Jewels are the end result of a process begun billions of years ago when the Earth was first formed. All that existed originally were the elements. Common elements you may be familiar with include oxygen, silicon, and carbon. Gold and silver are also elements. Far below the Earth's surface, where they were subjected to tremendous heat and pressure, certain elements combined to form minerals.
Sulfur is a pure mineral, that is, it contains only sulfur atoms.
Sulphur atoms may also combine with iron atoms to form a compound mineral called pyrite. Minerals, and substances made from them, all belong to the mineral kingdom, which includes more than 3000 members. Approximately 100 minerals are classified as gemstones. Although a few gemstones are used for industrial purposes, most have value solely to collectors. Only about a dozen gemstones are suitable for use in jewelry.