Cunnan - User contributions [en]

Imitation Gemstones

2006-11-29T04:53:01Z

68.103.121.141:

'''Imitation Gemstones''', either natural or man-made, are effective substitutes for [[gemstone|stones]] that are too expensive or too difficult to obtain. One of the problems facing [[reenactment|re-enactor]]s is how to present an authentic appearance for a person of middle to high wealth on a limited budget. This is especially true regarding [[jewelry]]. Many gemstones that were popular in the [[Middle Ages]] are too expensive for the average person to obtain. There are several ways to use substitute or imitation jewelry however. Imitation gemstones were also popular in medieval times for much the same reasons (people trying to save money and portray someone wealthier than they were).

== Glass Jewels ==
The use of [[colored glass]] to imitate gemstones dates back to ancient times. For small jewels this can be very effective. For larger gemstones glass may be too clear, and lacks the ''inclusions'' found in natural stones. Also, be cautioned that a lot of costume jewelry is made from acrylic not [[glass]]. ''Volcanic glass'', a man-made substance from obsidian and volcanic ash, is a possible candidate for imitation aquamarine and pale sapphire. Photos: ceramic scarabs [http://photos.imageevent.com/juliannamucci/gemstones/icons/Turquoise-Scarab.jpg] glass drop "emeralds" [http://search.cartserver.com/search/search.cgi?cartid=s-2873&category=instock&maxhits=20&keywords=emerald+nonirit&bool=AND] foil-back glass rhinestones [http://www.jansjewels.com/other/sfoct-1.html]

== Synthetic Gems ==
Most inexpensive jewelry on the market uses synthetic rather than natural gemstones. These fall into two categories: ''Laboratory synthetics'' are exact duplicates of natural minerals. The only difference is that the stone lacks the inclusions and imperfections found in nature. ''Synthetic imitations'' are also grown in the lab, but are of a different chemical composition than the natural stone, and are usually cheaper as well. When using synthetic stones one should remember that most [[medieval]] jewels were cut as cabochons. A facetted gemstone would look out of place on a [[Viking]] [[warrior]]. (Note, however, that crude faceted beads have been found in Viking treasure hordes.) Photos: lab-grown opals [http://www.loose-gems.com/syntheticopal.html] synthetic blue spinel [http://www.loose-gems.com/sapphireimitation.html] cubic zirconia [http://www.loose-gems.com/whitecz.html]

