Birthstone Chart
What are the birthstones by month? January is garnet, February is amethyst, March is aquamarine, April is diamond, May is emerald, June is alexandrite,…
The History of Lapidary
A full and complete history of the lapidary arts, from 70,000 BC to present day. The origins of faceting, bruting, and carving.
Destructive Mineral Tests: Streak Testing
Mineral streak testing is fun if you have rough material to spare. It’s not recommended for finished gems, as there’s a good…
Jade Buying Guide
Learn everything about jade buying with our comprehensive guide. Discover quality factors, treatments, and pricing for jadeite vs nephrite…
Jade Buying Guide
For over 7,000 years, jade has held an almost mystical power over human imagination. Ancient Chinese emperors believed jade connected them to…
Take the Birthstone Quiz
What do you know about birthstones? Take our short birthstone quiz and learn about the makeup, cutting, and value of these popular gemstones.
Destructive Testing with a Streak Plate
Gemstone streak testing is fun if you have rough material to spare. It’s not recommended for finished gems, as there’s a good chance…
Destructive Gemstone Tests: Streak Testing
Streak testing is a destructive gemstone test rarely used by gemologists, but it is a standard diagnostic test for mineralogists. Most gems leave…
Destructive Gemstone Tests: Streak Testing
Gemstone streak testing is fun if you have rough material to spare. It’s not recommended for finished gems, as there’s a good chance…
IGS Become Member