Gemstone Magnetism: The Forgotten Property
Although gemstone magnetism isn’t commonly tested, it can help gemologists distinguish similar looking gems. Learn how to analyze this property.…
Sapphire Buying Guide
Mention sapphire and most people will probably imagine this September birthstone as a blue gem. Although blue specimens are probably the most…
Pearl Buying Guide
A fine pearl has a beauty akin to moonlight or mist, an ephemeral quality that seems impossible for a solid object to hold. Civilizations value these…
Protective Ring Settings
Some beautiful gems, like pearls, opals, and tanzanites, are very vulnerable to impacts and scratches, especially when worn on rings. Even more…
What is the Average Gemstone Faceting Yield?
What’s the average gemstone faceting yield from a single piece of rough? Learn how to estimate how much material you’ll need to cut to get the…
Protective Jewelry Settings
Some beautiful gems, like pearls, opals, and tanzanites, are very vulnerable to impacts and scratches, especially when worn on rings. Even more…
Opal Engagement Rings
Even though diamonds make elegant and durable gems, you may find two stones that look alike. In contrast, no two opals look alike. Their beauty is…
Table of Gems Ordered by Crystal System
This table contains a selection of minerals gemologists may encounter as jewelry stones or gem specimens. The gems are sorted by their crystal…
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