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Crystals vs. Gemstones: What’s the Difference?
There is no doubt that crystals and precious stones (such as gemstones) are somewhat similar in appearance, and that they are also generally used for similar purposes and intents. For example, crystals are often utilised for their healing and soothing properties, as well as being decorative. Similarly, gemstones and other precious stones are also considered to be visually appealing, as well as being said to be beneficial in calming and regulating emotions, and also channelling, redirecting and balancing energy and magnetic fields.
But what are the main differences between crystals and gemstones? In truth, the variances lie in the differing ways crystals and gemstones are produced, manufactured and created; as well as the physical composition of their makeup. Importantly, while crystals are “pure”, naturally occurring substances made up of perfectly arranged atoms and ions, gemstones are made from cut and polished minerals that can be found and mined in certain geographic locations.
How are Crystals Made?
Crystals occur naturally in nature when atoms, molecules and ions gather and form in perfect alignment when the necessary liquids – specifically, “magma” – solidify and harden. Amazingly, this natural process, called “crystallisation”, produces crystals of all different sizes, shapes, textures, and most importantly, vibrant, eye-catching colours. With their sparkly, shimmery appearance and their vibrancy and variety of bright, colourful hues – there is no wonder that the naturally occurring phenomenon of crystals is seen as truly magical!
It is indeed amazing that the crystallisation process causes these beautiful crystal formations to grow and emerge naturally from the earth – and this is undoubtedly why crystals are revered for their magical, mystical and restorative properties. In fact, many healers and holistic health practitioners have been inspired to use crystals in their healing rituals, and ancient cultures throughout history have often placed crystals at the centre of magical ceremonies and rites of passage.
What are Gemstones Made From?
The production and creation of gemstones and precious stones differ greatly from the crystallisation process that forms and creates crystals in nature. Importantly, gemstones and other precious stones are formed in sedimentary rock when rock formations are worn down by erosion, and fragments of water essentially deposit minerals behind, when they wash through the cavities in the rock. The deposited minerals then compress over time to form gemstones.
Despite this genuinely astounding natural process, while gemstones are still considered relatively precious – for whatever reason, they are not considered as magical as crystals! As such, gemstones and other precious stones can be substantially less expensive to purchase than crystals – although technically, gemstones are still just as visually appealing and special to the many people who do enjoy purchasing precious stones.
Gemstone Jewellery vs. Crystal Jewellery
Precious stones such as Gemstones can be made into various types of jewellery. For example, gemstones and other precious stones can be created into necklaces, pendants, earrings, rings, brooches or bracelets. Indeed, one of the most popular kinds of gemstone jewellery is in the form of a tumbled gemstone bracelet.
Tumbled gemstone bracelets are a type of jewellery worn around the wrist, and can come in various sizes. A small tumbled gemstone bracelet features tumbled precious stones of around 6-8mm, while a medium-sized bracelet has stones of around 8-10mm. If seeking a bigger, more prominent style, you can also purchase large tumbled gemstone bracelets with tumbled stones of around 10-12mm, or even a chunkier, extra-large bracelet with stones exceeding 12mm.
The great news is that you can purchase tumbled gemstone bracelets wholesale at various online stores and retailers. Other types of gemstone jewellery can be purchased online and wholesale as well, saving you time and money.
Similarly, crystal jewellery also takes various forms – such as brooches, earrings, rings, pendants, necklaces or even bracelets as well. Additionally, crystals can also be displayed in their natural form without being made into jewellery, and are often considered to be just as beautiful displayed in this manner.
Most importantly – choosing which type of jewellery you wish to wear, as well as whether you prefer to wear crystals, precious stones or gemstones is, put simply, a matter of personal preference – for the wearer to decide.
Tiffany is a Medical Student and also works as a fitness coach in part-time. She is also a writer and writes on health and fitness articles. Tiffany loves to engage with users and help them provide various useful information on General Health. She provides researched-based information and also featured on various blogs and magazines.