Starlanka, established in 1985, has been a beacon of excellence in the world of gemstones. With an enduring passion for their captivating beauty, we meticulously inspect and select each gemstone, building enduring relationships with miners and artisans worldwide to ensure our customers receive only the finest treasures.
Each gemstone that graces our collection undergoes a meticulous selection process, ensuring that only the finest specimens with exceptional characteristics make their way to our discerning clientele. We believe in cherishing the uniqueness and individuality of each gem, recognizing that they carry their own distinct story and allure.
Our extensive network of relationships with miners and artisans spans the globe, allowing us to curate an unparalleled collection of gemstones that captivate the senses and stir the imagination. From the vibrant hues of sapphires to the fiery brilliance of rubies, our offerings showcase the diversity and splendor of nature's creations.
At Starlanka, we are driven by a commitment to excellence in every facet of our operations. Whether it's procuring rare and exquisite gemstones or providing exceptional customer service, our dedication to perfection shines through in everything we do. We understand that for our customers, each gemstone is not just a stone but a piece of art waiting to be discovered and cherished.
As we continue our mission of sharing the wonder and magic of gemstones with the world, we invite you to embark on a journey of discovery with Starlanka. Explore our collection and uncover the beauty and elegance that lies within each gem. With Starlanka, every gemstone is a testament to the timeless allure of nature's creations, waiting to be treasured for generations to come.
How to Spot Fake Gemstones: Red Flags to Watch Out For
The allure of gemstones is undeniable. Their vibrant colors, rarity, and the stories they carry through history have made them coveted objects for centuries. Unfortunately, as with many valuable items, the market is rife with fakes—imitations that can fool even a seasoned buyer. Whether you're a collector, an enthusiast or someone looking to make a special purchase, it's important to know how to spot fake gemstones. Here are some red flags and tips that can help you ensure the authenticity of your gems.
Understanding Authenticity
Before diving into spotting fakes, it's crucial to understand what we mean by 'authentic' gemstones. Authentic gemstones are natural minerals or organic materials that have been cut and polished for use in jewelry or as decorative objects. They differ from synthetic gems which are man-made but possess the same physical, chemical and optical characteristics as their natural counterparts. There’s also simulant gemstones which mimic the appearance of real stones but are made from different materials entirely.
Price Too Good To Be True
One of the first red flags when assessing a gemstone is its price point. If you find a stone being sold for significantly less than market value, caution is warranted. High-quality gems demand high prices due to their rarity and desirability; thus, an inexpensive "too good to be true" price tag may indicate that the stone is either fake or treated in ways that lower its value.
Flawlessness
While flawless gems do exist, they're extremely rare and expensive. Most natural stones will have some form of inclusion—tiny imperfections within the stone—or slight irregularities on their surface. A stone without any inclusions visible under magnification might actually be synthetic or glass.
Uniformity in Color
Natural stones typically exhibit variations in color intensity throughout their structure; this characteristic is known as 'color zoning.' On the other hand, fake or dyed stones often display unnaturally uniform coloration since artificial processes don’t replicate these subtle nuances perfectly.
Unrealistic Durability
Genuine gemstones have specific hardness ratings on Mohs scale which determines how easily they can be scratched or damaged. If a seller claims that a particular soft gem (like opal which has Mohs hardness rating around 5-6) is resistant to scratches just like diamond (which sits at 10), this should raise suspicion regarding its authenticity.
Weight Discrepancies
Gemstones vary widely in density; for example, cubic zirconia weighs approximately 55% more than diamond despite being visually similar. If you're familiar with how heavy a certain genuine stone should feel and encounter one that feels too light or too heavy for its size, consider this discrepancy another warning sign.
Testing Reflectivity
A simple test involves checking how light passes through a stone; most diamonds will not let light pass through them while many fake versions (especially glass imitations) will show bright reflections indicative of lower refractive indices.
Examine Under Magnification
Using jeweler's loupe or microscope allows closer inspection for telltale signs such as air bubbles (common in glass fakes), overlaid colors (indicating dyes), uneven drill holes (in beads), and overly perfect faceting patterns not typical of hand-cut stones.
Professional Appraisal
Ultimately one of best ways ensuring authenticity before making significant investment into any piece jewelry involving gemstones getting professional appraisal done by certified gemologist who can provide unbiased opinion based upon thorough examination using specialized tools techniques designed precisely identify origin treatment status each individual stone.
