without windows or doors. You should be able to see doors and windows from your bed, but be careful not to lie in a direct line to the bedroom door – otherwise the chi will flow towards you unchecked. Also, do not sleep directly between the window and the door, as this will have the same effect: you will be in the chi flow.

Bedroom furnishings: Bed, wardrobes & mirror in Feng Shui

The best option is a bed with a large headboard, the bed itself should not have a metal frame and should be made mostly of natural wood. Likewise, cabinets and chests of drawers should be made of natural materials in round shapes. These should be closed as much as possible to create a more uncluttered atmosphere. Large, heavy shelves, pictures or lamps are a no-go, they create too much restlessness and distraction during sleep. If there is the possibility of a dressing room, move the wardrobes completely out of the bedroom.

Mirrors in the bedroom should be avoided – the reflection generates strong activity and disturbs sleep. If the mirror is indispensable, it should in no case be in the line of sight of the bed, otherwise the consumed energy will be returned directly to you.

Decoration according to Feng Shui – tips like cushions, lamps & Co.

Similar to minimalism, Feng Shui is based on a clear, orderly and tidy living area. Less is more here, because superfluous clutter and unnecessary accessories restrict the flow of chi considerably – in the worst case they can even block it. However, this does not mean that decorations of any kind are forbidden. Carefully selected, they even have a positive influence on the Chi and give you positive energy.

Decorative articles made of wood, metal & porcelain

Small decorative items are the perfect tools to keep your chi flowing optimally and maximize your sense of well-being. Accessories made of wood, metal or porcelain are very suitable for the living room. In general, natural-looking materials and light, soft colours help. Here are the top tips with which decorative items you can increase your Chi:

• Natural materials such as fresh flowers, leaves or stones
• A pretty decorative bowl with fresh water and flowers
• A wind chime made of shells, driftwood or glass
• Cosy textiles like cushions, plaids or carpets
• Mirrors: welcome in the living room, unlike in the bedroom – they add dimension to the room.

In the bathroom help the flow of energy:

• Scented candles and tea lights
• Sweet room fresheners
• Fluffy bath mats or towels

Lamps & lights: small islands of light with table lamps & candles

Rooms that are equipped with different light sources appear more harmonious. Lamps and smaller luminaires give dark and inanimate corners an extra dose of chi. Create a homely atmosphere with individual islands of light. These distribute the chi throughout the room and allow it to flow better. With chic floor lamps and table lamps, as well as candles, you can create a pleasant atmosphere in the living room and bring it to life. Again, look for round and wavy shapes of the lamps and don’t try anything too angular or bulky.

Garden: flowers, plants & vegetation for positive chi

Feng Shui is mainly about harmonization and the optimal flow of positive energy. Various plants and especially the garden play an important role. Living in harmony with nature is the motto. House and garden are harmoniously integrated into the environment.

Houseplants: Upgrading with bamboo plants and crystal vases

Inside the house, houseplants and fresh flowers are indispensable for effective Feng Shui decoration. With them, dead corners or bare corners can be revived and refreshed, so that the life energy also finds a place here. Bamboo plants or cut flowers can be very well integrated into the Feng Shui decoration. Modern crystal vases or beautiful vases made of porcelain are suitable here.

Our top 3 houseplants:

• Bamboo palm – for a tropical atmosphere
• Rubber tree – survives with little light in darker corners
• Dragon tree – easy to care for and visually appealing

Feng Shui garden: design & arrangement – fountain or sculpture

Create an inviting atmosphere in your garden, for example with flowering perennials or a jasmine plant. Curved paths and a pond or fountain are a must-have in your Feng Shui garden. Water represents the flow of life and is one of the strongest energies. The heart point, i.e. the centre of the garden, can be deliberately emphasised, for example with a fireplace or a sculpture. For further planting, chrysanthemums or hydrangeas, for example, are welcome, otherwise evergreen plants provide year-round color even in cold seasons.

The modern living room

A modern living room is characterized by clean lines, minimalist design and refined aesthetics. It is characterized by a successful combination of form and function and exudes a contemporary atmosphere. In a modern living room, you’ll often find pieces of furniture with sleek proportions, smooth surfaces and pared-down ornamentation. The color palette is often dominated by neutral tones that convey calm and elegance. Lighting plays an important role and is carefully selected to create a pleasant atmosphere. Technology is cleverly integrated to enhance comfort and entertainment in the living room.

Tips for furnishing, decoration and co.

A modern living room is a harmonious space that combines style, functionality and contemporary elements to create an appealing environment. How to do this, we now take a closer look.

Clean lines and minimalist design

As mentioned above, a modern living room is characterized by clean lines and minimalist design. In terms of furniture pieces, this means opting for simple shapes and straight lines rather than ornate or overly decorated designs. Choose couches, chairs and tables with clean contours and smooth surfaces. Avoid unnecessary details and ornamentation for an uncluttered and contemporary look. Less is often more, so be careful not to place too many pieces of furniture in the room and not to clutter the space.

For a modern living room applies: less is more

The clean lines and minimalist design allow the furniture pieces to unfold their effect and give the room a modern and timeless flair.

Classic, warm tones and colorful color accents

The color palette plays a crucial role in decorating a modern living room. A popular choice is a neutral base color such as gray, white, beige or taupe. These tones create a calm and timeless atmosphere and serve as a basis for the rest of the interior design. They make the living room look open and spacious.

These colors are particularly suitable:

• White
• Beige
• Gray
• Taupe

To make the color scheme more interesting and give the room personality, you can use bold color accents. Choose a single accent color like red, blue or yellow and use it sparingly in the form of pillows, curtains, rugs or decorative items. These accents provide a lively contrast to the neutral colors and create a fresh and dynamic look.

Muted tones and colorful accents create a modern look.

Wall mural for the living room: ideas

An accent wall can instantly add character and style to your living room. Use wallpaper, wall paints or wall coverings to highlight a wall and create interesting visual effects. Another option is to use a photo wallpaper. A photo wallpaper for the living room in 3D offers a versatile way to decorate the room with stunning images, landscapes or abstract designs. You can create an eye-catcher and give the room an individual touch.

The advantage of photo wallpapers is their flexibility. They can cover a whole wall or emphasize only a certain area, such as the area around the TV or the wall shelf. Photo wallpapers are relatively easy to apply and offer an instant change to the room. Choose a living room photo wallpaper that fits your personal style and the desired atmosphere of the room.

