Top 10 Liqueur Brands and Best Liqueur - iCohol.com Top 10 Liqueur Brands and Best Liqueur What’s Liqueur? Liqueur is an alcoholic beverage that’s usually flavored with assorted flavors. Liqueur is bottled with added sugar. This added sugar is what defines it. You can’t simply go by a spirit being flavored to be classified as a liqueur because many spirts are flavored such as rum, vodka, etc. Like stated above, what really sets a liqueur apart from a spirit is that it contains the added sugar, which spirits do not. Liqueurs usually range from 14% to 35%. Desset Wines are not liqueurs, while cordials have become synoumous with liquers. 1. Arran Gold Cream Liqueur Winner of the World’s Best Whisky Liqueur back in 2007 so is deserved of being on this list. The color is a light brown that immediately makes a drinker think of chocolate which would be correct because one’s nose immediately carries that idea through the senses.

Smelling of a chocolate milkshake, Arran Gold is great to mix with Whiskey because it is able to envelope the bold taste of the liquor and produce something both tasty and warming. If you try it on the rocks, you’ll realize just how creamy and smooth this treat is, but you’ll also be surprised to taste a hint of malt on the backend. Arran Gold finds a way to make a great Whiskey even smoother with its light body and full taste. Try it in: A glass with or without ice. Simple enough. 2. Chartreuse Yellow VEP liqueur Chartreuse is undoubtedly the healthiest liqueur on the list. But don’t think it loses any of its tastiness. Chartreuse is made by French monks who have been working on the brand for over 500 years. Chartreuse is more bold than the others on the list, stepping it up at 42% alcohol by volume. Off the nose, you’ll gather mainly licorice and fennel, but don’t be surprised if you begin picking out one or two of the 130 herbs used for this drink.

The only liqueur to use oak castes to age the product, Chartreuse will give your tongue a bit more floral taste, pushing some of its other herbs like sage, saffron and thyme. Chartreuse is a popular liqueur, but understand that this is something you should use sporadically or when you’re dying to impress. At $123 a liter, the VEP is a hefty drink with awesome taste. Cocktails include: April Shower, Yellow Bird and the Torii Toddy 3. Frangelico First, can I just say this bottle reminds me of Aunt Jemima Syrup. Anyone else see it? It makes sense since the bottle is supposed to look like a monk in his habit. This Italian liqueur is popular already and I’m sure you’ve heard of it. Frangelico owns a light caramel coloring and is a hazelnut and herb flavored drink. When you open the bottle, wafts of hazelnut, vanilla and cinnamon enter your nose, giving you a dynamic and strong idea of what is to come.

The body is more light weight then most liqueurs and also differs in the fact that while its smooth, it doesn’t leave that feeling of cream or syrup on your tongue after a swig. Its flavors sit on the tongue quickly, producing chocolate, hazelnut and spice to your taste buds. Again, the smell is so delicious that you’ll want to keep inhaling this drinks aromas, even while you’re pouring some down your throat. An easy finish, and its easy to see why Frangelico is such a popular liqueur. Here are the cocktails to try: Chocolate Cake Shooter, Friar Tuck #2 and Procrastinator Shot 4. Tia maria Tia Maria is a liqueur made from Jamaica that encompasses two of my favorite things: Jamaican Rum and Blue Mountain Coffee. Ok, the Blue Mountain might be a stretch, but it actually is the finest coffee produced in Jamaica. Mix that with a rich Jamaican Rum and you have a thumbs up. The alcohol percentage is at 20% which makes this a great liqueur for adding to coco, coffee or sipping over the rocks.

Tia Maria is a smoother blend with a hint of spice that can add a hint of something different to any drink you make it with and since it’s not made with cream, its perfect for those out there watching their caloric intake. Want to try it but not sure how? Here are a few options you can throw together at your next party to introduce everyone to an internationally known liqueur: Dark Indulgence Cocktail, Mike Tyson Cocktail and Ciel Recipe 5. Midori Coming from the Japanese word for “green”, Midori is a must-have in any home bar. Its easy to see why this liqueur is popular to begin with. Most everyone enjoys something flashy and the bright green color of this liqueur is as aesthetically pleasing as it is aromatically and tasting wise. Again, a liqueur with a 20% alcohol by volume, its a drink that can easily mixed and added to practically any real liquor. When you open a bottle of Midori, you’ll be hit with the obvious scent of melons; but the smell of bananas and strawberries also follows. Midori on the rocks doesn’t disappoint either, with a slightly more fruity taste than some of the other liqueurs you’ll find on this list.

Don’t worry though, Midori isn’t too sweet, but it certainly will ensure that you taste it throughout the entirety of your drink. Cocktails that everyone should try with Midori: Midori Berry Bliss, Carpet Licker and Frozen Midori Sour 6. Amarula You might not know what Amarula is, but you should. Its best description could be simply this: a thinner and milkshake. I don’t know about you, but I will drink anything that reminds me of ice cream deliciousness. But I’m getting a touch ahead of myself. Lets start with how it smells. This African treat brings one word caramel into play. It smells, looks and tastes like a butterscotch dream, creating a slight layering on the glass and gently coating the tongue with each sip. While it can become a bit sweet, Amarula is a perfect after dinner sipper and can be added to drinks much the same way Baileys Irish Cream can. Amarula is quickly become a favorite for its taste, but you might also enjoy it for its aphrodisiac powers. The drinks to make with it: French Toast, Amarula Dusky Decadence (complicated but worth it) and Elephant Shake 7.

St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur This is a liqueur you need to try. It is hard to keep since it produced in small quantities and stores can go weeks without carrying it, but once you get your hands on a bottle of St. Germain, you’ll want to keep tabs on its delivery dates. A liqueur with a medium body, it is like our other liqueurs on the list with a 20% abv, making it great for drinking on the rocks for a great deal of time. Unlike the other liqueurs on this list, its coloring is lighter (and more normal than the green of Midori) with a golden hue. Its smell also differs because it doesn’t hold that punch of spicy or deep flavorfulness, but rather, introduces a citrusy and light aroma to the drinker. You’ll smell flowers and pears and you’ll receive slightly sweet mix with a slight tart. Ultimately an amazing mix. St. Germain Elderflower won’t overpower any cocktail you add it to, but it will bring about a freshness that would be perfect for this summer. Cocktails to try are: The St. Germain Cocktail, Sangria Flora and Cuzco Fizz 8.

