What Are Gems?

What Are Gems? book cover — JUNIOR GEOLOGIST Discovering Rocks Minerals and Gems UCod BOBI MARTIN Britannica Educational Publishing IN ASSOCIATION WITH ROSEN EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

What Are Gems? — page 1 — GLITTERY GEMS People around the world have loved gems for thousands of years We prize them for their beautiful colors and for their rarity The more difﬁcult it is to ﬁnd a gem the more valuable it usually is Some of the most valued gems are rubies emeralds sapphires and diamonds In the past most gemstones cost so much that only royalty could afford them Gemstones come in many different colors sizes shapes and cuts Sizes and shapes vary depending on how the gem will be used 4

What Are Gems? — page 2 — Today almost everyone can own gems of some kind Gifts of jewelry with gemstones are often given as a sign of affection For example diamonds are used in most engagement and wedding rings Some gems are thought to bring good health or good luck while others are said to be unlucky or even cursed Some famous gemstones are displayed in museums so that everyone can enjoy them The Crown Jewels of England are displayed in a museum inside the Tower of London In the past only wealthy people could afford to buy gems Do you think this made gems more appealing Why or why not Think About It 5

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