International Gem Society

Articles by International Gem Society

Mahogany-brown zircon crystals</a> on matrix, 7.2 x 3.4 x 3.2 cm. Alter Pedroso, Portalegre District, Portugal. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.mineralauctions.com/">mineralauctions.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

How Do Zircons Form?

As a December birthstone, blue zircon is very popular. But are blue zircons natural? Learn how zircons form and get...

cassiterite played a pivotal role during the <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bronze_Age">Bronze Age</a> (from roughly 3,300 BCE to 1,200 BCE). Tin and copper are needed to create bronze. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/minerals/specimen/37824">Cassiterite crystal on matrix</a>, Huya beryl-scheelite deposit, Huya village, Mt Xuebaoding, Pingwu Co., Sichuan Province, China, 3.7 x 3.1 x 2.8 cm. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

What is a Mineral?

How do scientists define a mineral? Learn what minerals are made of, the difference between gemstones and minerals, and their...

Tom Munsteiner</a>. 5.54 cts, 14 mm, Brazil. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Natural Radiation and Gemstone Color

Natural radiation can create beautiful colors in many gemstones. Learn how natural radiation works and the gems most commonly affected...

CustomMade. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Zircon Heat Treatment

Are zircons natural gemstones? Learn how zircon heat treatment works and the difference between zircon and cubic zirconia.

Jim Buday</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Shinypreciousgems." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Cleo Eye Gemstone Design for a Moissanite

https://vimeo.com/891998005?share=copy Check out the full-length video on the International Gem Society YouTube Channel. Jim Buday takes you step by step through...

Void Reaver Gem Design for a Lab-Created Alexandrite

https://vimeo.com/848434700?share=copy Check out the full-length video on the International Gem Society YouTube Channel. About Jim Buday Jim Buday was born and...

D20 Gemstone: a Dungeons and Dragons-Inspired Design

https://vimeo.com/839864900?share=copy Check out the full-length video on the International Gem Society YouTube Channel. About Jim Buday Born and raised in...

Appraising Turquoise: Challenges for Gemologists

What do gemologists need to know when appraising turquoise? Learn what are the main value factors to consider and the...

Heart-shaped, 49-ct cabochon doublet</a>, cut from stabilized turquoise rough from Kingman, Arizona. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.etsy.com/in-en/shop/49erMinerals?ref=l2-shopheader-name%22>49erMinerals. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Turquoise Treatments and Synthetics Guide

Almost all turquoises receive enhancements for jewelry use. Learn how to identify the most common turquoise treatments and synthetic options....

Traditional Turquoise Jewelry Styles

People have prized turquoise jewelry for millennia. Learn about these traditional turquoise designs that still influence modern artisans.

How to Cut a Moissanite: Rupee Step Cut

https://vimeo.com/video/861664423 Check out the full-length video on the International Gem Society YouTube Channel. About Jim Buday Born and raised in...

Turquoise Color and the Color Turquoise

Is all turquoise turquoise color? Learn about this gem's most popular natural colors and how people have prized them for...

Turquoise Care Guide

Beautiful turquoises tend to show wear over time. Our turquoise care guide will show you the best ways to clean...

Lightly polished but naturally shaped turquoise</a>, Zhushan Co., Shiyan, Hubei Province, China, 15.0 x 11.7 x 7.9 cm. Video © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

How Do Turquoises Form?

Turquoise gems can show many beautiful variations. Learn how turquoises form and how geology affects their color, shape, and durability....

16 Black Gemstones (How Many Do You Know?)

Some black gemstones are so well-known their names have become synonymous with the color black. Others are less well-known by...

Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Shakko">Shakko. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode">CC By-SA 3.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

What are Balas Rubies and Ruby Spinels?

For centuries, balas rubies were prized by royalty. Learn what happened after gemologists identified these gems as red spinels instead....

Four Famous Spinels

Although the world’s most famous spinels are named “rubies,” these gems are distinct species. Learn the stories behind four of...

crystal, 1.7 x 1.3 x 1.2 cm. Mogok, Myanmar. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

How Do Spinels Form?

Available in many colors, spinels are becoming more popular with consumers. Learn how spinels form and how these gemstones get...

Lotus Gemology</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Spinel Inclusions

The materials trapped inside gems hold a wealth of information. Learn what the most common types of spinel inclusions reveal...

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/6107/time-art/">Time Art</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

What are Cobalt Spinels?

Learn how gemologists identify cobalt spinels and what qualities you should look for when buying these beautiful, vivid blue gemstones....

Choosing a Spinel Engagement Ring Stone

Our spinel engagement ring stone guide can help you learn about this beautiful, colorful, durable, but little-known gemstone.

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/6226/gems-auction/">Gems Auction</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Spinel Treatments and Enhancements

Spinels are rarely treated, but gemologists should know how to detect spinel treatments. Learn about filling, heating, and diffusion.

Anniversary Gifts By Year

The anniversary gift for year 1 is gold, and the anniversary gift for year 2 is garnet. Our chart tells...

Does Synthetic Jade Exist?

You might find synthetic jade for sale, but is this material really lab-made jade or something else? Learn how to...

Distinguishing Common Jade Lookalikes

Our table comparing the properties of jade lookalikes with natural jade will help gemologists distinguish authentic jade from simulants.

Is Xinjiang Nephrite Banned in the US?

How does the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act of 2021 affect imports of Xinjiang nephrite jade from China? Learn what...

Jade Color Trade Names

Jade color trade names describe prized hues and patterns in jadeite and nephrite stones. Learn about the most popular and...

Do the 2021 US Myanmar Sanctions Affect the Jade Trade?

What do the 2021 Myanmar sanctions cover and will they affect the jade trade? Learn about the origins, scope, and...

dagger hilt</a> of Emperor Aurangzeb (1658–1707), India, from the Nasli and Alice Heeramaneck Collection, the <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.lacma.org/">Los Angeles County Museum of Art</a>. Public Domain." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Nephrite Jade Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Nephrite is one of the two distinct minerals commonly known as jade. While nephrite doesn't match the variety or the...

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Jade Engagement Ring Guide

Jade is an elegant choice for an engagement ring stone. Our jade engagement ring guide will show you how to...

Maw Sit Sit Guide

Learn everything you need to know about maw sit sit, a rare, vibrant green gem rock used to make beautiful...

Jade Sources

Jadeite and nephrite occur all over the world. Learn about the most notable and productive gem-quality jade sources..

Nephrite Jade Carvings from Ancient China

Nephrite jade carvings can teach us about Ancient China. See how ideas of transformation are reflected in numerous ritual objects....

Jade Toughness and Care

Jade toughness is legendary. However, this gem isn’t indestructible. Learn what makes jadeite and nephrite so tough and how to...

How Does Jade Form?

The minerals known as jade, jadeite and nephrite, appear similar but have different properties. Learn how these materials form geologically....

variscite cabochon</a>, 55.5 cts, 26.5 x 42.9 x 5.4 mm, Australia. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.etsy.com/in-en/shop/49erMinerals?ref=l2-shopheader-name%22>49erMinerals. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Variscite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

With beautiful green to blue-green colors and interesting patterns, variscite is a popular hobbyist material for cabochons.

Jessa and Mark Anderson</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Does Chrysoprase Jewelry Fade?

Should you wear chrysoprase jewelry only at night to protect the gem’s striking green color? Learn the facts here.

Legrandite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Too soft for jewelry use, legrandite is a popular collector’s mineral because of its intense yellow color and aesthetic crystal...

trillion-cut diamonds. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/63570900_estate-18kt-white-gold-37-carat-sapphire-ring">Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/2514/greenwich-auction/">Greenwich Auction</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Sapphire Symbolism

Beautiful blue colors and the star stone effect have influenced sapphire symbolism through the ages. Learn more about the legends...

Smithsonite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Smithsonite occurs across the globe, but facetable crystals are extremely rare. These gems can show a wide range range of...

Vivianite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Vivianite is so fragile and soft, any faceted gems would be difficult to handle safely, let alone wear. Nevertheless, its...

Can You Identify Gems Without Seeing Gemstone Colors?

Did you know most gem species can be distinguished without the element of color? Learn the role gemstone colors play...

ARK Rare Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Eudialyte Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Although lapidaries can cut cabochons and decorative objects from massive or translucent eudialyte crystals, transparent material suitable for faceting is...

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/320/ritchies-auctioneers/">Ritchies Auctioneers</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Price and Value: Factory-Cut vs Custom-Cut Gemstones

How does faceting affect gem value? Unique custom-cut gemstones command high prices. Learn how custom cutting compares to factory cutting....

Square-cabbed onyx</a>, 3.58 cts, 10.15 mm, Brazil. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.mineralauctions.com/">www.mineralauctions.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Onyx Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

For millennia, artisans have carved intricate cameos from black-and-white onyx. Solid black onyxes, faceted or cabbed, are also popular jewelry...

Sterling silver ring</a> featuring a trillion-cut peridot in a solitaire setting with a twisted socket. 1.38 cts, 7.33 x 7.40 x 4.33 mm, Ethiopia. Jewelry designed by Sheelagh Zagoritis. Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.theraregemstonecompany.com/">The Rare Gemstone Company</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Peridot Buying Guide

Our peridot buying guide can help you learn how these gems are graded, what to avoid, and how to identify...

What are Lab-Grown Sapphires?

Learn how lab grown sapphires are made and how gemologists can distinguish natural from synthetic sapphires.

49erMinerals. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Covellite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Although covellite has attractive blue colors and shows iridescence, this rare mineral is difficult to cut. You can scratch it...

18k gold necklace</a> featuring a 5.3-ct sphalerite with diamond accents. Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1098/michaan-s-auctions/">Michaan's Auctions</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Sphalerite Buying Guide

Our sphalerite buying guide can help you learn how these gems are graded, what to avoid, and how to identify...

Brilliant shield-cut bytownite</a>, 21.34 cts, 26.7 x 18.1 mm, Mexico. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Bytownite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Although bytownite occurs throughout the world, this feldspar variety is rarely encountered in gem-quality condition.

Custom cushion-cut villiaumite</a>, 4.49 cts, 10.3 x 8.8 mm, Mont-Saint Hilaire, Quebec, Canada. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Villiaumite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

A little-known and rare collector’s gemstone, villiaumite is very difficult to facet. Its toxicity also makes it inadvisable to handle...

Gemstone Faceting Terms: A Glossary for Students

A glossary of frequently encountered gemstone faceting terms for the student gemologist. Our list covers gemology, gem cutting, and equipment....