Aperol liqueur This Italian liqueur is a good transition here, with an alcohol content of 11%. Aperol is a younger liqueur, only being around since 1919, but its found a way to differentiate itself rather quickly. Aperol looks simple, with a simple bottle and a simple label, but it certainly hold more complex contents. A mix of orange, rhubarb, gentian and other herbs, Aperol finds a way to mix all the above together for something that is surprisingly subtle and delightful. A refreshing liqueur, it is owned in almost every Italian home and is quickly making its way into most of America’s homes as well. Cocktails to try: Aperol Royal, Aperol Betty and Aperol Sour 9. Domaine de canton ginger liqueur The name holds the main key to this awesomely tasty liqueur. Made in France, Domaine de Canton begins with baby Vietnamese ginger which is then macerated with various herbs. Hand made, it can be difficult to get your hands on a bottle of times due to its small quantities, but along with its awesome bottle…it proves to be a uniqueness you want on hand.

Domaine de Canton Ginger also mixes with VSOP Cognac, Grand Champagne, vanilla and orange blossom honey to give it both an inviting and aromatic smell. Pop open the bottle and you’ll be intrigued by its vanilla and citrus smell. The body is medium with 28% abv and yields a golden coloring. On the tongue, you’ll certainly taste the ginger, but its evenly balanced with the subtleness of the cognac and champagne. Cocktails you should try include: El Diablo Martini, Ginger Cosmopolitan and The Gold Rush 10. Bols Advocaat To understand how this liqueur is different, you need to understand what makes an advocaat different first. Made from eggs, sugar and brandy, Bols Advocaat is a decently simple receipe for a liqueur which proves to be versatile. Because of its simplicity, Bols has created a various array of liqueurs from Bols Watermelon to Bols Strawberry to garshdarn Bols Coconut. Each liqueur has its definitive characteristics. For example, the Bols Banana proves true to its name by pushing the banana taste into your mouth, but also follows up with vanilla and hints of almonds.

The color is true to the name as well with its bright yellow liquid sitting in the clear glass bottle. While it would be great to try every one of these, it would be also incredibly difficult. So while you might want to start with some of the more moderate flavors, you have to admit the Bols Parfait Amour looks pretty inviting. Drinks to try for the Bols Banana: Bols Banana & Orange, Banana Banshee and a Banana Colada. Discuss! #Bestliqueur Warm Chartreuse Souffle with Chocolate Sauce Warm Chartreuse Souffle with Chocolate Sauce 31 comments - 10.19.2015 I’ve had a long love affair with Chartreuse liqueur, even before I visited the monastery back in the 1990’s. We were led through a somewhat terrifying display of hooded monks (not real ones, fortunately, but long-face replicas), the kind you see in historical or agricultural museums in France that are meant to depict a historical representation of something, even drying prunes – likely for educational purposes, but always gives me a shiver. I guess I’m a lot more sensitive than the kids being led through the museums because those figures still haunt my dreams, decades later.

At the distillery, we saw how Chartreuse was made from 100+ herbs, one of them I swear was a leaf that was recently legalized in California, a smell I knew well at the time. Then we were led to a tasting, and finally, the best part – the shop! My favorite treats were the chocolates filled with liquid Chartreuse, which you need to eat all in one go. Otherwise, you’ll find the liquid Chartreuse drenching the front of your shirt. If you’re in Paris, they sell versions at Jean-Charles Rochoux and Fouquet , and they’re well worth trying. Chartreuse has a sharp herbal flavor that I find pair particularly well with dark chocolate. It’s made in the French alps, a region featured in Hungry for France , one of my favorite books about France, from one of my favorite authors (and sometimes dining companion), Alexander Lobrano . Alec, as he’s known, was the Paris correspondent for Gourmet magazine for nearly a decade and now travels around France, and beyond, writing stories that focus on the local cuisine and culture for magazines, newspapers, and in his books.

His latest, Hungry for France , is a tour de force around the country, a place he knows well – from Normandy with its spectacular, gooey cheeses, to the Côte d’Azur, dining on ratatouille and fish pulled from the Mediterranean that morning. The book is filled with stories that anyone who loves France, and French cuisine, will savor, like his previous book, Hungry for Paris , a guidebook to Paris dining, which I found myself reading from cover-to-cover not just for the addresses, but for the stories that accompany them. The one recipe in his book that I honed in on, toutes de suite, was the Hot Chartreuse Soufflé. I’d been meaning to add a few Chartreuse recipes to the site, and kept my bar stocked with a bottle at all times for when that happened. Then, it never happened. And somehow, the bottle of herbal green liqueur got drained from my stock. However when I saw these soufflés in his book, I grabbed my bottle of Izarra , a green Basque liqueur that I had on hand, which is somewhat similar to Chartreuse.

(Although don’t tell the proud Basque people that I said that!) It’s got a lovely green color and has similar characteristics to Chartreuse, with the added bonus that I had a bottle within arm’s reach. I am very fond of Chartreuse (and Izarra) with chocolate and had some sauce left from a recent batch of S’mores Ice Cream that I’d churned up. I’ve sometimes folded a handful of bittersweet chocolate chunks into soufflés like this, which melt a little, which give hits of dark chocolate here and there. But in this case, I liked the luscious pool of chocolate that sunk a bit to the bottom. Swirled with the warm herbal soufflé, spooned up just out of the oven, it was a double-dose of dessert deliciousness.

Chartreuse Soufflé Color Guide: How to Work With Green How to Work With Green Decorating Guides See also Bold Color Neutral Colors Color Palettes Pattern Colors of the Year Black Blue Brown Gray Green Orange Pink Purple Red Turquoise White Yellow Color Guide: How to Work With Green With as many green hues as leaves in a forest, it's easy to find one that grows on you Samantha Schoech October 15, 2012 Houzz Contributor. I am a former magazine editor specializing in travel and design. I just completed my first remodel, turning my crumbling 1941 kitchen into a beauty of grays, whites and natural wood. If I could, I'd sleep on the countertop. That's how much I love it. You can also read my parenting blog on Baby Center Houzz Contributor. I am a former magazine editor specializing in travel and design.... More Email Currently Featured in: US Click "Embed" to display an article on your own website or blog. We learn in kindergarten that blue and yellow make green. If only it were that simple. Green comes in nearly infinite hues, shades and values (lightness or darkness). There are yellow-greens and blue-greens and gray-greens.

