jewelry

How do gems likes rubies and red beryls get their red color? Learn the role impurity ions play in the coloration of these and other gemstones.

Carved in Thailand in 2006 from a 3,600-ct emerald, “The Sacred Emerald Buddha” has a message of peace. Read the inside story of this amazing…

Emerald fillers can improve the beauty of these gems but also have some drawbacks. Learn how to choose the right filler treatment for a particular…

First-time gem buyers may find diamond grades confusing. Our consumer guide explains how diamonds are evaluated and gives advice on how to choose…

In this golden age of pearls, a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors are available. Our pearl buying guide can help you select a pearl you’ll…

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

Trapiche emerald gems are some of the world’s rarest emeralds. Learn where they’re found and how their characteristic “spoked wheel” patterns…

“Frosted Stars” are variations on classic five and six-pointed star-cut gemstones. Learn how to facet these gem designs and make the stars…

What’s the difference between a lab-created emerald and a natural emerald? Is a synthetic gem a real gem? Learn the facts before you buy emerald…