Gemstone Names and Meanings: A Complete Guide

Welcome to our extensive guide on gemstones, where we explore the various types of gemstones available today, categorized by their species, value, purpose, cut, and color. Understanding these classifications will help you make informed decisions when purchasing or using gemstones for different purposes, whether for astrological, healing, or jewelry-making needs.

1. List of Gemstones by Species

Mineral Gemstones:

Mineral gemstones are inorganic crystals formed naturally within the earth. They are identified by their chemical composition, unique color, luster, hardness, and distinct inclusions or marks. Examples of mineral gemstones include:

• Sapphire: Known for its incredible hardness and vibrant blue color, Sapphire is a favorite in jewelry and astrological uses.

• Emerald: Recognized for its rich green color, Emerald is associated with Mercury and is believed to enhance intellect and communication.

Organic Gemstones:

Organic gemstones are derived from living organisms or substances produced by them. These gemstones are often softer and more delicate than mineral gemstones. Notable organic gemstones include:

• Pearl: Formed within mollusks, pearls are prized for their lustrous surface and are often associated with purity and calm.

• Amber: Fossilized tree resin, Amber is used in both jewelry and healing practices due to its warm, golden color and believed therapeutic properties.

Rock Gemstones:

Certain rocks, though not minerals, are considered gemstones because of their beauty and rarity. These gemstones are cut and polished to create stunning jewelry pieces or for use in healing. Examples include:

• Obsidian: A volcanic glass, Obsidian is valued for its smooth texture and deep black color, often used in decorative pieces and for grounding in healing practices.

• Bloodstone: A dark green variety of chalcedony with red spots, Bloodstone is traditionally used for healing and protection.

2. List of Gemstones by Value

Precious Gemstones:

Precious gemstones are highly valued for their rarity, beauty, and historical significance. The four primary precious gemstones are:

• Ruby: Known for its vibrant red color and association with the Sun, Ruby is a symbol of passion and vitality.

• Sapphire: Available in various colors, Blue Sapphire is particularly revered for its association with Saturn, bringing discipline and protection.

• Emerald: Favored for its deep green hue, Emerald symbolizes rebirth and love.

• Diamond: The hardest known natural substance, Diamonds are prized for their brilliance and are often used in engagement rings.

Semi-Precious Gemstones:

Semi-precious gemstones are more abundant than precious stones, yet they still hold significant value and beauty. Examples include:

• Amethyst: A purple variety of quartz, Amethyst is believed to calm the mind and is often used in meditation.

• Topaz: Available in a variety of colors, Topaz is associated with strength and healing.

3. List of Gemstones by Purpose

Astrological Gemstones:

Astrological gemstones play a significant role in Vedic astrology, where they are worn to harness the energies of specific planets. Examples include:

• Ruby (Sun): Enhances leadership qualities and vitality.

• Emerald (Mercury): Improves communication and intellectual abilities.

Healing Gemstones:

Many gemstones are believed to offer powerful healing benefits when placed on the right chakra or worn close to the body. Examples include:

• Rose Quartz: Known as the stone of love, Rose Quartz promotes emotional healing and harmony.

• Black Tourmaline: Offers protection and helps to clear negative energy.

Jewelry Gemstones:

These gemstones are primarily used for their aesthetic value in creating beautiful jewelry pieces. Examples include:

• Morganite: A pink variety of beryl, Morganite is favored for its delicate color and is often used in fine jewelry.

• Kunzite: Known for its gentle pink to violet color, Kunzite is popular in both jewelry and as a healing stone.

Collection Gemstones:

These rare and unique gemstones are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Examples include:

• Kashmir Blue Sapphire: Known for its velvety blue hue, this sapphire is highly coveted by collectors.

• Pigeon Blood Ruby: The most prized color of ruby, characterized by a deep, pure red with a hint of blue.

4. List of Gemstones Based on Cut

Faceted Gemstones:

Faceted gemstones have multiple flat surfaces (facets) that enhance their brilliance and luster. These cuts are typically used for transparent stones with good clarity. Examples include:

• Brilliant Cut Diamond: Designed to maximize the diamond’s brilliance through its 58 facets.

• Cushion Cut Sapphire: A square or rectangular cut with rounded corners, often used in vintage-style jewelry.

Cabochon Gemstones:

Cabochon gemstones are polished to have a smooth, convex top with a flat bottom. This cut is commonly used for opaque or semi-translucent gemstones. Examples include:

• Moonstone: Often cut as a cabochon to showcase its adularescence (a play of light on the surface).

• Opal: Cabochon cut opals display their characteristic play-of-color beautifully.

Calibrated Gemstones:

Calibrated gemstones are cut to standard sizes for easy use in commercial jewelry. Examples include:

• Round-Cut Garnet: Frequently used in mass-produced jewelry, ensuring uniformity in design.

• Oval-Cut Topaz: A popular choice for rings and pendants due to its versatile shape.

Gemstones by Color

Red Gemstones:

Red gemstones are associated with passion, energy, and power. Examples include:

• Ruby: The quintessential red gemstone, symbolizing love and vitality.

• Red Coral: Known for its deep red color, Red Coral is used in both jewelry and astrological remedies.

Blue Gemstones:

Blue gemstones evoke calmness, peace, and stability. Examples include:

• Blue Sapphire: A gemstone of wisdom and royalty, often used in engagement rings.

• Aquamarine: Known for its sea-blue color, Aquamarine is believed to bring tranquility and courage.

Green Gemstones:

Green gemstones are linked to nature, growth, and renewal. Examples include:

• Emerald: A symbol of rebirth, often associated with the heart chakra.

• Peridot: A light green gemstone associated with prosperity and happiness.

Yellow Gemstones:

Yellow gemstones are symbols of joy, energy, and warmth. Examples include:

• Yellow Sapphire: Linked to Jupiter, it is believed to bring wealth and wisdom.

• Citrine: Known as the merchant’s stone, Citrine is associated with wealth and success.

Brown Gemstones:

Brown gemstones are grounding and stabilizing. Examples include:

• Hessonite: A reddish-brown gemstone associated with Rahu, providing protection and success.

• Smoky Quartz: A protective stone that helps ground and clear negative energy.

Black Gemstones:

Black gemstones offer protection and are often used for grounding. Examples include:

• Black Tourmaline: A powerful stone for protection against negative energies.

• Obsidian: A volcanic glass, known for its reflective surface and grounding properties.

White Gemstones:

White gemstones symbolize purity, peace, and spiritual connection. Examples include:

• Pearl: A timeless gem associated with purity and serenity.

• Moonstone: Known for its ethereal glow, often used for enhancing intuition.

Colorless Gemstones:

Colorless gemstones are known for their clarity and brilliance. Examples include:

• Diamond: The most famous colorless gemstone, symbolizing eternity and purity.

• White Sapphire: A durable alternative to diamonds, often used in fine jewelry.

Bicolour or Multicoloured Gemstones:

These gemstones display multiple colors, offering a unique and striking appearance. Examples include:

• Watermelon Tourmaline: Displays green and pink hues, resembling a watermelon.

• Pitambari Neelam: A rare sapphire that shows both blue and yellow colors.

Conclusion

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the various types of gemstones, categorized by their species, value, purpose, cut, and color. Whether you are seeking gemstones for their astrological benefits, healing properties, or simply for their beauty, understanding these classifications will help you select the right gemstone to meet your needs. At AstroIndia, we offer a wide range of gemstones that are carefully selected and certified, ensuring that you receive only the best quality stones. Explore our collection and find the gemstone that resonates with you.