Addison Rice

Staff Writer

A geologist, environmental engineer and Caltech graduate, Addison’s interest in the mesmerizing and beautiful results of earth’s geological processes began in her elementary school’s environmental club. When she isn’t writing about gems and minerals, Addison spends winters studying ancient climates in Iceland and summers hiking the Colorado Rockies.

Articles by Addison Rice

Jade Buying Guide

Jade Buying Guide

“The Stone of Heaven,” jade has an unmatched elegance. Learn more about the unique quality factors of both jadeite and...
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Ruby and Sapphire Grading Tools

Ruby and Sapphire Grading Tools

What ruby and sapphire grading tools does a novice gemologist need? Learn how basic gemological equipment can help you identify...
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Identifying Jade Treatments

Identifying Jade Treatments

Jade is one of the most popular and expensive gemstones. It can also receive many enhancements. Learn about jade treatments...
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Color Filters: Uses and Limitations for Gemology

Color Filters: Uses and Limitations for Gemology

A set of color filters can be helpful in the field and in the lab. Learn the limitations and uses...
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Hybrid Gemstones: Glass Rubies and More

Hybrid Gemstones: Glass Rubies and More

Some gems contain both natural and lab-made components. Learn about these hybrid gemstones and how to distinguish them from mined...
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Why We Love Montana Sapphires and Yogo Sapphires

Why We Love Montana Sapphires and Yogo Sapphires

With rich cornflower blue Yogo sapphires and fancy-colored gems in any color of the rainbow, Montana sapphires are a great...
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32 Green Gemstones (How Many Do You Know?)

32 Green Gemstones (How Many Do You Know?)

A favorite color for nature-inspired designs, green gemstones never go out of style. Learn which of these 32 green gems...
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Appraising Rubies

Appraising Rubies

Appraising rubies is a skill every jeweler and gemologist needs to master. Learn about the different quality factors that can...
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Pearl Treatments and Enhancements

Pearl Treatments and Enhancements

Did you know that routine pearl treatments are the most common enhancements in the gem trade? Learn more about these...
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Lapis Lazuli Buying Guide

Lapis Lazuli Buying Guide

Our lapis lazuli buying guide can help you learn how to grade these gems, what to avoid, and how to...
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Natural Pearls vs Cultured Pearls

Natural Pearls vs Cultured Pearls

Many consumers don’t understand the difference between natural pearls and cultured pearls. Learn what these terms mean and how to...
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Appraising Pearls: How to Grade Pearls

Appraising Pearls: How to Grade Pearls

Novice gemologists and jewelers may find appraising pearls difficult. Our guide will show you how to appraise and grade different...
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Pearl Simulants: How to Spot Faux Pearls

Pearl Simulants: How to Spot Faux Pearls

Some faux pearls can be difficult to identify. Learn about the history and varieties of pearl simulants and how to...
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Morganite Buying Guide

Morganite Buying Guide

Morganite has become a popular jewelry stone, especially for engagement rings. Our morganite buying guide can help you pick a...
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Seven Famous Emeralds and Their Stories

Seven Famous Emeralds and Their Stories

Some famous emeralds have amazing histories. These seven gems have gone through revolutions, shipwrecks, and thefts to become crown jewels...
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Emerald Origins: History and Identification

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...
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Emerald Buying Guide

Emerald Buying Guide

Our emerald buying guide can help you learn how these gems are graded, what to avoid, and how to identify...
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Kunzite Buying Guide

Kunzite Buying Guide

Rare and fragile, kunzite challenges lapidaries and delights jewelry aficionados. Our kunzite buying guide can help you add this gem...
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Tridacna Pearl Buying Guide

Tridacna Pearl Buying Guide

Clam pearls can grow to be some of the largest in the world. Learn more about these aquatic gems and...
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Ammolite Buying Guide

Ammolite Buying Guide

With bright rainbow iridescence, ammolite is sure to draw attention. Read about this gem’s unique quality factors before your next...
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Citrine Buying Guide