There are warm greens and cool greens, light greens and dark greens. Jade, emerald, grass, sea, leaf, viridian ... even the names are infinite. In other words, before going with green, it helps to decide what we are talking about. Bluish mint is a long way from sage. And kelly green and hunter green barely even get along. What green you choose will help determine the mood of a room. A bright apple green looks fresh and spring like. A dark mossy green can be somber and elegant. Chartreuse is modern and fresh; sage is subdued and traditional. There are a few rules that apply to most greens. Like most colors, they all look good with a crisp white. Greens are almost universally positive. They make us think of nature, fresh starts, spring and youth. Green is not a particularly sexy color, but it is an uplifting one. The Germanic roots of the word mean "to grow." As these photos show, green can be used almost anywhere, with almost every style. You just need to know what you're going for.

Quartz Gemstone and Jewelry Information: Natural Quartz - GemSelect Quartz; Origin and Sources Back to Top Quartz gemstones are found in locations all around the world. Quartz is a major constituent of granite and other igneous rock. It is also commonly found in sedimentary rock and is a common component of metamorphic rock. Well-formed crystals can reach incredibly large sizes, often exceeding several meters in length and weighing over a hundred kilograms.

Macrocrystalline quartz deposits can be found in (but are not limited to) the following places: Amethyst: Brazil, Bolivia, Canada, India, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar (Burma), Namibia, Russia, Sri Lanka, United States (Arizona), Uruguay and Zambia Ametrine: Brazil and Bolivia Aventurine : Austria, Brazil, India, Russia and Tanzania Citrine: Argentina, Brazil, Madagascar, Namibia, Russia, Scotland, Spain and the USA Hawk's eye: Brazil, India and Sri Lanka Prase: Austria, Finland, Germany and Scotland Prasiolite: Brazil and the USA (Arizona) Quartz cat's eye: Brazil, India and Sri Lanka Rose quartz : Brazil, India, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, Sri Lanka and the USA Rock crystal: The Alps, Brazil, Madagascar and the USA Smoky quartz : Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, Scotland, Switzerland and Ukraine Tiger's eye: Australia, India, Myanmar, Namibia, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the USA Cryptocrystalline quartz deposits can be found in (but are not limited to) the following places: Australia: Agate, chrysoprase and bloodstone Brazil: Agate, chalcedony, carnel

ian, bloodstone and chrysoprase China: Agate and bloodstone Buying Quartz and Determining Quartz Value Back to Top Quartz Color The color of macrocrystalline quartz is as variable as the spectrum, but clear quartz is by far the most common color followed by white or cloudy quartz.

Purple (amethyst), pink (rose quartz), gray or brown to black (smoky quartz) are also common. Cryptocrystalline quartz varieties can be multicolored. In artificial light, quartz does not display a desirable quality. It looks best in daylight, particularly after sunrise and just before sunset. The deep colors are the most valuable. Quartz Clarity and Luster Fine quartz is transparent, which means that the light passes through the stone unhindered. In translucent quartz, the passage of light through the stone is slightly weakened. The best quality quartz is "clean", free from inclusions of any kind. Since quartz is plentiful, there is little reason to go for stones with visible inclusions, except those that define the character of the stone (e.g. cat's eye, hawk's eye or scenic stones). Luster is glassy to vitreous as crystals, while cryptocrystalline forms are usually waxy to dull, but can be vitreous. Crystals are transparent to translucent; cryptocrystalline forms are usually translucent or opaque. Quartz Cut and Shape Due to the roughness of the color distribution in the crystals, quartz is often cut as brilliant rounds to maximize their color.

Other cuts can be used when the color is better distributed. Quartz is available in a wide range of calibrated sizes and shapes, including many fancy shapes. Quartz Treatment Colorless quartz is always untreated. Colored stones can occasionally be enhanced by dyes (as in the case of agate), irradiation (bombardment with low level radioactivity), or heating. Some stones may also be impregnated or coated with wax, clear resin and even foil for enhanced color, luster and stability. Synthetic quartz is also abundant. Naturally colored quartz typically exhibits color zoning. Quartz Gemological Properties: Back to Top Chemical Formula: Quartz: Related or Similar Gemstones Back to Top Dumortierite Quartz Although many of the varietal names of quartz gemstones are based on the color of the mineral, scientific classification refers primarily to the microstructure of the mineral crystals. In most cases, color is a secondary identifier for cryptocrystalline quartz varieties, while macrocrystalline quartz varieties are primarily classified by color. Other quartz stones may also be classified based on locality, patterns or inclusions.

Some of the most well-known trade names for macrocrystalline quartz gemstones include the following: Amethyst : Purple, violet or pale red-violet quartz. Amethyst is the most highly valued stone in the quartz group. The coloring agent is iron. Amethyst quartz: Violet with whitish stripes. Amethyst quartz is a more compact formation of amethyst, layered and striped with milky quartz. Amethyst Geode : Purple, violet or pale red-violet internal quartz crystals within rock cavities. Amethyst is the most highly valued stone in the quartz group. The coloring agent is iron. Amethyst quartz: Violet with whitish stripes. Amethyst quartz is a more compact formation of amethyst, layered and striped with milky quartz. Ametrine : Yellow and violet bicolored quartz. A color-zoned quartz variety that consists of violet purple amethyst and yellow-orange golden citrine. Aventurine : Green, red-brown or gold-brown quartz. Mostly dark-green with a glittery metallic appearance caused by included fuschite (green mica), or red- to gold-brown caused by platy hematite inclusions. Blue quartz: Mostly irradiated rock crystal.

Citrine : Light-yellow to dark-yellow, gold-brown quartz. The coloring agent is iron. Many commercial citrines are heat-treated amethyst. Natural citrines are mostly pale yellow. If heat-treated they acquire a reddish tint. Citrine Geode : Light-yellow to dark-yellow, gold-brown internal quartz crystals within rock cavities. The coloring agent is iron. Many commercial citrines are heat-treated amethyst. Natural citrines are mostly pale yellow. If heat-treated they acquire a reddish tint. Hawk's eye : A blue-gray to blue green quartz. Hawk's eye reflects small rays of chatoyant light which shimmer on the surface in a way that is reminiscent of a bird's eye. Lemon quartz : A lemon-yellow variety of transparent quartz. It is closely related to citrine quartz, but is more lemon yellow in color, whereas citrine tends to have heavier orange tones. Most lemon quartz today has been irradiated to obtain its color. There are also rare specimens that may display cat's eye chatoyancy. Mystic quartz : A very colorful product of a new high-tech enhancement process, consisting of a metallic coating applied to the pavilion of colorless quartz.

