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Composition and Structure
Each gem stone has its own chemical composition. Most are inorganic minerals made of crystals and a combination of other elements, while others have an organic origin, such as amber which is made up of fossilized tree sap. Some gem stones, such as pearls are found in both organic and inorganic forms. The structure of a gem stone can be crystalline, or made up entirely of a single crystal or amorphous, or made of a mixture of stones which may include some crystal. Diamonds and sapphires are crystalline, while ivory and jade are amorphous.
Hardness and Physical Properties
The hardness of gem stones is rated on a measurement system that compares one stone's resistance to scratching to that of another stone. The system is known as the Moh's scale. Gem stones rated 1 on the Moh's scale are the easiest to scratch and those rated 10 are the hardest. A gem stone's toughness is measured by how well it resists breaking. Physical properties include the magnetic forces in a gem stone, resistance, how well they act as conducting agents.
Color and Class
While many gem stones are thought to be a particular color, most are found in many colors that vary according to the amount and type of materials that form their chemical makeup. The shape and structure of the gem stone also affects the color. The value of many gem stones depends upon their color, the intensity of the color and the lightness or darkness of the color. Gem stones are classified as precious or semiprecious depending on how rare, attractive, durable and desirable they are perceived to be. A gem stone's class can change if it becomes hard to find or if fashion changes.
Light Effects
The way light is affected by a gem stone determines its value, classification, identification and uses. Gem stones can refract, or bend light, reflect it, change the color and cause optical illusions. Light effects are what make some gem stones useful as eye glasses, and give others the shine and brilliance that makes them appealing.