Question

Are there any places to find precious stones in Pennsylvania?

Answer

Not too many. Most of Pennsylvania has sedimentary rock that has low probability of containing gem-like minerals. We do have what they call Herkimer diamonds, which is quartz that grown in the faceted shape of a diamond. You can find them in southeastern Pennsylvania.

Q

Why are diamonds considered the finest gems?

A

Because they are relatively rare, they reflect light in a way that makes them sparkle, and and they are the hardest substance of all the gemstones. As a geologist I think diamonds are boring--they're just carbon that has been squished. I think wedding rings should be made with truly beautiful stones like aquamarine or an emerald. Of course when I got married, my wife got a diamond!

Q

What is the most underrated gemstone?

A

I don't think any of them are underrated, they're all pretty expensive these days. I think the opal, and specifically the fire opal, is very pretty and interesting. It's really quartz that has water inside that polarizes the light, which gives the stone a 'fiery' appearance.

Q

If you're thinking of buying your significant other a ring, should you bring a geologist along?

A

Probably not. I know how diamonds are made, but I don't know what makes a great diamond other than spotting possible flaws. The person you should take is a gemologist, the people that cut gems. They know what stones are worth buying.

Q

Finally, What is a cubic zirconium?

A

It is an alloy called cubic zirconia that has been melted into the shape of a diamond. It is not made of carbon and it can't cut glass.