Identifying Inclusions of Specific Gems
Imagine you find this blue gemstone for sale at a pawn shop. Can the inclusions you see help you narrow the range of possible identifications? Absolutely.…
Natural Rubies Clarity Enhanced with Leaded Glass
Prior to 2006, most lead glass filled rubies contained only a very small percentage of glass in surface-reaching fractures to improve clarity.…
An Introduction to Fancy Gem Cuts
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 24 Back to syllabus The cut is humanity’s contribution to the beauty of gemstones. Color, clarity, and…
Test Taking Tips and Strategies
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 25 Back to syllabus One of the sad things about grading the gemologist exams is seeing people miss easy questions…
What is a Gem?
Step 1: Introduction to Gemology Lesson 2 Back to syllabus For thousands of years, people have used terms like “gem” and “gemstone”…
Gem Formation: How are Gemstones Created?
Most gems form naturally as minerals within the Earth. Most form as crystals, solids whose atoms are arranged in highly ordered repeating patterns…
A Guide to Gem Classification
Little is simple and straightforward in gemology. Every established principle has an exception. This applies to gem classification as well.…
What are Crystal Systems and Mineral Habits?
In crystallography, mineral habits refer to the way crystals form within a specific mineral. In A Guide to Gem Classification, I mentioned that,…
An Introduction to Gem Identification
People often ask me about gem identification. More specifically, they ask me to identify their gems. Some think I can do this simply by looking at…
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