Gemstone Guide According to the Ancient Greek philosopher Plato, gemstones are formed from the stars and planets. The Australian Aboriginals and the Native North Americans consider crystals the bones of mother earth itself.
Gemstones and crystals are magical, in the true meaning of magic which is defined as being part of the natural wonders of the Earth. Crystals we now enjoy and use were created in the womb of the earth over millions of years by the action of water, wind and volcanic fire. They carry the healing powers from earth and sky. Their healing properties were recorded more than 3,500 years ago by the Ancient Egyptians and by cultures in China and India. Indeed crystals have always been part of the folk wisdom of ordinary men and women since the beginning of time.
Crystals act as a transmitter and amplifier of healing energy.

Gemstones are associated with mythology and folklore, and can be used for healing, magic, divination and for physic development. They can help to bring harmony and joy to your life. They can be used for protection and to attract love, prosperity, self-confidence, health and happiness.

People are increasingly drawn to gemstones and crystals, to wearing them as jewellery, keeping them on display in their homes, and using them consciously on every level for healing and energy work. You should always choose the gemstones you are most drawn to and that particular stone will invariably be the one you need at that present time. All of them if natural are positive for healing.
Most gems are "minerals that have been chosen for their beauty and durability, then cut and polished for use as human adornment." This definition covers the vast majority of the things we regard as gems.

There are about 3,000 minerals that have been cut and polished and admired for their beauty. Of these, only about a hundred show up in jewelry. The rest are simply too delicate to wear well. They are strictly in the domain of the collector.
The allure of gemstones is their fantasy of colour and light. People have been intrigued by beautifully coloured stones since time immemorial.

Read more on Emma Chapman's Gemstones Guide