sapphire

Once known only as a ruby impersonator, the popularity and value of spinel have skyrocketed in recent years. This beautiful...

Appraising gems and jewelry involves opinions of value based on knowledge and research. Learn what information gemologists should include on...

The Mid-Victorian Period saw many changes in society and fashion. Learn what distinguishes Grand Period jewelry, particularly its opulent style...

Many people assume that a gem appraisal sets a definitive price for an item. Actually, the price depends on the...

Master spinel buying with our comprehensive guide covering the 4 Cs, color grading, pricing, origins, and how to identify quality...

A traditional favorite, a ruby engagement ring stone symbolizes love and passion. Learn how to find the gem that best...

Whether you’re an expert or novice gemologist or collector, add these gemology reference books we’ve reviewed to your library.

Solidscapes pretty much do anything, and at a detail level and precision that is just not possible using the old...

Experts might successfully cut gems crown first, but cutting pavilion first is usually the best and most practical method. Read...

Dark and stunning black diamonds are taking center stage in engagement rings. From Leibish. Black diamonds are an attractive alternative...

In Part 3 of “Faceting Made Easy,” Trevor Hannam covers how to select gem rough as well as dopping and...

The modern birthstone for March is aquamarine, a blue stone often connected to the ocean.

"Just Ask Jeff" gives his opinions and comments and detailed explanation on Buying Gemstones from shopping networks. Read on for...

Opal is a complicated gemstone, and many factors affect its price. Learn how to distinguish these eight opal types and...

Considering a conch pearl buying trip to the Caribbean? Quality factors for these gems differ from colored gemstones. Before you...

With bright rainbow iridescence, ammolite is sure to draw attention. Read about this gem’s unique quality factors before your next...

How can gem buyers avoid undisclosed gem treatments and substitutions? Learn why it's best to deal with expert gem cutters...

Jeff R Graham shares his opinions and thoughts on various topics in Just Ask Jeff. See what Jeff shares on...

Measuring specific gravity helps gemologists identify gemstones. The following table lists the specific gravity values for a variety of gem...

Cufflinks have been a staple in men’s formalwear for decades. Men do not always have as many options to choose...

Jeff R Graham shares his opinions and thoughts on various topics in Just Ask Jeff. See what Jeff shares on...

Below are a number of comments, instructions, and hints that I thought would be of interest.  Enjoy:) Tin Lead lap...

When shopping for engagement rings in the past, you were limited to the same generic designs that everyone else was...

Available in many colors, spinels are becoming more popular with consumers. Learn how spinels form and how these gemstones get...

All gem designs balance multiple factors that affect the stone’s appearance. Before tweaking a design, consider the overall goal for...

What's the best abrasive for polishing natural gems? An oxide polish is usually the best option. Learn the different uses...

Refractive indices and double refraction (birefringence) help gemologists identify gems. The following table lists these values for selected gemstones.

The Mohs hardness scale measures a mineral's resistance to scratching. Find the traditional scale here and a chart of select...

Early lapidary technology doesn’t differ from our modern tools as much as you might think. Learn more about the history...

Just like birthstones, there are gemstones that represent each wedding anniversary year. Tourmaline is the gemstone to give for an...

Sunny and bright, citrines symbolize health and happiness. Our citrine engagement ring guide will show you how to pick the...

Fancy colored yellow diamonds are becoming increasingly popular. Our yellow diamond buying guide has the information you need before your...

Proposing in the great outdoors can be a wonderful experience. If you're looking for some outdoor proposal ideas and inspiration,...

In the gem design stage of jewelry making, faceters evaluate a stone's qualities. Learn how to choose a cut for...

Belle Époque jewelry combined opulent but graceful metalwork with a variety of gems. Learn more about this style and how...

Thinking of becoming a gemologist? Consider these gemology career options, compare their estimated salaries, and decide which one may be...

Learn how to organize your gemstone collection. Choose the storage and display options that are right for you and create...

Lab-grown diamonds are becoming popular options for engagement ring stones. Learn the truth about these gems in our FAQ and...

Think of jewelry stones as reflections of you or the recipient. Learning about colored gems can help you find the...

Emerald fillers can improve the beauty of these gems but also have some drawbacks. Learn how to choose the right...

Master gemstone anatomy and faceting terminology! Discover how precision cutting creates brilliance, fire, and scintillation - the only human-controlled aspect...

With only a few produced each year, pink diamonds are among the rarest gems on the planet. Learn how quality...

Learn how gemstone optical properties, like refractive index and pleochroism, help gemologists identify gems and lapidaries choose cuts.

Comparing moissanite vs diamond engagement rings? Discover key differences in brilliance, durability, and price to make the perfect choice for...

Jeff R Graham shares his opinions and thoughts on various topics in Just Ask Jeff. See what Jeff shares on...

What are the best techniques and tools for polishing girdles? Learn how to complete your faceted gems quickly and easily...

Faceting mistakes can cost gem cutters time and money. Learn some techniques for fixing common errors and making your repairs...

You don’t have to travel too far to find an exciting proposal destination. Here are our choices for the top...