Spinel

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

How can gemologists quickly distinguish aquamarines from aquamarine imitations? We’ll review some common lookalikes and their most notable…

Discover the complete aquamarine buying guide with expert tips on color, clarity, cut, and carat. Learn about treatments, synthetics, and alternatives…

A refractometer is an important tool for gem identification. The Gem Lab refractometer is an inexpensive model that’s a good choice for a novice…

Sapphirines are durable but very rare gemstones. Although named after their typically sapphire-blue color, these gems can occur in different…

Satisfying the human desire for symmetry, trapiche gems have a special allure. Learn what makes these rarities so unique in our introductory article.…

All tourmaline gems wear well in almost any type of jewelry setting. Blue tourmaline gems, also known as indicolites, are a very popular choice.…

You’ll frequently find green-colored tourmaline, also known as verdelite, on the market. Green is a popular color, and tourmalines make…

Like all tourmaline gemstones, rubellite wears well in almost any type of jewelry. This stone’s raspberry-like color draws a great deal…