Colored Gemstones -  There are two basic types of colored gemstones:  Organic and Inorganic.  Organic means they come from living things such plants or animals.  This includes Amber, Coral, Jet, Pearls, Shell and Ivory.  Most gems are inorganic which means they come from minerals.  These are the non- living things like crystals and rocks.  A diamond is the only gem that is not a colored stone.

Some gems are rarer than others.  A lot of people think of Diamonds, Rubies, Emeralds or Sapphires.  These are indeed rare, but not nearly as rare as stones such as Alexandrite or Black Opal, which commands a higher price.

 Mineral treasures in Pakistan and Afghanistan:  The Hindu Kush mountain range stretches from central Afghanistan into northern Pakistan.  This area is loaded with remote gem mining localities.  Because of the harsh climate and landscape this area is nearly inaccessible.  Historically, these gem producing regions have a source of artifacts and relics of the Gandhara and Indus civilizations. These treasures are examples of the wealth and power of ancient rulers.  Aquamarine, Kunzites, Lapis and Topaz are valuable assets in the growing Pakistan-Afghanistan economy.