== Natural Imitations ==
There are a number of natural gemstones that bear a strong resemblance to the cardinal stones — [[diamond]], [[emerald]], [[ruby]], and [[sapphire]]. The following is a list of natural stones (plus a few man-made ones) which may prove to be effective substitutes:
*'''adamant''' ([[diamond]]) — ''Rock crystal'' (a clear variety of [[quartz]]) is the classic substitute for diamonds. The best quality quartz came from central [[Europe]], near the Rhine; hence the term ''rhinestone''. Today, most rhinestone is made of glass rather than quartz. ''Swarovski crystal'' is considered to be the best. Another good possibility is ''clear topaz'', but may not be available. Heat-treated ''white sapphire'' is available at a good price. ''Herkimer diamonds'' (another variety of quartz) make convincing looking diamonds in the rough. Photos: diamonds in the rough [http://www.diamondfields.com/i/photos/namibia/An-assortment-of-rough-diam.jpg] [http://blog.kievukraine.info/uploaded_images/2038-709234.jpg] Herkimer quartz crystals [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Rough-Herks.htm]
*'''carbuncle''' ([[ruby]]) — ''[[Garnet]]'' is the best bet; it was one of the three stones classed as carbuncle.1 ''Spinel'' was a another type of carbuncle, but it has become rarer and more expensive than even genuine ruby. Synthetic spinel may be a good substitute however. For an economical substitute, carnelian is a good choice. The best quality is heat-treated, although it looks rather brown in comparison. For imitating [[balas ruby]] consider using ''rubellite'' (pink tourmaline). This stone can be rather expensive, but is generally more available (and affordable) than natural red spinel. Photos: ruby cabs [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_ruby.htm] garnet (rhodolite) [http://www.gggems.com/rhodolite_cabochon.htm] pink tourmaline [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_tourmaline_rubellite.htm]
*'''[[emerald]]''' ([[green]] [[beryl]]) — This is a difficult stone to imitate. Few other minerals exhibit such a vivid green color. ''Green tourmaline'' or dark green ''peridot'' are generally the best choices. ''Green zoisite'' (anyolite) is a possibility, but often has ruby inclusions, and is only available in ''baroque'' (tumbled pebble) form. For those on a tight budget, ''green aventurine'' is a good choice, although it lacks the clarity of fine emerald. Make sure to obtain high-grade aventurine if possible. ''Nephrite jade'' is another economical choice. ''Green dioptase'' and ''chrome diopside'' both have the right color, but are too soft and brittle. In ancient times "emerald" referred to any green stone, including ''malachite'', which is fairly easy to obtain. Malachite has the vivid color of emerald but is an opaque stone. Photos: emerald cabs [http://www.gggems.com/emeraude_cabochon.htm] chrome tourmaline [http://www.gggems.com/chrome_tourmaline_cabochon.htm] aventurine [http://www.allseason.com/images/cabochon/cc3av.gif] (tumbled) [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-GreenAvent.htm] neprhite jade [http://www.stachurawholesalegemstones.com/view/256/1566/] (tumbled) [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Nephrite.htm] rough emerald [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Rough-Emeralds.htm]
*'''hyacinth''' (medieval & modern [[sapphire]]) — This is another difficult stone to imitate. By the time of the [[Crusade]]s, the term "sapphire" was being used to refer to blue transparent gemstones, rather than the lapis of ancient times. A lot of medieval sapphire jewelry has proved to be nothing more than colored glass. If one wishes to use a natural gemstone substitute, the best choice, based on current prices, is ''iolite''—also known as "water sapphire"—although this stone is often more [[purple]] in color than true sapphire. Blue ''tanzanite'' is far too expensive except perhaps in baroque form. Another possibility is ''blue topaz''. This is not a naturally colored stone however. The blue coloration is produced by irradiation—either by x-ray or neutron bombardment—and has a tendency to fade over time. Be sure to ask for "London blue", as most blue topaz is rather pale in comparison and perhaps better suited for imitating ''aquamarine''. Photos: sapphire cabs [http://www.gggems.com/sapphire_blue_cabochon.htm] iolite [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_iolite.htm] aquamarine [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_aquamarine.htm] blue quartz [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_blue_quartz.htm] blue topaz (irradiated - scroll up) [http://www.gemhut.com/swssblue.htm#CTPZWB] (l - r) iolite, aquamarine, apatite, blue topaz [http://www.stachurawholesalegemstones.com/images/P6040071.gif]
*NOTE: 1. The meaning of "carbuncle" has changed over the years. In the modern jewelry trade it refers to a cabochon that has been hollowed out. This is often done with large ''almandine'' cabs to lighten the color.

== Other Substitutes ==
*beryl (aquamarine) — First of all, bear in mind that most aquamarine found in nature is pale [[green]] in color NOT pale [[blue]]. Aquamarine jewelry is usually heat-treated to obtain the desired blue color. Aquamarine ''baroques'' are fairly cheap and exhibit a cloudy gray color with just a hint of turquoise or sky blue. Aquamarine gemstones are not terribly expensive, but may not be available in the desired cut. For the pale blue gem variety, ''kyanite'' approximates both the color and the crystal structure of beryl, and is readily available in bead form. For the more natural sea-green type, ''prehnite'' is a reasonable choice. Some varieties of ''apatite'' have a vivid blue-green color, but the stone is rather soft and brittle. Photos: aquamarine (tumbled) [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Aquamarine.htm] kyanite [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Kyanite.htm] sapphire [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Sapphire.htm] blue topaz [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-BlueTopaz.htm]
*amethyst — This gemstone is relatively inexpensive and easy to obtain. Purple ''fluorite'' approximates the color, but is very soft in comparison. Photo: [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_amethyst.htm]
*chryselectrum (golden topaz, chrysoberyl, etc) — ''Citrine'' is the obvious choice here. ''Smoky quartz'' is another possibilty, although it looks rather brown. Organic amber is a separate category, and is relatively cheap. Photos: Imperial topaz (scroll up) [http://www.gemhut.com/topaz.htm#CTPZ] (crystals) [http://crystalseen.tripod.com/images/facet%20rough/topaza.jpg] citrine cabs [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_citrine.htm]
*callais (turquoise) — Turquoise is still relatively inexpensive, but the price is going up. Dyed howlite is a cheap alternative (but check the cautions for lapis above). For a durable substitute consider ''amazonite'' instead. The color is just about right, but it does lack the copper inclusions. Photos: Turquoise nuggets [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-TurqNuggs.htm] Amazonstone [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Amazonite.htm]
*chalcedony — Fairly cheap but not always obtainable under that name. Try asking for ''blue-lace agate'', which is nearly identical. Photos: chalcedony [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-BlueChalcedony.htm] blue-lace agate [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-BlueLaceAgate.htm] blue calcite [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-BlueCalcite.htm]
*opal — Genuine opal is both expensive and fragile. The natural stone tends to dry out over time. Opal is also sensitive to temperatures changes and can crack without warning. Fortunately, there are several stones offering the play of color and iridescence for which opal is famous. Depending on the base color of the opal being imitated, one might consider [[moonstone]], especially the "rainbow" variety. Another good possibility is ''spectrolite'', a high grade variety of labradorite. Photos: opal [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-BlueOpal.htm] moonstone [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-MoonstoneAAA.htm] labradorite [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Lab.htm] spectrolite cabs [http://www.gggems.com/labradorite.htm]
*ultramarine (ancient [[sapphire]]/lapis lazuli) — Good quality lapis has become somewhat expensive, and a lot of the stuff on the market is of the "denim [[blue]]" variety. ''Sodalite'' is a good substitute although it lacks the pyrite inclusions found in genuine lapis. Dyed ''howlite'' is another possibility. Be warned, however, the dye job is seldom permanent. Photos: lapis (tumbled) [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Lapis.htm] sodalite [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Sodalite.htm]

