Tips for Cabbing and Carving Opals
Cutting opals is a delight, but gem cutters may encounter a number of challenges when cabbing. However, with some carving techniques and a little…
Cutting opals is a delight, but gem cutters may encounter a number of challenges when cabbing. However, with some carving techniques and a little…
As opal synthetics grow more sophisticated, identifying this material becomes ever more difficult. Learn about five different kinds of lab-made…
With a fascinating folklore and intense beauty, opal has inspired many imitations. Jewelers have used a variety of synthetic materials as well…
Whenever you’re purchasing opal gems, you should check whether they’ve undergone any enhancements or if they’re actually …
Step 4: Gem Grading Lesson 17 Back to syllabus Gemologists can determine the color, clarity, and cut grades of gems like diamonds and rubies reasonably…
Even though diamonds make elegant and durable gems, you may find two stones that look alike. In contrast, no two opals look alike. Their beauty is…
Identifying opal patterns is more of an art than a science. For all but the best or most obvious examples, you’ll need to use your creativity to…
For this lesson we ask that you read the opal section of our Gem Price Guide and then come back and mark this lesson as complete.
Step 4: Gem Grading Lesson 18 Back to syllabus Gemologists evaluate opals a little differently than other gemstones. The traditional Four Cs still…
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