Assignment 1 Terms with
Complete Solutions
Colored Stone - ANSWER - Any gem material other than diamond
Gemology - ANSWER - The study of gems
Organic - ANSWER - Once living, or produced by a living organism (plant or animal)
Mineral - ANSWER - A natural, inorganic substance with a characteristic chemical
composition and usually a characteristic structure
Inorganic - ANSWER - Composed of, or arising from, non-living matter
Chemical Composition - ANSWER - Kinds and relative quantities of atoms that make
up a material
Durability - ANSWER - A gemstones ability to withstand wear, heat, and chemicals
Luster - ANSWER - The appearance of a materials surface in reflected light
Transparency - ANSWER - Degree to which a material allows light to pass through it
Hardness - ANSWER - How well a gemstone resists scratches and abrasion
Toughness - ANSWER - How well a gemstone resists breaking, chipping, and
cracking