LUSTRE BLOG / BIRTHSTONES

Peridot gemstones have been used for centuries by healers to increase confidence and assertiveness, balanced by patience and clarity of thought. Ruled by the planet Mercury, it is often used in treating depression and anger. 

Before the 20^th century, all gems in the brown, orange, and yellow colour range were called topaz. Modern gemology was only recognized as a science in the 1930s. Today we know that topaz and brown quartz are actually two different gemstones. Citrine  is less likely to be confused with Topaz today, but it does happen. 

  Symbolic of eternal love, and thought to be one of the hardest substances on the glob...

Nearly all Aquamarines on the market have been heat treated to enhance the colour. In meeting with the consumer preference for aquamarines in deep blue, the stones are heated near 800 degrees Fahrenheit, which causes the blue colour to emerge and the yellow/green tones to disappear. As a gemstone, they work equally beautifully set in silver or gold. Many aquamarine stones are virtually free of inclusions and their lustre is vitreous or glass-like.