From smart TV to intelligent security system

A modern living room should be technologically up to date. A central element is a high-quality smart TV that offers an impressive visual experience. A smart sound system is also part of the setup of any modern living room. Incorporate speakers that can connect wirelessly to your TV or other devices to create room-filling sound. You can also invest in smart assistants like Amazon Echo or Google Home to control lighting, music, or other devices by voice command for an even more convenient living room experience.

Tip: Cleverly hide cables and electronic devices to ensure a tidy appearance

In addition to entertainment technology, you can also think about integrating smart home technologies. With smart thermostats, lighting systems and security solutions, you can control and monitor your living room and the entire living area in an innovative way.

• Smart TV
• Intelligent sound system
• Intelligent assistance
• Intelligent thermostats
• Lighting systems
• Security Solutions

Efficient storage systems for multifunctionality

Multifunctionality is a crucial feature of a modern living room. In today’s world, where living spaces are often limited, it is important to make the best use of the available space and meet different needs. By choosing pieces of furniture that can serve multiple functions, you create a flexible and adaptable living room. For example, an extendable dining table is a great way to use the space for social evenings with friends or family dinners. During the day, however, it can be kept in a more compact form to create more space for other activities. A sofa with a sleep function provides an extra place for guests to sleep without the need for an additional guest room.

When choosing multifunctional furniture, also think about the design and aesthetics. Make sure that the pieces of furniture fit well with the interior style of the living room and reflect the modern style. The combination of functionality and aesthetic design will allow you to create a living room that is not only practical, but also stylish.

Conclusion: In the twinkling of an eye to the modern living room

A modern living room provides a contemporary and appealing environment where you can relax, entertain and spend time with family and friends. It is a place that suits your lifestyle and needs while providing an aesthetic experience. Through proper design and selection of furniture, colors and technology, you can create a living room that is timeless yet embodies the spirit of modernity. Enjoy the beauty and comfort of a modern living room and make it a place you love to call home.

Bedroom cozy furnishings: Here’s how

A comfortably furnished bedroom is of great importance. A pleasant and inviting atmosphere in the bedroom can help reduce stress, improve sleep quality and increase overall well-being. But what is important when furnishing the bedroom?

A soothing color choice: Soft basic tones

The choice of colors for your bedroom is a crucial aspect of its design. Calming and soft shades such as pastel blue, soft green or warm beige tones create a relaxing atmosphere. Avoid bold and intrusive colors, as they can affect the quality of sleep. Also experiment with different color combinations to give your bedroom a personal touch.

These are the best colors for the bedroom:

• Pastel blue
• Delicate green
• Warm beige tones

Cozy furniture and efficient storage solutions

The bed is undoubtedly the most important piece of furniture in the bedroom. Invest in a quality mattress and comfortable bedding to promote a restful night’s sleep. Choose a headboard upholstery that matches the style of your bedroom. You can decorate the bed with cozy pillows and a warm blanket to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

If the room offers enough space, a small seating area in the bedroom can be a nice addition. A comfortable armchair or chaise longue invites you to read, relax or meditate. Place a small side table and a reading lamp to create a cozy corner where you can switch off. Since a tidy bedroom contributes to a relaxed mind, you can also use smart storage solutions to keep your personal items neatly organized.

Tip: A cozy seating area invites you to read and relax before bedtime

In addition to a cozy interior, it also depends on the right decoration.

Decoration: colorful accents and personal accessories

Stickers for bedrooms, atmospheric lamps & Co. – Through clever decoration ideas you can give your bedroom a personal touch and create an atmosphere of peace and coziness. From strategic lighting to personal accessories, there are many ways to beautify the bedroom and make it an inviting space of relaxation.

Wall sticker for bedroom as accent

Bedroom wall stickers are a great way to add a personal touch to a room without having to make permanent changes. There are a variety of wall stickers available in different designs, patterns and sizes that are easy to apply and remove. Choose a wall you want to highlight and place an eye-catching wall sticker there for your bedroom. Whether it’s an inspirational quote, a nature motif or abstract patterns, wall stickers can beautify the room in a creative and playful way and create an individual atmosphere.

Atmospheric and well-designed lighting

Well-designed lighting can significantly affect the ambience in the bedroom. Use a combination of dimmable ceiling lights, bedside lamps and indirect lighting to create a pleasant and moody atmosphere. You can also experiment with different lampshades to add a touch of personality.

This is what you should pay attention to in terms of lighting in the bedroom:

• Dimmable ceiling lights adjust the brightness in the room
• Indirect light creates a moody atmosphere
• Bedside lamps and wall sconces serve as decorative light sources
• Strategically placed mirrors reflect as light
• Curtains and blinds regulate daylight

Natural elements and personal touches

Incorporating natural elements into bedroom design can have a calming effect. Plants are a great way to bring freshness and life to the room. Choose low-maintenance plants like a houseplant or succulents to create a relaxing atmosphere. Wooden furniture and accessories will give the room a natural and organic aesthetic.

Finally, add personal touches to the bedroom that reflect your personality. Hang artistic wall art, place family photos on the nightstand, or display mementos on a dresser. Individual elements create a familiar atmosphere and make the room a retreat that’s all yours.

Tip: Bedroom as a technology-free zone

Also, to promote restful sleep, make your bedroom a technology-free zone. Avoid using televisions, computers or smartphones in the bedroom. Instead, you can use an analog alarm clock and read a book as a bedtime ritual. This helps to calm the mind and create a relaxing sleep environment.

Inspiration: Furnishing styles, better sleep & Co.

In what color should the wall be painted? Where should the bed be placed? And how can you improve the quality of your sleep? Find out here which color accents are best suited for the bedroom and how Feng Shui can contribute to a restful sleep.

Feng Shui for the bedroom: harmony between the elements

What should you pay attention to the position and orientation of the bed in the bedroom? And what colors, shapes and materials are best suited for the bedroom? Feng Shui as a style of furnishing is about creating a harmonious balance between the elements and at the same time taking into account the desired effect on people. Find out how to decorate your bedroom in Feng Shui style here.

Setting individual accents with trend colors

The choice of color has an enormous impact on the atmosphere and mood of a room. Through targeted color selection, you can visually change a room and achieve different effects. How you can set clever accents through different colors, that and more you will learn in this video.

5 tricks for restful sleep

Quality sleep affects many aspects of our well-being, including our cognitive function, mood, immune function and ability to manage stress. Galileo has tested the latest gadget for a more restful sleep.

