Gemstone vs. Crystal: Clearly Understanding the Key Differences

Have you ever wondered what is the real difference is between a Crystal vs Gemstone? Not only you, many people think Crystals and Gemstones are the same thing, and sometimes they are similar, but there’s also a difference that’s quite interesting. And you will love to learn about Crystal vs Gemstone

At Cambay Agates, we really love all-natural and beautiful stones, from Healing Gemstones with a long history to Healing Crystals with a special structure. We think knowing the difference between Gemstones and Crystals can help you like them even more.

In this easy guide, we want to explain clearly What Makes a Crystal vs Gemstone different. If you liked our blog about “What are Gemstones and Their Healing Properties?“, you’ll find this one interesting too.

We will look at what the Meaning of Gemstone is and What the Meaning of Crystal is. We’ll also talk about the special Properties of Gemstones and Properties of Crystals, and when a stone can be both a Crystal or a Gemstone.

So, if you want to know the real story about what makes a Crystal vs Gemstone different, keep reading!

What Exactly is a Gemstone?

So in Crystal vs Gemstone, Let’s start by understanding what we mean when we say “Gemstone.” In simple words, So a Gemstone is a beautiful stone or sometimes even a material from a living thing (like a pearl) that people are likely to use for jewellery or Home Decor or just because it looks pretty.

Here the Meaning of Gemstone usually points to something that is attractive, not very common, and strong enough to last a long time.

Think about it like this. When anyone sees a Gemstone, the first thing that catches their eye is its beauty.

Why?

Because this could be its colour, its shine, or the way it looks inside. For example, a ruby with its deep red colour is definitely eye-catching.

Another thing about Gemstones is that they are often rare. You can’t just find them everywhere like regular rocks.

And this rarity is part of what makes Gemstones special and more valuable. For example, Diamonds, are quite rare, which adds to their desirability.

Finally, Gemstones are also usually quite durable. And this means that they can withstand scratches and wear and tear.

So you can wear them in jewellery for a long time or keep them as a Home Decor for a very long time. For example, a Sapphire is very hard and doesn’t get scratched easily.

There are many types of Gemstones in the world. Some popular ones that you might have heard of include Diamonds, Rubies, Sapphires, and Emeralds.

And interestingly, some Gemstones, like Amethyst, Lapis Lazuli, Moonstone, Quartz and etc. They are also types of Crystals.

But then there are other gemstones, like Pearls and Amber, which come from living things and don’t have that Crystal structure which we’ll talk about later when we discuss Crystal vs Gemstone.

So, a Gemstone is basically a beautiful, often rare, and durable material that people value for its appearance.

What Exactly is Crystal?

Now in Crystal vs Gemstone, let’s talk about Crystals. So when we say “Crystals,” we are usually talking about a solid material. In this material, the tiny parts inside, which are called atoms or molecules, are arranged in a very specific and repeating pattern.

Think of it like arranging building blocks in a very neat and organized way. This builds a structure that keeps repeating.

This ordered arrangement is what we call a Crystal Structure or a Crystal Lattice. And the Meaning of Crystal often refers to this organized internal arrangement.

This special internal structure is what gives many Crystals their distinct and often beautiful shapes. You might have seen pictures of Quartz Crystals with their pointed ends or Salt Crystals that look like tiny cubes.

These shapes happen because of How the Atoms inside are stacked together.

There are many Types of Crystals too. Some, like Quartz, can come in different forms and colours, such as Clear Quartz, Amethyst (which is basically Purple quartz), and Citrine (which is Yellow-Orange Quartz).

These are also considered Gemstones, which shows you how the two terms can sometimes overlap when we talk about Crystal vs Gemstone.

But not all crystals are Gemstones. For example, common table salt (sodium chloride) forms crystals, and so does sugar. These are crystals because of their ordered internal structure.

However, we don’t usually cut and polish them to wear as Jewellery. So, while all Gemstones that are Crystals will have this ordered internal structure, not all materials with an ordered internal structure are considered Gemstones. The focus for Crystals is really on that specific, repeating pattern inside.

Key Difference Between Gemstones and Crystals

So, now that we know a little bit about both Crystals and Gemstones, let’s look at the main things that make a Crystal vs Gemstone different. Think of these as the points that help us tell them apart.