Choosing the Best Faceting Wax for Your Task

Faceting wax or dop wax comes in different colors with different melting points. Learn how to choose the wax best...

pair of earrings</a>set in 14K rose gold offers the wearer the benefits of six different colors of sapphire. " src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

September Birthstone: Sapphire

What is the birthstone for September? The birthstone for September is sapphire. Sapphires are members of the gem species corundum....

Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Thisisbossi">thisisbossi. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5/legalcode">CC By-SA 2.5</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

The World’s Largest Emeralds

Emerald crystals can grow very large. Learn about some of the world’s largest emeralds, whether rough, faceted, or carved.

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Heliodor Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Heliodor is a member of the beryl family. This stone is known for its range of yellow colors — from...

Fantasy Gem Designs: Cutting Techniques

Fantasy gem designs combine elements from faceted and cabbed stones as well as artistic embellishments. Learn the basics of this...

Emerald Origins: History and Identification

Emeralds from different sources can vary in quality. Learn how to identify emerald origins by analyzing the optical and physical...

Proustite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Proustite crystals have magnificent red colors and good brilliance. Although facetable, they're too soft for jewelry use but highly desired...

How to Facet Gems

What does it take to facet gems? Patience and HAI, locking the gem at the right height, angle, and index...

Wulfenite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Although aesthetically magnificent wulfenite crystals are often too thin, soft, and sensitive to cut for jewelry, rare faceted pieces are...

Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/mauroescritor/">Mauro Cateb</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Gold Refining Advice for Jewelers

Before you turn the alloyed gold you got a great deal on into gold jewelry, carefully consider what gold refining...

What are Black Diamonds and Carbonados?

Most black diamonds used in jewelry are enhanced, but natural black-colored diamonds do exist. Learn more about these as well...

Rutile Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Though perhaps best known as inclusions within other gems, rutile crystals themselves can be faceted or cabbed as curiosities for...

Xonotlite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Xonotlite is strong and can take a good polish. However, these gems are extremely rare, both as a species and...

Jewelry Making Tools: An Introduction

Jewelry making is a great way to tap into your creative side. Learn what jewelry making tools you’ll need to...

Leucite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Although abundant in various lava rocks, leucite is extremely rare in gem-quality form and often has a milky or cloudy...

A World of Crystals

We live in a world of crystals. Learn what they are and where you can find them, from deep underground...

Properly Charging Ceramic Laps

A ceramic lap is an excellent choice for polishing gemstones. Here is a guide for properly charging ceramic laps and...

Zektzerite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Small, cuttable crystals of very rare zektzerite are found only in a mountainous location in Washington state. Faceted pieces would...

Faceted petalite</a>, 13.35 cts, Pech, Kunar Province, Afghanistan. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Petalite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Gem-quality, colorless, facetable petalite is rare and desirable to collectors. More so if the stones are large and free of...

Tips for Polishing Synthetic Corundum

Polishing synthetic corundum without leaving pits requires certain techniques and tools. Get expert lapidary advice here.

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Rhodonite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Ranging in color from pink to a fine rose red, rhodonite is a popular material for jewelry and decorative objects....

Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/edenpictures/">Eden, Janine and Jim</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Polishing Gemstones for Beginners: Pre-Polishing Advice

Polishing gemstones is difficult to master. Pre-polishing plays a major role in how well a gem can take a polish....

Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/mhowry/">Matt Howry</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Top Spots for Gem Hunting in the US

Visit one of the top gem hunting spots in the US. Go alone or with the family. A gemology-themed vacation...

Apophyllite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Although not suitable for jewelry, apophyllite is a popular collector's piece. Perhaps the whitest of all gems, some cut specimens...

Gem Formation: How are Gemstones Created?

Gem formation usually involves mineral crystallization and other geological processes. Learn how these affect the gemstone properties gemologists study.

Cuprite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

One of the rarest of all facetable gems, cut cuprites can show magnificent deep red color. However, these beautiful stones...

Gemstone Optical Properties

Learn how gemstone optical properties, like refractive index and pleochroism, help gemologists identify gems and lapidaries choose cuts.

Sapphire Buying Guide

Long associated with royalty, sapphires are some of the most popular (and expensive) gems in the world. Our sapphire buying...

Anhydrite (Angelite) Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Rare and difficult to cut, anhydrite is seldom faceted. However, this material can be carved into beautiful objects. “Angelite,” a...

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/5584/jasper52/">Jasper52." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Parisite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

More well-known as rare inclusions in emeralds, parisite crystals are usually small and seldom faceted.

Spinel Buying Guide

Our spinel buying guide can help you learn how spinels are graded and how to identify a high-quality stone or...

The Foundation Stones of the New Testament

Commentaries on the foundation stones of the Book of Revelation influenced the development of the Western birthstone system. Learn more...

Is Golden Beryl a Good Gem Choice for Jewelry?

Golden beryl, also known as heliodor, can display rich colors and is an excellent gem choice for jewelry. Learn more...

Diamond Rough and Equipment for the Occasional Diamond Cutter

Finding good diamond rough and the right equipment can be challenging for a non-professional diamond cutter. Learn what to look...

Report Card for the Best Engagement Ring Insurance in 2024

Independent report by International Gem Society on the Best Engagement Ring Insurance on the Market in 2022.

Euclase Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Although hard enough to be worn safely in jewelry, euclase in beautiful colors is rare over a few carats. It’s...

Gemstone Wholesale Prices and the Art of Appraising

There are few guides to gemstone wholesale prices. However, appraising gemstones requires in-depth knowledge and experience, not just price lists....

Choosing the Best Colored Gemstones for Engagement Rings

Looking for alternatives to a classic diamond engagement ring? Learn about your options and see some wonderful photos of colored...

photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/jessa1155/">Jessa and Mark Anderson</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Jewelry Nomenclature: Jewelry Attachments and Various Findings

Jewelry attachments are the pieces used to hold jewelry items together. Learn about the most popular types as well as...

18k rose gold necklace</a> with 8.14-ct heart-cut spessartine garnet and 0.32-ct pear-cut diamond pendant. Image courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1670/auctionata-paddle-8-ag/">Auctionata Paddle 8 AG</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Garnet Symbolism

Garnet symbolism is rich and varied. The January birthstone has inspired many legends and popular associations with love, friendship, light,...

Phenakite, 12.69 cts, Takowaja River Area, Ural Mountains, Russia. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Phenakite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Rare phenakite is a very hard gem material suitable for jewelry. Usually colorless, cut stones have little fire but can...

Jewelry Nomenclature: Gem Earrings

Earrings are available in many styles. Learn to identify the most popular types of metal and gem earrings and the...

Giovanni Maria Morlaiter</a> (1699-1781). <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Aaron_by_Giovanni_Maria_Morlaiter.jpg">Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Moroder">Wolfgang Moroder</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode">CC By-SA 3.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

What Were the Gemstones of the Breastplate of Aaron?

In Exodus, the breastplate of Aaron was said to hold 12 gems. However, the gemological identities of the stones, like...

Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/angelinascloset/">Choon Hong Yap</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Jewelry Nomenclature: Gem Bracelets and Necklaces

Bracelets and necklaces share much of their terminology. Learn the names and functions of the different parts of these popular...

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/2182/ark-auction/">Ark Auction</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Recommendations for Polishing Silver Jewelry

These cleaning tips will make polishing silver jewelry a little easier. Learn how to prevent tarnish and how to clean...

Tugtupite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Gem collectors prize tugtupite, the "Reindeer Stone," for its rich colors and intense reaction to ultraviolet light. Sporadically used in...

Jewelry Nomenclature: Gem Rings

Though rings may come in many styles, gem cutters will regularly encounter a few common types of gem rings. Learn...

The Pocket Spectroscope: A Quick Guide for Gemologists

An inexpensive pocket spectroscope can be great for student gemologists as well as pros who need to identify gems while...

Serandite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

To date, only one locality — Mont St. Hilaire, Quebec, Canada — has produced facetable serandite. These extremely rare gems...

Cutting Star Gemstones: Tips for Beginners

Want to start cutting beautiful star gemstones? Here are some helpful gemological resources for novice lapidaries and jewelers.

2-carat oval brilliant cut center diamond</a> stands out among diamond accents along the shank and milgrain details. © Blue Nile" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Tips and Tricks To Buy Diamonds Online

If you want to buy a diamond online rather than at a brick-and-mortar store, you’ll need to be well-informed. These...

Humite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Clinohumites and chondrodites can make beautiful gemstones with rich colors, but these members of the humite mineral group are rare...

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1056/pioneer-auction-gallery/">Pioneer Auction Gallery</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Do Emeralds and Peridots Look Good Together?

Although emeralds and peridots are both green gems, differences in shade might make it hard to pair them in jewelry....

How to Grade Fancy Cut Diamonds

Fancy cut diamonds can have any finished shape, except round. These stones have their own grading criteria, in particular regarding...

Weloganite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Truly a collector’s gem, weloganite is very rare and seldom cut. This stone can show pale yellow colors.

How to Orient Sapphires with Silk Inclusions

Silk inclusions in sapphires are hard to detect. Learn to pick the best orientation and cut for these gems. You...

Colemanite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Colemanite is an abundant mineral, and transparent material isn’t rare. However, gem cutters rarely facet these typically pale stones. Difficult...

2021 Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals on Diamond Rings

Online diamond sellers have occasional sales throughout the year but it's time-consuming to keep track of them all. One thing...

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Top 5 Facts About Diamonds

Here are the top 5 facts about diamonds you need to know: (1) the supply of blood diamonds has decreased;...

Dolomite, 16.94 cts, “Trillion Brilliant” cut, Eugui, Esteribar, Navarre, Spain. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Dolomite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Although transparent dolomite crystals are fairly abundant and popular collector’s items, faceted gems are soft, fragile, and rarely seen in...

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How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?

Throw the old engagement ring budget rule in the trash. You should spend as much or as little as you...

Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/deidrew/">Deidre Wollard</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

How to Dry Opals Safely

Opals should be handled with care. If you buy opals that have been kept in water, follow these instructions to...

Oval-cut cryolite</a>, 0.66 cts, 6.64 mm x 4.48 mm, Ivigtut, Greenland. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Cryolite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Typically colorless with a “sleepy” look, cryolite is rarely found in nature. Rough suitable for gem faceting is extremely scarce....

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1392/im-chait-galleryauctioneers/">I.M. Chait Gallery/Auctioneers</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Cobaltite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Cobaltite cabochons can have a lovely metallic luster. However, this gem material is very seldom faceted.

How Can a Gemstone’s Optic Sign Change?

A gemstone's optic sign may be listed as either + or -. Learn whether impurities in a specific stone or...

Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.g-empire.de/">DonGuennie. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode">CC By-SA 3.0</a>. (Cropped to show detail)." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Chambersite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Chambersite is an exceedingly rare mineral. Although it has properties suitable for jewelry use, its crystals occur in very small...

black opal stone</a>, 31.8 cts. Photo © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.joelarem.com">Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Opal Wearability and Jewelry Tips

Are opals too delicate for jewelry? Learn how to choose the right settings for opal wearability, so you can enjoy...

emerald radiant-cut 67.85-ct barite</a>, 28.1 x 17 mm, Madagascar. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Barite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Massive white barite (also called known as baryte) looks like marble and could be used for decorative purposes. In spite...

Custom square-cut anorthite</a> with copper inclusions, 0.23 cts, 3.6 mm, Miyake-jima, Japan. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Anorthite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

The rarest plagioclase feldspar, anorthite is very rarely faceted.

Lapidary Tips for Polishing Girdles

What are the best techniques and tools for polishing girdles? Learn how to complete your faceted gems quickly and easily...

Light yellow datolite</a>, 5.99 cts, 12.6 x 10.2 x 7.5 mm, oval cut</a>, Dalnegorsk, Russia. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.arkraregems.com/">ARK Rare Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Datolite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Polished and sliced datolite nodules can show off very attractive colors. Datolite is a popular collector’s mineral, but faceted and...

What Does the GIA Colored Gem Grading Code Mean?

The GIA grading system describes gem color in terms of hue, tone, and saturation. Learn what the abbreviations and numbers...

Rhodochrosite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Beautiful rose red to pink rhodochrosite crystals are popular with mineral collectors. Although very soft, opaque stones have been fashioned...

Descriptive Crystallography for Gemologists

Crystallography is the study of crystalline solids. Learn the most common terms gemologists use to describe the structure of crystal...

Scorodite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

With lovely colors and intense pleochroism, faceted scorodite is a prize for collectors of the rare and unusual. However, it’s...

Spectrum Award</a> winner Mark Kaufman. 62.27 cts, 24.0 x 17.0 x 11.0 mm, Touissit, Oujda-Angad Province, Oriental Region, Morocco. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Anglesite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Although anglesites with pale colors can show great dispersion and brightness, they’re difficult to cut and inadvisable to wear. Faceted...

18K Yellow Gold Pear Shape Bezel Set Diamond Tiara Engagement Ring by James Allen</a>. © James Allen" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

How to Choose the Best Metal for Your Engagement Ring

Platinum and gold are the two of the best types of metal for an engagement ring. But they aren't the...

Oval mixed-cut kyanite</a>, 4.55 cts, 11.3 x 8.1 mm, Nepal. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Kyanite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Kyanite’s physical properties make it very difficult to facet. However, it’s a popular collector’s gem, especially in sapphire-blue colors.

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/7348/saxon-minerals-llc/">Saxon Minerals, LLC</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Amazonite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

A green to blue-green variety of microcline, amazonite makes a wonderful gemstone for cabbing and carving.

How to Modify a Powder Scale for Specific Gravity Testing

Learn how to modify a powder scale for specific gravity testing. A handmade wire basket will make this easy-to-use scale...

Siderite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Siderite is difficult to cut, but this light brown collector's gem has yielded faceted pieces of great beauty.

Guide to Organizing Your Gemstone Collection

Learn how to organize your gemstone collection. Choose the storage and display options that are right for you and create...

Serpentine Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

The gem material known as serpentine actually encompasses several related mineral species. For millennia, people have cut serpentines into beautiful...

Round brilliant-cut anatase</a>, 0.13 cts, 2.9 mm, Brazil. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Anatase Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Anatase occurs in many beautiful colors, such as deep indigo and amber yellow. However, these rare gems are seldom transparent...

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/5584/jasper52/">Jasper52." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Purpurite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Purpurite is too soft for jewelry wear and never transparent. Nevertheless, lapidaries have cut cabochons from this material with magnificent...

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/5584/jasper52/">Jasper52." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Best Rough Gemstones for Beginning Faceting

Learn which rough gemstones are ideal for beginning faceting practice. A progression of relatively inexpensive gem species can teach important...

tsavorite. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.customgemstones.com/">Dan Stairs Custom Gemstones</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Why Choose a Barion Cut?

Gem faceters must consider factors like brilliance, color, and faceting yield before choosing a cut style. Learn what a Barion...

Creedite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Probably fewer than a dozen creedite gems have ever been faceted. This rare mineral is rarer still as a cuttable...

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Jewelry Insurance Companies

Our jewelry insurance guide reviews the policies of the top eight companies. Learn what to look for so you can...

Ludlamite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Ludlamite has a lovely green color, but cut stones are extremely rare. Large crystals of this phosphate mineral are known...

Jade Symbolism

Both jadeite and nephrite have inspired beautiful works of art and a rich body of lore. Jade symbolism covers themes...

Standard Gem Sizes Chart

Will your gem fit in a standard setting? Use this chart of standard gem sizes for popular cuts and also...

Prosopite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Prosopite is usually a nondescript mineral with no gem significance. However, beautiful blue specimens are sometimes cut for jewelry.

Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/5584/jasper52/">Jasper52." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Hematite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Hematite has a long history of use as a pigment. As a gemstone, this material is often carved but very...

Wavellite pendant</a> by Lexi Erickson. Photo: Jim Lawson. Originally appeared in <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.interweave.com/magazines/">Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist</a>, December 2011. Used by permission of the publisher." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Wavellite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Wavellite is a very attractive mineral, well-known to collectors. Its radial aggregate crystal clusters can be cut into extremely interesting...

