Are you considering buying Gem Silica? This rare and stunning gemstone is known for its vivid blue-green color, but before making a purchase, it’s best for you to understand what gem silica is, where it comes from, and how to determine its quality.
In this article, we’ll look into everything you need to know about gem silica, including its properties, sources, value, and even meanings and metaphysical benefits. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to confidently choose the best gem silica for your collection or jewelry piece!
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What is Gem Silica?
Gem silica, also known as chrysocolla chalcedony, is a rare gemstone that is composed of a mixture of cryptocrystalline quartz and copper mineral. It is considered one of the most valuable forms of chalcedony due to its blue-green color, often resembling the color of tropical ocean waters.
Due to its rarity, gem silica is often expensive and highly sought after. It is also believed to have healing properties and is often used in spiritual practices.
However, buyers need to be cautious when purchasing gem silica as there are imitations and synthetic versions in the market that are often sold as the real thing.
Origins & Formation Process
The formation process of high-quality chalcedony deposits, which are the primary source of gem silica, remains a subject of scientific inquiry and debate. It is typically found in copper-rich areas, with the most significant deposits being located in Arizona, USA, Mexico, and Peru.
These deposits are formed through the interaction of volcanic activity, hydrothermal fluids, and the surrounding rocks. The minerals that make up gem silica are primarily quartz and chalcedony, which are formed from the precipitation of silica-rich solutions.
Physical Properties
Variety: Quartz, Chalcedony
Crystallography: Hexagonal
Colors: Blue to blue-green
Hardness: 7 on the Moh Scale
Wearability: Excellent
Specific Gravity: 2.55-2.91
Refractive Index: 1.540-1.553
Birefringence: 0.004-0.009
Fracture: Conchoidal, Granular
Cleavage: None
Dispersion: None
Transparency: Opaque
Pleochroism: None
These physical properties will also help you identify a real Gem Silica.
Is It Rare?
Gem Silica is a rare and highly sought-after gemstone due to its limited availability in the market. The scarcity of gem silica can be attributed to its unique geological formation, which requires specific conditions for its creation.
Due to its rarity, it is often considered a collector’s item and is highly valued in the jewelry industry. Its beauty and rarity make it a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, making it a highly desirable gemstone.
Is Gem Silica Valuable?
Valuation of gem silica is determined by its quality, cut, and carat weight, with higher quality specimens commanding a premium price. The value of gem silica can be over $100 per carat, depending on the aforementioned factors.
Gem silica with pure blue-green color, high transparency, and uniformity of color and texture is considered the most valuable. In addition, gem silica that is well-cut, with minimal inclusions, and a good carat weight can also increase its value.
Treatments or Enhancements
As we already know, Gem Silica or Chrysocolla Chalcedony is a relatively rare gemstone. As a result, it is often subject to treatments such as heat treatment or dyeing to enhance its color or clarity.
While these treatments may improve the appearance of the gemstone, they can also have a negative impact on its value.
It would be best to ask the seller about any treatments or enhancements that the gem silica may have undergone and to ensure that the information provided is accurate and reliable.
Gem Silica Meaning
Gem Silica is a Stone of Communication, it is believed to facilitate honest and clear communication.
Metaphysical Benefits of Gem Silica
Gem Silica is believed to enhance intuition, stimulate the throat chakra, and promote emotional balance, offering a range of benefits for one’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
This gemstone is said to awaken the third-eye chakra, leading to heightened awareness and a deeper understanding of one’s self and the world around them. On top of that, this gemstone is thought to have a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety and promoting inner peace.
Uses of Gem Silica
One practical use of gem silica is in jewelry-making, where its vivid blue-green color and high polish makes it a sought-after gemstone for pendants, earrings, and rings.
Its translucent quality also makes it a popular choice for carving into intricate designs. Due to its rarity, it is often used in high-end jewelry pieces and is considered a luxury item.
Gem silica’s beauty and durability also make it a great option for heirloom pieces that can be passed down through generations. Above all that, it is also widely used in metaphysical practices like meditations and healing sessions.
Proper care of Gem Silica
Gem Silica is a delicate stone that requires gentle handling and proper storage to maintain its luster and durability. To prevent scratches and damages, it is recommended to store gem silica separately from other jewelry pieces in a soft cloth or a jewelry box with individual compartments.
Also, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures as it may cause discoloration or cracks. Regular cleaning with mild soap and warm water is also advisable to remove dirt and oils that may accumulate on the surface of the stone.
Is Gem Silica A Birthstone?
Gem silica is not an official birthstone but is often associated with those born in the month of May, and it is believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and happiness to those who wear it.
Whether you are looking for a special gift for someone born in May or simply want to add a unique gemstone to your collection, it is definitely worth considering.
Final Thoughts
Gem Silica, also known as Chrysocolla Chalcedony, is a rare and valuable gemstone prized for its distinct blue-green color and high translucency. It is favored for jewelry and sought after in the spiritual community for its metaphysical benefits.
Found in limited quantities in select locations worldwide, it holds great appeal for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts due to its rarity and beauty. It is a valuable addition to any gemstone collection, requiring proper care to maintain its stunning appearance and longevity.
It is a rare and valuable gemstone that offers both physical and metaphysical benefits. Its unique color and physical properties make it a popular choice for jewelry, while its scarcity adds to its value. With careful maintenance, it can be cherished and passed down through generations.
FAQs
Can you sleep with Gem Silica nearby?
Gem Silica’s calming energy makes it a wonderful companion for a restful sleep.
What can be paired with Gem Silica?
Gem Silica can be beautifully paired with sterling silver jewelry, accentuating its serene blue-green hues.
Who should avoid Gem Silica?
Those who are seeking high levels of emotional intensity may find Gem Silica’s gentle energy less suitable for their needs.
Chermaine’s journey into the world of gemstones and crystals began as a child, collecting shimmering stones on family vacations. Today, she’s a certified gemologist and spiritual healer, intertwining the physical beauty of jewels with their metaphysical properties.
Chermaine has traveled to mines in Africa, marketplaces in India, and spiritual retreats in Bali, always seeking to deepen her understanding.