PJ Joseph

Welcome! I’m P.J. Joseph—a trained gemologist with over 40 years of experience in the fascinating world of gemstones. My journey blends scientific precision with storytelling, as I’ve spent decades educating others through writing. Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned collector, I’m here to share insights that empower ethical, informed choices in jewelry and gemology. I hold a professional diploma (DgemG) in gemology from the Deutsche Gemmologische Gesellschaft e.V., Idar-Oberstein, Germany, and the Gemological Institute of India, Mumbai, India.

Why “Cut” Isn’t the Shape of Your Diamond (And Why It’s the Most Important ‘C’)

Diamond Buying Guide, Diamond Education, Diamonds /

Diamond cut is not the shape. Cut refers to angles, symmetry, and polish that create sparkle. Learn why a well-cut diamond shines brighter than any grade in color or clarity. Why “Cut” Isn’t the Shape of Your Diamond When beginners hear “cut,” they often think of shape—round, oval, princess, pear. That’s wrong. Cut means how […]

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Buying the Paper, Not the Diamond: The #1 Mistake I’ve Seen in 40 Years

Diamond Buying Tips, Diamonds, Jewelry Education /

Buying a diamond? Don’t make the mistake of trusting the certificate alone. Learn why two GIA-graded diamonds with the same report can look completely different and how to choose beauty over paper. Most first-time diamond buyers trust the certificate more than their own eyes. That’s the biggest mistake. A grading report is only a guide.

Buying the Paper, Not the Diamond: The #1 Mistake I’ve Seen in 40 Years Read More »

Are You Paying for the Pearl or the Box? Separating Brand Hype from True Gem Quality

Gem Buying Guides, Pearl Buying Guide /

When you buy pearls, are you paying for the gem itself or the brand stamped on the box? Luxury names can push prices far beyond the actual value of the pearl. You deserve to know if what’s inside the box is worth it. How to Judge Pearl Quality Yourself Think of pearls as having their

Are You Paying for the Pearl or the Box? Separating Brand Hype from True Gem Quality Read More »

The #1 Most Costly Mistake: Is Your Pearl’s Color Natural or Dyed?

Gemology,, Jewelry Buying Guide, Pearls, /

Learn how to detect dyed pearls. Spot color concentrations near drill holes or blemishes, know when to ask for a lab report, and protect your jewelry investment. When you buy a pearl, the first question you should ask is simple.Is the color natural or man-made? That answer decides both value and trust. Why Color Matters

The #1 Most Costly Mistake: Is Your Pearl’s Color Natural or Dyed? Read More »

From My Gem Lab to You: Stop Calling Every Dark Pearl “Tahitian”

Gemology,, Jewellery Education, Pearls, /

Many dark pearls sold as “Tahitian” are actually dyed freshwater or Akoya pearls. Learn the key signs to identify real Tahitian pearls and avoid costly mistakes. Many people see a dark pearl and call it “Tahitian.”That’s a mistake. Most dark pearls in the market are not Tahitian.They are often dyed freshwater pearls or treated Akoya

From My Gem Lab to You: Stop Calling Every Dark Pearl “Tahitian” Read More »

The “Too Good to Be True” Pearl Deal: Why an Unbelievable Price Is a Major Red Flag

Gemstones & Jewellery, Pearl Jewellery /

Pearls at a bargain price often mean thin nacre, poor luster, bad matching, or even fakes. Learn how to spot these tricks and protect your money when buying pearls. You walk into a shop and see a string of pearls at half the market price.It feels tempting.But before you reach for your wallet, ask yourself—what’s

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Maharani Irish Gin: Where Cork Meets Kerala

Beverages,, Irish Gin, Kerala Spices, Spirits /

Maharani Irish Gin is crafted in Cork by Rebel City Distillery.It brings together Irish distilling traditions and Kerala’s spices. Created by husband and wife, Robert and Bhagya, the gin carries the spirit of heritage and craft.The name “Maharani” honors strong women and their role in shaping culture. What makes Maharani different? Every sip reflects two

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The Zero Making Charge Myth in Kerala Gold Buying

Gold Buying Guide, Gold Buying Tips, Jewellery, Jewelry, Kerala Jewellery, Kerala Jewelry /

Learn why “Zero Making Charge” gold offers in Kerala are often misleading. Understand the real cost, how to calculate final prices, and make smarter gold purchases. You see it everywhere in Kerala: “Zero Making Charge” on gold. It sounds like a great deal. But is it really? Here’s what most buyers don’t know: How to

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Gross Weight vs. Net Weight: The Single Most Important Question to Ask When Buying Stone-Studded Jewellery

Gold Buying Guide /

Learn why you must ask about gross weight vs. net weight when buying stone-studded jewellery in Kerala. Avoid paying gold rates for stones in Nagapada Thali, jhumkas, and bangles. When you buy stone-studded jewellery, one question decides whether you get real value for your money. Are you paying for gross weight or net weight? I’ve

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Decoding the Jeweller’s Bill: Making Charges, Wastage and GST in Kerala

Gold Buying Guide, Investment, Jewellery, Jewelry, Kerala Jewellery, Kerala Jewelry /

Understand how jewellers in Kerala calculate gold bills. Learn about making charges (Pani Kuli), wastage (Thattam), and GST. Find out how to negotiate and save on your gold purchase. Decoding the Jeweller’s Bill in Kerala When you buy gold in Kerala, the bill has more than just the price of gold. Three key items often

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