lapis lazuli

Chart showing a mix of modern and traditional birthstones by month. The Origin of Birthstones The idea of a birthstone, a gemstone that corresponds…

Designing a pair of custom earrings is a great way to make a statement. Learn how to create custom earrings with our Buying Guide.

Blue is one of the rarest colors in nature. Nevertheless, blue gemstones are always in demand for jewelry. While people have adorned themselves…

Some treatments add lab-created material to mined gemstones. The part-natural, part-synthetic nature of these gems has prompted some in the…

In some cases, a hot point test won’t distinguish plastic simulants from natural gems. Some plastics release a protein smell when hot point…

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…

Acid testing is a destructive procedure gemologists and mineralogists can use to determine if some pieces are real or fake. Learn how to perform…

Beautiful blue colors and the star stone effect have influenced sapphire symbolism through the ages. Learn more about the legends surrounding…

Our gemstone care guide covers many popular gems. Learn how best to maintain your gemstone jewelry and what kinds of stresses and cleaning methods…