The Universe of Stones – Understanding Gem Types and Their Origins
Since the Earth first cooled from molten magma, the elements combined
to form countless minerals.
Through pressure, time, and the hidden energy within the Earth’s crust, these minerals gradually transformed into the “gemstones” we admire today.
Each stone is not merely a natural object — it is a fragment of time, holding within it the power of the Earth and the history of humankind — from the sacred rituals of ancient Egypt, the adornments of Roman emperors,
to the symbolic stones of the modern era.
Quartz Group
The most abundant mineral family on Earth and the foundation of many gemstones. Its primary component is silica (SiO₂), forming in both volcanic and sedimentary rocks. The beauty of quartz lies in its vast variety of colors and crystal structures, each reflecting the harmony of the four elements — earth, water, air, and fire.
In history:
Quartz has been known and used since the Stone Age, crafted into sacred tools and objects. The ancient Romans and Greeks believed that clear quartz was “eternal ice that never melts.” Amethyst was worn during rituals and thought to guard against intoxication. In Japan, clear quartz symbolized purity of mind, while in medieval Europe, monks used it for prayer and divination.
Gemstones in this family include:
Clear Quartz: The stone of clarity and life energy.
Amethyst: A tranquil purple stone, believed to embody mindfulness and wisdom.
Citrine: The golden gem of wealth and confidence.
Rose Quartz: The soft pink stone of love and compassion.
Smoky Quartz: A warm gray-brown stone representing protection and release.
Rutilated Quartz: Fine golden threads within the crystal — known as the “Hair of Venus”, symbolizing beauty and inspiration.
Characteristics:
Hexagonal crystal system, Mohs hardness 7, commonly found in granite and volcanic cavities. Quartz is one of the most culturally influential stones in the world.
Feldspar Group
The most abundant mineral group in the Earth’s crust — over 60%. It consists of aluminosilicates of potassium, sodium, and calcium, and is renowned for its shifting iridescence (optical phenomena).
In history:
The ancient Romans believed Moonstone was solidified moonlight and dedicated it to the goddess Diana. In India, it was called the “stone of dreams” and given as a wedding gift to receive blessings from the moon. Labradorite was discovered in the 18th century on the Labrador Peninsula in Canada. The Inuit believed its rainbow light was the captured glow of the Northern Lights.
Notable gemstones in this group:
Moonstone: Its gentle sheen arises from layered crystal structures.
Labradorite: Its rainbow-like flashes reflect the wonder of nature.
Sunstone: A warm coppery sparkle representing vitality and confidence.
Characteristics:
Monoclinic or triclinic crystal structure, Mohs hardness 6–6.5. These stones are often regarded as symbols of inner light and intuitive guidance.
Beryl Group
Composed of beryllium, aluminum, and silica (Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈), beryl forms in pegmatitic rocks rich in rare elements that cool slowly deep within the Earth.
In history:
Emerald was revered in ancient Egypt as the “Gem of the Goddess Isis,” a symbol of fertility and renewal. Cleopatra loved emeralds so deeply that she ordered all her jewelry made from them. Aquamarine was carried by Roman sailors as a talisman of safe travel and was believed to be a “gift from the spirits of the sea.” In Victorian Europe, Morganite was cherished as the stone of gentle and faithful love.
Gemstones in this group:
Emerald: Deep green — the color of life.
Aquamarine: Clear blue — the calm of the sea.
Morganite: Soft peach-pink — peace of the heart.
Heliodor: Golden yellow — warmth and sunlight.
Characteristics:
Hexagonal crystal system, Mohs hardness 7.5–8. The Beryl family embodies royal grace and purity of heart.
Corundum Group
Composed of alumina (Al₂O₃), corundum is the second hardest natural mineral after diamond (Mohs 9). Trace elements create the stunning hues of ruby and sapphire.
In history:
Ruby was called “the blood of the Earth” in ancient Burma and India and was believed to protect warriors and empower the heart. In medieval Europe, it symbolized courage, passion, and loyalty. Sapphire was the sacred stone of faith and truth in early Christianity; ancient Persians believed the sky’s blue color was reflected from a giant sapphire beneath the world.
Characteristics:
Extremely durable, found in metamorphic and basaltic rocks. These stones represent truth, wisdom, and enduring strength — adorning royal crowns and sacred relics throughout history.
Garnet Group
Silicate minerals rich in iron, manganese, and calcium, found in colors from deep red to vivid green.
In history:
Garnet has been used since Roman times as a warrior’s talisman. In the Middle Ages, it symbolized loyalty and eternal friendship. During the Victorian era, garnet jewelry was given to travelers as a blessing for safe return.
Common varieties:
Almandine: Deep wine red — strength and grounding.
Pyrope: Bright red — spark of fire.
Spessartine: Vivid orange — energy and joy.
Grossular / Tsavorite: Bright green — symbol of renewal and life.
Characteristics:
Isometric crystal system, Mohs hardness 6.5–7.5, typically found in metamorphic rocks.
Garnet represents courage, creativity, and inner strength.
Other Remarkable Natural Stones
Jade: A sacred symbol of purity and harmony in China, used in imperial ceremonies and royal tombs.
Obsidian: Volcanic glass used by the Aztecs for ritual mirrors and sacred blades.
Malachite: Used in ancient Egypt as cosmetics and pigment for tomb paintings.
Lapis Lazuli: Deep blue stone from Afghanistan, treasured by pharaohs and Renaissance artists; the source of ultramarine pigment.
Turquoise: Sacred to Native American tribes, worn as a protective amulet by travelers.
Each gemstone is a page of the Earth’s history — born from fire, shaped by water,
and transformed by pressure.
When we wear these stones, we do not merely adorn ourselves with beauty —
we carry the memory of the planet and the living energy of time itself.
Nufera – Born of stone. Made for soul.