GI-1: Introduction

Question 1

Separation

Answer 1

Process of dinstinguishing natural gems from each other as well as from synthetics, simulants, and treated gems.

Question 2

Mineral

Answer 2

A natural, inorganic substance with a characteristic chemical composition and, usually, a characteristic structure

Question 3

Inorganic

Answer 3

Composed of, or arising from, non-living matter

Question 4

Chemical Composition

Answer 4

Kinds and relative quantities of atoms that make up a material

Question 5

Crystal Structure

Answer 5

Regular, repeating internal arrangement of atoms in a material

Question 6

Trace Elements

Answer 6

Atoms in a gem that aren’t part of its essential chemical composition

Question 7

Amorphous

Answer 7

Lacking a regular crystal structure

Examples:

Amber, natural and man-made glass, and plastic

Moldavite and Obsidium

Question 8

Organic

Answer 8

Produced by, or derived from, a living organism

Question 9

Gem Species

Answer 9

A broad gem category based on chemical composition and crystal structure

Question 10

Phenonenon

Answer 10

An unusual optical effect displayed by a gem

Question 11

Gem Variety

Answer 11

A subcategory of species, based on color, transparency, or phenomenon

Question 12

Group

Answer 12

A family of gems made up of several closely related mineral species

Group: Feldspar

Species: Orthoclase

Variety: Moonstone

Question 13

Isomorphous Replacement

Answer 13

Substitution of one chemical element for another in the crystal structure of a mineral

Question 14

Synthetic Gem

Answer 14

A laboratory creaton with essential the same chemical compostion, crystal structure, and properties as its natural counterpart.

Question 15

Imitation Gem

Answer 15

Any material that looks like a natural gem and is used in its place.