Everything Everywhere Daily Gemstones (Encore)
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Oct 5, 2025 Explore the fascinating world of gemstones, from the ancient allure of diamonds to the vibrant hues of rubies and sapphires. Discover how amethysts lost their precious status and what makes opals uniquely beautiful. Delve into the historical significance of lapis lazuli and jade in different cultures, and learn how birthstones evolved through time. The podcast also uncovers the effects of modern trade on gemstone accessibility and the rise of synthetic gems, making these treasures more available to everyone.
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What Defines A Gemstone
- Gemstones are high-quality minerals with crystalline structures, but the term can include non-minerals that look gem-like.
- Rarity and beauty, not strict chemistry, often define what becomes a gemstone in common usage.
The Precious Four
- The traditional list of 'precious' gems is small and fixed: diamond, ruby, emerald, and sapphire.
- This rarity-based hierarchy contrasts with hundreds of semi-precious stones that still hold value and interest.
Diamond Origins And Supply
- Diamonds are crystalline carbon formed under extreme pressure and temperature deep in Earth and were first found in India.
- Later discoveries in South Africa and Brazil drastically increased global supply and availability.
