Identifying Inclusions of Specific Gems
Imagine you find this blue gemstone for sale at a pawn shop. Can the inclusions you see help you narrow the range of possible identifications? Absolutely.…
Natural Rubies Clarity Enhanced with Leaded Glass
Prior to 2006, most lead glass filled rubies contained only a very small percentage of glass in surface-reaching fractures to improve clarity.…
Gemstone Facets: Terminology and Functions
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 22 Back to syllabus Facets, those “geometrically arranged, flat surfaces” that cover faceted gemstones,…
A Guide to Gem Cutting Styles
While some cut names may describe the face-up shape of the finished gem, others refer to the shape and arrangement of the gem’s facets. These cuts…
An Introduction to Fancy Gem Cuts
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 24 Back to syllabus The cut is humanity’s contribution to the beauty of gemstones. Color, clarity, and…
An Introduction to Gemology
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 1 Back to syllabus Gemology is the scientific study of gemstones. Although there may be investors and collectors…
What is a Gem?
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 2 Back to syllabus For thousands of years, people have used terms like “gem” and “gemstone”…
Understanding Gemological Formulas
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 3 Back to syllabus The chemical composition of a mineral is a primary aspect of its definition as a species.…
Gem Formation: How are Gemstones Created?
Most gems form naturally as minerals within the Earth. Most form as crystals, solids whose atoms are arranged in highly ordered repeating patterns…
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