Pietersite : A rare, dark blue-gray or reddish aggregrate made up of mostly hawk's eye and tiger's eye. Prasiolite : Leek-green quartz. Prasiolite is a very rare stone in nature. Most prasiolite is produced by heat treatment of amethyst or yellowish quartz. Rock crystal: Colorless quartz. Material that can be cut is rare. Inclusions are comprised of goethite, gold, pyrite, rutile or tourmaline. The luster is vitreous. Rose quartz : Strong pink to pale pink quartz colored by titanium, iron or manganese. Larger stones can be faceted. Rose quartz tends to be milky or cloudy, which deepens its color and provides the effect of adularescence. Transparent rose quartz crystals are extremely rare. Rutile (or rutilated) quartz : Clear or smoky quartz with inclusions of rutile crystals. Rutile is the mineral name for natural crystals of titanium dioxide. Smoky quartz : Brown to black, smoky gray quartz. The coloring is caused by natural and artificial gamma rays. Frequent inclusions are rutile needles.

Star Lemon quartz : A rare, lemon-yellow variety of transparent quartz which displays asterism. It is closely related to citrine quartz, but is more lemon yellow in color, whereas citrine tends to have heavier orange tones. Star Rose quartz : Strong pink to pale pink quartz colored by titanium, iron or manganese in which traces of rutile needles cause six-rayed stars (asterism) when cut en cabochon. Tiger's eye : Gold-yellow, gold-brown quartz. Similar to hawk's eye, shimmering chatoyant rays of light occur as a golden brownish color due to oxidized iron inclusions. Tourmalinated quartz: Colorless quartz with needle-like, typically black tourmaline inclusions. Some of the most well-known trade names for cryptocrystalline quartz gemstones include the following: Agate : A popular variety of chalcedony quartz, usually multicolored and banded. Agate geode : Agate geodes are rock cavities or vugs with internal agate crystal formations or concentric banding. Agate jasper: Jasper which grows together with agate, and is yellow, brown or green blended. Blue quartz: A turbid-blue quartz.

Inclusions of crocidolite fibers cause the color. Bloodstone : An opaque, dark-green chalcedony with red spots caused by traces of iron oxide. Is also sometimes referred to as heliotrope . Carnelian : A solid and single-colored agate chalcedony. Carnelian ranges in color and can be yellow-orange, rich near reddish orange or orangey brown. It varies from semi-opaque to highly translucent. The coloring agent is iron. The color can be enhanced by heating. Chalcedony : The name for all cryptocrystalline quartz varieties. Colors can range from single solid color to multiple colors and patterns. Colors are due to various metallic impurities such as iron, nickel and copper which are present during the crystallization process. Chalcedony - 'in the narrow sense' is a translucent and solid colored quartz, typically occurring in bluish-white or gray color. Blue chalcedony called "Mohave" and "Mt. Airy blue" is chalcedony from California and Nevada, USA. It is slightly to moderately grayish-blue with a light to medium color range.

Blue chalcedony from Namibia, often called "African blue", varies from grayish to nearly pure blue and from light to medium dark. The most unusual and most valuable type is from Oregon. Its blues are modified by slight to moderate amounts of pink, making a noticeably lavender gem, which nonetheless is called "Holly blue." Chrysocolla : An opaque to near transparent, blue to blue-green chalcedony colored by copper. It is the most expensive type of chalcedony quartz. Chrysoprase : An apple green chalcedony that derives its color from nickel. It ranges from nearly opaque to nearly transparent. Its color includes olive to nearly pure greens of medium tone. Very fine and highly saturated pieces are often misrepresented as imperial jade. Dendritic agate : Colorless or whitish quartz; a translucent chalcedony with tree- or fern-like markings called dendrites. Dumortierite quartz : Blue quartz aggregate intergrown with dumortierite. Fire agate : An iridescent agate with colors of red, gold, green and rarely, blue-violet, resulting from interference between light rays traveling through thin layers.

Fossil coral : A gemstone formed by ancient coral whereby the coral is gradually replaced by agate, preserving the coral skeletons and leaving flower-like patterns. Gem silica : A trade name for a rare greenish-blue, transparent to translucent type of quartz. Jasper : Jasper is usually considered a chalcedony, but because of its grainy structure, it is sometimes placed in a group by itself. It is usually multicolored, striped, spotted or flamed. Uniform jasper is extremely rare. Onyx : A layered stone with a black base and a white upper layer usually with parallel banding and in some cases, it may also be unicolor. Petrified wood: Fossilized wood that is composed mostly of jasper and chalcedony. Prase: A leek-green quartz. Prase is a quartz aggregate, usually classified as a chalcedony. Its color agents are chlorite inclusions. Quartz cat's eye : (Can also be transparent macrocrystalline) white, gray, green, yellow or brown quartz that exhibits cat's eye chatoyancy - a reflection of light caused by parallel fibers, needles or channels, which resemble the slit eye of a cat.

Sard : A solid-colored type of chalcedony quartz agate. Sardonyx : A brownish to reddish type of banded agate. Tiger's eye matrix : The name given to a mineral aggregate in which tiger's-eye-like structures alternate with layers of iron oxide, which is the host rock. Moss agate : Colorless quartz with green, brown or red inclusions. Moss agate is a translucent chalcedony with moss-like inclusions of hornblende or chlorite. Scenic agate: Agate chalcedony quartz where included dendrites resemble landscape-like pictures or images, usually in brown or reddish color tones. Quartz Mythology, Metaphysical and Crystal Healing Properties Back to Top Leonardo da Vinci wrote that amethyst, one of the most valuable stones in the quartz family, was able to dissipate evil thoughts and quicken the intelligence. Rock crystal and smoky quartz were once used for crystal balls that disclosed the future to fortune tellers, witches and gypsies. Amethyst is the birthstone for those born in February, while citrine is a birthstone for November.

