Gemstones used for Jewelry

The majority of gemstones are formed by metamorphism. This is when minerals are
forced together under great pressure and heat usually by tectonic plates moving
underneath each other. The minerals are forced together and they metamorphose
into different minerals, sometimes without melting.

Gemstones with Health Benefits, In ancient Egypt and other cultures from
antiquity, people believed gemstones had a wide array of health benefits. In
modern times, gemstones are mainly used for ornamental purposes.
However, some people still believe you can receive health bonuses from
certain gemstones and minerals. Some use gemstones as part of their
spiritual practices to restore energy fields, gain peace, and promote love and
safety. In some belief systems, gemstones are placed on certain areas of the
body, called “chakras,” to promote healing. In other systems, gaining health
benefits from gemstones can be as simple as wearing a piece of jewelry
made with a specific gem.

Gemstone Toxicity During Normal Handling;

Most minerals are safe to handle normally. However, radioactivity in

minerals containing uranium and thorium should be assessed using a Geiger
counter prior to handling. Water soluble gems will also require extra care.

While certain heavy metals have adverse effects at any concentration,

others are far less toxic.

Gemstone Toxicity While Cutting;

Lapidaries should exercise caution when cutting potentially toxic minerals.

Inhalation or accidental ingestion of particles could be detrimental to your
health. Furthermore, inhalation of asbestos and silica can be physically toxic.

Potential Toxicity for Intentional Gemstone Ingestion;

Crystal healers should avoid making potions with toxic gems. They should
also avoid putting these gems in their or their patients’ mouths. In addition,
some gems have no known toxicity but are still soluble in acids. If you
swallow particles of these gems, their dissolution in your stomach could
release impurities in the mineral. Certain gems may react dangerously with
stomach acid to produce hydrofluoric acid (HF) or hydrogen sulfide gas
(H2S). Avoid ingesting gems that may produce these dangerous substances.

Finally, most lists of toxic gems on crystal healing websites include

aluminum and a few other elements as toxic. While these can be toxic, the
dose required to induce a toxic reaction is exceptionally high. As long as
you’re not eating rock dust, toxicity from these stones is unlikely.