Basic Introduction to Nepalese Gems
Nepal produces deep red crystal, topaz, aquamarine, lapis lazuli, and other stones that are inexpensive yet beautiful.
Nepal is a small mountainous country located at the southern foot of the Himalayas in South Asia, the birthplace of the founder of Buddhism, Siddhartha Gautama. Due to its unique geographical environment, Nepal has been isolated from the outside world for many centuries. It was not until 1950, after it shook off feudal rule, that Nepal's minerals and gems began to enter the international market.
Product Features
Gems are the most beautiful and valuable category of stones. They are brightly colored, crystalline in texture, lustrous, hard, and durable, and they occur in limited quantities. They are natural mineral crystals that can be used to make jewelry, such as diamonds, crystal, emerald, ruby, sapphire, and chrysoberyl (alexandrite, cat's eye), epidote, among others; a few are natural aggregates of single minerals, such as ice jade agate, opal. A few organic materials, such as amber, pearl, coral, jet, and ivory, are also included in the broad definition of gems.
Differentiating Genuine from Fake
1. True gems are very hard; ordinary knives will not leave a scratch on their surface.
2. Under a 20x magnifying glass, irregularly shaped bubbles can be seen within the gem; while the bubbles in artificial gems are often regular shapes.
3. The edges of fake gems tend to fray after some wear, which is clearly visible under a 20x magnifying glass.
4. Real gems typically have inclusions, while artificial gems are relatively “perfect.” Immersing real gems in kerosene or olive oil can conceal these inclusions.
5. Genuine gems conduct heat slowly, giving them a cool feeling in summer and a warm feel in winter.