garnet

The Spectra Ultralap is an excellent choice for polishing quartz and beryl gemstones. Learn how to use this lap and maximize its practical life.…

Novice gem faceters often have questions about dopping with wax. Learn what types of dopping wax to use and how to get started.

This Congo tourmaline looks very much like a nicely saturated Merelani Mint Garnet.

Although abundant in various lava rocks, leucite is extremely rare in gem-quality form and often has a milky or cloudy look. Faceted stones as well…

Distinguishing diamond lookalikes from the real thing can be challenging. Learn how to use specific gravity and birefringence to make simple…

You can use a polariscope to observe gemstone twinning, dichroism, and crystal strain. Test your ability to identify these and other gem properties…

The polariscope is an essential tool for gem identification. Learn how it works, how to use it, and how to test gemstone refraction.

Discover America’s best gem hunting locations where you can unearth emeralds, diamonds, sapphires and more! Plan your gemology vacation with…

Gem formation usually involves mineral crystallization and other geological processes. Learn how these affect the gemstone properties gemologists…