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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Stibiotantalite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Rare stibiotantalite possesses an interesting mix of physical and optical properties that help distinguish it from other earth-toned gemstones. However,...
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classic round cut ring</a> by CustomMade." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Active Promo Codes for Diamond Rings and Jewelry
Updated July 23, 2022. Up-to-date promo codes, coupons, and sales to save you money on diamond rings, engagement rings, jewelry,...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/greyloch/">greyloch. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/legalcode">CC By-SA 2.0</a>. " src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Appraising Opals
Opals are unique gems with their own unique terminology. Learn the modern standard system for classifying and appraising opals used...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Arpingstone">Adrian Pingstone</a>. Public Domain." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Sodalite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Typically blue, durable, and easy to cut, sodalite is highly desired by hobbyists. Even stones that lack transparency make lovely...
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Photo by jimthompson</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/legalcode">CC By-SA 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
What is a Gem?
Even the most general definition of a gem has many exceptions. Learn what qualities have been used to identify gemstones...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/7203/first-state-arts-and-antiques/">First State Arts and Antiques</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Mellite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Mellite is a rare and unusual organic gemstone. Although soft and fragile, the “honey stone” is quite beautiful when cut....
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Should I Make an Investment in Bargain Rubies?
Do you have an offer for bargain rubies that's too good to be true? Learn what you need to know...
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Gemstones with Health Benefits
Since ancient times, people have believed gems could have healing properties. Let’s take a look at some popular gemstones with...
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fluorite specimen with exceptional brightness. 18.56-ct, oval brilliant cut, Chumar Bakhoor, Hunza Valley, Gilgit District, Gilgit-Baltistan (Northern Areas), Pakistan. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Cropped to show detail. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Fluorite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Although too fragile for most jewelry use, fluorites are often faceted for collectors. They occur in a wide range of...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Grandidierite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
A rather rare mineral, lovely blue-green grandidierite is seldom seen in gem or jewelry collections. Translucent material is sometimes cut...
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Can Wearing Gems That Touch Your Skin Improve Your Health?
Will wearing gems that touch the skin of your finger bring you health benefits? Before you buy any ring stone,...
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James Allen</a>" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
The Best Asscher Cut Diamond Engagement Rings For Every Budget
Asscher diamonds get their name from the Royal Asscher Diamond Company, the Dutch company that invented the cut. It features...
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James Allen</a>" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
The Best Round Engagement Rings For Every Budget
Round cut diamonds have been around for centuries. As a timeless diamond cut, they offer exceptional resilience in popularity when...
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James Allen</a>" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
The Best Cushion-Cut Engagement Rings For Every Budget
Cushion-cut diamonds are the second most sought-after diamonds on the market today. The cut's popularity comes from combining two other...
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Gem and Jewelry Insurance Quotes: Four Money-Saving Questions
How can you get lower gem and jewelry insurance quotes? Asking a potential insurer these four questions could help lower...
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Is Lab-Created Alexandrite Real Alexandrite?
Natural alexandrite is popular and rare, which creates a market for synthetics. But is lab-created alexandrite real alexandrite? Learn the...
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Jewelry and Gemstone Insurance: Nine Questions You Need to Ask
Before you buy jewelry and gemstone insurance, learn what to ask insurance companies and make sure the policy meets your...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/5584/jasper52/">Jasper52." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Bloodstone Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Also known as heliotrope, bloodstone is the traditional March birthstone. This dark green, opaque chalcedony with red to orange spots...
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Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Gems and Jewelry?
Your homeowners insurance may cover gems and jewelry, but don’t assume it covers all risks or the value of your...
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Is Uranium Glass Safe to Facet?
Uranium glass, or Vaseline glass, is a prized collector's item and is generally safe to handle. But is it safe...
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James Allen</a>" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
The Best Oval Diamond Engagement Rings for Every Budget
Oval diamonds are consistently one of the most popular diamond cuts on the market. Oval diamond engagement rings are popular...
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Kämmererite (individual crystals average 5 mm across; specimen measures 8.7 x 5.4 x 4.2 cm), Kop Krom mine, Kop Daglari, Erzurum Province, Turkey. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Kämmererite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
A beautiful but rare mineral, kämmererite is extraordinarily difficult to facet. As a result, the availability of cut gems is...
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Jewelry and Gemstone Appraisals for Insurance
Need insurance for your jewelry? You’ll need jewelry and gemstone appraisals. Learn what info they should include and who to...
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Diamond Museum</a> in Bruges, Belgium. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/4nitsirk/4335960802/">Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/4nitsirk/">Kristina D.C. Hoeppner</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/legalcode">CC By-SA 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Diamond Cutting for Hobbyists: Getting Started
With study, care, and the right tools, hobbyist gem cutters can add diamond cutting to their repertoire. Get started with...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/aprilmjewelry/">April M</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/legalcode">CC By-ND 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Jet Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Historically a popular black gem, jet has declined in popularity in modern times. Although jet jewelry has been long associated...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/paparutzi/">Christina Rutz</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Are There Any Fair Gemstone Pricing Formulas?
Can gemstone pricing formulas help gem merchants and buyers make fair deals? Learn what factors should play a role in...
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What’s the Difference Between Mineral Samples and Gem Rough?
For faceting, the distinction between gems and minerals is usually clarity. However, learn why the decision to cut may be...
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Aquamarine Grading and Pricing
Aquamarines are evaluated based on the Four Cs: color, clarity, cut, and carat. Learn how each factor affects aquamarine grading...
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Learn How to Use the IGS Gem Price Guide
The IGS Gem Price Guide covers commonly traded colored gemstones as well as more unusual, collectible gems. The values listed...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Spurrite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
An attractive but uncommon mineral, spurrite has seldom been cut as a gemstone. However, it has the hardness and tenacity...
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Rectangular radiant-cut kurnakovite</a>, 4.36 cts, 13.5 x 9 mm, Boron, California. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Kurnakovite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Kurnakovite is difficult to cut, inadvisable to wear, and usually colorless. Consequently, faceted specimens are extremely rare.
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Rhodizite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Rhodizite is tough enough to make an excellent jewelry stone. However, it's quite a rare mineral. Faceted specimens are extremely...
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cerussite, a very soft gem notoriously difficult to facet. Jewelry aficionados can't wear this gem species easily. The "Light" is no lightweight. It weighs 898 carats, around 6.33 oz, and measures about as large as a human palm. It resides in the <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.rom.on.ca/en#/gallery/recent">Royal Ontario Museum</a> in Toronto, Canada. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Light_of_the_Desert.jpg">Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Miranda1989&action=edit&redlink=1%22>Miranda1989.%c2%a0Public domain." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
What is Gemstone Dispersion?
Learn what gemstone dispersion means, what causes it, and how it relates to other optical effects.
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A Tribute to Bench Jewelers
Bench jewelers work very hard with little or no acknowledgement, creating and repairing treasured possessions. These stories pay tribute to...
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ARK Rare Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Epidote Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
The epidote mineral supergroup contains many related species of interest to collectors. However, epidote itself is the one most likely...
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Barion emerald-cut aquamarine</a>, 1.3 cts, Mozambique. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://customgemstones.com">Dan Stairs Custom Gemstones</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Creating Ring Mountings for Deep-Cut Gemstones
Deep-cut gems like Barions may not fit in standard ring mountings. Jewelers can try to find special mounts or custom...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/5584/jasper52/">Jasper52." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Obsidian Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Obsidian is the most common form of natural glass and occurs in many attractive varieties. Since prehistoric times, people have...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Phenomenal Gems: Cat’s Eyes, Star Stones, and More
Phenomenal gems seem to do magical things with light. Learn the science behind optical effects like cat’s eyes and star...
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Oval brilliant-cut pollucite</a>, 9.51 cts, 16.3 x 12.7 mm, Afghanistan. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Pollucite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Colorless pollucites lack fire when cut and are usually small. However, this very rare cesium mineral is a coveted collector's...
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Aquamarine Enhancements
The most common aquamarine enhancements try to turn blueish green stones pure blue. Learn how heating and other aquamarine treatments...
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Aquamarine Durability
Aquamarines are fairly tough jewelry stones, but they do have some weaknesses. Learn about aquamarine durability and what precautions you...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/523/alex-cooper/">Alex Cooper</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Synthetic Aquamarines
Synthetic aquamarines are relatively rare, but gemologists may encounter them. Learn how these stones are made and how to distinguish...
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CustomMade. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Aquamarine Setting Advice
Aquamarines can look great, but what’s the best way to mount them? Novice jewelers should learn the pros and cons...
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Distinguishing Aquamarine Imitations
How can gemologists quickly distinguish aquamarines from aquamarine imitations? We’ll review some common lookalikes and their most notable differences.
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Phosgenite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Rare phosgenite typically shows pale colors. This material is difficult to cut and too soft for jewelry wear. However, its...
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A 4.76-ct aquamarine from Madagascar</a>, with the incredibly saturated deep blue color sometimes called “Santa Maria Afrique.” © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.atggems.com/">All That Glitters</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Aquamarine Sources
Aquamarines are popular gemstones and can be found in many areas worldwide. Learn about some prized varieties and the most...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Cerussite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
As beautiful as a diamond, a faceted cerussite actually has higher dispersion and usually excellent transparency, colorless or light body...
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International Gem Society</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
How Do Aquamarines Form?
The March birthstone, aquamarine is a popular gem. Learn how aquamarines form, what they look like, and how they get...
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Brilliant oval-cut milarite</a>, 2.07 cts, 9.2 x 7.3 mm, Brazil. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Milarite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Very rare milarite crystals can occur in green and yellow colors. Transparent material can yield small but pleasant looking faceted...
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Six Famous Aquamarines
Aquamarines have been cut into many large and beautiful gemstones. Let’s take a look at six of the world’s most...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1191/timeline-auctions-ltd/">TimeLine Auctions Ltd</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Magnesite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Transparent, gem-quality magnesite is rare and beautiful, with colors ranging from colorless, white, and gray to a yellowish brown.
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Photo by Choon Hong Yap</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Amber Symbolism
Amber has a long history of ornamental use and popular associations with animals, energy, and the Sun. Learn more about...
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Peach eosphorite, 13.14-ct,</a> 20.2 x 15.5 x 8.5 mm, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.gemsociety.org/article/gem-cutting-terms/#Shield_Cut">fancy shield cut</a>, Brazil. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.arkraregems.com/">ARK Rare Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Eosphorite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Faceted eosphorites in pale colors are quite attractive and easy to cut. However, these very rare gems are too soft...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Sapphirine Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Sapphirines are durable but very rare gemstones. Although named after their typically sapphire-blue color, these gems can occur in different...
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$Does Refractive Index Affect Gemstone Brightness?$
Does Refractive Index Affect Gemstone Brightness?
Many factors contribute to gemstone brightness. Learn the role a gem's refractive index plays and the difference between gemology theory...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Lazulite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Lazulite makes a magnificent, deep blue gemstone. Although the mineral itself occurs widely, gem-quality rough is limited. Specimens are prized...
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Recommended Diamond Grading Tools for Novices
Identifying diamonds requires the right equipment. Learn what diamond grading tools novice professionals or hobbyists need.
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Adamite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Although adamite occurs in many localities, it's very rarely cut as a gem. This mineral is much too soft and...
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ARK Rare Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Staurolite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Staurolite crystals in opaque cross shapes are popular gemstones. However, this material is very rarely transparent or facetable. These dark...