Citrine Buying Guide

Citrine’s affordable autumn hues make it a great option for trendy jewelry. Read about the quality factors for this stylish...
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Malaya Garnet Buying Guide

Malaya Garnet Buying Guide

Rare malaya garnets come in many colors and make wonderful jewelry stones for any style. Learn the 4 Cs of...
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Agate Buying Guide

Agate Buying Guide

Decorative, patterned forms of agate are excellent natural gems. Learn more about agate's mesmerizing patterns in our agate buying guide....
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Zircon Buying Guide

Zircon Buying Guide

Long valued for its brilliance, zircon is a natural and affordable beauty. Learn more about the quality factors for this...
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Turquoise Buying Guide

Turquoise Buying Guide

Revered for millennia, turquoise still has a dedicated following. Our turquoise buying guide can help you pick a gem for...
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23 Red Gemstones: Which are Best for Rings?

23 Red Gemstones: Which are Best for Rings?

If you like red, ruby isn’t your only gemstone option. Here are 23 different red gemstones. Learn which ones are...
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Ten Gemstones Rarer than Diamond

Ten Gemstones Rarer than Diamond

If you're looking for something unique for your next jewelry purchase, check out these ten gemstones rarer than diamond. How...
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Toxic and Radioactive Gems: Safety Tips

Toxic and Radioactive Gems: Safety Tips

If you're considering adding toxic and radioactive gems to your collection, be on the safe side. Learn the basics of...
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Lapidary Health Hazards and Safety Tips

Lapidary Health Hazards and Safety Tips

Whether you’re a new or experienced gem cutter, brush up on safety procedures. Learn about lapidary health hazards and how...
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37 Blue Gemstones (Names, Pics, & More)

37 Blue Gemstones (Names, Pics, & More)

Symbolic of sea and sky, blue has always been a popular color for gems. Learn how to assess color in...
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Chrysoprase Buying Guide

Chrysoprase Buying Guide

With bright, apple-green hues, chrysoprase makes an eye-catching jewelry stone. Our chrysoprase buying guide will help you pick a top-quality...
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Marketing and Selling Rare Gemstones

Marketing and Selling Rare Gemstones

You need a good strategy for marketing and selling rare gemstones, in order to succeed in this niche market. Learn...
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Finding the Best Artificial Lighting for Gems: Buying, Selling, and Grading

Finding the Best Artificial Lighting for Gems: Buying, Selling, and Grading

Gemstones are creatures of light. Learn how lighting impacts gem sales and get recommendations for high-quality artificial lighting for gems....
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Quahog Pearl Buying Guide

Quahog Pearl Buying Guide

Your next plate of steamed clams might hold a rare quahog pearl. Learn how to judge the quality of these...
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How to Start a Gem Collection

How to Start a Gem Collection

Although many gem enthusiasts want to become collectors, they may not know where to begin. Read this article for tips...
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19 Yellow Gemstones (With 9 Best Gems for Rings!)

19 Yellow Gemstones (With 9 Best Gems for Rings!)

From bright, sunny colors to deep golden hues, yellow gemstones are warm and inviting. Learn how to assess the quality...
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Ethiopian Emeralds (Better than Colombian?)

Ethiopian Emeralds (Better than Colombian?)

Learn everything you need to know about Ethiopian emeralds, including quality, pricing, gemology, and how they compare to those from...
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Tanzanite Buying Guide

Tanzanite Buying Guide

More than just a simulant for sapphire, tanzanite’s vivid hues have stunned the gem world. Our tanzanite buying guide can...
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Pearl Buying Guide

Pearl Buying Guide

In this golden age of pearls, a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors are available. Our pearl buying guide...
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Rutilated Quartz Buying Guide

Rutilated Quartz Buying Guide

Silky golden rutile inclusions in quartz have become quite popular. Read our rutilated quartz buying guide to help you choose...
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Unique Gem Materials for Jewelry Design

Unique Gem Materials for Jewelry Design

Some gems have an appeal beyond their appearance. If you’re looking for a gem with a story to tell, try...
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Gemstone Cufflinks Guide

Gemstone Cufflinks Guide

Wearing gemstone cufflinks is a great way to add personality and style to a standard tuxedo. Learn how to choose...
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How to Spot a Fake Diamond: What These 13 Tests Really Mean!

