What are Crystal Systems and Mineral Habits?
Crystals have habits. In crystallography, mineral habits refer to the way crystals form within a specific mineral. There are six crystal systems.…
Garnet Symbolism
Garnet symbolism is rich and varied. The January birthstone has inspired many legends and popular associations with love, friendship, light,…
What Were the Gemstones of the Breastplate of Aaron?
In Exodus, the breastplate of Aaron was said to hold 12 gems. Discover the historical debate around it and learn about jacinth’s identity across…
Dolomite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Although transparent dolomite crystals are fairly abundant and popular collector’s items, faceted gems are soft, fragile, and rarely seen…
Simple Design Ideas for Freeform Gems
You can learn gem carving by practicing simple designs. Let the native shapes of stones inspire freeform gems you can cut for many purposes.
Clarity Grading for Colored Gemstones
Don’t underestimate the importance of clarity, one of the Four Cs of gemstone grading. For faceted gems, basic clarity grading involves evaluating…
Blue Gemstones: 37 Varieties, Properties & Care Guide
Explore 37 blue gemstones from rare collectors’ specimens to durable jewelry options. Learn how to assess quality, understand durability factors,…
Suiseki, Glyptography, and Other Rock Artistry Techniques
Not all creative lapidary work involves cutting gems. Rock artistry techniques like suiseki and glyptography can offer some imaginative possibilities.…
Antique Engagement Rings
You can find many amazing antique engagement rings from a variety of time periods. Before you shop, learn more about these styles and how to identify…
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