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.

The #1 Mistake You Can Make: Confusing Natural with Cultured Pearls

Buying Guides, Jewelry, Pearl Buying Guide, Pearls /

Many buyers confuse natural and cultured pearls. Learn the key difference with a simple analogy. Avoid costly mistakes when choosing your pearls. When you shop for pearls, one mistake can change everything.Confusing “natural” with “cultured.” Both are real pearls.But their origins are not the same. Think about berries.A wild berry grows by accident in nature.A […]

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Most Popular Drinks in the World You Should Try Right Now

Beverages, Food & Drink, Global Trends /

Discover the most popular drinks in the world, from tea and coffee to kombucha and bubble tea. Learn why these beverages dominate global culture and find your next favorite sip. Key Takeaways Why Drinks Matter Globally Have you ever wondered what the most popular drink in the world is? Chances are, it’s already in your

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Darjeeling Express: Asma Khan’s Homestyle Indian Feast in London

Food, Indian Cuisine, London, Restaurants /

Discover Darjeeling Express in London, founded by Asma Khan. Enjoy homestyle Mughlai and Calcutta dishes, served by an all-women kitchen. A unique dining experience blending heritage, community, and authentic Indian food. A Restaurant Born at Home What You Taste Food here feels personal. You eat the way families eat at home—together, passing plates, and enjoying

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Brij Lakshman Sagar, Pali Rajasthan – A Heritage Retreat

Boutique Stays, Rajasthan Hotels, Travel /

Discover Brij Lakshman Sagar in Pali, Rajasthan. A 19th-century hunting lodge turned boutique hotel with 12 private cottages, rock-carved pools, and authentic desert architecture. In the wild heart of Rajasthan lies Brij Lakshman Sagar, a retreat with history and character. Why Stay Here? What You Experience Ask Yourself Brij Lakshman Sagar is not just a

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Amaya, Solane – Boutique Villas in Himachal Pradesh

Boutique Stays, Himachal Pradesh, Sustainable Living, Travel /

Discover Amaya in Solane, Himachal Pradesh – boutique villas by Studio Mumbai’s Bijoy Jain. Handcrafted architecture, sustainable living, organic food, pool, sauna, and library in the Himalayas. A Retreat in the Hills Amaya was born from a simple need—to reconnect. You step away from the noise of the city and into a quiet sanctuary.Here, mornings

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TAOS Dentelle Watch – A Tribute to Saint-Gall Lace

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces, Luxury Watches, Swiss Craftsmanship /

The TAOS Dentelle pays tribute to Saint-Gall lace with an enamel dial, silver paillon mesh, and embroidered relief. Powered by the VOP318 caliber, it comes in 18K white gold with diamond-set details. The TAOS Dentelle watch honors the legendary lace of Saint-Gall in Switzerland.This lace has long been a symbol of refinement and tradition.TAOS captures

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The Art of the Bargain: Can You (and Should You) Negotiate Gold Prices in Kerala?

Gold Buying Guide /

Can you negotiate gold prices in Kerala? The rate is fixed, but making charges and wastage often leave room for bargaining. Learn practical tips and polite phrases for getting a fair deal at jewellery shops. Gold buying is a tradition in Kerala.You know the daily gold rate is fixed everywhere.But what about the making charges

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The Instagram vs. Reality Trap: Buying a Gem Based on a Perfect Photo

Gem Buying Tips, Gem Photography, Special Lighting for Gemstones /

Buying a gem based on Instagram photos can be misleading. Learn why lighting, editing, and color shifts matter, and why videos or in-person viewings are crucial before you invest. Why Photos Can Mislead You A gemstone photo online rarely tells the whole story.Professional sellers use: A gem that looks glowing blue on Instagram may appear

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It’s Not Just Sparkle: How Cut Shapes a Gem’s Color and Durability

Gemology, Gemstone Fashioning, Jewelry Buying Tips /

Discover how gemstone cuts affect color and durability. Learn about windowing, extinction, and why a skilled cutter makes all the difference. Why Cut Matters Beyond the 4Cs When you think of gemstones, you often hear about the 4Cs—carat, color, clarity, and cut. But with colored stones, the way a gem is cut does more than

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Not All That Glitters: Gold-Plated vs. Solid Gold – Key Differences

Consumer Awareness, Gold Buying Guide, Jewelry /

Learn how to tell the difference between gold-plated and solid gold. Protect your budget and avoid overspending when buying jewelry in India and abroad. Gold-Plated vs. Solid Gold: Why It Matters When you shop for jewelry, price alone can mislead you. Many buyers confuse gold-plated ornaments with solid gold.This mistake often leads to overspending or

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