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Oval-cut amblygonite</a>, 7.80 cts, 15.5 x 10.8 x 7.5 mm, light yellow, Myanmar. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.arkraregems.com/">ARK Rare Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Amblygonite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Amblygonite gems are usually pale straw yellow. Although they are too soft and cleavable to make good ring stones, collectors...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Celestite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Soft, fragile, and hard to cut, celestite or celestine is seldom seen in gem collections. These gems are usually colorless...
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Faceting Tips for Exotic Gemstones
Some gems are seldom faceted because they're rarely found in nature or rarely used for jewelry. Learn a few tricks...
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pleochroic flashes of pink. Modified, double square <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.gemsociety.org/article/barion-concept-cut-design/">Barion cut</a>, 6.42 cts, 10.8 x 10.8 x 8.8 mm, Tanzania. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://rsagems.com">RSA Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Rubellite Tourmaline Buying Guide
Our rubellite buying guide can help you learn how rubellites are graded, what to avoid, and how to identify a...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/5584/jasper52/">Jasper52." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Paraíba Tourmaline Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Discovered in 1989, paraíba tourmalines are among the world’s most prized gemstones. These rare gems are renowned for showing intense...
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Chrome tourmaline</a>, shield cut by Loren Brown, 3.71 cts, Tanzania. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://rsagems.com/">RSA Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Chrome Tourmaline Buying Guide
Rare chrome tourmaline can show an emerald-like green color. With a highly desired color and tourmaline's excellent qualities as a...
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Some Advice for Cutting Tourmaline Gemstones
Cutting tourmaline can be difficult. Learn how to cut tourmaline, including faceting techniques to minimize the risk of damaging your...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Verdelite (Green Tourmaline) Buying Guide
Looking for a tourmaline jewelry stone? If you like green and you're on a budget, green tourmaline or verdelite is...
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“Crystal 1”</a> by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/37753256@N08/">Brenda Clarke</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
What is a Crystal?
Learn the scientific definition of crystal used by gemologists and answer some basic questions about what is and is not...
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What is a Gem Reflectometer?
What’s the difference between a reflectometer and a refractometer? If you’re interested in studying or buying gems, learn the facts...
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What is the Usambara Effect In Gemstones?
The Usambara effect is a gemstone color change phenomenon distinct from pleochroism or the alexandrite effect. Tourmaline and other species...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/fancy-diamonds/">Fancy Diamonds</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Are There Color Change Diamonds?
A classic chameleon diamond can change color from green to yellow under certain conditions. Learn more about this process and...
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Can Diamonds Burn?
Diamonds may form under intense heat and pressure, but under what conditions can diamonds burn? Learn the science behind a...
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$What Causes Fuzzy Refractometer Readings?$
What Causes Fuzzy Refractometer Readings?
Fuzzy refractometer readings may be the result of poorly faceted gems, the wrong amount of refraction liquid, and even stone...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
How to Estimate Gem Weight in a Jewelry Setting
Although you can't weigh a gemstone in a jewelry setting, you can get a close approximation of the gem weight...
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What are Gemstone Absorption Spectra?
Learn how gems absorb wavelengths of light and how gemologists use gemstone absorption spectra to identify gems. There’s more to...
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$How to Re-Polish a Refractometer Hemicylinder$
How to Re-Polish a Refractometer Hemicylinder
The glass used to make refractometer hemicylinders is susceptible to tarnish. Here's a step-by-step guide for re-polishing a refractometer hemicylinder....
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CustomMade. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
One Carat Oval Diamonds: A Complete Shopping Guide
One-carat oval diamonds are versatile alternatives to one-carat rounds. Our guide can help you find the right oval-cut diamond for...
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Spectroscope Instructions for Novice Gemologists
The spectroscope is one of gemology’s principal tools. Our basic spectroscope instructions will teach you how to operate and calibrate...
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Specific Gravity Testing Part 5: Using Heavy Liquids
Using heavy liquids to measure a gemstone's specific gravity poses some health hazards. Learn the techniques and precautions that gemologists...
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Specific Gravity Testing Part 3: Calculating Specific Gravity with an Electronic Scale
You can use an electronic scale for calculating specific gravity if you have the right accessory, a hanging basket for...
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Specific Gravity Testing Part 2: Using a Balance Scale or a Hanneman Specific Gravity Scale
Using a balance scale to test specific gravity is a recommended practice in gemology. Learn to make your own scale...
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Gemstone Physical Properties
The optical properties of gems attract our eyes and can give a cut stone a unique character. However, gemstone physical...
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Specific Gravity Testing Part 1: Definitions
Learn specific gravity testing methods for gem identification. Our 5-part introductory series starts with the basics and key definitions.
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Corundum Treatments
Corundum gems receive more types of treatments than any other stones. Learn how to test rubies and sapphires for signs...
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Dan Stair Custom Gemstones</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Color Change Garnet Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Any stone that changes color under different types of light is a rare treat for collectors. Color change garnets show...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/jessa1155/">Jessa and Mark Anderson</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Gemstone Treatment Codes
The AGTA has proposed the use of gemstone treatment codes to promote disclosure and a common language for these procedures....
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/somma/">Mark Somma</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
How Does Vapor Deposition Create Mystic Topaz and Aqua Aura Quartz?
Vapor deposition can be used to enhance gemstones like topaz and quartz with a metal coating or sheen. Learn how...
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symbolized gold and wealth</a>. However, you can find a stone that fits your personality and make your own statement. This radiant-cut topaz has a yellow color that matches the Harry Potter “Hufflepuff” theme of this custom-designed engagement ring. Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.custommade.com/topaz-rings/">CustomMade. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Topaz Buying Guide
Our topaz buying guide can help you learn how topazes are graded, what to avoid, and how to identify a...
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RSA Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Pyrope Garnet Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Pyrope always occurs in series with other garnet species. Common, dark red garnets are a mixture of almandine and pyrope....
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padparadscha sapphire</a>, trillion cut, 2.09 cts. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/43753593_orange-padparadscha-sapphire-trillion-cut-209-carats">Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/3798/last-chance/">Last Chance</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
What are Gemstone Enhancements?
Gemstone enhancements improve the appearance and wearability of gems. Learn about the most commonly used procedures and frequently treated types...
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$Refractive Index List of Common Household Liquids$
Refractive Index List of Common Household Liquids
Gemologists may immerse gems in refraction fluids during examinations. This refractive index list of household liquids offers some common alternatives....
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Tucson Gem and Mineral Show Reviews
Novice and expert gemologists discuss their experiences at the celebrated annual February Tucson Gem and Mineral Show. You'll find reviews...
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How to Clean Your Gemstone Jewelry
A little gemology goes a long way. Learn how to clean your gemstone jewelry safely and how to deal with...
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Kite step-cut sapphire</a>, 4.22 cts, 17.62 x 8.82 mm, Australia. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.customgemstones.com/">Dan Stair Custom Gemstones</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Pricing Faceted Gems and Calculating Your Return
Properly pricing faceted gems can be a daunting task for investors. Learn how to research gem prices and calculate your...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/6750/one-of-a-kind-finds/">One of a Kind Finds</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Malachite Symbolism
Behind every mystical gem is a merchant. Since ancient times, malachite has been “the salesman's stone.” Learn more about malachite...
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Marketing Your Gems Online
Accurate descriptions and quality photographs are essential for marketing your gems online. Learn about options and best practices for improving...
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A Guide to Gem Selling Platforms
Determining where to sell your gems — whether online or in-person — can be difficult. Here’s a look at the...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/62/fellows/">Fellows." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Lapis Lazuli Symbolism
How do you say “love me” with a stone? Learn about lapis lazuli symbolism and legends. This beautiful blue mineral...
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Negotiating Strategies for the Gem Trade
What negotiating strategies work best in the gem trade? Learn how some general principles and a win-win mindset can help...
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maxpixel.net. Public Domain." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
How to Prepare for Gemstone Negotiations
Research is crucial for success in any business deal. To prepare for gemstone negotiations, focus on these three subjects to...
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Zuni handmade pin</a>, sterling silver with turquoise, 2 inches across, signed by the maker, CJ. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.atggems.com/">All That Glitters</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Turquoise Symbolism
Many people consider beautiful sky blue turquoise stones to be lucky. Learn about the turquoise symbolism and lore of Native...
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maxpixel.net. Public Domain." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Negotiations 101: Key Principles for Buying Gems for Profit
Your gem investment profits depend mostly on the prices you set through negotiations. Understanding four key business principles will help...
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Options for Financing Gem Buying for Profit
How should you pay for investment gems? Learn the pros of cons of three options for financing gem investments —...
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rolodex, but you’ll still need something old fashioned to make money investing in gems: face-to-face connections. If you follow our advice, little by little, you’ll develop the professional network you need to succeed in the people-oriented gemstone business. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/renaissancechambara/3122900531/">Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/renaissancechambara/">Ged Carroll</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
How to Establish a Network of Gem Trade Contacts
To make a profit investing in gems, you’ll need a network of gem trade contacts. Here’s some advice on how...
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Gemstone Sourcing Guide
Investors have many gemstone sourcing options, but which ones will work best for you? Learn the pros and cons, as...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/174/richard-d-hatch-and-associates/">Richard D. Hatch & Associates</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
The Impact of Lab-Grown Stones on the Gem Market
Lab-grown stones have the potential to disrupt the gem market. Learn how they can affect supply and demand and whether...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/kneoh/">Karen Neoh</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Topaz Symbolism
Topaz's most popular mystical association has been with wealth. However, topaz symbolism and lore also covers areas such as health,...
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Insights on Gemstone Pricing
Gemstone pricing can vary greatly between dealers. Learn about the myriad factors that go into prices for both colored gems...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/5584/jasper52/">Jasper52." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Gemstone Orientation for Beginners
Choosing the best gemstone orientation for your rough takes skill and experience. Learn what factors you should take into account...
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Neon, reddish orange-pink Mahenge spinel</a>, 1.32 cts. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.atggems.com/">All That Glitters</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Gemstone Rarity and Ease of Replacement
Most gemstones are rare, but some are rarer than others. Learn how gemstone rarity and ease of replacement can affect...
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www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Inclusion Management and Gemstone Faceting
Inclusion management is one of the most challenging aspects of gemstone faceting. Learn when to remove and when to keep...
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Supply and Demand: Gemstone Market Dynamics
The gem market can be very subjective. Nevertheless, investors can make money by starting with the basics: understanding supply and...
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What Do the GIA Gem Clarity Grading Codes Mean?
A gemstone’s clarity grade indicates how free it is of inclusions and blemishes. Learn how to decipher the GIA clarity...
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pink coral</a> carving, depicting the popular fable of "The Tortoise and the Hare." <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/5093662_3311-c1960s-pink-coral-carving">Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/444/regency-superior-ltd/">Regency-Superior, Ltd</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Gemstone Buying for Profit: Budget and Basis
Good-quality gemstones are expensive, but you can make money investing in gems even if you have a small investment budget....
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opal dial. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/51804230_genuine-gemstone-watch">Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1162/888-auctions/">888 Auctions</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Managing Your Time Horizon for Gem Buying and Selling
How long should investors hold on to gemstones? Learn how your investment goals, business model, and patience affect your investment...
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jadeite and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.gemsociety.org/article/nephrite-jewelry-and-gemstone-information/">nephrite varieties — is China. The <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.gemsociety.org/article/jade-carvings-from-ancient-china/#Bi">bi</a>, the donut-shaped Chinese symbol for eternity, is a popular design for jade jewelry pieces. This bracelet features a <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.gemsociety.org/article/gemstone-transparency/">translucent, very pale green jadeite bi with a blue enameled Chinese character in the center, flanked by enameled bat accents, set in a silver-gilt hinged bracelet. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/49447939_chinese-jade-enamel-silver-gilt-bracelet">Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1098/michaan-s-auctions/">Michaan’s Auctions</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Evaluating Market Risk for Gemstones