Buy: Price and value of garnet

When buying garnet, you should pay attention to four factors: Color, clarity, cut, and carat. Garnet includes affordable dark red varieties, rare and valuable greens, and many colors in between. Garnet clarity often depends on the type of garnet. Red garnets often have no inclusions visible to the eye. Many garnets are cut into standard shapes and calibrated sizes so they can be used in manufactured jewelry. Garnets can be found in all sizes and weights, although some varieties are rare in large sizes.

• Purchase Factors: Color, clarity, cut, and carat.
• Garnet clarity often depends on the garnet type
• Often standard shapes and calibrated sizes
• All sizes and weights

Value per carat: Cost

To determine the price one must look at all factors. For example, a 4.95 carat tsavorite garnet with a VS clarity grade and a rare green color is valued at about $1,700, while a spessartite garnet with almost the same weight of 3.79 carats and VS-SI clarity grade is valued at $200 as of 2010. So, according to this, the type of garnet, the clarity grade and the weight has an impact on the value of the gemstone.

• Tsavorite garnet: 4.95 carats, VS, $1,700
• Spessartite garnet: 3.79 carat, VS-SI, $200

Investing in Garnet: Is it worth it?

The Mandarin Garnet in particular is a stone that is definitely worth investing in. The gemstone has only been known in the gemstone trade for 20 years, yet it is already a much celebrated star today. Its name speaks volumes. Gemstone lovers can attract attention with this fruity colored stone. However, high quality top class stones of more than three carats are extremely rare.

Both demand and price have increased significantly in recent years, so mandarin garnet is very well suited for sparkling investments. But also other types of garnets, and especially rough stones are excellent for an investment.

• Mandarin grenades are very popular
• Few specimens over 3 carats
• Rising value

Gemstone garnet: color stone with spiritual properties

Garnets come in different types and are never found in their pure state. They are always mixed with other types of garnet. Garnet is a powerful energizing and regenerating stone. It is balancing, strengthening and protective. Although it is one of the richest stones, it has different forms depending on its mineral base.

• Energizing and regenerating stone
• One of the richest stones
• Healing and spiritual properties

Rough stone: Gemstones in their natural form as an investment

In stone healing, a rough stone is an unprocessed stone taken directly from nature. A rough stone is cheaper than a cut gemstone, which is why especially fans of healing stones often buy uncut garnet stones. Rough stones come in different sizes and you can get them from different dealers. Only through the cut in which their colors, radiance or special patterns are worked out, gemstones get their luster and even more beauty.

• Unprocessed stone taken directly from nature
• Low value, often healing stone
• Various sizes and dealers
• Value added by grinding

Garnet rough stone uncut

Garnet gemstone cut

Occurrence of garnet: Origin

Depending on its specific variety, garnet comes from many parts of the world. Most garnet on the market today comes from India, Brazil, Sri Lanka and the USA. The name garnet comes from the Latin granatum for pomegranate, because the color of this crystal resembles the seeds of the pomegranate fruit.

• From India, Brazil, Sri Lanka and the USA
• Name from the Latin, Granatum for pomegranate

Garnet color: red, green and brown garnet

Although red is the most well-known garnet color, this fiery gemstone also comes in green, pink, yellow, brown, purple, and even black. Garnet can also be found in a translucent, almost colorless variety. If you’re lucky, you may come across a specific type of garnet that can change color depending on the type of lighting.

Red garnet is one of the most common and widespread gemstones. But not all garnets are as abundant as red ones. A green garnet, tsavorite, is rarer and requires rarer rock chemistry and conditions to form.

• Colors: Red, Green, Pink, Yellow, Brown, Purple and Black
• Some change color depending on the lighting

Garnet vs. ruby: differences of the red gemstones

Another red gemstone is the ruby. The ruby is made of the same mineral as the sapphire and is the second hardest gemstone in the world. The garnet has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, the ruby has a Mohs hardness of 9. A ruby must meet special requirements regarding color, otherwise it is considered a pink sapphire. The country of origin of the ruby is India, otherwise the ruby comes from Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. The ruby cleanses the aura of toxic energy and fills one with a sense of bliss, passion, protection and prosperity. It strengthens both the physical and emotional heart.

• Second hardest gemstone in the world
• Origin: India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam
• Cleanses the aura from toxic energy
• Fills one with a sense of bliss, passion, protection and prosperity

Garnet Jewelry: Jewelry Care for Gemstones

Garnet jewellery is always a great gift for loved ones. The gemstone shimmers in an extraordinary color that suits especially warm skin tones very well. The jewellery is best cleaned with lukewarm water, soap and a little ammonia. A grinding or polishing brush should rarely be used. It is important that the jewellery is not cleaned in an ultrasonic device, because the vibrations can shake the stones out of the settings.

• Great gift for loved ones
• Looks especially good on warm skin tones
• Use grinding or polishing brush infrequently
• Do not clean in the ultrasonic unit

Ring, Earrings, Bracelet & Pendant: Garnet Jewelry

An engagement ring with a dark red gemstone looks noble and elegant and earrings are especially beautiful when the red garnet can shine in its sparkling brilliant. The gemstone is often used as a gemstone because it not only has a beautiful appearance but also a positive aura. Garnet jewelry is high quality and the gemstones go well with gold as well as silver jewelry.

• Engagement ring with garnet
• Earrings especially beautiful with billant cut
• Gemstone because of beautiful appearance and positive charisma
• Gold or silver jewellery

Effect & spiritual meaning of garnet jewellery

Garnet jewelry is worn not only because it is very beautiful, but also because it is said to have spiritual significance. Garnet is known as a symbol of glory, love, regeneration, stability, beauty, truth and endurance. When worn, garnet has the potential to boost self-confidence and create a new sense of self-worth and popularity.

Garnet is often called the stone of health because it is believed to have so many health benefits, especially by strengthening the blood. Garnet’s most famous property is its ability to improve energy flow by revitalizing personal energy. Garnet is also the birthstone of January and brings good luck especially to the zodiac sign of Capricorn.

• Symbol of glory, love, regeneration, stability, beauty, truth and perseverance
• Strengthens self-confidence
• Health stone
• Stands for new chances, new beginnings
• Birthstone January, Capricorn

Buying citrine: What should I look for?

When buying gemstones, you should always make sure that the full name and the place where they were found. In addition, the crystals should be naturally grown. If you want to be on the safe side, when buying minerals – whether online on the Internet or in a specialty store – it is best to turn to dealers who are registered in the DMF e.V..