How to Spot a Fake Diamond: What These 13 Tests Really Mean!

Not sure what your gem is? Try these 13 at-home tests to spot a fake diamond — and learn what...
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Melo Pearl Buying Guide

Melo Pearl Buying Guide

Bright orange colors and flames that seem to dance across the surface make the melo pearl a fascinating gem choice....
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Crystalline Quartz Buying Guide

Crystalline Quartz Buying Guide

Although often overlooked, quartz is available in many styles at reasonable prices. Our crystalline quartz buying guide can help you...
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Demantoid Garnet Buying Guide

Demantoid Garnet Buying Guide

Stunning green hues and a brilliance that outshines diamond combine to make demantoids truly captivating. Read more in our demantoid...
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Moonstone Buying Guide

Moonstone Buying Guide

With sheen reminiscent of moonlight, moonstone is treasured across civilizations. Our moonstone buying guide can help you pick one perfect...
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Garnet Buying Guide

Garnet Buying Guide

With so many colors and varieties available, garnet buying can be daunting. Whether starting your collection or completing it, our...
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Precious Coral Buying Guide

Precious Coral Buying Guide

Deep-water coral displays bright, rich reds and delicate pinks. Our precious coral buying guide will help you choose a gem...
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Aquamarine Buying Guide

Aquamarine Buying Guide

No gem evokes the blue-green colors of the sea like aquamarine. Our aquamarine buying guide can help you choose the...
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Alexandrite Buying Guide

Alexandrite Buying Guide

Vivid color change makes alexandrite one of the world’s most coveted stones. Our alexandrite buying guide can help you find...
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Amethyst Buying Guide

Amethyst Buying Guide

Long valued for its purple color and symbolic associations, amethyst is a versatile gem. Our amethyst buying guide can help...
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Amber Buying Guide

Amber Buying Guide

One of the earliest known gems, amber’s bright sunshine hues delight and enthrall. Learn more about this ancient gem’s qualities...
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Diamond Certification FAQ

Diamond Certification FAQ

Don't be fooled by overgraded diamonds. Learn how diamond grading reports from different labs can impact the quality of the...
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Trapiche Gems: An Introduction

Trapiche Gems: An Introduction

Satisfying the human desire for symmetry, trapiche gems have a special allure. Learn what makes these rarities so unique in...
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Ultimate Diamond Buying Guide

Ultimate Diamond Buying Guide

Buying a diamond doesn't have to be difficult. Learn everything you need to know to buy the best diamond for...
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Tourmaline Buying Guide

Tourmaline Buying Guide

Known for stunning, saturated hues, tourmaline is a colorful and modern gemstone. Read about quality factors for this gem in...
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Watermelon Tourmaline Buying Guide

Watermelon Tourmaline Buying Guide

Looking for a fun summertime gem? Watermelon tourmaline adds a pop of color that's perfect for a playful summer look....
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Raw Stone Jewelry Design and Care

Raw Stone Jewelry Design and Care

There’s no denying the raw stone jewelry trend. Read this article for tips on incorporating raw stones into your jewelry...
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Learn to Use a Refractometer (Video)

Learn to Use a Refractometer (Video)

This refractometer tutorial video will show you how to find a gem's refractive index, birefringence, optic character, and other properties....
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Learn to Use a Polariscope (Video)

Learn to Use a Polariscope (Video)

Taking polariscope readings can be challenging. In this tutorial video, you'll learn how to use this tool and which gems...
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Diamond Rarity, Quality, and Cost

Diamond Rarity, Quality, and Cost

Word is out that diamonds aren’t that rare. So, why are they still so expensive? Learn about diamond rarity and...
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Learn to Measure Specific Gravity (Video)

Learn to Measure Specific Gravity (Video)

