Jewelry Design Gemstones and Precious Stones 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What property describes the way a gemstone breaks along flat, planar surfaces due to its atomic structure?
- Fracture
- Cleavage (Correct answer)
- Parting
- Tenacity
Correct answer: Cleavage
Cleavage is the tendency of a mineral to break along flat planes related to its crystal structure, and is an important factor in gem cutting and setting.
Question 2: Which gemstone is known for the 'cat's eye' chatoyancy effect most prized in the jewelry trade?
- Alexandrite
- Chrysoberyl (Correct answer)
- Tourmaline
- Quartz
Correct answer: Chrysoberyl
Chrysoberyl cat's eye is the most prized chatoyant gem; when jewelers say 'cat's eye' without qualification, they mean chrysoberyl.
Question 3: What is the birthstone for September in the US?
- Peridot
- Sapphire (Correct answer)
- Opal
- Topaz
Correct answer: Sapphire
Sapphire is the traditional and modern birthstone for September, recognized by the American Gem Society and Jewelers of America.
Question 4: Which of the following gemstones is organic rather than mineral in origin?
- Amethyst
- Turquoise
- Pearl (Correct answer)
- Garnet
Correct answer: Pearl
Pearls are organic gems produced by mollusks, while amethyst, turquoise, and garnet are inorganic minerals.
Question 5: The color-change property of alexandrite—green in daylight and red in incandescent light—is due to what element?
- Iron
- Chromium (Correct answer)
- Vanadium
- Manganese
Correct answer: Chromium
Chromium is the trace element responsible for alexandrite's dramatic color change, absorbing different wavelengths depending on the light source.
Question 6: Which cut is specifically designed to maximize the brilliance of a round diamond?
- Rose cut
- Table cut
- Brilliant cut (Correct answer)
- Step cut
Correct answer: Brilliant cut
The round brilliant cut with its 58 facets is mathematically designed to reflect and refract light for maximum brilliance and fire in a diamond.
Jewelry Design Gemstones and Precious Stones 2
What property describes the way a gemstone breaks along flat, planar surfaces due to its atomic structure?