[[category:gemstones]]

Imitation Gemstones

2006-11-29T04:44:50Z

68.103.121.141:

'''Imitation Gemstones''', either natural or man-made, are effective substitutes for [[gemstone|stones]] that are too expensive or too difficult to obtain. One of the problems facing [[reenactment|re-enactor]]s is how to present an authentic appearance for a person of middle to high wealth on a limited budget. This is especially true regarding [[jewelry]]. Many gemstones that were popular in the [[Middle Ages]] are too expensive for the average person to obtain. There are several ways to use substitute or imitation jewelry however. Imitation gemstones were also popular in medieval times for much the same reasons (people trying to save money and portray someone wealthier than they were).

== Glass Jewels ==
The use of [[colored glass]] to imitate gemstones dates back to ancient times. For small jewels this can be very effective. For larger gemstones glass may be too clear, and lacks the ''inclusions'' found in natural stones. Also, be cautioned that a lot of costume jewelry is made from acrylic not [[glass]]. ''Volcanic glass'', a man-made substance from obsidian and volcanic ash, is a possible candidate for imitation aquamarine and pale sapphire. Photos: ceramic scarabs [http://photos.imageevent.com/juliannamucci/gemstones/icons/Turquoise-Scarab.jpg] glass drop "emeralds" [http://search.cartserver.com/search/search.cgi?cartid=s-2873&category=instock&maxhits=20&keywords=emerald+nonirit&bool=AND] foil-back glass rhinestones [http://www.jansjewels.com/other/sfoct-1.html]

== Synthetic Gems ==
Most inexpensive jewelry on the market uses synthetic rather than natural gemstones. These fall into two categories: ''Laboratory synthetics'' are exact duplicates of natural minerals. The only difference is that the stone lacks the inclusions and imperfections found in nature. ''Synthetic imitations'' are also grown in the lab, but are of a different chemical composition than the natural stone, and are usually cheaper as well. When using synthetic stones one should remember that most [[medieval]] jewels were cut as cabochons. A facetted gemstone would look out of place on a [[Viking]] [[warrior]]. (Note, however, that crude faceted beads have been found in Viking treasure hordes.) Photos: lab-grown opals [http://www.loose-gems.com/syntheticopal.html] synthetic blue spinel [http://www.loose-gems.com/sapphireimitation.html] cubic zirconia [http://www.loose-gems.com/whitecz.html]

