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Handout
Florida State University

Florida State University: Molecular Expressions: Birthstone Collections

For Students 9th - 10th
This birthstone resource presents a brief description of each birthstone, a link to more information and a photomicrograph of the gem.
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Handout
Burke Museum

Burke Museum: Birthstones: Myths and History

For Students 9th - 10th
As part of the Burke Museum's site on Geology, this page details the birthstones for each month and discusses both the myth and the history behind birthstones.
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Handout
Wikimedia

Wikipedia: Aquamarine and Maxixe

For Students 9th - 10th
Article on the mineral beryl with a section on aquamarine, which is a variety of beryl.
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Handout
Jewelry Central

Jewelry Central: Sapphire

For Students 9th - 10th
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.
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Handout
Jewelry Central

Jewelry Central: Amethyst

For Students 9th - 10th
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.
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Handout
Other

Icga: Peridot, Extraterrestrial Gem

For Students 9th - 10th
Site provides many fun facts about the gem peridot, including information on its history and physical and metaphysical properties. Also provides a picture of the gem itself.