Determining a gem's specific gravity is an important identification technique. Watch this tutorial video to learn how to measure this...
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White Sapphires vs Diamonds

White Sapphires vs Diamonds

Do white sapphires make good alternatives to diamonds? Compare their qualities and learn how to choose the right engagement ring...
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Learn to Use a Diamond Tester and Chelsea Filter (Video)

Learn to Use a Diamond Tester and Chelsea Filter (Video)

Some very helpful gemology tools are easy to use. Learn about the Chelsea filter, diamond tester, and other simple instruments...
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Learn to Use a Dichroscope (Video)

Learn to Use a Dichroscope (Video)

Not sure if your gem is pleochroic? This tutorial video will teach you how to use the dichroscope to determine...
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Can an I1 Clarity Diamond be Eye-Clean?

Can an I1 Clarity Diamond be Eye-Clean?

Can you save money with an I1 clarity diamond and still have a nice-looking engagement ring? Learn how to look...
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Learn to Use the Spectroscope (Video)

Learn to Use the Spectroscope (Video)

Taking spectroscope readings can be challenging. This tutorial video will teach you different techniques you can use to view a...
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Learn to Use the Microscope (Video)

Learn to Use the Microscope (Video)

Some student gemologists might be unfamiliar with the microscope. This tutorial video will demonstrate how this instrument can help you...
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Before Buying a Diamond: 9 Tips You Should Know

Before Buying a Diamond: 9 Tips You Should Know

You’ll have to make many decisions when you choose a diamond for your engagement ring. Here are nine things you...
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Is a VS1 Clarity Diamond a Good Buy?

Is a VS1 Clarity Diamond a Good Buy?

Does a VS1 clarity diamond offer a good balance between quality and price? Learn how to compare clarity grades so...
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Old European Cut Diamonds: The Complete Guide

Old European Cut Diamonds: The Complete Guide

The old European cut (OEC) has a lovely charm. Learn what makes an OEC diamond special and how to find...
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Is an SI2 Clarity Diamond Eye-Clean?

Is an SI2 Clarity Diamond Eye-Clean?

Although an SI2 clarity diamond has a low clarity grade, you can still find one that will look good in...
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Best Diamond Color for Rose Gold Rings

Best Diamond Color for Rose Gold Rings

What diamond color will look best in a rose gold engagement ring? In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need...
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Is a Super Ideal Cut Diamond Worth It?

Is a Super Ideal Cut Diamond Worth It?

Super ideal cut diamonds meet exacting standards for top visual performance. But are they worth the extra cost? Before you...
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Buying a Trillion-Cut Diamond

Buying a Trillion-Cut Diamond

A trillion-cut diamond makes a distinctive center stone, but finding a good one can be difficult. Learn how to choose...
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What’s the Best Diamond Alternative?

What’s the Best Diamond Alternative?

If you like the diamond look but want something different, learn the pros and cons of these white gems and...
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Is an SI1 Clarity Diamond a Good Choice?

Is an SI1 Clarity Diamond a Good Choice?

An SI1 clarity diamond might be a bargain, but can you find one that looks great? Learn how to assess...
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Is an E Color Diamond Worth the Price?

Is an E Color Diamond Worth the Price?

Is an E color diamond a good choice for your engagement ring? Learn why the second-best white diamond color grade...
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Is a VS Clarity Diamond a Good Choice?

Is a VS Clarity Diamond a Good Choice?

When is a VS clarity diamond the best option for your engagement ring? Learn about diamond clarity grades and how...
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Best Diamond Color for Yellow Gold Rings

Best Diamond Color for Yellow Gold Rings

Finding the best diamond color for your budget and style can be a challenge. Learn how to choose a diamond...
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Should I Buy a VS2 Clarity Diamond?

Should I Buy a VS2 Clarity Diamond?

How will a VS2 clarity diamond look in an engagement ring? Learn if it’s the right stone for you and...
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Is an I Clarity Diamond a Good Buy?

Is an I Clarity Diamond a Good Buy?

