inclusions

One of the most abundant minerals on earth, quartz can occur in several geological environments. Learn how quartz forms and how its most popular…

Our topaz buying guide can help you learn how topazes are graded, what to avoid, and how to identify a high-quality stone or a bargain in the rough.…

Pyrope always occurs in series with other garnet species. Common, dark red garnets are a mixture of almandine and pyrope. Other mixtures also occur,…

Gemologists may immerse gems in refraction fluids during examinations. This refractive index list of household liquids offers some common alternatives.…

Topaz is a semiprecious gemstone made of aluminum and fluorine. Although frequently associated with golden yellow and blue, it can be found in…

A pretty good Tanzanian tsavorite type green garnet with some minor inclusions, but nothing very noticeable in normal viewing conditions.

Non-destructive tests are critical for gemologists trying to identify gems. Learn how measuring thermal properties, especially thermal inertia,…

A little gemology goes a long way. Learn how to clean your gemstone jewelry safely and how to deal with difficult jewelry settings and sensitive…

Rhodolites are purplish red garnets, a blend between almandine and pyrope in composition. These durable gems have become popular jewelry stones.…