• Pay attention to full name and place of discovery
• Purchase online or in a specialty store
• Dealers should be registered with DMF e.V.

Value of the gemstone: investment citrine

There is no exponential increase in value per carat as size increases, as larger sizes are readily available. Inclusions decrease the value. As with any gem material, the value increases when cut to size. With many fancifully cut or carved specimens, most of the value is due to the artistry of the cut.

The price of citrine per carat can range from $10 to $30. Although the overall cost of citrine rings, wedding bands and engagement rings can have a wide price range due to the color, clarity and cut of the stone. The carat size of the gemstone does not greatly affect the price.Custom cut citrine gemstones that maximize the brilliance and color of the stones are priced at higher prices, as are stones that are free of any flaws or inclusions.

The most highly valued citrine color is a deep reddish orange, valued at about $30 per carat and most commonly found in Brazil – gems of this color are sometimes called fire citrine. The lighter varieties of pale yellow citrine color, often found in Bolivia, have a lower value of about $10 per carat.

• No exponential increase in value per carat
• Value increases with dimensional grinding
• 10-30 dollars per carat
• Deep red-orange citrines are most valuable

Genuine citrine: the rare yellow gemstone

Citrine is rare in nature. In the days before modern gemology, it was mistaken for topaz because of its yellow-brown color. Today, it is the best-selling yellow-orange gemstone because of its attractive color and the durability and affordability it shares with most other quartz. In today’s market, the most popular shade of citrine is an earthy, deep brownish or reddish orange.

Like all quartz, citrine is composed of silicon and oxygen atoms arranged in a tetrahedral pattern, essentially a triangular pyramid. Citrine is found in many places, including France, the UK, Russia, Madagascar, Burma, Spain, the US and Brazil. But the crystal – and its supposed healing powers – go back centuries, to the time of the ancient Greeks.

• The best selling yellow-orange gemstone
• Most popular shade: earthy, deep, brownish or reddish orange.
• Consists of silicon and oxygen atoms

Origin of the citrine: South America, Asia & Europe

The crystal is mined in South America and Asia, but also in Europe. Large mining areas are found in Brazil and in Russia. Citrine, like most other quartz crystals, forms predominantly magmatically in pegmatite with granitic composition. Natural citrines are very rare and pale yellow with slight pleochroism. This means that the stone shows a different coloration in different light. Most citrines found in the trade are orange-yellow burnt amethysts.

• Mining in South America, Asia and Europe
• Formation magmatic in pegmatite with granitic composition
• Different colouring in different light

Citrine: how durable is the gemstone?

Citrine has a hardness grade of 7, which makes it a rather soft gemstone. It can be easily scratched if it is bumped or rubbed against other objects. However, citrine has very good toughness, which means that it will not chip or break easily.

If cared for, citrine can last a very long time. While ideal for pendants and earrings, citrine is not the best gemstone for rings or bracelets of daily use, as they are subject to high stress.

• Hardness grade 7
• Scratches easily
• Good toughness

Cleaning and care of citrines

Caring for your citrine is an important thing to read up on, as improper care can cause the stone to become dull and lose value. The best way to clean the stone is to simply use a small soft bristled toothbrush, a small amount of a mild liquid soap and lukewarm water. Gently scrub the stone and the base with the brush and soap and rinse thoroughly.

If you feel that your stone is still dirty or just not shining as vividly as you would like, visit a jewelry store where you can have the stone professionally cleaned. Another good tip to preserve the value of the stone is to keep it separate from your other gemstones.

This will prevent citrine from scratching softer gemstones like pearls or opals and from being scratched by harder gemstones like sapphires or diamonds. When you store citrine, wrap it in a cloth or jewelry box. This will keep it free from dust. Also, keep citrine away from chemicals such as harsh cleaners, bleach, and cosmetics.

• Improper care leads to loss of value
• Jewellery shops clean citrines
• Storage in a cloth or jewellery box

Natural Citrines vs. Burnt Amethysts: Video

This video shows the differences between natural citrines and fired amethysts.

Citrine Jewellery: Chain, Ring & Pendant

The citrine is not only very popular as a healing stone, but is also used as a gemstone. Due to its transparency, the citrine usually receives a faceted cut. As a gemstone it is often used in necklaces, rings and earrings. The citrine is of high quality and looks elegant when worn as jewelry. Especially as an engagement ring or anniversary gift, rings with citrine are often used. Those who have a birthday in November are also happy about jewelry with your birthstone as a lucky charm.

Citrine is popularly used as a gemstone because it has spiritual significance in addition to an extraordinary appearance. It cleanses the chakras, opens intuition and attracts wealth, prosperity and success. The citrine and topaz also form the birthstones of November. When worn on the body, it has an emotionally balancing effect and releases mental, physical and spiritual blockages.

• Often faceted cut
• Chains, rings and earrings
• Engagement Ring, Anniversary Gift, Birthday Gift
• Spiritual meaning
• Birthstone of November
• Has an emotionally balancing effect

Emerald price (gram, carat and kilo)

Emerald is one of the most valuable gemstones in the world and is extremely rare, so it can command an exceptional price. As with all colored gemstones, the 4 Cs (color, clarity, cut and carat) determine the value, but emeralds are priced slightly differently than other gemstones because some inclusions are expected.

Especially the deep green gemstones from the mines of Colombia and Brazil achieve prices of several thousand USD per carat on the market. Less green and not quite as pure stones, on the other hand, are available for as little as 120 USD. To judge the quality of emeralds, see the globally recognized grading system at the bottom of the article.

What will interest you most now, of course

How much does an emerald cost?

As already described, emeralds are weighed in carats.

One metric carat equals 0.2 grams

Emeralds are currently valued at an average of $2,451.83 per carat.

So one gram costs on average 12,259.15 USD

Emerald Price Current (08/20):

• 1 carat 2,451.83 USD or 2080.13 EUR
• 1 gram 12,259.15 USD or 10,400.66 EUR
• 1 kilogram USD 12,259,150 or EUR 10,400,662.86

Gold price (gram, ounce & kilo) in comparison

How does the price of gold compare? Many investors who buy gold constantly keep an eye on the price. As an investor, you should too, because prices for precious metals are subject to fluctuations – even if the gold price is usually very stable.

Current difference per gram: +12,198.15 USD

Gold is currently valued at $61 per gram, compared to emeralds, which can fetch up to $12,259.15 as described, a huge difference that makes emeralds interesting for investors in any case.