An I clarity diamond has a low clarity grade, but can it look OK in an engagement ring? Learn the...
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Best Diamond Color for White Gold Rings

Best Diamond Color for White Gold Rings

Finding the best diamond color for a white gold engagement ring can be tricky. Read our complete guide to finding...
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Is an SI Clarity Diamond a Good Deal?

Is an SI Clarity Diamond a Good Deal?

Clarity grades are the most confusing part of diamond engagement ring buying. See what an SI clarity diamond looks like...
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Interview with Gemology Tools Expert Cara Williams

Interview with Gemology Tools Expert Cara Williams

What’s working in a gem lab like? Gemology tools expert Cara Williams talks about the challenges as well as the...
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How Do Garnets Form?

How Do Garnets Form?

A versatile gem and the famous January birthstone, garnet is a favorite among jewelers and consumers. Learn how garnets form...
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How Does Quartz Form?

How Does Quartz Form?

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on earth. Learn how quartz forms and how its most popular varieties...
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Citrine Engagement Ring Guide

Citrine Engagement Ring Guide

Sunny and bright, citrines symbolize health and happiness. Our citrine engagement ring guide will show you how to pick the...
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Gemstone Coatings: CVD and More

Gemstone Coatings: CVD and More

Gemstone coatings are a simple way to enhance color and luster. Learn about commonly coated gems, different coating techniques, and...
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Common Gemstone Treatments Cheat Sheet

Common Gemstone Treatments Cheat Sheet

There are so many common gemstone treatments available today that keeping track of them can be difficult. This list and...
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How Does Topaz Form?

How Does Topaz Form?

Topaz requires specific and unusual conditions to form. Learn how topaz develops and how it gets its colors, from yellow...
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Advanced Gemology Equipment

Advanced Gemology Equipment

Gemstone treatments and synthetics are becoming more sophisticated. Learn about the advanced gemology equipment that gem labs use to stay...
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Paraíba Tourmaline Buying Guide

Paraíba Tourmaline Buying Guide

Paraíba’s neon blue hues stunned the gem world in the 1980s. Read about the quality factors for this striking gem...
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Five Tips for Your First Gem Show

Five Tips for Your First Gem Show

New to the gem trade or just a hobbyist? Don't be intimidated! Follow these tips for your first gem show...
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Tourmaline Engagement Ring Stones: the Ultimate Guide

Tourmaline Engagement Ring Stones: the Ultimate Guide

Thinking about a tourmaline engagement ring? Learn everything you need to know to buy your perfect gem, from hardness and...
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Lab-Grown Diamonds FAQ

Lab-Grown Diamonds FAQ

Lab-grown diamonds are becoming popular options for engagement ring stones. Learn the truth about these gems in our FAQ and...
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How Do Tourmalines Form?

How Do Tourmalines Form?

Tourmalines are a large mineral group with a variety of chemical compositions. Learn how tourmalines form and why so many...
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Identifying Lab-Made Emeralds

Identifying Lab-Made Emeralds

Mined emeralds are expensive, so lab-made emeralds are an attractive option for consumers. Learn how these synthetic gems are made...
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Appraising Emeralds

Appraising Emeralds

Appraising emeralds is a key skill for all jewelers and gemologists. Learn how to evaluate the quality of these rare...
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Pearl Buying Guide – Special Free Preview

Pearl Buying Guide – Special Free Preview

In this golden age of pearls, a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors are available. Our pearl buying guide...
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Choosing an Emerald Engagement Ring Stone

Choosing an Emerald Engagement Ring Stone

If you like green, you’ll love an emerald engagement ring. However, judging emerald quality is complicated. Learn how to find...
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An Interview with Sapphire Expert Jeffery Bergman

An Interview with Sapphire Expert Jeffery Bergman

In a recent interview, Jeffery Bergman talks about his decades-long career as a sapphire expert and connoisseur and offers his...
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How Do Emeralds Form?

How Do Emeralds Form?

