Mineral vs. Crystal vs. Gemstone: Understanding the Differences

Question
On wat basis we can distinguish mineral,crystal and gemstone?

Answer
Hello,

Gemstone material is distinguished by its natural beauty when cut and polished.  Clear crystals of any type are fairly rare in the mineral world except for quartz which is fairly common.  However good amethyst is not so common for example.  Any stone that is hard, polishes well and is extraordinary in beauty could be considered gemstone. Particularly if it is rare.

Hope this helps you,

Steven D.Covey