What Are Gem Species And Gem Varieties?
A gem species is a type of mineral species. Well over 140 mineral species have been utilized as gems. Throughout history, humans have selected these…
What Is The Difference Between Gemology And Mineralogy?
Despite some commonalities, there are significant differences between gemology and mineralogy. In this article, we’ll look at the materials…
What Is A Crystal?
What comes to mind when you think of crystals? Many people might visualize beautiful, mineral objects with smooth faces in regular geometric patterns.…
What Is A Mineral?
We live in a world of minerals. They’re closer to you than you might realize, even if you don’t wear any gemstone jewelry. Minerals…
Mineral Cleavage Testing: A Practical Guide
Cleavage testing is an important procedure for mineral identification. Learn what cleavage means and how to test mineral samples.
What is Crystallography?
Crystallography is the study of crystalline solids and their properties. Learn how mineralogists use this to identify minerals.
Are Alexandrites Expensive?
Photo Credit: Shutterstock/boykung If you say the phrase “emerald by day, ruby by night” to any gemstone professional or collector, they…
Mineralogy of Phyllosilicates and Tectosilicates
The silicate subgroups of phyllosilicates and tectosilicates include minerals used in industry and jewelry. Learn how to identify them.
Mineralogy of Cyclosilicates and Inosilicates
The silicate subgroups of cyclosilicates and inosilicates include beryl, tourmaline, jadeite, and nephrite. Learn to identify these minerals.…
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