== Natural Imitations ==
There are a number of natural gemstones that bear a strong resemblance to the cardinal stones — [[diamond]], [[emerald]], [[ruby]], and [[sapphire]]. The following is a list of natural stones (plus a few man-made ones) which may prove to be effective substitutes:
*'''adamant''' ([[diamond]]) — ''Rock crystal'' (a clear variety of [[quartz]]) is the classic substitute for diamonds. The best quality quartz came from central [[Europe]], near the Rhine; hence the term ''rhinestone''. Today, most rhinestone is made of glass rather than quartz. ''Swarovski crystal'' is considered to be the best. Another good possibility is ''clear topaz'', but may not be available. Heat-treated ''white sapphire'' is available at a good price. ''Herkimer diamonds'' (another variety of quartz) make convincing looking diamonds in the rough. Photos: diamonds in the rough [http://www.diamondfields.com/i/photos/namibia/An-assortment-of-rough-diam.jpg] [http://blog.kievukraine.info/uploaded_images/2038-709234.jpg] Herkimer quartz crystals [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Rough-Herks.htm]
*'''carbuncle''' ([[ruby]]) — ''[[Garnet]]'' is the best bet; it was one of the three stones classed as carbuncle. ''Spinel'' was a another type of carbuncle, but it has become rarer and more expensive than even genuine ruby. Synthetic spinel may be a good substitute however. For an economical substitute, carnelian is a good choice. The best quality is heat-treated, although it looks rather brown in comparison. For imitating [[balas ruby]] consider using ''rubellite'' (pink tourmaline). This stone can be rather expensive, but is generally more available (and affordable) than natural red spinel. Photos: ruby cabs [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_ruby.htm] garnet (rhodolite) [http://www.gggems.com/rhodolite_cabochon.htm] pink tourmaline [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_tourmaline_rubellite.htm]
*'''[[emerald]]''' ([[green]] [[beryl]]) — This is a difficult stone to imitate. Few other minerals exhibit such a vivid green color. ''Green tourmaline'' or dark green ''peridot'' are generally the best choices. ''Green zoisite'' (anyolite) is a possibility, but often has ruby inclusions, and is only available in ''baroque'' (tumbled pebble) form. For those on a tight budget, ''green aventurine'' is a good choice, although it lacks the clarity of fine emerald. Make sure to obtain high-grade aventurine if possible. ''Nephrite jade'' is another economical choice. ''Green dioptase'' and ''chrome diopside'' both have the right color, but are too soft and brittle. In ancient times "emerald" referred to any green stone, including ''malachite'', which is fairly easy to obtain. Malachite has the vivid color of emerald but is an opaque stone. Photos: emerald cabs [http://www.gggems.com/emeraude_cabochon.htm] chrome tourmaline [http://www.gggems.com/chrome_tourmaline_cabochon.htm] aventurine [http://www.allseason.com/images/cabochon/cc3av.gif] (tumbled) [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-GreenAvent.htm] neprhite jade [http://www.stachurawholesalegemstones.com/view/256/1566/] (tumbled) [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Nephrite.htm] rough emerald [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Rough-Emeralds.htm]
*'''hyacinth''' (medieval & modern [[sapphire]]) — This is another difficult stone to imitate. By the time of the [[Crusade]]s, the term "sapphire" was being used to refer to blue transparent gemstones, rather than the lapis of ancient times. A lot of medieval sapphire jewelry has proved to be nothing more than colored glass. If one wishes to use a natural gemstone substitute, the best choice, based on current prices, is ''iolite''—also known as "water sapphire"—although this stone is often more [[purple]] in color than true sapphire. Blue ''tanzanite'' is far too expensive except perhaps in baroque form. Another possibility is ''blue topaz''. This is not a naturally colored stone however. The blue coloration is produced by irradiation—either by x-ray or neutron bombardment—and has a tendency to fade over time. Be sure to ask for "London blue", as most blue topaz is rather pale in comparison and perhaps better suited for imitating ''aquamarine''. Photos: sapphire cabs [http://www.gggems.com/sapphire_blue_cabochon.htm] iolite [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_iolite.htm] aquamarine [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_aquamarine.htm] blue quartz [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_blue_quartz.htm] blue topaz (irradiated - scroll up) [http://www.gemhut.com/swssblue.htm#CTPZWB] (l - r) iolite, aquamarine, apatite, blue topaz [http://www.stachurawholesalegemstones.com/images/P6040071.gif]