Gold price current:

• 1 gram 61.14 USD or 52.47 EUR
• 1 ounce 1,901.77 USD or 1,631.90 EUR
• 1 kilogram USD 61,143.33 or EUR 52,466.80

Quality Features: The famous 4 C

A grading system introduced by the GIA was established to rate emeralds, just like diamonds or other gemstones, on four aspects. These 4 grading systems are known as “the four C’s” in which all emeralds are graded:

1. Colour
2. Cut
3. Clarity
4. Carat weight(Carat weight)

Colour (Colour #1)

Color is possibly the most important factor in evaluating emeralds, they have a unique color, exclusive to natural emeralds. Color is further divided into hue; the exact color, tone; the lightness to darkness and the saturation or vibrancy of the green color. In top grade emeralds, the hue is green, with no additional color undertones, the tone is vivid and deep, not too dark or too light, and the saturation is consistent throughout.

Facts about the colour at a glance:

• Most important factor for emeralds
• Subdivision into hue, exact color, brightness, saturation
• Top emeralds are green without color undertones
• Saturation uniform throughout

The most valuable emeralds have a pure green color with vivid color saturation evenly distributed throughout the stone and no visible color differences. If the hue tends to blue or yellow, it is not an emerald, but another beryl variety that is devalued. To be a true emerald, the gem must be dark enough and saturated enough to be called an emerald; if the color is considered too light, it is simply a green beryl. The degree of greenness has led to a number of different opinions as to whether a stone can truly be called an emerald.

Shades of precious emeralds:

• Precious emeralds have a pure green color
• Uniform and without visible colour differences
• If shade too blue or yellow: beryl variant

Cut (Cut #2)

Emeralds can be cut into almost any shape, with the round and octagonal “emerald cuts” being the most popular. Any cut that brings out the natural color and sparkle of the gemstone increases its price.

Purity (Clarity #3)

Gemstone clarity refers to the presence or absence of inclusions in the stone. Inclusions are any materials such as minerals, gases, liquids, or even other crystals that were trapped inside during its formation. Of the top four gemstones, the others being diamond, sapphire and ruby, emeralds are unique in the number of high quality specimens that contain inclusions, a flawless emerald is almost impossible to find. In fact, the flaws are what often give emeralds their charm, and the absence of any inclusions is often a sign of a fraudulent stone.

Facts about purity at a glance:

• Presence or absence of inclusions
• Emeralds usually contain inclusions
• Flawless emerald almost impossible to find
• Absence of any inclusions is often a sign of a forgery

Important: clarity and transparency

With emeralds, as with other colored stones, clarity and transparency are closely related. It is generally accepted that emeralds have inclusions visible to the naked eye, but only if they affect the transparency, the price is lowered.

Valuable emeralds with inclusions are so standard that there is even a name for them, Jardin-Smaragde (Jardin is French for garden and is so named because of its mossy or grassy appearance). When choosing an emerald, beware of inclusions that come to the surface of the gemstone, as they may indicate future cracks or fractures.

Carat / Weight (Carat #4)

The final indicator of price is, of course, the size of the emerald. Large carat sizes are particularly rare, so a three carat emerald gemstone is not only three times as expensive as a one carat stone, but probably six times as expensive. The size of an emerald is measured in carats (abbreviated as ct). One carat is equal to 0.2 grams (about 0.007 ounces).

Emeralds (as well as other precious colored gemstones) are often sold with a certification document that lists comprehensive details about the stone, specifically their 4 C’s. These certificates are usually authenticated by recognized organizations such as the GIA and the AGS (American Gem Society) and offer authenticity about the stone being purchased. Emeralds that are certified have a premium over non-certified.

Weight facts at a glance:

• Certification document is often sold together with the stone
• Lists comprehensive details about stone, especially the 4 Cs.
• Certified by recognized organizations
• Offer authenticity about the purchased stone
• Higher prices for stones with certificate

Authenticity test method for emeralds

To know for sure that your emerald is 100% real, you need special gemmological equipment or certificates from recognized authorities. But there are a few techniques that even the beginner can use at home. But use these techniques only as a guide and be sure to have your emerald examined by a professional before buying!

First, look for flaws with a magnifying lens or jeweler’s loupe. It is best to examine your gemstone under magnification, ideally through a jeweler’s loupe. Hold it so that the light falls on it at an angle. If you see tiny flaws or irregular patterns within the crystal, it is probably a genuine gemstone – though not necessarily an emerald. If your gem is very clear and without inclusions, you can assume it is a fake.

This is how you recognize real emeralds:

• Troubleshooting with magnifying lens or jeweler’s loupe
• Hold so that the light falls at an angle
• Tiny flaws or irregular patterns speak for authenticity
• Stones without inclusions are often forgeries

Other known test possibilities

Applying oil to an emerald usually improves its appearance, but with a synthetic stone the clarity does not change. Emeralds conduct heat very efficiently, so you can try a breath test. To do this, breathe on the gemstone and watch the mist – with a real emerald the mist disappears almost instantly, but with a fake it takes 4 or 5 seconds.

When lit, real emeralds produce little to no fire or colorful flashes; if your gem produces a rainbow of lightning, it’s not an emerald. Emeralds are also relatively hard gemstones, and while glass and other weak materials used in fake gemstones wear away quickly, emeralds retain sharp, clean edges on the facets. If the edges of the facets look soft and worn, the gemstone is likely a fake.

In addition, emeralds can be recognized by these characteristics:

• Application of oil improves the appearance
• Clarity does not change with synthetic stones
• Heat test: Real stones conduct heat very efficiently
• Relatively hard – sharp, clean edges

Emerald species and their value

Emeralds can be divided into varieties or types rather than species. Emeralds are sometimes distinguished by their place of origin or the presence of certain impurities. Some of the better known emeralds include:

Colombian Emeralds

Colombian emeralds are mined in Colombia. These emeralds are the most highly prized.

Brazilian Emeralds

Brazilian emeralds are generally lighter green gemstones than those mined in Colombia. The term Brazilian emerald sometimes refers to green tourmalines.

Zambian emeralds

The high-end market was slow to accept Zambian emeralds, but that began to change when Tiffany & Co. began promoting emeralds from Zambia in 1989. Today, Zambian emeralds are well respected and recognized for their own distinctive characteristics.

Emeralds for cat eyes

These emeralds have a cat’s eye effect called chatoyancy, which looks like a wide slit, similar to the pupil in a cat’s eye. Cat’s eye emeralds are very rare and only found in light green emeralds.