In Antiquity, as well as in the Middle Ages, people believed that the cosmos was represented by gemstones. Amethyst is assigned to the planet Neptune. Citrine and tiger's eye are linked to Mercury. Rose quartz is related to Venus. Chalcedony is assigned to Saturn, and smoky quartz is attributed to Pluto. The esoteric movement revived this ancient belief and the gem industry made it another marketing tool to promote certain gems. The healing powers of gems remain a controversial issue, but have been respected for centuries by healers, shamans and medicine men. Whether these beliefs are based on fact or placebo has not been proven, but they seem to help those in need. The best approach is to wear the gemstone in contact with the skin of the troubled part of the body. Quartz is said to be of great potential benefit.

The following lists ailments and the types of quartz that are attributed to them: Headaches: Amethyst, rock crystal, tiger's eye Eye inflammation: Rock crystal, chalcedony, hawk's eye, onyx Sore throat: Rock crystal Heart ailments: Rose chalcedony, rose quartz Pancreas: Amethyst, citrine, yellow jasper Sciatica: Amethyst, citrine, rose quartz, tiger's eye Varicose veins: Rock crystal Toenails: Rose quartz Disclaimer: Metaphysical and Alternative Crystal Healing Powers and Properties are not to be taken as confirmed advice. Traditional, Ceremonial and Mythological Gemstone Lore is collected from various resources and does not represent the sole opinion of SETT Co., Ltd. This information is not to replace the advice of your doctor. Should you have any medical conditions, please see a licensed medical practitioner. GemSelect does not guarantee any claims or statements of healing or astrological birthstone powers and cannot be held liable under any circumstances. Quartz Gemstone and Jewelry Design Ideas Back to Top Quartz is the ideal jewelry gemstone. It is readily available and fairly affordable. Even large stones can be bought at great prices.

Quartz is also one of the few colored stones that you'll find in almost every jewelry retail store. Amethyst and citrine are official birthstones and are often used in birthstone jewelry. Since most quartz is untreated, there are many astrological uses for different types of quartz gemstones (carnelian for example), so you can find many planetary jewelry designs featuring quartz. Quartz is also often used for the making of fine timepieces, including bezels and moving components. Quartz is durable enough for wearing in everyday quartz gemstone rings and it is also ideal for any other jewelry application available. Quartz gemstones can be worn by men or women as they can be found in just about any color imaginable. You can find quartz in any style of cut and shape, from cabochons to faceted stones, as well as tumbled and drilled beads. Quartz is also often carved into interesting ornamental designs, such as paperweights, animal carvings or as seals, intaglios and insignias. Note: Buy colored gemstones by size and not by carat weight. Colored stones vary in size-to-weight ratio . Some stones are larger and others are smaller than diamonds by weight in comparison.

Famous Quartz Gemstones Back to Top Chrysoprase, the bright apple-green translucent chalcedony, was a particular favorite of Frederick the Great of Prussia. It can be seen today decorating many buildings in Prague, including the Chapel of St Wenceslas. Fine amethysts are featured in the British Crown Jewels and were also a favorite of Catherine the Great and Egyptian royalty. In former days, amethyst was a favorite stone in the high ranks of the Christian church, therefore it was called "the stone of bishops". One of the finest known rock crystal pieces is the 12.75 inch diameter, 107 pound flawless "crystal ball" in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C. Quartz is one of the first gems to be synthetically grown on a large scale. Major development during World War II allowed for the commercial supply of crystals for radios. Today synthetic quartz is widely used in the electronics industry. Quartz Gemstone Jewelry Care and Cleaning Back to Top Quartz has relatively good hardness and durability, although it does have a brittle tenacity and conchoidal fracture. It's harder than most other materials, but still softer than popular gemstones such as sapphire, ruby, emerald and diamond.

Most quartz is easy to clean and to maintain. However, some forms of quartz such as agate and and chalcedony are extremely porous and so they can absorb unwanted colors quite easily. To clean your gemstones, simply use plain water and a mild soap or detergent if needed. Wipe your stones using a soft cloth and be sure to rinse well to remove any soapy residue. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct light or heat and avoid extreme temperature fluctuations. As with most gems, avoid the use of heat steamers and ultrasonic cleaners. Always remove your quartz gems and jewelry before exercising, playing sports or engaging in harsh household chores such as dishwashing. When storing your quartz gemstones, store them separately and away from other gems to avoid scratches. If possible, wrap your gems individually using a soft cloth or place them inside a fabric-lined jewelry box for extra protection. First Published: September-29-2006 Last Updated: September-28-2016 © 2005-2017 GemSelect.com all rights reserved. Reproduction (text or graphics) without the express written consent of GemSelect.com (SETT Company Ltd.) is strictly prohibited.

See more related information below Liqueur - Woodland Hills Wine Co. TP 96 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 3 available 96 points The Tasting Panel: "In this first of its kind absinthe-meets-vine, the fragrance of lemon oil, mountain brush, lanolin and a touch of anise is outright seductive. The litheness on the palate is sublime, a wonderful alternative to a more oily nature of absinthe. This pretty 36-proofer is generous in stone fruit tones: pear nectar, apricot and nectarine. The finish is silky, with the anise a delicate breath alongside lavender and lemongrass. (Oct 2015)" Absentroux, is produced in Forcalquier, France using ancestral maceration techniques to blend the allure of wormwood and other distinct botanicals bringing your palate the essence of Absinthe with the softness of a wine. The first of its kind, showcasing a radiant mindaro green and a subtle nectarous zest composed of soothing lavender and verbena, refreshing citrus, a sophisticated herbal undertone with hints of mint, and finishing with the bitter notes of wormwood.

$49.95 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 9 available Nocino? Walnuts? San Giovanni? This is something you do not want to miss. One of Italy's treasures. From the land of Parma hams and the finest Balsamic vinegars comes this "digestivo." In Emilia-Romagna, green walnuts picked on the feast day of San Giovanni are carefully split and then macerated long and slow in alcohol and sugar in the warm climate of the region for half a decade. Glass "demijohns" are filled with this mixture and, for a minimum of four years, rest and age in their "pole barns." The results are remarkable. Thick, black in color with a tint of the green walnuts themselves. An entire medley of seductive walnut whispers and tones all laced by a delightful spiciness. $38.95 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 2 available Born from the steam distillation in small pot stills of approximately 70 herbs and valuable spices from Europe, Central America and the Orient.