== Other Substitutes ==
*beryl (aquamarine) — First of all, bear in mind that most aquamarine found in nature is pale [[green]] in color NOT pale [[blue]]. Aquamarine jewelry is usually heat-treated to obtain the desired blue color. Aquamarine ''baroques'' are fairly cheap and exhibit a cloudy gray color with just a hint of turquoise or sky blue. Aquamarine gemstones are not terribly expensive, but may not be available in the desired cut. For the pale blue gem variety, ''kyanite'' approximates both the color and the crystal structure of beryl, and is readily available in bead form. For the more natural sea-green type, ''prehnite'' is a reasonable choice. Some varieties of ''apatite'' have a vivid blue-green color, but the stone is rather soft and brittle. Photos: aquamarine (tumbled) [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Aquamarine.htm] kyanite [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Kyanite.htm] sapphire [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Sapphire.htm] blue topaz [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-BlueTopaz.htm]
*amethyst — This gemstone is relatively inexpensive and easy to obtain. Purple ''fluorite'' approximates the color, but is very soft in comparison. Photo: [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_amethyst.htm]
*chryselectrum (golden topaz, chrysoberyl, etc) — ''Citrine'' is the obvious choice here. ''Smoky quartz'' is another possibilty, although it looks rather brown. Organic amber is a separate category, and is relatively cheap. Photos: Imperial topaz (scroll up) [http://www.gemhut.com/topaz.htm#CTPZ] (crystals) [http://crystalseen.tripod.com/images/facet%20rough/topaza.jpg] citrine cabs [http://www.gggems.com/cabochon_citrine.htm]
*callais (turquoise) — Turquoise is still relatively inexpensive, but the price is going up. Dyed howlite is a cheap alternative (but check the cautions for lapis above). For a durable substitute consider ''amazonite'' instead. The color is just about right, but it does lack the copper inclusions. Photos: Turquoise nuggets [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-TurqNuggs.htm] Amazonstone [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Amazonite.htm]
*chalcedony — Fairly cheap but not always obtainable under that name. Try asking for ''blue-lace agate'', which is nearly identical. Photos: chalcedony [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-BlueChalcedony.htm] blue-lace agate [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-BlueLaceAgate.htm] blue calcite [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-BlueCalcite.htm]
*opal — Genuine opal is both expensive and fragile. The natural stone tends to dry out over time. Opal is also sensitive to temperatures changes and can crack without warning. Fortunately, there are several stones offering the play of color and iridescence for which opal is famous. Depending on the base color of the opal being imitated, one might consider [[moonstone]], especially the "rainbow" variety. Another good possibility is ''spectrolite'', a high grade variety of labradorite. Photos: opal [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-BlueOpal.htm] moonstone [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-MoonstoneAAA.htm] labradorite [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Lab.htm] spectrolite cabs [http://www.gggems.com/labradorite.htm]
*ultramarine (ancient [[sapphire]]/lapis lazuli) — Good quality lapis has become somewhat expensive, and a lot of the stuff on the market is of the "denim [[blue]]" variety. ''Sodalite'' is a good substitute although it lacks the pyrite inclusions found in genuine lapis. Dyed ''howlite'' is another possibility. Be warned, however, the dye job is seldom permanent. Photos: lapis (tumbled) [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Lapis.htm] sodalite [http://www.hehishelo.co.uk/PageBackgrounds/PB-Tumbled-Sodalite.htm]

[[category:gemstones]]

Topaz

2006-08-26T04:09:39Z

68.103.121.141:

'''Topaz''', or "topasion", changed its meaning during the Middle Ages. In ancient times, the name probably referred to the gemstone variety of olivine. The name is thought to come from the island of Topazos. Following the [[Crusades]], lapidaries began using topaz as the name for ''chryselectrum'' or "golden stone". Olivine was given its modern name of ''peridot''.
[[category:gemstones]]

Topaz

2006-08-26T04:08:53Z

68.103.121.141:

Crown jewels

2006-08-20T05:19:28Z

68.103.121.141:

'''Crown Jewels''' are various artifacts used during coronations and other royal ceremonies.

==Types==
The most common types of crown jewels are:
*[[crown]]s & [[coronet]]s
*[[orb]]s
*[[sceptre]]s
*[[sword]]s

Other crown jewels can include spurs, bracers, collars of chivalry, rings, and coronation robes.

[[Regalia]] holds a similar function within the [[SCA]].
== Historical Background ==

While some elements of crown jewels, such as coronets, date back to pre-Christian times, their use as sacred objects associated with royalty are generally believed to have begun with the [[Holy Roman Empire]]. By the end of the Middle Ages most of the European kingdoms had assembled their own collections of crown jewels.

Crown jewels were also used in non Christian cultures, especially in the [[Islam]]ic kingdoms. During the [[Crusades]], many jewels from Islamic kingdoms ended up as prized possessions in European courts.

