E-learning for Kids
E Learning for Kids: Science: Norway: How Can We Use Rocks?
Halvor likes to collect rocks. Join him, and help him learn more about rocks.
American Museum of Natural History
American Museum of Natural History: Jade O Logy Card
Investigate some facts about jade by reading this interactive Ology card then answering some questions.
3D Toad
3 dtoad.com: Special Geology
A 3-D view of special geological rocks including Anhydrite, Azurite, Celestite, Fluorite, Kyanite, Opal, and Quartz Geode.
Wikimedia
Wikipedia: Diamond
This encyclopedia article provides a detailed overview of the diamond. Content includes a focus on this gemstone's physical properties, the industry that surrounds it, and its history and symbolism.
Society for Science and the Public
Science News for Students: These Gems Make Their Own Way
Discusses past efforts to make artificial gemstones, the different methods used to make them today, and possible applications for this technology. (Date of article: May 25, 2010)
Math Science Nucleus
I. Science Ma Te: Integrating Science, Math and Technology
This site offers a wealth of online textbook-related materials that encourage the discovery of science in the world around us. Enter the site to access material on specific topics. Each section contains reading material (complete with...
Other
Rockhound Arkansas: Quartz as Gems
This article discusses different varieties of quartz that are used as gemstones. A general description of each is given, including its historical background and physical makeup. This page is part of an excellent, detailed website about...
Smithsonian Institution
National Museum of Natural History: Department of Mineral Sciences Collections
Search the database of the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History for gems & minerals, meteorites with images, or petrology & volcanology.
Other
American Gem Society: Birthstones: Birthstones by Month
The American Gem Society provides a pictured list of months and their corresponding birthstones. More information on these gems can be accessed by clicking on a particular month.
Other
Swiss Gem Shop: Ruby
This is a commercial site, but it has some very good complete information and pictures. You must search for "ruby" in the alphabetized list on the left toolbar.
Jewelry Central
Jewelry Central: Amethyst
Information on this commercial site gives the physical properties and origin of the amethyst, as well as some of the mythical and metaphysical properties ascribed to the gemstone.
Jewelry Central
Jewelry Central: Emerald
A commercial site giving information on the physical properties and history of emeralds. Includes details on the cuts and valuation of these gems.
Jewelry Central
Jewelry Central: Pearls
This commercial site gives general information on pearls, including their physical properties and where they are found.
Jewelry Central
Jewelry Central: Ruby
This commercial site gives information on rubies, including their physical properties and where they are found. Includes some details on how to choose a ruby for purchase.
Jewelry Central
Jewelry Central: Peridot
This site contains information on peridot including its physical and metaphysical properties.
Jewelry Central
Jewelry Central: Sapphire
This commercial site contains information about the sapphire's physical properties and where it can be found. Also discusses the history and romance related to the stone and includes a description of its quality.
Jewelry Central
Jewelry Central: Opal
This page contains information about the opal, including the gemstone's historical importance and physical properties.
Jewelry Central
Jewelry Central: Jade
This site contains information on the gemstone jade, including physical characteristics, historical significance, and where it is found.
Jewelry Central
Jewelry Central: Moonstone
An article on a commercial site describing the physical characteristics of this gemstone, along with its historical and metaphysical properties.
Jewelry Central
Jewelry Central: Gemstones
This commercial site contains general information on various synthetic and natural gemstones and provides links to specific gems.
Smithsonian Institution
Encyclopedia Smithsonian: The Hope Diamond
Detailed description and history of the Hope Diamond, a large deep-blue diamond housed in the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.
Alabama Learning Exchange
Alex: Minerals
The young scholars will gain information on the five characteristics of minerals. The information can be related to nonrenewable resources. This lesson should facilitate discussion on the difference between precious gems and...
Khan Academy
Khan Academy: Gems of Antiquity Quiz
Test your knowledge of ancient gems in this seven-question quiz.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy: Gems of Antiquity
The beauty of carved gemstones has captivated craftsmen, collectors, and connoisseurs since antiquity. Precious markers of culture and status, gems were sought by Greek and Roman elites, and are still valued by modern monarchs and...