Aventurine 

Successful tips and guide on Faceting Designs. A Faceting Design Diagram by Jeff R. Graham that presents various cuts, this...

Learn the difference between allochromatic and idiochromatic gems and why some gem species can occur in many color varieties and...

A list of False or Misleading Gemstone Names and its Actual Gemological Name. Gathered by the source "Gemstones of the...

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

Pink gemstones are becoming more popular, especially for engagement rings. Here are 21 examples for every budget and style.

Phenomenal gems seem to do magical things with light. Learn the science behind optical effects like cat’s eyes and star...

This table contains a selection of minerals gemologists may encounter as jewelry stones or gem specimens. The gems are sorted...

The Mohs hardness scale measures a mineral's resistance to scratching. Find the traditional scale here and a chart of select...

Crystals have habits. In crystallography, mineral habits refer to the way crystals form within a specific mineral. There are six...

Refractive indices and double refraction (birefringence) help gemologists identify gems. The following table lists these values for selected gemstones.

Measuring specific gravity helps gemologists identify gemstones. The following table lists the specific gravity values for a variety of gem...

How accurate are gem, mineral, and rock scanner identification apps? Our review covers the strengths and weaknesses of over 20...

Jade color trade names describe prized hues and patterns in jadeite and nephrite stones. Learn about the most popular and...

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

Although gemstone magnetism isn't commonly tested, it can help gemologists distinguish similar looking gems. Learn how to analyze this property....

The silicate subgroups of phyllosilicates and tectosilicates include minerals used in industry and jewelry. Learn how to identify them.

A full and complete history of the lapidary arts, from 70,000 BC to present day. The origins of faceting, bruting,...