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Located at 5 Le Duan Street, Hanoi, the Gemstone Museum in DOJI Tower is a special destination for those who appreciate the beauty of gemstones.
The museum houses unique gemstone specimens of various sizes and shapes. Some specimens are very small, weighing only a few grams, while larger stones can weigh tens of kilograms and reach several meters in size. These stones are living proof of nature's wonder and a source of inspiration for artisans in their creative journey.
In addition to gemstone specimens, the museum also displays early mining and crafting tools, such as hammers, chisels, and sieves. These rudimentary tools reflect human ingenuity and creativity in extracting resources from nature. Although modern technology has greatly assisted, the skill and finesse of craftsmen still play a crucial role in transforming raw stones into works of art.
The museum's space is designed to provide a complete experience for visitors. The sparkling gemstones are displayed in subtle lighting, allowing viewers to clearly appreciate their natural beauty.
While touring the museum, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the formation process of gemstones through explanations and informational signs. Under the intense pressure and heat of lava, minerals crystallize to create gemstones with dazzling beauty. The stones possess a diverse range of colors, from the captivating red of ruby to the deep blue of sapphire, all natural works of art. Modern interactive equipment also contributes to an engaging tour, from exploring raw stone samples to learning about the elaborate crafting process.
In Vietnam, the mining areas of Nghe An, Yen Bai, Thanh Hoa, and Gia Lai are rich in gemstone resources. Among them, star ruby is considered the most valuable gemstone, not only because of its rarity but also because of its unique beauty. The shimmering starlight on the surface of the stone, when crafted with the right techniques, creates an irresistible allure. These regions not only provide precious raw materials but also preserve the story of the diligent labor of the miners, who have dedicated their lives to the extraction and crafting of gemstones.
The process of mining gemstones requires precision and experience. Workers use modern equipment such as excavators and rotary screens to process the ore. Then, the soil and rocks are washed away with high-pressure water to separate the rough stones. With large bedrock blocks, careful drilling, chiseling, and cutting are necessary to avoid damaging the gemstones inside. Each step in this process is meticulously carried out to protect the value and natural beauty of the stones.
While touring the museum, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the process of gemstone formation.
After extraction, the rough stones are sorted and selected. Stones with high clarity and quality are crafted into jewelry or for display, while those that don't meet the standards are used to create gemstone paintings. Furthermore, the crafting process is highly sophisticated. The stones can be cut in various ways. Polygonal cuts with many facets create transparent stones that reflect light brilliantly, while rounded cuts help preserve the stone's weight and natural beauty.
Currently, the museum is open every Saturday afternoon, allowing the public to explore the wondrous world of gemstones. It's an opportunity to step into a space filled with shimmering light and appreciate the beauty created by nature over millions of years. For those who are passionate about sparkling, magical beauty, the museum is an ideal place to admire these dazzling stones.
More than just a place of display, the museum is like a living epic, telling the story of the miraculous connection between humanity and nature. Every step in the journey, from formation and extraction to the crafting of gemstones, is vividly recreated here. From rough blocks of stone found deep underground, through the skillful hands of artisans, they have been transformed into exquisite works of art, bearing the mark of time and masterful technique.
Here are some more photos from the museum:
The stones carry with them a wide variety of colors.
The shimmering starlight on the surface of the stone, when crafted with the right technique, creates an irresistible allure.