A perfectly natural product, it obtains its typical yellow color from the saffron added to the alcoholic infusion; then a long fermentation in oak vats concurs to the perfect balance of the aromas and contributes to the characteristic fine, smooth and soft taste. Excellent after a meal, it expresses its versatility in the most varied manners hence assuring an indisputable satisfaction whether sipping it dry, with ice or iced. Both the taste and the warm solar colour become the inseparable companions of long-drinks and cocktails, but it is also added to ice cream, fruit salad and as ingredient in cake preparations. $25.95 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 8 available ****Highly Recommended, F.Pault Pacult (Spirit Journal): "The neon orange color is very pretty and ideally pure. Right out of the box the orange/tangerine/rhubarb aroma seduces the olfactory sense; more air contact stimulates the herbal/botanical aspects as the bouquet turns garden fresh, viny, grassy, and citrusy; this is a sophisticated and gently aroma that I could sniff all day long.

The palate entry is guardedly sweet and delightfully citrusy/fruity; the midpalate phase offers just enough herbal bitterness to balance the sweetness. Ends up refreshing, orangey sweet/ripe, and delectably herbal. A supremely mixable elixir (club soda, sparkling wine) that , if there is any justice, should become a favored pre-dinner quaff in aware US households and restaurants." Wine & Spirits: "The aperitivo Italiano trumpets its poco alcolico (only 11% abv) right on its front label. It's often referred to by bartenders as 'Campari Lite' and, in fact, is now owned by Italy's Gruppo Campari. (Fall 2010)" WE 93 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 7 available 93 points and 'Top 50 Spirits 2011,' Wine Enthusiast: "Complex and appealingly herbal, this spirit is marked by its coffee-brown color and a scent like spearmint-spiked espresso. The flavor is sweet, faintly coffee-like, with warm Dutch licorice, anise and sarsaparilla notes.

The brisk finish is minty then bitter. Heavy, syrupy feel. (Feb 2011)" **** Highly Recommended, F.Paul Pacult (Spirit Journal): "Opaque, deep brown/black color. Smells tantalizingly of bittersweet dark chocolate, orange peel, and herbs in the first aromatic go-round; further air contact stimulates aromas of flowers, jasmine, bark, forest, honey and very light quinine. The palate entry is intensely sweet and more floral than herbal; at midpalate the taste profile turns cocoa-like with other notes of citrus rind, molasses, brown sugar, and grass. Concludes sweet, thick, and luscious." $29.95 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 2 available Maison Roullet-Fransac, under the leadership of owner Georges Roullet, maintains a tradition of producing fine quality cognac dating back to its inception in 1838. In the category of triple-distilled orange-flavored liqueurs, Bauchant is unique, a judicious combination of old cognac and extract of orange obtained from sweet as well as bitter oranges.

The high quality blend of curaçao and old cognac is a popular after-dinner drink and in hot demand as the key ingredient in a range of fashionable cocktail recipes, especially Margaritas. In recent years Bauchant has earned the endorsement of a growing number of high-profile pastry chefs around the U.S. who have found it ideal for use in dessert recipes that call for an orange-flavored liqueur among their list of ingredients – recipes such as flambéed crêpes, orange-flavored cakes and chocolate mousses. Delicate aromas of orange and tangerine. Complex and elegant with intense fruit flavors underscored by notes of caramel and butterscotch. Bauchant is ideal as an ingredient in margaritas, cosmopolitans and other cocktails, as well as in many of the most popular dessert recipes. $15.95 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 12+ available Not just your grandma's Tom Collins, we've made a refreshing Collins with floral and citrus notes. Using Centennial hops as the bittering agent prized for its aggressive floral characteristics. Mixes best with light spirits.

Build equal parts No.2 + Gin or Vodka in a glass with lots of ice, top with soda water. WHWC Staff Notes: "Mixology has been all the rage over the past few years, and amazing cocktail lists are popping up all over the country. With that in mind, husband and wife team Joe and MariElena Raya sought to simplify the process of making craft cocktails at home. Sure it's nice to paint the town red every now and again, but at $10-$15 a drink the pocketbook takes a hit. Seeking an easy way to make 5-star cocktails at home, I grabbed the newly arrived Bittermilk No. 2 Tom Collins Elderflowers & Hops mix. Excited to show off a new and innovative mixer, I darted home to share this with some friends. The cocktail was fresh, crisp, and perfectly balanced (not too sweet like your dad's Tom Collins), with wonderful hints of citrus, spring flowers, and tart hops. This is the biggest no-brainer I have ever come across (can't wait to try the other two). The smart use of a bittering agent, a sweetener, and an acid really make this an amazing mixer.

This may have turned my home bar into the new local watering hole. A must have for any serious cocktail fan!" -Tim Snyder, 5/16/14 WE 92 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 1 available List $28.00 92 points and 'Best Buy,' Wine Enthusiast: "[$28 list] With a concentrated spearmint aroma, this liqueur has a chocolaty core and plenty of cooling mint, like a Thin Mint cookie with a moderately bitter edge. Use to sass up a classic Grasshopper or other drinks that call for crème de cacao. Alcohol 30%. (Apr 2016)" Branca Menta is the mint version of Fernet Branca. It has a very firm herbal, bitterness, but it is supplemented by an intense mint scent. Deep chestnut, mahogany. High toned, mineral, alpine herbed, licorice aromatics. Rich texture. Wild, intensely concentrated palate -- like liquid Ricola. Very fresh, minty and clean with a powerful infusion of spice. For all its presence, it retains nice balance.

WE 92 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 6 available ***** Highest Recommendation, F.Paul Pacult (Spirit Journal): "Clear as mineral water; pure and viscous. The perfume of orange pulp is delicate, alluring, and tart in the first two minutes of sniffing; after aeration the aroma turns much more dry peel-like; meaning oily and focused; fabulous, elegant, sophisticated bouquet. The palate entry is intensely orange peel-like, yet more sweet than bittersweet; the midpalate stage is deeply orangey, brisk and crisp, sweet and sublimely juicy. Finishes ideally citrusy/tart/astringent, then turns lithe and sweet.The benchmark of all ornage flavored liqueurs/triple secs. None better. State of the art, period. After tasting a whole slew of competing triple sec/orange liqueurs over the last decade, it is abundantly clear as which brand is the gold standard. And I'm not even broaching the subject about using Cointreau as a necessary ingredient in margaritas." Named to F. Paul Pacult's Spirit Journal 'Hall of Fame': "The perfect liqueur in every sense of the word.

