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.

Storied Diamond Desert Sands of Eternity™ Botswana diamond ring by Jared

Storied Diamond Desert Sands of Eternity™ by Jared

Beneath the sunlit dunes of Botswana, time and earth shape diamonds with patience. Jared introduces the Storied Diamond Desert Sands of Eternity™ collection, where each stone carries a story from origin to ownership. Unlike ordinary diamonds, these gems offer you a transparent journey. Every facet reflects where it has been and where it will go. […]

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Buying pearls online guide with clear pearl close-up

Buying Pearls Online: The Mistake of Trusting One Blurry Photo

Buying pearls online can be tricky. One of the most common mistakes buyers make is trusting a single, blurry product photo. Pearls are unique gems, and no two strands look the same. If you shop without enough details, you risk overpaying or receiving poor-quality pearls. Why a Single Photo is Risky Research shows that over

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A side-by-side view of two diamond rings symbolizing comparison between friends.

Stop the Comparison Curse: Find Your Perfect Diamond

Buying a diamond is deeply personal. Yet many buyers fall into what I call “the comparison curse.” The moment a friend shows off their engagement ring, the thought comes: “I want mine to be bigger, clearer, or better.” The truth is simple: every diamond is unique, just like every buyer’s story. Chasing someone else’s stone

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Launch of the International Fine Jewellery Academy at VICENZAORO 2025 in Vicenza, Italy

International Fine Jewellery Academy Launches in Milan

On September 6, 2025, during the VICENZAORO jewellery show in Vicenza, Italy, a major milestone for jewellery education was announced—the launch of the International Fine Jewellery Academy (IFJA). Based in Milan, the academy will train the next generation of jewellers by combining Italian craftsmanship with modern sustainability standards. Who is behind the International Fine Jewellery

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GIA certified diamond with grading report in New York City jewelry store.

Certified Stones Only: How to Avoid Overpaying for Undocumented Diamonds in NYC

Certified Stones Only: Why Certification Matters in NYC When you shop for diamonds in New York City, the temptation to grab a “bargain” can be high. But without proper certification, that bargain often turns into an overpriced mistake. Certification from respected labs like GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society) ensures that

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Gold jewelry pieces illustrating hallmark differences in jewelry NYC store

Hallmark Differences in Jewelry NYC: A Buyer’s Guide

Buying jewelry in New York City means dealing with hallmark differences in jewelry in NYC right from the start. Walk through 47th Street or browse SoHo, and you’ll see gold stamped with marks from India, Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S. These hallmark differences in jewelry NYC often confuse buyers because hallmarks vary by

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Tourists shopping in Times Square, New York City, surrounded by bright store signs.

NYC Shopping Tips for Tourists: How to Avoid Overspending in New York City

New York City is the shopping capital of the world. Tourists flock to Fifth Avenue, SoHo, and Times Square in search of luxury goods, fashion, and unique souvenirs. But without a clear plan, you can overspend before you realize what’s happening. Why tourists overspend in New York City Tourism research shows that nearly 50% of

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Bremont Altitude MB Meteor Stealth Grey limited edition titanium watch with meteorite dial.

Bremont Altitude MB Meteor Stealth Grey: Titanium Pilot’s Watch

Summary:The Bremont MB Meteor is a 42mm titanium pilot’s watch limited to 400 pieces worldwide. With its meteorite-pattern dial, Grade 2 titanium case, and Bremont’s ejection-tested durability, it blends aerospace toughness with collector-grade exclusivity. Introduction The Bremont MB Meteor redefines stealth design in aviation watches. As a result, it bridges aerospace precision with modern minimalism.

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DOXA SUB 750T Professional dive watch with stainless steel case and Beads of Rice bracelet

DOXA SUB 750T Professional: The Iconic Dive Watch Reimagined

Summary The DOXA SUB 750T Professional revives a legendary 2002 dive watch with modern refinements. Now slimmer and lighter, it maintains its rugged identity with a 750m depth rating, Swiss automatic movement, and versatile strap option. Designed for divers, collectors, and enthusiasts, it bridges tradition with technical evolution. Introduction The DOXA SUB 750T Professional first

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Bamford Bad Form GMT Desk Clock with stainless steel case and luminous blue dial.

Bamford GMT Desk Clock – Bad Form Limited Edition

Summary The Bamford Bad Form GMT Desk Clock is a 50-piece collectible created by Bamford London and seconde/seconde/. It combines Swiss Ronda quartz movement, stainless-steel construction, and a custom GMT hand that reflects Bamford’s humor and craftsmanship. Moreover, it’s compact and travel-ready, designed for collectors, travelers, and design enthusiasts who appreciate functional art. Introduction The

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