Gemstone investors must keep up with global trends when evaluating market risk. Learn how studying sociocultural factors can lead to...
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maxpixel.net. Public Domain." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Risk Management and Gem Buying for Profit
You can’t eliminate all risks from gem investing, but understanding the risks you’ll face and your appetite for them will...
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Buying Gems for Profit: An Introduction
Successful investing in gemstones requires knowledge and experience. The IGS Buying Gems for Profit course will give you the knowledge...
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Fancy octagon-cut amethyst</a>, 4.90 cts, Brazil. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://customgemstones.com/">Dan Stair Custom Gemstones</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Gem Pricing Advice for Faceters
Gem pricing isn't easy, and guidelines aren't always fixed. Learn what factors gem cutters should consider to determine a fair...
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What is Gemstone Pleochroism?
Some gems show pleochroism, two or three different colors depending on the viewing angle. Learn why this occurs and how...
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How to Re-Oil Emeralds Safely and Easily
Oil treatment is a standard industry practice for enhancing emeralds. However, the treatments are not permanent. Learn how to re-oil...
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Muonionalusta meteorite find (Sweden, 1906), thinly plated in rose gold but with the Widmanstätten patterns still visible. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/16853432_unusual-meteorite-pendant">Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1392/im-chait-galleryauctioneers/">I.M. Chait Gallery/Auctioneers</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Meteorite Jewelry: An Introduction
Meteorites can make beautiful, unique jewelry. This primer on meteorite terminology will help you buy the perfect meteorite jewelry piece...
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What Causes Emerald Fractures?
Emeralds get their green color from chromium and vanadium. Learn how the presence of these elements affects their formation and...
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Emerald Fillers and Treatments
Emerald fillers can improve the beauty of these gems but also have some drawbacks. Learn how to choose the right...
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Ruby Buying Guide – Special Free Preview
Our ruby buying guide can help you learn how rubies are graded, what to avoid, and how to identify a...
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Goshenite crystals on bladed muscovites</a>, 7.9 x 5.6 x 5.5 cm Beryl-Scheelite deposit, Huya village, Mt Xuebaoding, Pingwu Co., Mianyang Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Are White Aquamarines Genuine Aquamarines?
Aquamarine is the blue to blue-green variety of beryl. If you encounter so-called white aquamarines, buyer beware. Learn the facts...
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EighthDimensionGems. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
What is a Trapiche Emerald?
Trapiche emerald gems are some of the world's rarest emeralds. Learn where they're found and how their characteristic “spoked wheel”...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/deidrew/">Deidre Woollard</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>. (Cropped to show detail)." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Is a Lab-Created Emerald a Real Emerald?
What's the difference between a lab-created emerald and a natural emerald? Is a synthetic gem a real gem? Learn the...
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The Stone Specialists</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
How to Find Curved Striae in Synthetic Ruby and Sapphire
Curved striae or lines are a telltale sign of synthetic ruby and sapphire. If you're having trouble seeing them, here...
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Are Serengeti Rubies Real Rubies?
Although Tanzania is a source of rubies, so-called Serengeti rubies are more likely to be garnets. Learn more about rubies...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
What is the Best Synthetic Corundum?
There are many ways to grow ruby and sapphire in a lab. However, determining the best synthetic corundum for faceting...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/82066314@N06/">Iqbal Osman</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Emerald Symbolism
Emerald symbolism encompasses not only royalty but also wit, eloquence, and foresight. Learn more about the legends surrounding this prized...
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What are the Best Rough Sapphire Stones?
The best rough sapphire stones may come from different sources, depending on the color you want. However, valuable blues may...
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Ruby crystal with brilliant red fluorescence</a>, 1.5 x 1.2 x 1.1 cm. Kadottat, Mogok, Sagaing District, Mandalay Division, Myanmar. Photos © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Do Natural Rubies Fluoresce?
Both natural and synthetic rubies fluoresce under UV light. Learn how slight differences in fluorescence patterns can help gemologists distinguish...
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Ruby and Sapphire Origins
Ruby and sapphire origins greatly affect the values of these prized gems. Learn where these stones occur and how inclusions...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/2514/greenwich-auction/">Greenwich Auction</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Ruby Symbolism
Many cultures have long considered ruby a king's gem. Not surprisingly, ruby symbolism and lore have many associations with power,...
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What’s the Difference Between Rubies and Pink Sapphires?
How do gemologists distinguish between rubies and pink sapphires? Learn about the chemistry of corundum and the history of the...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Mimetite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Transparent mimetite crystals are extremely rare, and very few have ever been faceted. Cabochons with rich orange and yellow colors...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/197/hindman/">Hindman." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Calcareous Concretions Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Several species of marine mollusks produce stony growths called calcareous concretions or non-nacreous pearls. Varieties such as conch pearls, tridacna...
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What is the Average Gemstone Faceting Yield?
What’s the average gemstone faceting yield from a single piece of rough? Learn how to estimate how much material you’ll...
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Kojima Pearl</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Keshi Pearls and Soufflé Pearls
Not all pearls are perfectly round and white. Learn about keshi pearls and soufflé pearls, which can form as cultured...
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oval cabochon</a>, 12.69 cts, 0.23 mm x 8.16 mm, Filipinas Larimar Mine, Barahona Prov., Dominican Republic. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.mineralauctions.com/">mineralauctions.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Pectolite (Larimar) Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Fibrous pectolite has long been a curiosity for gem collectors. Compact material can make wonderful cabochons, and transparent crystals are...
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Gem Cutting Acronyms and Their Meanings
You'll find gem cutting acronyms like L/W in faceting guides. Learn what these frequently used terms mean and how they...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Väyrynenite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Väyrynenite is a very rare mineral. Crystals as well as faceted gemstones in reddish, pinkish, and orange colors are prized...
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Pyrargyrite, oval cabochon, 4.81 cts, South Africa (possibly Ehlanzeni). © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Pyrargyrite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Deep red pyrargyrite occurs in a number of localities in well-formed but small crystals. However, facetable rough is rare and...
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Dioptase, 2.16 cts, faceted by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://agta.org/spectrum/overview/awards-and-honors/">AGTA Spectrum Award-winner</a> Mark Kaufman. Christoph Mine, Kaokoveld, Namibia. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Dioptase Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Dioptase has a beautiful, emerald-like green color. Although this mineral isn’t rare, gems are seldom faceted because of a paucity...
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Hashnu Stones & Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Gemstone Doublets, Triplets, and Other Assembled Stones
Made from two or more materials, assembled gems can make durable and affordable jewelry. Learn more about gemstone doublets, triplets,...
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Triangle-cut microlite</a>, 0.90 cts, 5.3 x 5.1 mm, Brazil. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Microlite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Ranging in color from pale yellow to brown, reddish, and green, microlite cabochons are prized by collectors. Faceted gems are...
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ARK Rare Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Haüyne Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
One of the major mineral constituents of lapis lazuli, haüyne is rarely found and faceted as a distinct gemstone. Collectors...
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Table of Gems Ordered by Crystal System
This table contains a selection of minerals gemologists may encounter as jewelry stones or gem specimens. The gems are sorted...
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Specific Gravity Values of Selected Gems
Measuring specific gravity helps gemologists identify gemstones. The following table lists the specific gravity values for a variety of gem...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Ekanite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
A relative newcomer to the world of gemstones, ekanite is rare and usually quite radioactive. When cabbed, some ekanites can...
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Cushion-cut beryllonite</a>, 4.82 cts, 12.3 x 8.4 x 6.2 mm, Brazil. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.arkraregems.com/">ARK Rare Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Beryllonite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Difficult to facet and typically colorless, beryllonite is a rare collector’s gem. Some specimens can show a striking cat’s eye....
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Friedelite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Friedelite is not abundant, and gem-quality material is rarely seen even in large collections. Faceted gems are true collector's items....
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Deep blue azurite cabochon</a> with green malachite “eyes,” 150 cts, 54.4 x 38.2 x 8.7 mm, Bisbee, Arizona. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.etsy.com/in-en/shop/49erMinerals?ref=condensed_trust_header_title_items%22>49erMinerals. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Azurite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Collectors prize deep blue azurite crystals, but faceted gems are extremely rare. However, azurite frequently occurs mixed with green malachite,...
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Freeform step-cut whewellite</a>, 3.12 cts, 15.6 x 6.8 mm, Czech Republic. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Whewellite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Seldom seen even in mineral collections, whewellite is very rarely faceted. It’s mostly desired as a curiosity because of its...
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Claradyn Venter</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Jeremejevite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Jeremejevite would make a durable and attractive jewelry stone, but this rare mineral occurs even more rarely as facetable material....
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Making Money Investing in Gems: The Top 5 Rules
How do you make money investing in gems? What should you buy, for how much, and how can you add...
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Gemology Career Options
Thinking of becoming a gemologist? Consider these gemology career options, compare their estimated salaries, and decide which one may be...
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Mandarin garnet</a> (spessartite), 20.04 cts, 15 x 13 x 12 mm, Namibia. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Mandarin Garnet Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
While the colors of spessartite garnet gemstones cover a wide range of orange shades, the mandarin garnet is as pure...
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carnelian, or “sardolith,” displays the full range. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/fermion/3700773112">“Sardolith” by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/fermion/">Fermion. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
What is Gemstone Transparency?
Gemstone transparency describes how much light passes through a gem and how it scatters. Learn what causes a gem to...
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$Table of Refractive Indices and Double Refraction of Selected Gems$
Table of Refractive Indices and Double Refraction of Selected Gems
Refractive indices and double refraction (birefringence) help gemologists identify gems. The following table lists these values for selected gemstones.
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Gypsum Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Gypsum is one of the most abundant minerals, but gem-quality crystals are very rare. This material is extremely difficult to...
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49erMinerals. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Algodonite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Bright, silvery metallic cabochons of algodonite and domeykite are attractive and unusual. Faceted pieces are rarely seen but very beautiful...
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Baguette-cut crocoite</a>, 1.65 cts, 6.3 x 5.3 x 2.7 mm, orange-red, Tasmania. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.gemagency.eu/">Steve Burger</a>, personal collection. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.arkraregems.com/">ARK Rare Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Crocoite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Lovely saffron-colored crocoite is quite a rare mineral. Although too soft and brittle for jewelry wear, a few crystals have...
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CustomMade. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Seven Stunning but Delicate Engagement Ring Stones
With protective settings and special care, these seven beautiful but delicate engagement ring stones can help you make a unique...
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Should I Buy a Diamond Online?
Do you want to buy a diamond for an engagement ring? Don't. Still want to buy a diamond? OK. Here...
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Impossible Diamond Color Quiz
Test your ability to sort diamonds by color with our fun and quick Diamond Color Sorting Quiz. Learn a thing...
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ARK Rare Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Scheelite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Large, faceted scheelites are among the most beautiful of all collector’s gemstones. They occur in many colors and fluoresce very...
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Brownish orange-yellow willemite</a>, custom shield cut, 5.59 cts, 11.7 x 9.6 mm, Tsumeb, Namibia. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Willemite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Willemite is prized for its intense green fluorescence. Too fragile for jewelry use, faceted specimens are extremely rare.
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Faceted brazilianite</a>, 12.2 cts, 1.9 x 1.0 x 0.7 cm, Corrego Frio mine (type locality), Linopolis, Divino das Laranjeiras, Doce valley, Minas Gerais, Brazil. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Brazilianite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Brazilianite's lovely green to yellow colors make it a must for gem collectors. Large faceted stones are often flawed, but...
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Properties of Diamond Simulants
Diamond simulants, like cubic zirconia and moissanite, often appear in jewelry. See how the properties of real diamonds compare with...
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CustomMade. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Lab-Created Diamonds: The Ultimate Guide
Separate fact from fiction and you’ll find lab-created diamonds make great alternatives to mined diamonds. Our guide will show you...
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2018 Update to the FTC Diamond Jewelry Guides
The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) can help jewelry marketers avoid making deceptive claims. Learn about the FTC diamond jewelry...
