A Beginner’s Guide To Common Gemstone Heat Treatments
Gemstone heat treatments can turn mediocre pieces into items of great beauty. Heating a gem to a specific temperature and then cooling it is a common…
A Guide to Gem Cutting Styles
While some cut names may describe the face-up shape of the finished gem, others refer to the shape and arrangement of the gem’s facets. These cuts…
Gem Formation: How are Gemstones Created?
Most gems form naturally as minerals within the Earth. Most form as crystals, solids whose atoms are arranged in highly ordered repeating patterns…
A Guide to Gem Classification
Little is simple and straightforward in gemology. Every established principle has an exception. This applies to gem classification as well.…
Lapidary Fundamentals: Cabochon Cutting
Cabochon cutting or cabbing is the most popular form of gem cutting. Although it requires a fair amount of skill, almost anyone can master this technique.…
Jewelry Nomenclature: Gem Bracelets And Necklaces
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 18 Back to syllabus Although worn on different parts of the body, bracelets and necklaces share much of…
Updated Rainbow: Online Faceting Designs and Diagrams
Jeff Graham’s original Rainbow gem design has always been popular. However, inexperienced faceters have found it very challenging. This updated…
Gemstone Toxicity Table
Gem faceters and jewelry enthusiasts alike should learn about gemstone toxicity. This table has toxicity ratings for 280+ gems, based on their…
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