Gems and Technology

For thousands of years, diamonds and gemstones have been mined and admired for their vivid colours and eye-catching brilliance. Some gems have recently become popular for their molecular structure and physical characteristics and are increasingly used in medicine, manufacturing and technology.

Rubies

Although decreasing in popularity, infrared ruby lasers are still widely used in tattoo and hair removal treatments. The first ruby laser was built in 1960 by Theodore Maiman, however this technology is now being dismissed by scientists, since more efficient and precise lasers were made. Unsurprisingly, rubies’ best use remains in jewellery making. For a visual affirmation of why rubies are among the most gorgeous, chic and trendy gemstones, check out our stunning .

Related: Beginner's guide to Blue Sapphire

Sapphires

Sapphires are widely desired in engagement rings and . For many generations, blue sapphires have served as a symbol of love, friendship and loyalty. Nowadays, colourless sapphires have been making their way into technology. Artificially grown sapphires are bought by major companies and used for making of smartphones, scratch-proof glass screens, camera lens covers and high end watches. The gemstone is desirable for its strength and impact resistance - it is much harder than glass or even steel. Sapphire-made glass is likely to resist scratches from all origins, or even withstand gunshots.

See also: Gemstone Engagement Rings

Diamonds

Diamonds are highly valued for their breath-taking beauty, incredible sparkle and durability. Their resilience and hardness makes them widely applicable in the technology and manufacturing. Jewellery and industrial diamonds differ in looks and size, as one are used solely for their endurance, while the other for their beauty. 4Cs and aesthetics are not considered when the stones are being used for industrial purposes, as drill tips and saw teeth. Diamond tools are used for heavy-duty jobs, glass cutting, or when particularly high temperatures and pressure would be reached. After being crushed into powder and made into paste, diamonds are also used to polish hard surface materials, ceramics and glass. Diamonds utilized for industrial purposes are artificially grown in laboratories, as the natural diamond's beauty is too rare and precious to be wasted in dulling manufacturing processes.

By Kristiana Georgieva