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a diamond with documentation that traces its origin back to the original Kimberley Mine in South Africa</a>, sourced around the 1900s or earlier. Blockchain may offer a new, reliable way to track millions of diamonds from source to customer. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Can Blockchain Diamonds Solve Ethical Sourcing and Grading Issues?
Blockchain tech can provide secure, digital transaction records. Can blockchain diamonds resolve ethical and legal issues related to sourcing and...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/publicdomainphotography/">Public Domain Photography</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/legalcode">CC By-SA 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
An Introduction to Conflict Diamonds and the Kimberley Process
NGOs and movies have helped raise awareness of conflict diamonds, and governments have taken steps to stop their trade. How...
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A Brief History of Diamonds
Learn how diamonds formed geologically and how they became the virtual standard for engagement ring stones in this brief history...
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Hashnu Stones & Gems</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Opal Symbolism
Once the stone of royalty, the fragile opal has a convoluted personality and lore. Opal symbolism is as varied as...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Yugawaralite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Yugawaralite is a very rare colorless to pinkish zeolite mineral. Little facetable material exists, so a cut yugawaralite would be...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Pyroxmangite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Pyroxmangite grains are rare, seldom clean enough to facet, and difficult to cut. However, when cut, they are extremely beautiful...
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Phosphophyllite, cut by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://agta.org/spectrum/overview/awards-and-honors/">AGTA Spectrum Award</a>-winner Mark Kaufman, 10.22 cts, 21 x 11 x 6 mm, Unificada Mine, Cerro de Potosí, Potosí City, Potosí Department, Bolivia. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Phosphophyllite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Renowned for its delicate blue-green shades, phosphophyllite’s beauty is enhanced by expert cutting. Unfortunately, this gem is quite fragile and...
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“Apatite, Quartz, Orthoclase Feldspar, and Muscovite under UV light”</a> by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Parent_G%C3%A9ry&action=edit&redlink=1%22>Parent Géry</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode">CC By-SA 3.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
What is Gemstone Luminescence?
Gemstone luminescence is a glow that occurs when certain stones are subjected to energy such as UV light. This effect...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Thaumasite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
For a long time, rare thaumasite crystals — pale, fragile, and with little to no fire — were interesting primarily...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/photokat/">Mercury Jane</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Opal and Pearl Care Guide
Opals and pearls have special setting, cleaning, and storage needs. Our opal and pearl care guide will help you keep...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Augelite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Soft and brittle, rare augelites are difficult to cut and unsuitable for wear. Faceted transparent pieces are only found in...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Cassiterite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Cassiterite is a durable gemstone with tremendous dispersive fire, especially visible in properly cut pale-colored stones. As the principal ore...
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ceruleite cabochon</a>, 24 cts, 30 x 18 x 10.3 mm, Chile. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.etsy.com/in-en/shop/49erMinerals?ref=condensed_trust_header_title_items%22>49erMinerals. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Ceruleite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
A little-known gem material of truly exquisite color, sky-blue ceruleite takes a very high polish easily and quickly. However, fine,...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Sarcolite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Sarcolite is an extremely rare mineral. Tiny, colorless to “fleshy pink” gems have been cut only from material from one...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Sulfur Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Although sulfur is very abundant, facetable material is not. Sulfur is also enormously difficult to cut and almost impossible to...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Chrysoberyl Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Although many gems show a cat’s eye effect, when the term “cat’s eye” is used alone, it always refers to...
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Hemimorphite cabochon</a>, 54.75 cts, 30.6 x 27.6 x 5.5 mm, ’79 Mine, Arizona. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.etsy.com/in-en/shop/49erMinerals?ref=l2-shopheader-name%22>49erMinerals. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Hemimorphite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Massive hemimorphite can have a very delicate, blue color. However, it's seldom cut because not very much has appeared on...
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zircon (not to be confused with cubic zirconia) has been used to create convincing diamond imitations. However, this gem is doubly refractive and has a high birefringence. Diamonds have no birefringence. <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.customgemstones.com/ZIRCON/zi1632.html">2.35-ct radiant step emerald-cut zircon</a>. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.customgemstones.com/">Dan Stairs Custom Gemstones</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
What is Gemstone Birefringence?
A gemstone's birefringence is a measure of its double refraction. Learn how to use it to identify gems and see...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Painite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Until 2001, only three painite crystals were known to exist. Since then, additional discoveries have produced many more specimens of...
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49erMinerals. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Papagoite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Cerulean blue papagoite crystals are too small for faceting. However, massive material mixed with quartz can be cabbed, while quartz...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Brucite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Brucites are extremely difficult to cut. Although too soft for jewelry use, faceted pieces would be great additions to collections...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Brookite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Brookite usually occurs in very dark colors, transparent only in small fragments. Cuttable crystals are exceedingly rare, making attractive faceted...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Witherite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Easy to cut but too soft and fragile for jewelry, a faceted witherite would make an unusual addition to a...
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statue with flower</a>. Image courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/2899/quan-rong-gallery/">Quan Rong Gallery</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Chicken-Blood Stone Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
One of the most prized ornamental materials in China, chicken-blood stone has been used for centuries to create carvings with...
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CustomMade. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Amethyst Symbolism
Amethyst has many popular folkloric associations, from love and spirituality to supernatural protection. Learn more about amethyst symbolism and legends....
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An Introduction to Fancy Gem Cuts
Rounds dominate the gem market, but fancy gem cuts offer many beautiful options. Learn about the most popular fancy shapes,...
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Cushion-cut andalusite</a>, 4.07 cts, Bahia, Brazil. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Gemstone Facets: Terminology and Functions
Not only do gemstone facets create beautiful patterns on gem surfaces, they also help gems shine. While gem cutters will...
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Gem Society gem listings</a> might recognize the hippo). For the answers, visit <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gem.animals.arp.750pix.jpg">“Gem Animals.”</a> Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Arpingstone">Adrian Pingstone</a>. Public Domain." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
An Introduction to the Lapidary Arts
Lapidary is the art of working with gemstones. Learn more about the four basic lapidary arts: tumbling, cabbing, faceting, and...
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Round uvarovite</a>, 0.23 cts, 3.08 mm, Jeffrey Mine, Quebec, Canada. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.mineralauctions.com/">mineralauctions.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Uvarovite Garnet Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Always a dark, rich green color, uvarovite is one of the rarest members of the garnet family. Usually only seen...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Niccolite (Nickeline) Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Niccolite’s delicate peachy red color and metallic luster looks beautiful when polished. Gem cutters typically carve this gem material into...
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Bead and Necklace Size Charts
Whether you’re a novice bead jewelry maker or just shopping for necklaces, these bead and necklace size charts and links...
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Millerite needles</a>, flexible and soft to the touch, 2.8 x 3.5 x 1.5 cm, Halls Gap, Lincoln Co., Kentucky, USA. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Millerite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Millerite has a rich, attractive yellow color. Massive millerites can sometimes be cut into cabochons but are too soft for...
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Miscellaneous Gems: Polishing Survey Results
The IGS survey results for polishing miscellaneous gems include recommendations for popular stones as well as gems seen less frequently...
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Opal Polishing Survey Results
Take a look at the IGS member survey results for opal polishing. You'll find recommendations for polishes, laps, and techniques...
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Peridot Polishing Survey Results
Popular jewelry stones, peridots can actually vary in hardness. Our IGS member survey results can help you choose the right...
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Corundum Polishing Survey Results
The corundum gem family includes ever popular rubies and sapphires. Our IGS member survey results offer some corundum polishing recommendations....
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Cubic Zirconia Polishing Survey Results
Cubic zirconia is the most popular diamond simulant currently available. You can find polishing recommendations for this material in our...
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How to Polish Gems of 7-8 Hardness: Survey Results
Some very popular jewelry stones, such as beryl, quartz, and topaz, fall in the 7-8 hardness range. You can find...
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How to Polish Gems of 4-6 Hardness: Survey Results
Polishing feldspar, fluorite, apatite, or other gems in the 4-6 hardness range? Our IGS member survey results can recommend some...
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Quartz Polishing Survey Results
Looking for lap, polish, or lubricant suggestions for quartz polishing? You can find numerous combinations and technical advice in our...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Chabazite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Although faceting chabazite isn't too difficult, it's too soft for jewelry. However, only a handful of cut chabazites may exist...
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What is my Birthstone?
The idea of a single birthstone for each month is a modern idea with a long history, but today's consumers...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Ввласенко">Ввласенко. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode">CC by SA 3.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Gemology Book Reviews: Careers
Learn how varied gemology careers can be. Our gemology book reviews highlight three different approaches — as art, science, and...
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Jewelers Pricing Survey
The International Gem Society (IGS) ran a jewelers pricing survey in 2002 and 2012. Over those ten years, we saw...
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The Mohs Hardness Scale and Chart for Select Gems
The Mohs hardness scale measures a mineral's resistance to scratching. Find the traditional scale here and a chart of select...
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photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/mauroescritor/">Mauro Cateb</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
IGS Certification Exam: Sample Gemology Questions
What does it take to become a professional gemologist? Try these sample gemology questions from the International Gem Society certification...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/jessa1155/">Jessa and Mark Anderson</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Centrifugal and Vacuum Casting for Jewelry: A Step-By-Step Guide
Our step-by-step guide will help you learn to use vacuum casting techniques to create wax models for jewelry.
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Ruby Buying Guide
Our ruby buying guide can help you learn how rubies are graded, what to avoid, and how to identify a...
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How To Make A Rock Lamp
With the right tools and a little drilling know-how, you can create a rock lamp with an agate or jasper...
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Pricing Information For Star Opals From Spencer, Idaho
Some opals from Spencer, Idaho show asterism or the “star stone” effect. Learn how to price these beautiful but rare...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
What is the Best Lap for Polishing Sapphire?
Polishing sapphire gemstones can be tough on laps. Learn the pros and cons of different laps and some techniques to...
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What Is The Difference Between Chert, Flint, And Mozarkite?
Flint and mozarkite are types of chert. While flint is known for its practical use, mozarkite is a colorful variety...
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Gem Cutting Machine Recommendations
What's the best gem cutting machine for novices? Read about some popular models and learn the importance of finding the...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/somma/">Mark Somma</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Beginning Wax Casting: Resources For Jewelry Makers
Wax casting makes it possible to create intricate and unique metal pieces for jewelry. Here are some tips for beginners...
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How Should A Gemstone Contact A Faceting Machine Lap?
Is a flat lap to dop swing really necessary? Learn how a gemstone should contact a faceting machine lap and...
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Kammererite crystals on matrix</a>, Kop Daglari, Erzurum Province, Turkey, 3.9 x 2.0 x 1.8 cm. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.irocks.com">Rob Lavinsky, www.iRocks.com</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
An Introduction to Turkey’s Gemstones
Turkey's gemstones include well-known species such as diaspore, chalcedony, and purple jade, as well as unusual specimens of lesser-known gems....
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/amivaa/">Amelia Isa</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/legalcode">CC By-ND 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Advice for Preforming Gemstone Rough for Maximum Yield
To pick the right cut for a gem, you need to figure its maximum potential shape. Preforming gemstone rough is...
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Choosing And Applying Doublet Glue For Jewelry
What's the best doublet glue for creating assembled stone jewelry? Learn about the choices as well as tips for making...
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How To Restore The Spring Of A Sterling Silver Money Clip
Has your sterling silver money clip lost its spring? If you have experience with metalworking, learn these methods for repairing...
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Repairing Platinum Jewelry: Tips For Getting Started
Working with platinum is actually a little easier than working with gold. If you want to add platinum jewelry repair...
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How To Make A Quartz Wedge For Polariscope Testing
