What is my Birthstone?
The idea of a single birthstone for each month is a modern idea with a long history, but today’s consumers can choose gems from traditional or modern…
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.…
Buying Gemstones in Afghanistan: A Beginner’s Guide
Considering buying gems in Afghanistan? Learn which Afghan gemstones to seek out, which to avoid, and prepare for a “buyer beware” experience.…
Ruby Buying Guide
Learn essential ruby buying tips from experts. Discover how to evaluate color, clarity, cut & carat weight. Avoid synthetic stones & treatments.…
Faceted Gemstones And Light Return Measurements
What factors determine the light return of faceted gemstones? Facet quality, polish, color, and cut style all play roles. Learn more about these…
Understanding Gem Synthetics, Treatments, And Imitations, Part 2: Crystal Growth
Learn about the different crystal growth methods used to artificially create gemstones in laboratories.
Understanding Gem Synthetics, Treatments, And Imitations, Part 4: Synthetic Gemstone Guide
Many varieties of gems besides diamond can be created in the laboratory. Our synthetic gemstone guide covers many examples and explains their…
Feldspar Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Feldspars are the most common minerals at the Earth’s surface. In fact, if the entire composition of the Earth’s crust were regarded as a single…
Guest Designers Online Faceting Designs & Diagrams: Celtic Cross
A facet design created by a guest designer Dave Dening. This design is called the “Celtic Cross” which was made as memento for his wife and sister-in-law.…
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