Jewelry Design Gemstones and Precious Stones 2

Question 1

What property describes the way a gemstone breaks along flat, planar surfaces due to its atomic structure?

Accepted Answer

Cleavage

Answer

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?

Accepted Answer

Chrysoberyl

Answer

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?

Accepted Answer

Sapphire

Answer

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?

Accepted Answer

Pearl

Answer

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?

Accepted Answer

Chromium

Answer

Chromium is the trace element responsible for alexandrite's dramatic color change, absorbing different wavelengths depending on the light source.

Jewelry Design Practice Test

Jewelry Design Practice Test

Jewelry Design Gemstones and Precious Stones 2