Since the dawn of man, we have manipulated raw materials for tools and decoration. Beginning with adapting simple organic materials we then advanced to shaping stones and eventually working with metals. This would make trades like gemology and crafting a few of the oldest skills known to mankind. Since ancient man began to understand the wonders around him he believed that they held magical eleme
nts and sacred mystical properties. Stones and metals were believed to have these qualities too, some were thought to heal where some could cause bad luck, good luck or even influence our daily lives and interaction with the universe. Ancient Alchemists around the world thought that minerals could enrich the spirit in many forms. Today still, many modern beliefs retain these traditions and reverences of magic and healing. Even scientists and doctors are beginning to respect and explore the possibilities and nature of many phenomena related to the healing properties of stones and metals. Ancient tribal beliefs and myths held many minerals with some form of awe and godly supernatural essence. Just as tribal ornamentation serves as a spiritual journey or a symbol of status or to make a statement modern fashion follows this same ancient trend. Jewellery can signify many aspects of modern society and individuals such as religion, wealth, beliefs and even marriage. Although the most popular use for precious metals and stones is considered to be jewellery, there is probably just as much use if not more use for these resources in industry. It is quite surprising to learn the many uses of precious metals and precious stones. The most renowned would be for the low grade diamonds which are called industrial diamonds. In this guide I will focus on the retail forms of precious metals and precious stones including gemstones. I will try explain the basics of jewellery including maintenance and frequently asked questions. I hope that this guide will be of use to anybody wanting to buy or invest in precious metals and stones.