Trapiche-Smaragde

The rarest type of emerald is the Trapiche emerald, a very unusual combination of emerald and lutite. Due to the hexagonal structure of the emerald, the two minerals alternate much like the spokes of a wheel, creating a very unique formation. The only known source of these exquisite stones is in Colombia and the local name comes from its resemblance to the rollers of a mill that would extract juice from sugar cane – a trapiche.

Emerald mining in one of the largest mines in the world: Video

Popular for over 4000 years

The name emerald comes from the Greek word smaragdos and the Latin smaragdus, which means green gemstone. This further goes back to the Sanskrit maragdam and the Persian zumurrad. Emeralds were already highly valued in ancient times: the ancient Egyptians, Romans, Indians, Aztecs and Incas already revered this wonderful gemstone.

Emeralds may well have a history as long as that of civilized man, they are certainly ancient gems. In the oldest book in the world, the Papyrus Prisse, which is about 4000 years old, it is once said: But good words are harder to find than the emerald, because it is discovered by slaves among the rocks. The quote probably refers to the mines near Luxor where tools dating back to the time of Ramses II in 1300 BC have been found. Other ancient mines include Muzo, Chivor and Cosquez in Colombia and Mingora in Pakistan, where gems were mined 2500 years ago.

Throughout known history, they have been revered by civilizations around the world, from the Babylonians who wrote about their sales in the markets, to Aristotle who recommended wearing one, to Nero who owned sunglasses made of emeralds, to the Incas who worshipped Umina, a goddess represented by an emerald the size of an ostrich egg!

Popular since ancient times:

• First mention in a 4,000-year-old book
• Were revered by civilizations around the world
• Likewise from famous people like Aristotle and Nero…

Main source: South America

Emeralds are mined all over the world (Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Australia, United States), but Colombia, Brazil and Zambia are the three main sources. Colombia, located on the South American continent, produces arguably the finest of all emeralds and produces 70-90% of the emeralds for the world market.

Emerald search in Austria: Video

From rough stone to gemstone: production

Unlike most gemstones, emeralds are never subjected to traditional heat treatment to change their color or improve their clarity, but this does not mean that they are not treated in any way. This is because most emeralds are not flawless and have numerous internal inclusions and fractures, as well as tiny surface-breaking fissures or cracks. For this reason, the vast majority of emeralds are treated with oils, usually cedar, to improve their clarity.

Treatment with high quality oils

Cedar oil is sticky and thick, so it is not easy to penetrate the microscopic cracks of the emerald. The process therefore requires heat to warm the oil and pressure to push the oil into the cracks. First, the emeralds are cleaned in an acid bath, then the gems are isolated in tanks along with pure cedar oil and sealed tightly. The heat liquefies the cedar oil and the pressure helps it penetrate the emerald’s tiny cracks.

The emeralds are allowed to cool and the oil returns to its viscous state, remaining in the emerald and improving its clarity and transparency. The stones are then removed and cleaned. Finally, the emerald must be oiled and cleaned again to keep it in the best possible condition.

This is how emeralds are processed:

• Cleaning in acid bath
• Subsequent treatment mainly cedar oil
• Penetrates the cracks of the emerald under heat and pressure
• When cooling, the oil remains and improves clarity

Care of the precious emerald jewellery

Precious emerald is pressure sensitive and susceptible to household chemicals. Although emerald is one of the harder gemstones, it still needs to be handled with care due to its naturally enclosed and flawed formation. Special care must be taken when handling emeralds, as they are more fragile than other forms of beryl. You should avoid wearing emerald jewelry if you work with harsh chemicals or household cleaners such as bleach or acid. To clean, you can use warm soapy water and a cloth or soft rag. Be sure to rinse the stones well to remove any soap residue.

Be careful when cleaning:

• Careful treatment!
• More fragile than other gemstones
• Avoid contact with household cleaners
• Warm soapy water for cleaning

Emeralds should still not be cleaned with ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as these can remove the oils used to enhance the emeralds. Traditional oil for emeralds is stable but not permanent, which means that most emeralds will need to be re-oiled from time to time to restore some of their lost color and luster.

Instructions for care with oil:

• Do not clean with ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners
• These remove the oils used for refinement
• Emeralds need to be re-oiled from time to time
• Restores colour and shine

Emeralds can easily scratch other gemstones, and they can easily be scratched by harder gemstones like topaz and sapphires. To avoid scratches, store your emeralds separately from other gemstones and gemstone jewelry. Store your gemstones by wrapping them in a soft cloth and placing them in a cloth-lined box.

Most Valuable Emerald Find Ever: Video

Emeralds: Interesting for investors?

Emerald gemstones are purchased primarily for their beauty, mystery, and emotional appeal, but they can also be a wise investment. Due to the rarity of large cut quality emeralds, prices are expected to rise steadily in the future. Many investors buy high quality emeralds to increase and maintain the value of their portfolios. Also, like all other gemstones, they are easy to store. However, if you are thinking of buying an emerald, you should seek advice from a professional before doing so.

Purchase should be well thought out

Short-term speculation with emeralds is practically impossible due to the value added tax and the high spreads. This can also be used as a fundamental argument against emeralds as a value investment, because the investor is first of all in the red with 19 percent after the purchase and must reckon with further discounts when selling. In addition, there is the lack of a global reference price, as it is available to potential gold investors with the London gold price.

These thoughts are not intended as a general recommendation against buying emeralds, but rather as an invitation to critically reflect on a potential purchase decision.

Gemstone Zircon: The oldest mineral on earth

The zircon forms its own mineral group. To make its sparkle stand out, zircon is usually made into a round or oval faceted cut. Colorless zircon is sometimes used as a less expensive alternative to diamond. Zircon should not be confused with cubic zirconia, as cubic zirconia is a synthetically produced stone that is used in inexpensive costume jewelry. The hardness of zircon varies from 6.5 – 7.5. Zircon is the oldest mineral found on earth to date, with some crystals found in Australia estimated to be over 4.4 billion years old!

• Own mineral group
• Mostly round or oval facet cut
• Hardness: 6.5-7.5
• Oldest mineral on earth

Origin of the zircon: From Antarctica to Nigeria

Zircon in one form or another is found on every continent including Antarctica, but larger gem quality zircon crystals have been produced from alluvial deposits in Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam for hundreds of years. More recently, gem deposits have been mined in Australia, South America, Nigeria, Madagascar, and wherever pegmatite rocks are found.