How do emeralds form? Learn how the emerald growth process works and why it makes these gems rare, green, and...
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An Interview with Pearl Expert Jim Grahl

An Interview with Pearl Expert Jim Grahl

Curious about natural pearls? Hear what pearl expert Jim Grahl has to say about natural pearls and pearl jewelry design,...
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Choosing a Ruby Engagement Ring Stone

Choosing a Ruby Engagement Ring Stone

A traditional favorite, a ruby engagement ring stone symbolizes love and passion. Learn how to find the gem that best...
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An Interview with Ruby Expert Richard Hughes

An Interview with Ruby Expert Richard Hughes

Richard Hughes has been a leading ruby expert for decades. Learn how he got started and his tips for newcomers...
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Appraising Blue Sapphires

Appraising Blue Sapphires

Appraising blue sapphires is a critical skill for any jeweler or gemologist. Learn the basics you’ll need to evaluate one...
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Eight Famous Rubies

Eight Famous Rubies

Blood red ruby gems have captivated people's hearts and imaginations for centuries. Read about these eight famous rubies and what...
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Eight Famous Sapphires and the Stories Behind Them

Eight Famous Sapphires and the Stories Behind Them

Large, beautiful, and historically important, these eight famous sapphires have fascinating stories to tell. Learn what makes them so special....
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How Do Rubies and Sapphires Form?

How Do Rubies and Sapphires Form?

The geological conditions in which rubies and sapphires form are rare and extreme. Learn how these popular gems develop and...
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Keshi Pearls and Soufflé Pearls

Keshi Pearls and Soufflé Pearls

Not all pearls are perfectly round and white. Learn about keshi pearls and soufflé pearls, two beautiful byproducts of the...
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Tahitian Pearls: Beautiful Black Pearls

Tahitian Pearls: Beautiful Black Pearls

With dark bodies and colorful sheens, beautiful Tahitian pearls have mesmerized jewelry lovers for decades. Learn more about these and...
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Seven Famous Pearls and Their Histories

Seven Famous Pearls and Their Histories

Cursed, perfect, or just huge, these famous pearls are fascinating. Read their history-rich tales filled with people like Kublai Khan...
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South Sea Pearls: the Complete Guide

South Sea Pearls: the Complete Guide

With thick nacre and large sizes, South Sea pearls really stand out when compared to other pearl types. Learn more...
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Freshwater Cultured Pearls

Freshwater Cultured Pearls

As consumers compare price and quality, freshwater cultured pearls are rapidly becoming more popular than Akoyas. Learn more about these...
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Akoya Pearls: the Complete Guide

Akoya Pearls: the Complete Guide

Since the beginning of the cultured pearl industry, Akoya pearls have ruled the market. Learn more about the quintessential round,...
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How Do Pearls Form?

How Do Pearls Form?

Do pearls form around grains of sand trapped in oysters? Learn the facts about pearl formation and the various mollusks...
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An Interview with Opal Expert Joel Ragan

An Interview with Opal Expert Joel Ragan

Opal expert Joel Ragan has worked with these gems for 45 years. Learn how he got started and his top...
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16 Famous Opals and Their Amazing Stories

16 Famous Opals and Their Amazing Stories

These sixteen famous opals include some of the largest and most beautiful in the world. Learn their fascinating backstories in...
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Opal Treatments: How to Detect Treated Opals

Opal Treatments: How to Detect Treated Opals

With so many opal treatments on the market, it’s important to understand the different enhancement processes. Read on to learn...
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Identifying Opal Patterns

Identifying Opal Patterns

Opal connoisseurs all have their favorite opal patterns. Learn how to identify the patterns of these beautiful gems with plenty...
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Opal Simulants: How to Spot Imitation Opal

Opal Simulants: How to Spot Imitation Opal

How can you be sure that a piece of opal for sale is genuine? Learn about the major types of...
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Synthetic Opal Types

Synthetic Opal Types

Distinguishing synthetic opal from a mined gem is a vital skill for opal dealers. Learn about five different types of...
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Opal Prospecting and Mining

Opal Prospecting and Mining

Headed out to the opal fields? Read on to learn more about opal prospecting and mining, plus some expert tips...
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Vintage Engagement Rings: Guide to Four Eras

