Jewelry Processing into Raw Form.

Jewelry dealers rely heavily on companies that can refine anything that is made of precious metals and gemstones. In fact, it's not always necessary to look for beautiful jewelry when it comes to refining. Any piece of unattractive precious metal or stone can have value when it's refined and processed properly. Jewelry shops have direct partnerships with refineries that can melt gold, silver, platinum, palladium and other metals that are used for jewelry pieces.

Maleficent-inspired jewelry by HSN.

Industrial style processes are used to melt the pure composition of the pieces and then remove any impurities that do not have much value on the jewelry market. Refineries are interested in obtaining the raw form of precious metals that could be easily melted away with powerful furnaces. When the metals are liquid, they are poured into moldings and then allowed to solidify slowly in a controlled cooling process. A gold refinery plant specializes in turning bullion and jewelry into raw form of gold. Karat ratings become irrelevant when talking about pure blocks of this precious metal that has been traded for ages.

Maleficent-inspired jewelry by HSN.

Extracting gemstones from jewelry is a little bit more challenging. The crystal structures of most stones tend to change with temperature and pressure. Therefore, very careful processes are used to slowly separate precious gemstones from non precious stones and other impurities. Sometimes, the internal crystal structure of a gem might have some impurities trapped inside. It's acceptable to have some inclusions because gemstones are rated based on the type of clarity they possess.

5 Great Jewels For Engagement Rings.

Ready to pop the question? Not sure which ring is the right one for your special lady? Here are five gems that make unforgettable engagement rings.

1. Sapphires
Popularized by Princess Diana and other royal brides, sapphires create breathtaking pieces of jewelry, especially if they're cut with white gold or glittering diamonds. Your intended won't be able to turn down a sapphire ring.

Princess Diana's famous sapphire ring.

2. Rubies
Long considered the jewel of love and passion, rubies are a popular centerpiece for engagement rings. Their history makes them a fitting choice; their blood-red beauty makes them a gorgeous one.

3. Diamonds
Diamonds are a girl's best friend. Diamonds are forever. You've heard all the cliches, but their legendary status is valid: No woman will ever say no to a diamond engagement ring.

4. Emeralds
Emeralds have become a hot item in recent years, but their prevalence can actually be traced all the way back to Edward VIII, who addicted his throne to marry the woman he loved. He gave the lucky lady an emerald ring with a personalized inscription. Swoon!

Photo credit: Faycullen

5. Moissanite
Moissanite is a more affordable alternative to diamonds, so if you're trying to shop discount engagement rings, this is the rock for you. Strong and pure, it offers all the shine of a thousand-dollar piece but for a fraction of the cost.

While there are countless gems in the world, these are a few of the most popular for engagement rings. Remember, at the end of the day, it isn't about the size of the stone. It's about the love in your heart.