The Microscope: A Guide for Gemologists
Sometimes, microscopic inclusions are the only way to distinguish natural from synthetic gems. This makes the microscope an essential lab instrument…
Sometimes, microscopic inclusions are the only way to distinguish natural from synthetic gems. This makes the microscope an essential lab instrument…
How does the GemEx iLoupe compare to a standard jeweler’s loupe? Our review tests the device and app, designed for smartphones and tablets.
The crossed filters technique allows gemologists to detect chromium in gems. Learn how to build a portable device for conducting this useful ID…
A set of color filters can be helpful in the field and in the lab. Learn the limitations and uses of color filters for gemology.
The 10X loupe is the gemologist’s best friend. Learn how to examine gemstones for fractures, inclusions, color, and much more with this simple…
You can use a polariscope to observe gemstone twinning, dichroism, and crystal strain. Test your ability to identify these and other gem properties…
Learn how to use a polariscope to find the optic figure and sign of a gemstone. This is an important test for gem identification.
The polariscope is one of gemology’s simplest and most useful tools. With a little practice and our three-part polariscope guide, you’ll…
Learn how to determine a gem’s optic character with a refractometer and identify optical effects you may encounter during gem identification…
Sometimes, analyzing cabochon gems with a refractometer requires different techniques than those for faceted gems. Learn these cabochon testing…
A gem refractometer is the best tool for refractive index testing. Learn how to use this instrument to conduct this and other gem identification…
The GL SpectroLite is an inexpensive and easy-to-use tool that can help gemologists conduct spectroscope exams. Read our review to learn more.…
Beware of cheap “no name” refractometers (and their distributors). These tools may not be suitable for gem identification. Read our review…
The Duplex II and Rayner Dialdex both make excellent refractometers for gemologists. How do they compare head-to-head? Learn more from our review.…
A refractometer is an important tool for gem identification. The Gem Lab refractometer is an inexpensive model that’s a good choice for a novice…
A microscope is an essential tool for gemologists. The Achiever Microscope is an excellent choice at a good price. Read our review to learn more.…
Identifying diamonds requires the right equipment. Learn what diamond grading tools novice professionals or hobbyists need.
The GIA GemSet offered plastic color masters for color grading gems. It’s no longer in production. Software alternatives exist but still face…
Test your knowledge of refractometer gem analysis with this mini-quiz. You can review material on any question you miss at the end of the quiz.
This refractometer tutorial video will show you how to find a gem’s refractive index, birefringence, optic character, and other properties.…
Gemstone identification requires a good reference library and some basic gemology tools. Before you go shopping, learn more about what you’ll…
How can you evaluate diamond symmetry without an expensive proportion scope? Learn how to build an inexpensive alternative tool that will get…
The dichroscope is one of the most useful instruments a gemologist can have. Its primary purpose is to determine the pleochroism of a gem.
Taking polariscope readings can be challenging. In this tutorial video, you’ll learn how to use this tool and which gems might give you anomalous…
The spectroscope is a fundamental gemological tool. Learn how to use it to identify gemstones based on their absorption of different wavelengths…
Determining a gem’s specific gravity is an important identification technique. Watch this tutorial video to learn how to measure this property.…
The spectroscope is one of gemology’s principal tools. Our basic spectroscope instructions will teach you how to operate and calibrate this…
Some very helpful gemology tools are easy to use. Learn about the Chelsea filter, diamond tester, and other simple instruments in this video.
Not sure if your gem is pleochroic? This tutorial video will teach you how to use the dichroscope to determine pleochroism.
Taking spectroscope readings can be challenging. This tutorial video will teach you different techniques you can use to view a gem’s absorption…
Some student gemologists might be unfamiliar with the microscope. This tutorial video will demonstrate how this instrument can help you identify…
When combined with optical instruments, a reticle can take fine measurements. Learn how gemologists use this tool for measuring lengths and angles…
What’s working in a gem lab like? Gemology tools expert Cara Williams talks about the challenges as well as the most useful equipment for identifying…
Gemstone treatments and synthetics are becoming more sophisticated. Learn about the advanced gemology equipment that gem labs use to stay ahead…
A multipurpose microscope stage can help you move, view, and photograph gemstones under magnification easily from many angles. Learn how you…
Artists, lapidaries, and gem merchants all have stories to tell. Three very different books with varied perspectives explore the lives of people…
Amateur Gemstone Faceting Volume 1 provides a much-needed modern introduction to faceting for novices. Learn how instructors and students alike…
The Collector’s Guide to the Minerals of New York State is ideal for both experts and hobbyists. Its information, organization, and photos are…
In Faceting Articles, Designs, & Pictures, renowned faceter Glenn Klein shares his insights on gem facet designs and the history of gem cutting…
Whether you’re an expert or novice gemologist or collector, add these gemology reference books we’ve reviewed to your library.
Are you a hobbyist or professional gemologist facing high equipment costs? Read our IGS series of articles that can help you build your own gemology…
The spectroscope is a device that separates white light into an optical spectrum of component colors that can aid in gemstone and mineral identification.…
Polariscopes are one of our most useful instruments. They come in a wide variety of prices and qualities. There are a number of ways to make a polariscope.…
There is a new piece of software available that will be of interest to many of you. It is called the Diamond Calculator. More information available…
Have the information of authoritative gemology books at the click of your mouse. Our gemology interactive media reviews showcase three excellent…
Learn what you need to set up a your own gem lab. You may be surprised to learn that this is easily within your reach, and doesn’t need to cost a fortune.…
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