Vintage Engagement Rings: Guide to Four Eras

Vintage engagement rings come in many different styles, but designs from four eras are very popular today. Learn more and...
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Three-Carat Diamond Guide: Prices & Tips

Three-Carat Diamond Guide: Prices & Tips

Three carats is a dream size for many diamond shoppers. Learn about current prices and how to find the best...
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Creating an Ethical Engagement Ring: the Complete Guide

Creating an Ethical Engagement Ring: the Complete Guide

If you're trying to create an ethical engagement ring, you have some research ahead. Our guide can help you shop...
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Eight Opal Types Explained

Eight Opal Types Explained

Opal is a complicated gemstone, and many factors affect its price. Learn how to distinguish these eight opal types and...
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Radiant-Cut Diamonds Buying Guide: Modern & Durable

Radiant-Cut Diamonds Buying Guide: Modern & Durable

Exceptionally sparkly, radiant-cut diamonds are great for engagement rings. But how can you find a top-quality gem? Read our tips...
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Diamond Girdles: 11 Facts You Need to Know

Diamond Girdles: 11 Facts You Need to Know

Buying a diamond but unsure about the girdle? Learn everything you need to know about diamond girdles, including thickness ratings...
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How Do Opals Form?

How Do Opals Form?

Curious about how opals form and show such stunning colors? Learn about the scientific theories behind opal formation and why...
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What Carat Diamond Should I Choose?

What Carat Diamond Should I Choose?

Your budget, style, and expectations will impact the size diamond you choose for your jewelry. Read our guide to see...
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Marquise-Cut Diamonds Buying Guide: Vintage & Modern

Marquise-Cut Diamonds Buying Guide: Vintage & Modern

A beautiful and versatile shape, marquise-cut diamonds are perfect for unique engagement rings. Learn how to pick the stone that’s...
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Five-Carat Diamond Ring: an Insider’s Guide

Five-Carat Diamond Ring: an Insider’s Guide

Choosing a five-carat diamond isn't as simple as finding a diamond in a smaller size. Read our insider tips to...
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Engagement Ring Setting: What’s Your Style?

Engagement Ring Setting: What’s Your Style?

Choosing a setting is the most important decision when shopping for a ring. Read about your options in this comprehensive...
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Moissanite vs Diamond: Beauty, Durability, and Price

Moissanite vs Diamond: Beauty, Durability, and Price

Debating moissanite vs diamond for your engagement ring? Learn how they compare in beauty, durability, and price and pick the...
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Cushion Cut Diamonds: A Complete Buying Guide

Cushion Cut Diamonds: A Complete Buying Guide

With elegant curves, cushion-cut diamonds have a classic, timeless style. Learn the pros and cons of cushions and how to...
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Diamond Polish and Symmetry Explained

Diamond Polish and Symmetry Explained

If you're a first-time buyer, you may be worried about diamond polish and symmetry grades. But what do these grades...
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Pear Shape Diamond Guide: Unique & Stunning

Pear Shape Diamond Guide: Unique & Stunning

Dreaming of a pear shaped diamond engagement ring? Learn the pros and cons and read our expert advice to find...
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Is a D Color Flawless Diamond Worth the Price?

Is a D Color Flawless Diamond Worth the Price?

A D color flawless diamond has the highest color and clarity grade — and the biggest price tag. Are these...
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Ruby and Sapphire Survey: Where Do You Draw the Line?

Ruby and Sapphire Survey: Where Do You Draw the Line?

Our survey asked for your input on the age-old question: where is the line between ruby and sapphire? The results...
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6 Steps to Buying a One-Carat Diamond Ring

6 Steps to Buying a One-Carat Diamond Ring

Buying a one-carat diamond ring shouldn't be confusing. Learn how to pick the ring that's best for you in our...
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Hearts and Arrows Diamond: Is it Worth it?

Hearts and Arrows Diamond: Is it Worth it?