Areas of Overlap and Confusion

You might be thinking about what we said above about Gemstones and Crystals, “Wait a minute! You said some Gemstones are also Crystals.” And you are absolutely right!

This is where things can get a little confusing because the terms Crystal vs Gemstone are often used in a way that overlaps.

So many of the most popular and beautiful Gemstones, like Quartz (which includes Amethyst and Citrine), Emeralds, Rubies, and Sapphires, are actually also Crystals. This is because they have that specially ordered structure inside.

So, why do we have two different words?

Think of it in this way: “Crystal” is more of a scientific term that describes the internal arrangement of the atoms.

Whereas “Gemstone” is more of a term used in the world of jewellery and beauty, referring to a stone that is attractive and often used for decoration.

Because many Gemstones fit into both categories.They are beautiful enough to be Gemstones and they have a crystal structure.

People often use the words interchangeably. When you hear someone talk about a “Healing Crystal,” they might very well be talking about a Gemstone that is also a Crystal, like an Amethyst or Quartz.

So, while there are technical differences between a Crystal and Gemstone, in everyday talk, especially when we are admiring their beauty or talking about their believed energies, the lines can sometimes blur.

And that’s why it is good to know the difference, but don’t be surprised if you hear the terms used together!

Does the difference matter for Healing Properties?

Now, you might be wondering, does it really matter if a stone is technically a Crystal or just a Gemstone when we are talking about healing? And that’s a good question!

So when it comes to the believed Healing Properties of Gemstones and Healing Crystals, the important thing is often the specific type of stone and what it is known for.

For example, whether you call Amethyst a Healing Gemstone or a Healing Crystal, people still believe it helps with calmness and reducing stress. Whereas if you talk about a Rose Quartz it helps in dealing with emotional healing, and promotes self love and compassion.

The focus is usually more on the mineral composition and the unique energy that a particular stone is said to carry.

So, while understanding the difference between a Crystal vs Gemstone is interesting, it might not be the most important thing when you are choosing a stone for its potential healing benefits.

And at Cambay Agates, we offer a wide variety of stones that are popular for their believed healing properties.

We focus on providing you with beautiful and good quality stones, whether they are technically classified as crystals or gemstones in the strictest sense.

We believe that what matters most is the connection you feel with the stone and the benefits you experience.

FAQs

Here are some common questions people ask about the difference between Gemstones and Crystals:

Q1. So, are all Gemstones also Crystals?

Not exactly. All crystals have a special and organized structure inside. Many of the Gemstones, like Amethyst, Lapis Lazuli, and Quartz and etc.

Do have this structure, so they are also Crystals. But some other Gemstones, like pearl and amber, do not have this crystal structure.

Q2. Is the word “crystal” and “gemstone” both same?

Not really. “Crystal” is more of a scientific term that talks about how the atoms are arranged inside a solid. Whereas “Gemstone” is a term we use for beautiful and often rare stones that are used in jewellery. Sometimes a stone can be both Gemstone and Crystal!

Q3. If I’m buying a gemstone for healing, do I need to worry if it’s technically a crystal?

Usually not. Because when people talk about healing properties, they are more interested in the specific type of stone and what it’s believed to do. Whether it’s technically a crystal or not might not be the most important thing for you.

Q4. Where can I find good-quality gemstones and crystals?

Cambay Agates, of course! We offer a wide selection of beautiful and natural Gemstones and Crystals for all your needs. You can explore our collection on our website.

Conclusion

So, we’ve learned that while the terms Crystal vs Gemstone are often used together, there is a difference. A Crystal, in the scientific sense, always has a very organized structure inside.

A gemstone is more about being beautiful, rare, and used in jewellery. Many gemstones, like your favourite amethyst or quartz, are also crystals!

The important thing to remember in Crystal vs Gemstone is that both Gemstones and Crystals are special and valued for their beauty and the positive energy many believe they hold.

At Cambay Agates, we are happy to bring you a wide variety of both high-quality Gemstones and fascinating Crystals. Whether you are drawn to their sparkle or their believed properties, we have something for everyone.

We hope this simple guide has helped you understand the key differences between a Crystal vs Gemstone. Now, why not explore our beautiful collection on the Cambay Agates website and find the perfect stone for you?