• Antarctica
• Sri Lanka
• Cambodia
• Myanmar
• Vietnam
• Australia
• South America
• Nigeria
• Madagascar

Value of zircon: quality factors

There are four quality factors that determine the value of a zircon, namely color, weight in carats, clarity and cut. The most sought-after colors in zircon are blue, red and green. The value of a gemstone is mostly determined by its weight. The unit of measurement is the carat (ct), where one carat is approximately 0.2 grams. A zircon usually weighs more than other gemstones of its size.

Also, the zircon is usually very eye clean. Gemstones with noticeable inclusions are less valuable. Zircons are usually processed into a round or oval facet cut, as this particularly emphasizes its shimmer.

• Most valuable colors: Blue, red and green
• Weight: Zircon is heavier than average
• Zircon is usually very eye clean
• Mostly round or oval facet cut

Price of a carat of zircon

Although some varieties of zircon are much rarer than diamonds, the prices of these stones are generally much more affordable. This means that you can get an amazing stone for a good price, making zircon a great option for jewelry.

Zircon can cost anywhere from $50 to $400 per carat depending on the quality factors of the stone. You need to evaluate the stone and make sure it is worth the asking price. Also, the richer the color the more expensive the gemstone.

• White: $24
• Strong dark red: $26
• Yellow: $26
• Orange: $28
• Light orange: $30
• Light green: $41
• Green yellow: $44
• Blue/Green: $52
• Dark green: $53
• Blue light: $56
• Purple: $67
• Blue medium: $103
• Royal blue : $151

Jewellery: ring, necklace or bracelet?

Zircon is a popular gemstone because it comes in a variety of appealing colors. Blue is the most popular zircon color and about 80% of zircons sold today are blue. Zircon is especially popular as a gemstone because the mineral can rival diamonds in terms of luster.

It is also interesting to know that zircon is not only used as a decorative stone, but can also be used as a dental prosthesis. Zircons contain minute traces of radioactive elements such as uranium, thorium and strontium. However, the alpha radiation emitted by these elements is extremely low and also completely harmless.

• About 80% of the zircons sold are blue
• Shines like a diamond
• Zircon can also be used as a dental prosthesis
• Low radioactive radiation

Care of the zircon: for long durability

It is best to store gemstones and jewelry separately to avoid scratches and breakage. When storing zircon gemstones, it is advisable to wrap them in a soft cloth or place them in a cloth-lined box. Always remove jewelry when you are doing any type of physical activity, including housework, sports, or exercise. When not worn, it is recommended to keep the zircons out of direct sunlight and away from strong heat sources, as this could alter the coloration.

Simply wipe your zircons with a soft cloth or brush, or wash them as needed with a mild soap or detergent and rinse with warm water. Avoid steam cleaners or ultrasonic cleaners when cleaning zircon gemstones and jewelry.

• Separate storage
• Storage in a cloth or box
• Protect from sunlight or strong heat sources
• Wipe with a soft cloth or brush
• Wash with mild soap or detergent
• Do not clean with steam jet or ultrasonic cleaner

Color of zircon: Red, Blue, Yellow & Green

Zircon comes in a wide range of colors from yellow, orange, red, brown to blue and colorless. There are three types of zircon, each with a different color. High zircon is mainly pinkish orange, blue, brown and colorless and medium zircon is more reddish yellow, green and greenish brown. Low zircon comes in various shades of green. The colourless and blue but also red and yellow zircons are mostly obtained by firing brownish varieties. The green zircons are very rare and especially sought after by collectors.

• High zircon: pink-orange, blue, brown and colourless
• Middle zircon: reddish-yellow, green and greenish-brown
• Deep zircon: Green tones

Amethyst – the popular healing and gemstone

The two questions that are asked most often are: How much does an amethyst cost? Is an amethyst a gemstone?

Amethysts are minerals of hydrothermal origin and crystallize from weakly ferruginous solutions at temperatures of 100 to 250 °C. Accordingly, amethyst crystals are found in effusive rocks, in veins and fissures, or as fillings in druses or geodes.

• Hydrothermal origin
• Crystallises at 100 to 250 °C

Origin of the name of the amethyst – Greece

The name comes from the Koine Greek amethystos from a, “not” and methysko/methyo, “intoxicate”, a reference to the belief that the stone should protect its owner from drunkenness. The gemstone itself is found in many countries around the world, even in Germany. Amethyst is also a feminine given name of Greek origin, referring to the beauty of the gemstone.

This is what an amethyst looks like as a raw material (stone):

Amethyst crystal worth $50,000 – Video

In this video you will see the excavation of several amethysts, including a very large crystal worth $50,000.

Price – Where to buy amethysts?

There are many different online shops for amethysts and collectors also offer great specimens. Most valuable are amethysts in a transparent, pure, medium to dark purple that doesn’t play into blue or red – although flashes of blue or red color are highly sought after in amethysts.

• Online shops for amethysts or healing stone collectors
• Most valuable: transparent, pure, medium to dark purple

A large amethyst druse – a true treasure

An open mineral cavity of a certain quartz variety is called an amethyst druse. The term “druse” is derived from the Old High German and stands for “gland” or “bump”. The larger the gemstone the higher the price. In addition, the value depends of course on the coloring and the quality.

The color of the amethyst – different purple

Amethyst is an extremely popular gemstone because of its attractive purple color. The purple color can be so light that it is barely noticeable, or so dark that it is almost opaque. It can be reddish-purple, violet, or purple-violet. Amethyst comes in this wide range of colors.

Amethyst crystals grow slowly and the composition of the water they grow from can change over time. As the composition of the water changes, different amounts of iron are incorporated into the surface of the crystal. Later, radiation emitted from minerals in the surrounding rock modifies the iron to produce the purple color. This can result in the crystal having zones of varying color intensity. Each of these zones records a time interval in the growth of the crystal, much like the growth rings of a tree.

• Very light to very dark purple
• Wide range of colors
• Composition of the water determines the coloration

Green amethyst – the quartz mineral prasiolite

Prasiolite is a yellow-green to green variety of quartz that is cut into faceted stones used for jewelry or purchased by gem collectors. Most prasiolite is made by heating natural amethyst in a laboratory furnace to about 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This heating changes the color of the amethyst from purple to green or yellowish-green.

A small amount of prasiolite is produced by irradiating natural amethyst. This produces prasiolite with a light green color. The green color is often unstable and can fade to colorless when the stone is exposed to temperatures above about 150 degrees Celsius. Another small amount of amethyst is heated by natural processes. It occurs where an amethyst-bearing rock unit has been heated by younger lava flows or nearby intrusions.