Although cut for perfect symmetry and top performance, is a Hearts and Arrows diamond worth the high price? Learn more...
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Different Diamond Shapes: Ultimate Guide with Size & Price Chart

Different Diamond Shapes: Ultimate Guide with Size & Price Chart

Considering different diamond shapes for your engagement ring? Learn how shape affects size and cost and read their pros &...
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How Does Diamond Fluorescence Affect Price and Color?

How Does Diamond Fluorescence Affect Price and Color?

Some advice you might find on diamond fluorescence is outdated. Learn how fluorescence really affects your diamond’s color grade and...
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Emerald Cut Diamonds vs Asscher Cut Diamonds: A Guide

Emerald Cut Diamonds vs Asscher Cut Diamonds: A Guide

The mesmerizing patterns of emerald & asscher-cut diamonds can give engagement rings a subtle style. Learn how to find a...
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Conflict-Free Diamonds: What Does it Mean?

Conflict-Free Diamonds: What Does it Mean?

Searching for an ethical engagement ring? Learn about conflict-free diamonds, issues with artisanal mining, and how to find a ring...
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Princess Cut Diamonds: The Ultimate Guide

Princess Cut Diamonds: The Ultimate Guide

Princess cut diamonds are an excellent alternative to rounds. Learn the 4Cs for princess cuts and how to choose the...
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Should I Buy a VVS Diamond? 6 Pros & Cons

Should I Buy a VVS Diamond? 6 Pros & Cons

Before spending money on a VVS diamond, read about the pros and cons of diamonds with this clarity grade. What...
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Oval Cut Diamond Buying Guide

Oval Cut Diamond Buying Guide

Don’t let the bowtie effect keep you from buying an oval cut diamond. With prices lower than rounds, ovals are...
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Searching for Diamonds Online: 4 Essential Diamond Charts

Searching for Diamonds Online: 4 Essential Diamond Charts

Searching for diamonds online shouldn't be so complex. Use our recommended parameters to buy the best diamond for your engagement...
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Gemstone Toxicity Table

Gemstone Toxicity Table

Gem faceters and jewelry enthusiasts alike should learn about gemstone toxicity. This table has toxicity ratings for 280+ gems, based...
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Padparadscha Sapphire Buying Guide

Padparadscha Sapphire Buying Guide

Padparadscha sapphires get their name from the Sinhalese word for “lotus colored.” This rare and elusive gem generates some debate...
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Gem Treatment Survey: Is this Gem Natural?

Gem Treatment Survey: Is this Gem Natural?

We've tallied your opinions from our gem treatment survey. Are treated gems natural? How much should they cost? With a...
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Conch Pearl Buying Guide

Conch Pearl Buying Guide

Considering a conch pearl buying trip to the Caribbean? Quality factors for these gems differ from colored gemstones. Before you...
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Fancy Colored Pink Diamond Buying Guide

Fancy Colored Pink Diamond Buying Guide

With only a few produced each year, pink diamonds are among the rarest gems on the planet. Learn how quality...
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Iolite Buying Guide

Iolite Buying Guide

Soft, violet-blue hues have made iolite a popular stone. Read about the quality factors for this trendy gem in our...
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Fancy Colored Blue Diamond Buying Guide

Fancy Colored Blue Diamond Buying Guide

Blue diamonds are among the rarest and most prized diamonds. Our blue diamond buying guide will help consumers understand the...
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Fancy Colored Yellow Diamond Buying Guide

Fancy Colored Yellow Diamond Buying Guide

Fancy colored yellow diamonds are becoming increasingly popular. Our yellow diamond buying guide has the information you need before your...
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Denver Gem & Mineral Showcase 2017

Denver Gem & Mineral Showcase 2017

With over 900 vendors and numerous geologic rarities, the 2017 Denver Gem and Mineral Showcase had plenty to see. Read...
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A Visitor’s Guide to Colorado Gemstones

A Visitor’s Guide to Colorado Gemstones

Colorado has a lot to offer gemologists and rock hunters. Before you visit, learn about Colorado gemstones as well as...
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