Gemstone Physical Properties
Step 2: Advanced Gemology Lesson 2 Back to syllabus The optical properties of gems attract our eyes and can give a cut stone a unique character. However,…
Gemstone Radiation Treatment
Most gems on the market today receive various treatments to change their natural colors and create more desirable, salable products. Radiation…
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…
What are Crystal Systems and Mineral Habits?
In crystallography, mineral habits refer to the way crystals form within a specific mineral. In A Guide to Gem Classification, I mentioned that,…
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…
What is Your Gemstone Personality?
Think of jewelry stones as reflections of you or the recipient. Learning about colored gems can help you find the gemstone personality you’re looking…
Chrysocolla Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Pure blue chrysocolla is extremely soft but interesting to gem collectors. On the other hand, chrysocolla that forms as gel mixed with silica and…
The Mohs Hardness Scale and Chart for Select Gems
The Mohs hardness scale measures a mineral’s resistance to scratching. Find the traditional scale here and a chart of select gems ordered by hardness.…
Shattuckite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Shattuckite is often mixed with quartz, and data often reported for properties may be erroneous. The cabochons are rich blue in color and very popular,…
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