Delicious served on its own in a small glass and the indispensable ingredient in scores of legendary (Sidecar, Margarita) and contemporary cocktails (Cosmopolitan). Has weathered hundreds of imitators over the decades and when tasted side-by-side with its wannabes, it trounces all with startling conviction. A hallmark spirit of universal appeal. (Jun 2011)" 92 points Wine Enthusiast: "A classic, can't-go-wrong workhorse spirit that provides a versatile option for a wide range of cocktails. This clear liqueur has a bright, true orange scent with a hint of bitter orange on the aroma. The flavor mix is of candied orange slices and lightly bitter orange peel. The finish is warm and clean. Good balance. abv: 40%. (Feb 2012)" WE 96–100 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 2 available ***** Highest Recommendation, F. Paul Pacult (Spirit Journal): "The old gold coin/deep straw/very old sauternes hue is beautiful and flawlessly pure.

Smells of salty maritime single malt whisky right from the opening whiff; aeration plays to this great liqueurs' strengths as the layers of aroma require some time to unfold; these layers offer succulent, integrated scents of honey, heather, pine needle, thyme, and most thrilling of all, salty single malt Scotch whisky. Entry is firm, thick, gently sweet but balanced by a fierce herbal quality that's fresh and dried at the same time; the flavor profile at midpalate features more of the whisky as the various herbs, spices, and honey make merry around their whisky core. One of the top five liqueurs ever produced in the history of distilled spirits." 'Top 50 Spirits of 2008' and Classic (96-100)/Highest Recommendation, Wine Enthusiast: "The nosing passes find layers of aromas of honey, heather, pine needle, thyme and salty single malt Scotch whisky. Entry is thick, gently sweet but balanced by a fierce herbal quality; midpalate focuses on the whisky while the various herbs, spices and honey make merry around their whisky core.

One of the best liqueurs available." $32.95 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 9 available Fernet-Branca is a popular brand of amaro produced in Milan, Italy. It is a bitter, aromatic spirit made from over 40 herbs and spices, including myrrh, rhubarb, chamomile, cardamom, aloe, and saffron, with a base of grape distilled spirits, and colored with caramel coloring. The recipe is a secret, and was created by the young Maria Scala in 1845 in Milan as a medicine. Scala's name became Maria Branca through marriage, and the product's name was born. The Fernet-Branca is still produced in Milan by the company Fratelli Branca, overseen by the Branca family, though the recipe of the Italian product differs slightly from that of American bottles due to restrictions on opiates. Fernet-Branca is 40% alcohol by volume and is dark brown in color. Fernet-Branca is usually served as a digestif after a meal, but may also be enjoyed with coffee and espresso, or mixed into coffee and espresso drinks.

It may be enjoyed neat at room temperature or on the rocks (with ice). $15.95 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 1 available Medium intensity grape candy, strawberry and sweet cherry notes. Rich in flavor and texture. Delicious! Founded in 1870 in Alsace, G.E. Massenez remains today one of the last family-owned firms dedicated to the production of traditional, top-quality eaux-de-vies and crèmes. All Massenez crèmes are a triple concentration of fruit, sugar and eau-de-vie. The incomparable taste of these luscious crèmes is achieved by using only the best juice from the freshest fruit, a high dosage of sugar (400 grams per liter, as opposed to only 200 grams for liqueurs) and, most importantly, the eau-de-vie of the same fruit. It is Massenez’ consummate skill in the art of distillation which is responsible for these quintessential crèmes.

Experience the romance of the Massenez triple crèmes, which are versatile specialties and can be served in a variety of ways, including: neat or over ice in a liqueur glass with white wine or champagne (kir) in many fun, creative cocktails as an ice cream and dessert topping. $13.95 Distilled Spirits - Liqueur In stock, 8 available Founded in 1870 in Alsace, G.E. Massenez remains today one of the last family-owned firms dedicated to the production of traditional, top-quality eaux-de-vies and crèmes. All Massenez crèmes are a triple concentration of fruit, sugar and eau-de-vie. The incomparable taste of these luscious crèmes is achieved by using only the best juice from the freshest fruit, a high dosage of sugar (400 grams per liter, as opposed to only 200 grams for liqueurs) and, most importantly, the eau-de-vie of the same fruit. It is Massenez’ consummate skill in the art of distillation which is responsible for these quintessential crèmes.

Experience the romance of the Massenez triple crèmes, which are versatile specialties and can be served in a variety of ways, including: neat or over ice in a liqueur glass with white wine or champagne (kir) in many fun, creative cocktails as an ice cream and dessert topping. Showing 1 - 25 of 53 results Fancy Color Sapphires ... Not Just the Blues - Bijoux Extraordinaire Not Just the Blues! By Arthur Anderson Most often we think of sapphires as beautiful gemstones that sparkle in intoxicating shades of blue. Beautiful colors like cornflower blue, Kashmir blue and pastel blue come to mind. But sapphires are not just for the blues! Sapphires can be found in an exciting symphony of colors ranging from daffodil yellows and teal greens to hot pinks and royal purples. In fact nearly every color in the rainbow can be found in a sapphire. 18kt gold bracelet with pink, yellow and blue sapphires. The many colorful varieties of sapphire are referred to as "fancy colored sapphires." The word "sapphire" by itself is reserved for blue sapphires.

Below is a brief tour of the colorful sapphire symphony. Pretty In Pink! One of the most popular fancy colors of sapphire is pink. Whether you desire a subtle pastel pink, icy cool pink or a hot vibrant fuchsia, there is a pink sapphire for you. Pink sapphires make wonderful center gemstones, as well as accent stones set with a colorless diamond. A vibrant pink sapphire in a hand-crafted platinum ring . Exceptional pink sapphires often challenge the preeminence of their costlier cousins, pink diamonds. When designing jewelry, we like to set pink sapphires in cool white gold and platinum, perhaps with colorless diamond accents. Not so Mellow Yellow! Yellow sapphires are found in a broad palette of shades ranging from light yellow chiffon to bright effervescent lemons to deep golden yellow that almost glow with a hint of orange. We like to set the lighter, cooler shades of yellow in white gold and platinum, while the warmer hues, like the deep golden yellows and orangey-yellows, come to life when set in 18kt and 22kt yellow gold. Golden yellow sapphire set in Summer Solstice design .

