Gems by James: October Birthstones Tourmaline and Opal

Posted by Greg Magnus on October 11, 2024 at 07:49 am

October birthstones are Tourmaline and Opal!

Tourmaline: Tourmaline is one of the favorite gemstones among designers and collectors. It occurs naturally in a wide variety of colors and it is known for displaying multiple colors in the same gemstone. One variety is known as watermelon tourmaline, which is green, pink, and white color bands. There are many sources including Brazil, Afghanistan, East Africa, and the USA.

Opal: The name opal is derived from the Greek Opallos meaning to see a change. In the case of opals, the radiance is seen as a change of color. They range in color from milky white to black with flashes of yellow, orange, green, red, and blue.

Click here to view a few of the Tourmaline and Opal gemstones available in our shop.

NOTE: Tourmaline, Opal and many other gemstones such as Sapphire, Peridot, and Aquamarine may be special ordered from Gems by James. Please contact us for additional details .

Earrings With Custom Cut Gemstones

Posted by James Inge on February 4, 2024 at 09:51 am

The holiday season was a busy time. And, we really enjoyed cutting the gemstones and making the hand-crafted jewelry. Dozens of rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets were made for family, friends and our new customers!

Producing high-quality gemstones is a passion and we appreciate all of the positive feedback again, thanks everyone!

Now that were getting ready for Valentines and Mothers Day we added finished earrings to the mix. Amethyst and Aquamarine from Brazil (round cut gemstones), Citrine from Uruguay (marquise cut) and Garnet from Nigeria (round cut gemstone).

Heres a few pictures of the new earrings we recently added to our shop :

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If there is a particular gemstone that you would like in a set or earrings, please contact us here and we can make it for you. Act fast if youre looking for delivery before Valentines Day. Were also working on several gemstone bracelets and rings stay tuned!

Amethyst is the birthstone for February : Amethyst is the gemstone believed by ancient Greeks and Romans to ward off intoxication. The gemstone has been associated with many myths, legends, religions, and various cultures. It was used in the Middle Ages to symbolize royalty. Amethyst is purple quartz as well as a blend of violet and red.

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Historically, the finest amethyst was found in Russia but today Brazil is the primary source of amethyst although fine material can be found elsewhere, such as in Zambia.