Classification

The section ‘Classification’ presents descriptions of 171 different kinds of natural gemstones (106 mineral species). The Nickel-Strunz systematic order (10th edition) is used. Specimens of the classes shown below are currently available. Since gemmology does not always follow the systematics of minerals in naming, many popular varieties or just ’names’ are also listed.

Classes after Nickel-Strunz

1. Elements
2. Sulphides & sulphosalts
3. Halides
4. Oxides & hydroxides
5. Carbonates (Nitrates)
6. Borates
7. Sulphates
8. Phosphates, arsenates, vanadates
9. Silicates

List of minerals

Alphabetic list of gemstones

Synthetic stones and simulants

Featured

Gadolinite-(Y)

— In granite and alkalic granite pegmatites (Anthony et al., 2001—2005). Faceted specimens are extremely rare.

Specimen figured

Gadolinite-(Y) — specimen 0087 — weight: 2.21 ct; shape: octagon. Clean, opaque specimen; very good step cut style. Source: John Bradshaw, Coast to Coast Rare Stones International.