What are natural gemstones and how do they form?
• Natural Gemstones Geologic Environment At this USGS site you can find out how natural gemstones form and where they are found. • A Primer of Gemstones This site includes a general guide to natural gemstones. • Crystals: More than meets the eye: Gems Here you can learn more about how natural gemstones form and where they can be found. • Diamonds Science of Diamonds. At this site, read how and where diamonds are formed naturally. What are the chemical, physical, and optical properties of natural gemstones? • Chemical Formulas of Gemstones Visit this USGS site to find out the chemical formulas of natural gemstones. • Electronic Gemstone Library This site is a source for information on natural gemstones and their properties. • Gemology: Physical, Chemical and Optical Properties At this site you can read more about the properties of natural gemstones, including specific gravity, cleavage, hardness, fracture, refraction, transparency, and luster. How are natural gemstones treated to reveal
