Understanding Gem Synthetics, Treatments, and Imitations, Part 5: Gemstone Treatments
Identifying gemstone treatments is difficult even for experienced gemologists. Learn about the many different ways gem color and clarity are…
Raw Stone Jewelry Design and Care
Raw stone jewelry is trending. Read this article for tips on incorporating raw stones into your jewelry designs and cleaning these gems.
Destructive Acid Testing
In some cases, a hot point test won’t distinguish plastic simulants from natural gems. Some plastics release a protein smell when hot point…
Destructive Hot Point Testing
Hot point testing can determine if some gem materials are plastic imitations. It can also reveal if a stone is treated with wax or plastic. By Donald…
Gemstone Magnetism
Although gemstone magnetism isn’t a commonly tested gemstone property, it may be useful for making quick separations outside the lab. By Richard…
Physical Properties of Gemstones
Step 2: Advanced Gemology Lesson 2 Back to syllabus The optical properties of gems attract our eyes and can give a cut stone a unique character. However,…
Determining Optic Character and Optic Effects
Step 3: Practical Gemology Lesson 6 Back to syllabus Optic character is another useful clue in gem identification. This property exists in every…
Gemstone Physical Properties
The optical properties of gems attract our eyes and can give a cut stone a unique character. However, gemstone physical properties are also important.…
Enhanced Gem Inclusions
Gem treatments can affect a stone’s value and stability. Learn how the most common procedures work and how to identify enhanced gem inclusions.…
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