== Symbols of Divine Order ==

In addition to being decorative objects, crown jewels were used to represent God's authority on earth. Most objects were made of gold or silver, and precious [[gemstones]]—especially [[emerald]]s, [[carbuncle]]s (rubies), [[sapphire]]s, and [[pearl]]s. Other gems could include [[garnet]]s and varieties of quartz, such as [[amethyst]]s. One should also note that in the early Middle Ages the use of glass gems was an accepted practice. Crown jewels could also be decorated in enamel, depicting scenes from the [[Bible]], and portraits of apostles and saints.

Due to their extreme hardness and difficulty in cutting, [[diamond]]s were generally lacking prior to the [[Renaissance]]. European jewel smiths did not discover how to cut and polish them until about 1380. In 1475 the Duke of Burgundy commissioned Louis de Berquem to cut three diamonds, one of them being the ''Sancy'' diamond. de Berquem developed a 32-facet cut, the ancestor of the modern ''brilliant'' cut. So impressive were his diamonds that they were included in the French crown jewels, thus creating a new fashion rage for the courts of Europe.

== References: ==

*Prince Michael of Greece, ''Crown Jewels of Europe'', New York, 1983
*Eduard Gubelin & Franz-Xaver Erni, ''GEMSTONES: Symbols of Beauty & Power'', Tucson AZ, 2000
*Henri-Jean Schnubel, ''Gems & Jewels'', New York, 1972
*Crown Jewels Timeline (showing various crowns & other regalia)http://www.willofyre.com/CoronetResearchPage.htm
[[category:jewellery]]

Talk:Diamond

2006-08-20T05:13:53Z

68.103.121.141:

''Jewel grade'' as I understand the term, refers to a gemstone which can be used as is, or with minimal cutting and polishing. The problem with diamonds is that, being the hardest natural substance, there is no way to saw or polish them, except with another diamond or with diamond dust. Softer gems such as quartz can be polished by thumbing in water and some polishing agent, such as jeweler's rouge. However, diamonds are not indestructible as the ancients believed. If one knows their basic crystal structure–in the case of diamonds a slightly convex octahedron–one can cut a diamond by a sharp blow along their planes of cleavage. Strike the blow in the wrong direction and the diamond will shatter.

Crown jewels

2006-08-20T05:11:21Z

68.103.121.141:

'''Crown Jewels''' are various artifacts used during coronations and other royal ceremonies.

==Types==
The most common types of crown jewels are:
*[[crown]]s & [[coronet]]s
*[[orb]]s
*[[sceptre]]s
*[[sword]]s

Other crown jewels can include spurs, bracers, collars of chivalry, rings, and coronation robes.

[[Regalia]] holds a similar function within the [[SCA]].
== Historical Background ==

While some elements of crown jewels, such as coronets, date back to pre-Christian times, their use as sacred objects associated with royalty are generally believed to have begun with the [[Holy Roman Empire]]. By the end of the Middle Ages most of the European kingdoms had assembled their own collections of crown jewels.

Crown jewels were also used in non Christian cultures, especially in the [[Islam]]ic kingdoms. During the [[Crusades]], many jewels from Islamic kingdoms ended up as prized possessions in European courts.

== Symbols of Divine Order ==

In addition to being decorative objects, crown jewels were used to represent God's authority on earth. Most objects were made of gold or silver, and precious [[gemstones]]—especially [[emerald]]s, [[carbuncle]]s (rubies), [[sapphire]]s, and [[pearl]]s. Other gems could include [[garnet]]s and varieties of quartz, such as [[amethyst]]s. One should also note that in the early Middle Ages the use of glass gems was an accepted practice. Crown jewels could also be decorated in enamel, depicting scenes from the [[Bible]], and portraits of apostles and saints.

Due to their extreme hardness and difficulty in cutting, [[diamond]]s were generally lacking prior to the [[Renaissance]]. European jewel smiths did not discover how to cut and polish them until about 1380. In 1475 the Duke of Burgundy commissioned Louis de Berquem to cut three diamonds, one of them being the ''Sancy'' diamond. de Berquem developed a 32-facet cut, the ancestor of the modern ''brilliant'' cut. So impressive were his diamonds that they were included in the French crown jewels, thus creating a new fashion rage for the courts of Europe.

== References: ==

*Prince Michael of Greece, ''Crown Jewels of Europe'', New York, 1983
*Eduard Gubelin & Franz-Xaver Erni, ''GEMSTONES: Symbols of Beauty & Power'', Tucson AZ, 2000
*Crown Jewels Timeline (showing various crowns)http://www.willofyre.com/CoronetResearchPage.htm
[[category:jewellery]]