A quartz wedge can be used with a polariscope to help a gemologist distinguish the + or – optic sign...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Advice For Grading Dark Colored Gemstones
Faceted dark colored gemstones can have intense colors but little brilliance. A simple formula can help a gemologist estimate a...
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Faceted Gemstones And Light Return Measurements
What factors determine the light return of faceted gemstones? Facet quality, polish, color, and cut style all play roles. Learn...
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A Cabochon Bezel Setting For Unusual Opal Doublets
Cabochon cuts are popular for showcasing opal doublets. Learn a trick for making a bezel setting for doublets that are...
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Where Can You Find Agate Stones Forming?
Agate stones typically form slowly in the cavities of ancient hardened lava flows. Learn where you can see this process...
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Ring Sizing Advice For Novice Jewelry Makers
Ring sizing is an important part of jewelry making and repair. Learn a few soldering and annealing tricks from the...
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Facet Designs For Beginners
What are the best facet designs for novice gem cutters? Find recommendations for cutting styles, books, resources, and gemstone rough...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/greyloch/">greyloch. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/legalcode">CC By-SA 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Green Tourmaline and Rubellite: Emerald-Cutting Advice
Dark green tourmaline and red rubellite gems can look very black in an emerald cut. Learn how to minimize this...
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Getting Started in the Jewelry Trade
How do you start making a living in the jewelry trade? You need to learn gemology and metalsmithing and get...
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/jessa1155/">Jessa and Mark Anderson</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Spectrolite Gem Cutting Advice
Learn how to cut spectrolite and other labradorite gems so you can showcase their striking color flash most effectively.
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Photo by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/somma/">Mark Somma</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC by 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Why are Topaz and Citrine Gemstones Misidentified?
Learn why citrine gemstones are sometimes misidentified as topaz. A professional appraisal by an independent gem lab is the best...
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Sphalerite Appraisal
Learn what factors most influence a sphalerite appraisal and what kind of jewelry will best showcase this beautiful gemstone.
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Gemology For Kids: Games And Activities
Make gemology for kids educational and fun with these gemstone-themed games for all ages. Try these solo and party activities....
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Gemstone Crossword Puzzle Collection
Our gemstone crossword puzzle collection is a fun and challenging way to test your knowledge of gemology, whether you’re an...
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Gemology Reference Books: Reviews
Whether you’re an expert or novice gemologist or collector, add these gemology reference books we’ve reviewed to your library.
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Best Books to Read When Getting Started in Faceting
We make recommendations about the best books to buy and read when getting started in faceting.
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2014 Clark Scholarship Finalist – Essay 5
Marilyn Monroe said “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” Jill St. John said “Diamonds are forever.” Elizabeth Taylor said “Big...
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Color Change Sapphire Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Color change sapphires are those that change color between light sources.
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Wikimedia Commons</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Star Sapphire Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Star sapphire is a type of sapphire that displays asterism, a star-like optical effect.
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Padparadscha Sapphire Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Padparadscha sapphires show a blend of orange and pink colors, one of the rarest of all sapphire color combinations. Padparadschas...
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James St. John, on Flickr</a>" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Quartzite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Quartzite is a rock made up of tightly packed quartz grains. Sometimes, it contains small crystals that reflect light. This...
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Smoky Quartz Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Smoky quartz comes in every shade of brown, from a light tan to nearly black. This gem is known for...
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via Wikimedia Commons</a>" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Microcline Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Microcline is a variety of feldspar. The only microcline you are likely to encounter is amazonite.
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Proteus Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
A few almandine/pyrope garnets from the US will change with treatment into proteus garnets. In reflected light, they have a...
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The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Hydrogrossular Garnet Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Hydrogrossular differs from the other garnets in that it is never transparent. It ranges from translucent to opaque. The most...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Jasper Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Jasper is an opaque, solid or patterned variety of cryptocrystalline quartz. All types of jasper take an excellent polish, are...
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“Chrysocolla in Quartz (Gem Silica),”</a> Live Oak Pit, Inspiration Mine, Gila County, Arizona, USA. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://www.irocks.com/">www.iRocks.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Chrysocolla Chalcedony Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Marketed as "Gem Silica" this relatively rare, blue to blue-green, opaque to near transparent material is the most expensive type...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Tiger’s Eye Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Crocidolite, (blue asbestos,) alters to quartz, but while retaining its fibrous structure. This material is frequently stained by iron, giving...
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GFDL or <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0">CC-BY-SA-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0], <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3ACarnelian_sard_(mineral_specimen).jpg">via Wikimedia Commons</a>" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Carnelian Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
The best-known and generally least expensive variety of chalcedony is carnelian. It ranges in color from yellow-orange to rich, near...
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Gem Price Guide
The IGS Gem Price Guide covers many popular as well as unusual, collectible gems. Find your gem’s retail value based...
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Photo courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/5649/auctions-at-showplace/">Auctions at Showplace</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Identifying Synthetic Spinel
Synthetic spinel is a widely used jewelry stone. Learn how gemologists can identify lab-made flame-fusion, flux, and Czochralski spinels.
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Shutterstock.com." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Celebrity Engagement Rings
What stones are the trendsetters using to pop the question? Take a look at the diamonds and colored gems in...
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faceted vanadinite</a>, 0.40 cts, 5.18 mm x 2.56 mm, Mibladen, Morocco. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.mineralauctions.com/">mineralauctions.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Vanadinite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Very few vanadinites have ever been cut. This is unfortunate, since their red, orange, and brown colors are rich and...
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Idocrase Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Idocrase is one of the lesser known and more beautiful collector gems. When properly cut it is as bright and...
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Freeform-cut bustamite</a>. Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia. 0.51 carats, 4.03 mm x 3.89 mm. © Rob Lavinsky, <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.mineralauctions.com/">mineralauctions.com. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Bustamite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Pale pink and brownish red bustamite can make a very attractive faceted gem. However, stones in large sizes are rare...
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iRocks.com – CC-BY-SA-3.0 [<a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0">CC-BY-SA-3.0], <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3ABoleite-70642.jpg">via Wikimedia Commons</a>" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Boleite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Cut boleite is strictly for collectors, since it is soft and very rare. Faceted gems of any transparency should be...
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Appraisals
Advanced gemological laboratory services and appraisals at cost-effective prices.
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List of False or Misleading Gemstone Names
A list of False or Misleading Gemstone Names and its Actual Gemological Name. Gathered by the source "Gemstones of the...
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Identifying Inclusions Found in Natural Gems
Successful tips and guide in identifying Inclusions Found in Natural Gems. Read and learn several ways to identify inclusions found...
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How to Make a Bead Bracelet
This beginner's bead bracelet project is a great way to learn how to string beads with wire. Follow these hints...
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Tremolite
Tremolite runs in a solid-state series with actinolite to ferroactinolite. (Ferroactinolite is not used as a gemstone.) Details and information...
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Product Review, Ultra Tec Faceting Machine
Ultra Tec Faceting Machine Review . The Ultra Tec has been referred to as the BMW of faceting machines. We...
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Vivianite
Vivianite is fragile and soft that cut gems would be difficult to handle safely,let alone wear.The color is very rich,...
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Faceting Survey Results – Polishing – Sunstone
Faceting Survey Results for Polishing Sunstone: Get polishing methods for Sunstone. View results for various procedures in polishing Sunstone gemstones....
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Faceting Survey Results – Polishing – Topaz
Faceting Survey Results for Polishing Topaz: Get ideas and methods on polishing Topaz. View results for various procedures in polishing...
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Faceting Survey Results – Polishing – Tourmaline
Faceting Survey Results for Polishing Tourmaline: Get polishing methods for Tourmaline. View results for various procedures in polishing Tourmaline gems....
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Faceting Survey Results – Polishing – Garnet
Faceting Survey Results for Polishing Garnet stones. Know the preferred polishing methods for Garnet. Also, view results for various procedures...
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Faceting Survey Results – Polishing – Beryl
Polishing Beryls: Get successful tips, suggestions, and methods to polish a Beryl laptype, synthetic emerald laptype, or any gemstone of...
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Faceting Survey Results – Polishing – Comments
Below are a number of comments, instructions, and hints that I thought would be of interest. Enjoy:) Tin Lead lap...
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Shells and Sea Shells
Sea shells are one of our most ancient decorations. Our prehistoric ancestors used to string them into necklaces or hang...
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Spinel
Spinel has played an important part in gem history. Prior to the last century, it was impossible to distinguish from...
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Rhodonite
Rhodonite is a popular and useful decorative material, ranging in color from pink to a fine rose-red.This article covers informative...
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Gem Price Guide
A guide for the price of various gemstones that is based on various sources for commonly traded goods. However, gems...
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Natural Glass Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Glass comes in several natural forms. All are used in jewelry.
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Joel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Laserblue Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Laserblue is a rare, synthetic glass. It's hard for glass but easy to chip.
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Interviews
The transcription of the interview of International Gem Society IGS with C.D. Parsons of Santa Paula, Calif. and Gerald Wykoff...
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round brilliant-cut gahnospinels</a>, 0.43 cts, 3.5 mm, Kagoro, Nigeria. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Gahnospinel Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Gahnospinel is a solid-state solution between spinel and gahnite.
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Diamond Properties Chart
Quick facts about the optical and physical properties of diamonds.
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Gemology Interactive Media Reviews
Have the information of authoritative gemology books at the click of your mouse. Our gemology interactive media reviews showcase three...
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iRocks.com – CC-BY-SA-3.0 [<a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0">CC-BY-SA-3.0], <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/author/internationalgemsociety/"http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3AGrossular-Clinochlore-207531.jpg">via Wikimedia Commons</a>" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>
Clinochlore Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Clinochlore is a family of minerals in the chlorite group. To date, only kämmerite and sheridanite varieties are known to...
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Conflicting Gemology Terms and Definitions
No one to date has a total inventory, or a complete database, of gems and all their properties. Gemologists need...
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Tucson 2002
This year we asked our members for their impressions of the Tucson show. Here are their impressions. A little insight...
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Hyperitdiabas Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Hyperitdiabas is one of the most outstanding minerals I have encountered in recent years. Its appearance striking beautiful and a...
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Birthstone Chart
What are the birthstones by month? January is garnet, February is amethyst, March is aquamarine, April is diamond, May is...
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Weights and Measures Conversion Chart
Printable chart to convert weights and measures including Carats, Grams, Kilograms, Ounces, Pounds and Troy Ounces Pounds and Pennyweights.
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LAP MATERIALS
A tabel of Lap Materials, Compliments of The International Gem Society. These figures are approximate and are put together for...
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Ring Size Comparison Chart
Ring Size Comparison Chart compliments of the International Gem Society. A conversion table of Ring sizes. 7 different ring size...
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Gem Structure Chart
A gem structure chart that shows various information on a specific structure and gems of example. Details include Refractive Indexes,...
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METAL/WAX FORMULAS
Jewelers need to know how to determine how much gold is needed for a wax mold. Here are three methods...
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BOOK REVIEW, Gem Dealers Secrets
A book review on "Gem Dealers Secrets". It is always a treat to find a book that lives up to...
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The Techniques of Master Wire Wrapping
Gerald Wykoff has gained worldwide recognition for his "Master's" series of gemological and lapidary books. The first, Beyond the Glitter,...
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More Team Members
Donald Clark, CSM IMG
Jeffery Bergman, SSEF SGC
Joel E. Arem, Ph.D., FGA
Fatma Oya Borahan, GG, FGG
Barbara Smigel, PhD. GG
View the whole team