The Lighter Side of Gemology
Gemstone history, legend, lore and other fun, non-technical articles.
Alternative Birthstones
Not happy with your birthstone? Explore these alternative birthstones associated with astrological signs, angels, the hour or day of your birth, and more.
The Foundation Stones of the New Testament
The foundation stones of Revelation in the New Testament influenced the growth of the idea of birthstones. Learn more about this connection here.
10 Most Famous Celebrity Gemstone Rings
Colored gemstone engagement rings are a trend that has been around for awhile, and the results are unforgettable and beautiful.
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 can choose gems from traditional or modern lists.
The Sacred Emerald Buddha
Carved in Thailand in 2006 from a 3,600-ct. emerald, “The Sacred Emerald Buddha” has a message of peace. Read the inside story of this amazing sculpture.
Moonstone Symbolism
While moonstone has many popular mystical associations with the Moon, it's also connected to meditation and love. Learn about moonstone symbolism and lore.
Sapphire Symbolism
Beautiful blue colors and the star stone effect have influenced sapphire symbolism through the ages. Learn more about the legends surrounding this gem.
Pearl Symbolism
Prized for millennia, pearls are organic gems with strong associations with The Moon, high value, and femininity. Learn more about pearl symbolism and lore.
Topaz Symbolism
Topaz's most popular mystical association has been with wealth. However, topaz symbolism and lore also covers areas such as health, love, and astrology.
Emerald Symbolism
Emerald symbolism encompasses not only royalty but also wit, eloquence, and foresight. Learn more about the legends surrounding this prized jewelry stone.
Ruby Symbolism
Many cultures have long considered ruby a king's gem. Not surprisingly, ruby symbolism and lore have many associations with power, wealth, and protection.
Opal Symbolism
Once the stone of kings, the fragile opal has a convoluted personality and lore. Opal symbolism is as varied as the play of color of the stone itself.
Turquoise Symbolism
Many people consider beautiful sky blue turquoise stones to be lucky. Learn about the turquoise symbolism and lore of Native American and other cultures.
Jade Symbolism
Both jadeite and nephrite have inspired beautiful works of art and a rich body of lore. Jade symbolism covers themes of harmony, eternity, and virtue.
Malachite Symbolism
Behind every mystical gem is a merchant, and since ancient times malachite has been “the salesman's stone.” Learn more about malachite symbolism and lore.
Amethyst Symbolism
The February birthstone, amethyst has many popular symbolic and folkloric associations both ancient and modern, from love and spirituality to supernatural protection. Read on to learn more about amethyst symbolism and legends and find some inspiration for your own jewelry pieces.
Onyx Symbolism
Onyx symbolism and lore is filled with negative associations. Learn how people have counteracted these purported effects and enjoy this beautiful, dark gem.
Carnelian Symbolism
Carnelian symbolism and lore covers health, luck, and royalty. However, just wearing these gems isn't always effective. Would-be Napoleons beware.
Lapis Lazuli Symbolism
How do you say “love me” with a stone? Learn about lapis lazuli symbolism and legends. This beautiful blue mineral has fascinated people for millennia.
Amber Symbolism
Amber has a long history of ornamental use and popular associations with animals, energy, and The Sun. Learn more about amber symbolism and lore.
Opals in the Australian Outback
Peter Brusaschi explains how he felt when he first discovered the opal town of Yowah in the outback opal fields of Australia.
The worlds largest cut cats-eye chrysoberyl
The Eye of the Lion.This Cats-Eye Chrysoberyl is the largest cut example in the world(as documented by the Smithsonian Institute)with a fascinating history
Interviews
The transcription of the interview of International Gem Society IGS with C.D. Parsons of Santa Paula, Calif. and Gerald Wykoff GG, CSM.
Gemstones with Health Benefits
Learn about some gemstones said to have physical and emotional healing benefits.
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 article for IGS, my goal is to introduce you to the difference between a rock, mineral and a gemstone.
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 with the mines in North Carolina
Out Back Mining Company
Jeff R Graham shares his opinions on various topics on Just Ask Jeff. See what he has to share about Oregon Sunstone Mining - Out Back Mining Company.
Double Eagle Mining Company
Jeff R Graham shares his opinions on various topics on Just Ask Jeff. See what his thoughts are on Oregon Sunstone Mining - Double Eagle Mining Company.
What Are Carbonados and Black Diamonds?
Although called "black diamonds," carbonados are a polycrystalline material. Learn how they may have originated in ancient supernova explosions.
The World’s Largest Emeralds
Emerald crystals can grow very large. Learn about some of the world’s largest emeralds, old and new, uncut or faceted, rough or carved.
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 amateur or advanced student.
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.
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 unique triolette cut designed to showcase this gem.
Love, Marriage, and Korite
Marriage and Korite (or ammolite) both need special care. With strong support systems, both can endure. This is the story of an unorthodox engagement ring.
Ten Gemstones Rarer than Diamond
From the seemingly common to the utterly obscure, you wouldn't guess these ten gemstones are rarer than a diamond! If you're looking for something unique for your next jewelry purchase, check out these ten stunning gemstones rarer than diamond.
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 choice for any jewelry piece. Learn more about what makes Montana sapphires and Yogo sapphires unique.
Ethiopian Emeralds (Better than Colombian?)
Gem experts compare the bright, neon-green hues of Ethiopian emeralds to paraíba tourmalines and extra-fine Colombian emeralds. Learn what you need to know about this new find, including quality, pricing, gemology, and how these gems stack up against those from traditional sources.