Seller Reputation & Documentation
Do research on seller before committing purchase — reputable dealers should able provide detailed information about where their gems come from along with certificates authentication when appropriate look reviews feedback other customers gauge trustworthiness additionally check see if belong industry associations uphold ethical standards trade like American Gem Society Jewelers Board Trade
In conclusion educating yourself potential pitfalls associated buying precious stones adopting cautious approach evaluating each item closely following above mentioned tips greatly increase chances successfully avoiding disappointment acquiring counterfeit products Remember beauty genuineness go hand hand when comes appreciating timeless elegance offered earth's treasures
| Entity | Definition |
|---|---|
| Teal Sapphire | A sapphire gemstone with a blend of blue and green colors, known for its striking and unique look. |
| Star Sapphire | A type of sapphire that displays a star-like pattern on its surface, due to its asterism. |
| Aquamarine Gems | Gemstones with a light blue to blue-green color, known for their clarity and resemblance to seawater. |
| Alexandrite Gems | Gemstones that change color under different lighting conditions, ranging from green to red. |
| Blue Zircon Gems | Gemstones with a vivid blue color, known for their brilliance and fire. |
Exploring the History and Symbolism of Birthstones
The allure of birthstones is as timeless as it is colorful. These gems, each associated with a specific month, are not merely ornaments that decorate our jewelry; they carry rich histories, symbolize various virtues, and have been believed to hold magical powers across many cultures throughout the ages.
The origin of birthstones traces back to ancient civilizations. It is widely thought that the concept was inspired by the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Book of Exodus in the Bible—a religious garment set with twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Each stone corresponded with a different tribe and held unique significance and power. Over time, these stones were linked to the twelve signs of the zodiac and later adapted to represent each month of the Gregorian calendar.
The current list of birthstones has evolved over centuries, influenced by history, culture, and availability. While some months have retained their original gemstones from ancient lists, others have seen changes due to trends or market conditions. Today's recognized list includes garnet for January, amethyst for February, aquamarine for March, diamond for April, emerald for May, pearl or alexandrite for June, ruby for July, peridot or sardonyx for August,citrine or topaz November September , opal or tourmaline October December tanzanite , turquoise zircon . October
Each stone carries its own symbolism. Garnets signify protection and are often given as gifts to loved ones before they embark on travels. Amethysts represent clarity and sobriety; it was believed in ancient times that wearing an amethyst could prevent intoxication. Aquamarines evoke serenity like clear blue seas while diamonds symbolize everlasting love hence their popularity in engagement rings .
Emeralds embody renewal springtime growth pearls purity innocence . Alexandrites rare fascinating ability change color depending light source encapsulate concepts transformation adaptability Ruby passion courage Peridot thought dispel night terrors if placed under pillow Sardonyix used by Romans signet rings thanks its durability ease carving Topaz Citrine both known attracting wealth prosperity Opal Tourmaline display dazzling array colors each said enhance creativity emotional balance Finally Tanzanite Turquoise Zircon which share December bring wisdom success respectively .
Throughout history people have attributed healing properties these stones well It was believed could cure ailments ranging insomnia heart disease even ward off evil spirits The New Age movement revitalized interest metaphysical qualities crystals including birthstones Many still turn them today seeking balance personal energy fields guidance life's journey
Despite whether one subscribes mystical aspects undeniable charm beauty Whether worn reminder personal significance token affection gift someone's special month birthstones continue captivate imagination
In conclusion exploring history symbolism reveals not just changing tastes commerce but enduring human desire find meaning natural world around us They remind us stories traditions passed down generations link us shared cultural heritage Moreover give us sense identity connection particular time space Ultimately no matter how much science we apply understanding precious stones there will always be room wonder magic lives
Burma Rubies, originating from Myanmar, are renowned for their intense, pigeon blood red color and exceptional clarity, making them highly valuable and sought after.
Rubellite Tourmaline is distinguished by its intense red to pink-red color, which remains vibrant under different lighting conditions, unlike some other pink tourmalines.
Calibrated Gems are pre-cut to standard sizes, making them easier to set into pre-made jewelry settings, saving time and cost for both jewelers and customers.
Zambian Emeralds typically have a darker green hue with a bluish undertone and are generally more affordable than the vivid green Colombian Emeralds.
Tanzanite is highly valued for its striking blue-violet color and rarity, as it is only found in a small area of Tanzania, making it a popular choice for fine jewelry.
Star Sapphires exhibit a star-like effect called asterism, caused by intersecting needle-like inclusions, making them distinct from regular faceted sapphires.