1. Heat treated amethyst
2. Irradiated amethyst
3. Naturally heated amethyst

Excavation of green amethysts in Canada – Video

In this video you can see the excavation of various green amethysts, i.e. prasiolites.

Effect & spiritual meaning of the amethyst

Amethyst is the perfect stone for any spiritual seeker, as it is the stone of spiritual awakening and growth. It cleanses and protects by placing a shield around the physical body and energy field. It is said to increase mental acuity and concentration. The most common use of amethyst is to increase intuition and psychic abilities.

It also strengthens our connection with the Higher Self, spirit guides and the angelic realm. The gemstone provides psychic, mental and emotional protection and balances the nervous system. It is the birthstone for Pisces and the month of February and the gemstone for the 6th anniversary of marriage.

• Stone of spiritual awakening and growth
• Increases mental sharpness and concentration
• Increasing intuition and psychic abilities
• Psychological, mental and emotional protection
• February birthstone, Pisces

The magic of the amethyst crystal – Video

Learn more about the spiritual power of amethyst here.

Jewellery – Amethyst Rings, Necklaces & Bracelets

For centuries, amethyst has been one of the most popular stones that are made into jewelry such as rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants and bracelets. Those who wear amethyst on their body often feel as if they are surrounded by a positive aura. Amethyst is best worn on a ring because it attracts a lot of attention with its unique color. Jewelry with amethyst stones you do not have to look long, because at almost every jeweler there is a small selection of amethyst jewelry.

• Rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets
• Positive aura through jewelry
• Available almost every jeweler
• Custom-made products are possible

Red color of ruby – difference ruby and sapphire

Corundum, which is considered a gem quality and has any shade of red or pink, is considered a ruby. In the United States, there are specific requirements regarding the saturation of a ruby. It must meet certain standards to fall into the ruby category, otherwise it is called a pink sapphire.

These include hue, saturation and tone. Hue refers to the color of the ruby as we see it. Saturation determines the visibility of the color. Is it light? Dark? Or somewhere in between? Finally, hue tells us the purity of the color. If it is a pure tone, there are no secondary colors. If it is not a pure tone, it may contain one or more secondary tones such as pink, purple and orange.

• Saturation requirements
• Specific standards: Hue, saturation and tone
• Pure tones or secondary tones like pink, purple and orange

Crystalline structure in close-up:

Mineral group corundum – colourless with trace elements

In its purest form, the mineral corundum is colorless. Trace elements that become part of the crystal structure of the mineral cause variations in its color. Chromium is the trace element that causes the red color of ruby. Rubies are a red variety of the rock corundum. Corundum is the second hardest mineral after diamond, with a Mohs hardness of 9. You probably already know this mineral from our article about the blue, green, pink or orange mineral corundum, i.e. the gemstone sapphire.

• Colorless mineral corundum
• Trace elements give the ruby its colour
• Second hardest mineral

The grinding of a ruby – video

In this video you can see the process and the result when a ruby is cut.

Origin of the ruby – India

India was classically considered the country of origin of ruby for more than two thousand years. More recently, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Afghanistan have uncovered substantial ruby deposits. In Southeast Asia, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam have also long been considered sources of fine rubies.

• Country of origin of the ruby: India
• Otherwise from Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.

Origin of the name of the ruby – the king of gemstones

The name ruby comes from the Middle Latin word “rubinus” = ruby (red stone), or from the Latin “ruber” = red. In Sanskrit, the ruby is called “ratnarai”, which means “king of gems”. Ruby is also a common Hebrew first name for boys and means something like “Behold, a boy!”.

Spiritual meaning of ruby – birthstone July

The ruby is filled with the essence of pure, loving energy. In ancient times, the ruby was considered one of the most powerful gemstones in the universe. In addition, the ruby cleanses the aura of toxic energy and fills one with a sense of bliss, passion, protection and prosperity. It strengthens both the physical and emotional heart. When one is unable to focus, this stone helps one to achieve a more focused consciousness, mental clarity and wisdom. Ruby is the birthstone of July and therefore the birthstone of the zodiac sign Cancer.

• One of the most powerful gems
• Cleanses the aura from toxic energy
• Bliss, passion, protection and prosperity
• More focused consciousness, mental clarity and wisdom
• Birthstone July, Cancer

Use and spiritual significance of the ruby – Video

Here you will learn about the spiritual meaning of the gemstone ruby and its uses.

Buy rubies – quality factors of gemstones

Rubies can fetch the highest price per carat of all colored stones. This makes the ruby one of the most important gemstones in the colored stone market. There are 4 important factors that determine the value of a stone – the 4 Cs. The 4 Cs stand for Color, Clarity, Cut, Carat.

Color is the most significant factor affecting the value of a ruby: fine gemstones are a pure, vivid red to slightly purple. When a ruby’s inclusions affect its transparency or brilliance, they significantly reduce the gemstone’s value. Rubies are usually produced as a mixed cut with brilliant cut crowns and step cut pavilions. Fine quality rubies of more than one carat are very rare, and the price increases significantly as the size increases.

• Color – color of the ruby
• Clarity – Purity of the gemstone
• Cut – Gemstone Cut
• Carat – Carat weight

Recognize real ruby – measure the value of a gemstone

First you should look for blemishes or inclusions. The second step to check if it is a real gemstone, a breath test. To do this, you should hold the ruby in front of your mouth and exhale. A real gemstone does not fog up, because the heat is distributed directly on the stone. For a breath test, however, the ruby must not be dirty or greasy, because this would affect the result. Another test to find out if a ruby is real would be to shine a light through the stone. For this, you just have to hold a flashlight to the ruby to detect small blemishes or air bubbles in the gemstone.

This test is followed by the scratch test. After diamonds, ruby is one of the most durable gemstones used in jewelry. It has a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale. This means that a substance of equal or lesser hardness cannot scratch a ruby. So if you scratch the stone with a coin and it leaves a scratch, you can be sure that it is not a real ruby.

Nevertheless, the most reliable option is of course to have the stone certified by a jeweler. This way you can be one hundred percent sure that it is a genuine sapphire that is worth its money.

1. Look for blemishes or inclusions
2. Breath test
3. Shine a flashlight through the sapphire
4. Perform scratch test
5. Get Saphir certified

Top 5 most expensive rubies in the world – video

Check out the top 5 most expensive rubies in the world sold at auction here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0E–w2P-JAs