Spinel

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

The modern August birthstone, peridot has been prized as a jewelry stone since ancient times. Always green in color but with considerable variations,…

Our ruby buying guide can help you learn how rubies are graded, what to avoid, and how to identify a high quality stone or a bargain in the rough.

Blue is one of the rarest colors in nature. Nevertheless, blue gemstones are always in demand for jewelry. While people have adorned themselves…

Padparadscha sapphires get their name from the Sinhalese word for “lotus colored.” This rare and elusive gem generates some debate among…

Vivid blue hues and spectacular stars define some of the world’s most famous sapphires. But the history behind these stones is fascinating,…

Although non-gem corundum occurs abundantly all over the world, gem-quality ruby and sapphire are significantly rarer. Their sources are also…

Ruby and sapphire origins greatly affect the values of these prized gems. Learn where these stones occur and how inclusions can help identify their…

For centuries, people have adorned themselves with red gemstones. Red has had strong symbolic associations with love, passion, fire, and blood,…