Gem Tourism
Take a virtual trip to see where gemstones are found all over the world.
Exploring the Hidden World of Tanzanite Mining: A Journey into the Depths of Tanzania
What's tanzanite mining like? Follow Jeff Moriarty of Moriarty's Gem Art as he descends into a Tanzanian mine in search...
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Gübelin Grades an Exceptional Vietnamese Ruby with “Pigeon’s Blood” Color
How does Vietnamese ruby compare to Burmese ruby? Learn about the "Red Treasure" of Vietnam and why even experts can...
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Ammonite Mining in Canada
Beautiful ammolite gems are made from ammonite fossils. Come with Jeff Moriarty of Moriarty’s Gem Art on an ammonite mining...
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Sapphire Mining in Montana
What’s sapphire mining like? Follow Jeff Moriarty of Moriarty’s Gem Art as he travels to Montana in search of amazing...
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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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Mined in America: Top Spots for Gem Hunting in the US
Discover America's best gem hunting locations where you can unearth emeralds, diamonds, sapphires and more! Plan your gemology vacation with...
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Australian Opals
Australian opals account for 95% of the world’s supply. Learn about Australia’s geological history, the start of its opal trade,...
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Opals in the Australian Outback
Discover the beauty of opals in the Australian Outback. Opal expert Peter Brusaschi shares the story of how he learned...
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Master Diamond Cutter Mike Botha Takes on Esperanza
The Esperanza is the most valuable diamond ever mined in the US. Learn the story behind the find and the...
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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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A View of the Quartzsite Gem Shows
The Quartzsite gem shows attract gemologists and rock hounds from around the world. Learn what to expect and how to...
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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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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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Desert Prospecting: Discovering California Turquoise
IGS member Richard Edley shares his experiences discovering California turquoise and offers advice on desert prospecting.
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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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800 Years of Mogok: A Celebration in Tenuous Times
As Mogok, Myanmar prepares to celebrate its 800th anniversary, the inhabitants of this prolific gem producing region face an uncertain...
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Opal Mining in Coober Pedy: History and Methods
The town of Coober Pedy, Australia produces more opal than anywhere else. Its culture has been thoroughly shaped by opal...
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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
Colorado has a lot to offer gemologists and rock hunters. Before you visit, learn about Colorado gemstones as well as...
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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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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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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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Sharing the Fun and Folklore of Gemology
My goal is to share with each of you the fun and folklore or gemstones. Since this is my first...
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Old Mine Tales
Old Mine Tales that were submitted as letters to Faceter's Digest. They are a personal history of the author's experiences...
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