Crystals and Gems: What is “REAL”?

First of all, are gemstones and crystals the same thing? Well, yes and no. A gemstone can be a crystal, but a crystal can not be a gemstone. Diamonds and amethysts, for example, are both crystals and gemstones, but sugar, salt, and ice are only crystals because of their molecular structures; they are not gemstones. What about Swarovski crystals? Believe it or not, they are not crystals or gemstones, but their incredible beauty has led many people to believe they are.