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Why
Collect Gemstones?
The
quick answer is "Why not?" but
let's be a little less flippant. Most of the people love the
color, the
variety,
the brilliance,
the flash, the lore of gemstones. Gems even permeate our history.
For example, the jades of ancient China, the lapis lazuli and
turquoise treasures of the Egyptian pharaohs, turquoise of
the Native Americans, the rubies, emeralds, and sapphires of
India.
Every royal family has its treasured gems and jewels, and most
families of lesser means have their own precious heirlooms.
Our museums have vast collections of uncut gem materials, loose
gemstones,
and precious metal jewelry set with marvelous polish, faceted,
and carved gems. |
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Over the
past century, we've all been taught that "diamonds are forever" and
learned about birthstones. Jesus told the parable of the pearl of great price.
Husbands and wives traditionally exchange gifts of precious stone jewelry.
We carry gems as lucky stones and amulets. Some think that gemstones contain
special healing powers. For whatever reason, most of us are attracted to
gems, and they will always be a part of our lives. Thus some people
started collecting
gemstones like stamps, coins etc.
Just like other collectibles, gems sometimes appreciate in value and may
be sold for a profit. However, most collectors are loath to part with their
prized
collections -- gems, stamps, coins, whatever -- and prefer to keep them for
their entertainment, educational, and aesthetic value. If they happen to
make some money off their hobby, great! If not, they have the pleasure of
building
and maintaining a unique collection of interesting items.
Although gems are frequently used in jewelry, they are perfectly good collectibles in their own right. In fact, there are many attractive and interesting gems that are too fragile or too large to be used in jewelry. Here's a suggestion -- don't think of a gem as a component of jewelry; think of it as a piece of art, a miniature sculpture to be treasured for its unusual nature and for the craftsmanship of the artisan who shaped it.
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