Gemstone Radiation Treatment
Most gems on the market today receive various treatments to change their natural colors and create more desirable, salable products. Radiation…
Identifying Inclusions Found in Natural Gems
Table of Contents:CrystalsCavitiesSingle PhaseTwo PhaseThree PhaseFingerprintsFeathers and Veils Crystals Crystals are easy to distinguish…
Identifying Inclusions Found in Synthetic Gems
One of the simplest ways to distinguish natural from synthetic gems is finding inclusions that can only be the result of laboratory growth. You…
Identifying Inclusions Found in Enhanced Gems
Gemstone treatments can have a significant impact on the value and stability of a stone. The following enhancement processes leave behind some…
Identifying Inclusions of Specific Gems
Imagine you find this blue gemstone for sale at a pawn shop. Can the inclusions you see help you narrow the range of possible identifications? Absolutely.…
Natural Rubies Clarity Enhanced with Leaded Glass
Prior to 2006, most lead glass filled rubies contained only a very small percentage of glass in surface-reaching fractures to improve clarity.…
Gemstone Facets: Terminology and Functions
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 22 Back to syllabus Facets, those “geometrically arranged, flat surfaces” that cover faceted gemstones,…
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…
An Introduction to Fancy Gem Cuts
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 24 Back to syllabus The cut is humanity’s contribution to the beauty of gemstones. Color, clarity, and…
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