inclusions

What is Turkish purple jade? Learn about the qualities of this rare, beautiful, and versatile gemstone and see it transformed from rock to finished…

How does the GemEx iLoupe compare to a standard jeweler’s loupe? Our review tests the device and app, designed for smartphones and tablets.

Master peridot buying with our expert guide covering quality evaluation, pricing secrets, jewelry considerations, and top global sources for…

With dispersion higher than diamond and sapphire-blue body color, benitoite is one of the most attractive of all rare gems. Gem-quality crystals…

Gem identification is part detective work, part art. Learn how gemologists can distinguish gem species and determine whether a stone is natural…

Learn how lab grown sapphires are made and how gemologists can distinguish natural from synthetic sapphires.

Although covellite has attractive blue colors and shows iridescence, this rare mineral is difficult to cut. You can scratch it with a fingernail!…

Gem carvings are judged on material, workmanship, and artistry. Learn how to apply these criteria to a piece with our step-by-step guide.

Some gems contain both natural and lab-made components. Learn about these hybrid gemstones and how to distinguish them from mined gems.