Patriotic Rocks: Introduction to State Gemstones

What is a Patriotic Gemstone? There is no exact definition of what makes a gemstone patriotic. This guide was influenced by the work of gemologist...

What is a Patriotic Gemstone?

There is no exact definition of what makes a gemstone patriotic. This guide was influenced by the work of gemologist George Frederick Kunz. In his book, The Curious Lore of Precious Stones, Kunz made a brief mention of some gemstones that he associated with particular states. Kunz thought that these gems, and their association with the state of which they were found, would make them an excellent accent to modern or traditional birthstones. Alternately, he suggested wearing them as a symbol of patriotism or state pride. Much has changed since the debut of his seminal work. A number of new states have joined the United States, and many more have adopted particular gemstones and minerals as official symbols that represent the state. With this in mind, consider these suggestions of gems and minerals.

Gemstones VS Minerals

How can you tell the difference between a gem and a mineral? That's a tricky question. Gemstones are simply materials, usually minerals, that are considered valuable to humans. Often, they are the crystallized versions of minerals. Specific chemical compositions and natural processes of the Earth has transformed these humble minerals into something beautiful and pleasing to the eye while making them durable enough to survive the rigors of being worn as jewelry. Alternately, other gemstones are composed of organic materials. This means they've come from either plants or animals. Pearls and amber are perhaps the two most famous examples of organic gemstones.

Why use a Patriotic Gemstone?

It's a great question. Why would someone desire a patriotic gemstone?

Gemstones are highly collectible. A person could build an entire collection around finding examples from all 40 states.
Fans of birthstones might appreciate owning another symbol associated with their birth. This is especially true if their birthstone by month doesn't appeal to them.
Jewelry is a personal expression that helps tells a person's story in a visual way. One could weave a tale of their journey and places lived by the gemstones displayed in their jewelry or gem collection.

What is Your State Gemstone?

Our five-part series educates you on state rocks, state minerals, and state gemstones. Consult the list below to learn your state gemstone, mineral, rock, or fossil!

Your Guide to State Gemstones: Alabama to Georgia

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Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia

Your Guide to State Gemstones: Hawaii to Maryland

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Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland

Your Guide to State Gemstones: Massachusetts to New Jersey

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Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey

Your Guide to State Gemstones: New Mexico to South Carolina

Click here to view New Mexico to South Carolina!

New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina

Your Guide to State Gemstones: South Dakota to Wyoming

Click here to view South Dakota to Wyoming!

South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

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Patriotic Rocks: Introduction to State Gemstones

Can you guess which state has amethyst as their state gemstone?[/caption] Stay tuned to read about your state rock!