Well cut yellow sapphires often rival the beauty and brilliance of yellow diamonds. Pictured above is a 2.15-carat Barion-cut set with accenting trilliant diamonds. We hand-crafted this ring in 18kt gold and platinum to showcase the beauty of the sapphire. Purple Passion! One of our favorite colors is purple and purple sapphires do not disappoint. These royal gems range in color from rich regal purple to soft pastel lavenders and violets. Recently, particularly fine examples of purple sapphire have been found in the Tunduru region of East Africa and among the rich gem deposits of Madagascar. Purple and Lilac sapphires in hand-crafted platinum ring . Some purple sapphires display a surprising color change. In candle light or incandescent lighting these sapphires are purple or violet, while in sunlight and fluorescent lighting their color changes to blue. Sapphires with a dramatic color change effect are striking jewels. These versatile gems are ideal for both daytime and evening wear! Green with Envy! Green is one of the less commonly seen shades of sapphire.

Some of the finest green sapphires come from Sri Lanka, although these stones are extremely rare. Striking examples are also found in rich blue-greens and shades of teal. Yellower stones shading towards olive green and chartreuse are more common. A teal Montana sapphire in an engraved platinum ring. Green sapphires of good color and clarity are usually found in smaller sizes. Fine stones larger than 10 carats are scarce. When we come across a striking green sapphire we usually cannot resist. Padparadschas and the Paparazzi! The most prized and rarest of fancy colored sapphires are the Padparadschas (pronounced "pod-pa-rod-shas"). These near-legendary sapphires are a rich pastel orange color that glows with secondary pink hues. The tongue twister of a name, "Padparadscha," derives from the Sinhalese word for lotus blossom, whose color is an irresistible pinkish hue. The rarity and value of Padparadscha sapphires have attracted many pretenders and recently some unfavorable press. Some gemstone dealers misleadingly refer to any orange or pink sapphire as a Padparadscha.

Other dealers offer stones that have been treated with artificial coloring agents to create a Padparadscha-like color. When purchasing an important gemstone, it is best to have the authenticity and value of the gem verified by an independent gemologist/appraiser. Whiter Shade of Pale! When you consider fancy color sapphires, do not forget the colorless or white variety. Well-cut colorless sapphires have an appearance like cool, clear water. Although colorless sapphires have often been used as substitutes for diamonds, these gemstones have a charm all their own. Custom ring set with a water-like colorless sapphire. Recently we custom created a ring for a client who was inspired by the jewels of ancient Egypt. The ring, aptly named " Jewel of the Nile ," featured an oval colorless sapphire set like a shimmering, crystalline pool of water between two bright blue sapphires. The colorless sapphire was the ideal center stone for this design - a large oval diamond would have been distracting with too much fire and sparkle. Feeling Blue? Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Kashmir and even Montana are among the exotic locales where stunning blue sapphires are found.

When it comes to blue sapphires you can find gems that range from pale, water-like pastels to heavenly shades of a blue spring sky to deep royal blues. When considering a blue sapphire it is wisest to explore the full range of colors and varieties. Emerald-cut sapphire ring with two sparkling trilliants. Unfortunately, some sapphires will leave you just feeling blue. The dark, inky blue sapphires often found in mass-produced jewelry are are too dark to show the gem’s true beauty. They are romanticized with names like "Midnight Sky" and "Australian Blue," but sadly the most attractive thing about these stones are their pretty names. The Corundum Conundrum! Earlier we noted that "nearly every color in the rainbow can be found in sapphire." One color we have not mentioned is red. This is because the gemstones we might call "red sapphires" are better known as "rubies." Both sapphire and ruby are varieties of the mineral Corundum. Gem quality specimens of Corundum are called sapphires unless they are red. If they are red, they are called rubies.

The name "ruby" derives from the Latin word rubeus meaning red. A fiery red ruby set in a regally engraved platinum ring. Turning Up the Heat Since ancient times gem cutters have heat treated sapphires and rubies to improve there color and appearance. In the 13th century Marco Polo observed the heat treatment of rubies on the island of Serendip, todays Sri Lanka. As early as the first century, Pliny the Elder noted that the color of gemstones could be permanently altered using a heated crucible and a blow pipe. It is estimated that over 98% of the sapphires sold today have been heat treated. Heat treating is a permanent process that can enhance the beauty of a sapphire. When custom creating jewels we work with both heat-treated and unheated sapphires depending on the choice of the clients. Often a client selects a heat-treated gem because of the stone's greater beauty. A striking heat-treated Violet Sapphire . When you are considering a sapphire, the seller should openly disclose if the stone has been heat treated. Under the law the seller is required to disclose any treatment that materially affects the value of the gem.

If a seller is evasive or does not disclose that a sapphire has been heat treated, you should probably look for another seller. A Word of Caution "There is no fraud which yields greater profit than that of counterfeiting gems." So observed Pliny the Elder in the first century. What was true 2000 years ago is still true today. Sapphires, like most beautiful and rare gems, have attracted their share of imitators and adulterers. Synthetic (lab grown) sapphires have been produced since the early 1900s. Simulants and imitation "sapphires" date back to antiquity. And today high-tech alchemy is used to alter the color and composition of less desirable stones. If you are considering the purchase of an important sapphire or other gemstone, you should have an independent gemologist/appraiser verify the authenticity, quality and value of the gem. As always, caution, education and expertise are your best protection against the deceptions and shenanigans sometimes found in the gemstone markets. Unheated natural sapphire set in Hidden Treasures design .

"Designing jewelry with fancy colored sapphires is like drawing with the Deluxe Box of Crayola Crayons. There is always a color that is perfect for the jewel you are creating," Judi Anderson, our chief gemologist and jewelry designer. Please also visit our Fancy Color Sapphire Gallery where we feature a dazzling array of fancy color sapphires set in beautiful rings.

Question: Chartreuse liqueur can be found in two colours. Yellow is one what is the other?
Answer: Green