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 Arkenstone Dallas mineral gallery with fine mineral specimens

The Arkenstone: Story of Dr. Robert Lavinsky and iRocks.com

Gem Shows, Mineral Collecting, Mineral Dealers, Museum Collaborations /

Summary The Arkenstone, founded by Dr. Robert Lavinsky, is a leading fine mineral business based in Dallas, Texas. Through iRocks.com, it transformed how collectors buy, study, and appreciate minerals online. Over the years, The Arkenstone has combined science, art, and community—serving collectors and museums worldwide. Introduction The Arkenstone is one of the most respected names […]

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Argyle Pink Diamonds from the Argyle mine in Western Australia

Argyle Pink Diamonds: The Rarest Treasures from Australia

Australian Diamonds, Australian Gemstones, Diamonds, Gemstones, Investment Gems /

Argyle Pink Diamonds™ are among the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the world. First discovered in 1983 at the Argyle Diamond Mine in Western Australia, these remarkable gems continue to fascinate collectors and investors worldwide. To understand their rarity: With the closure of the Argyle Diamond Mine in 2020, the supply ended. This makes

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22K gold alloy composition with copper and silver metals

22K Gold Alloy: Understanding What’s in Your Gold

Buying Guide, Gemology Basics, Gold, Jewellery /

Summary Your 22K gold jewellery isn’t pure gold. It’s a carefully balanced mix of gold, copper, and silver that adds strength, colour, and value. Learn how this gold alloy composition defines the durability and glow of your ornaments. Introduction Most jewellery you see isn’t made of pure gold alone. It’s crafted with 22K gold alloy,

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Chrysoberyl gemstones showing standard yellow-green, cat’s eye, and alexandrite color change.

Chrysoberyl vs Alexandrite: Avoid This Costly Mistake

Astrology & Gem Beliefs, Gemstone Buying Guides, Gemstone Identification, Gemstones,, Precious Stones /

Summary Many buyers confuse chrysoberyl with alexandrite. That’s a costly mistake. While both belong to the same gem family, chrysoberyl vs alexandrite is a story of rarity, color, and value. Alexandrite’s color change makes it unique, while standard and cat’s eye chrysoberyl are beautiful, affordable, and strong.Learn how to identify each, avoid fake claims, and

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Close-up of a Paspaley Strand showing lustrous South Sea pearls and signature clasp.

Paspaley Strand Craftsmanship | Timeless Treasure

Craftsmanship, Jewelry, Luxury, Pearls /

Summary:This story reveals how Paspaley artisans shape each South Sea pearl into a masterpiece. Through precision, patience, and artistry, a Paspaley Strand becomes a timeless treasure. Introduction Paspaley Strand craftsmanship showcases the art of transforming South Sea pearls into timeless treasures. From the beginning, skilled artisans handpick every pearl and guide each stage with precision

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De Beers launches free education app for US jewelry retailers to boost natural diamond sales

De Beers Diamond App for India’s Retailers

Diamonds, Gem News, Jewelry Business, Retail Training /

Summary De Beers Group has released a new diamond education app designed for Indian jewellery retailers. Developed by the De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds, it includes videos, podcasts, and guides that help jewellers explain the difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds. The De Beers diamond app also connects with BIS-inspired quality practices, helping Indian

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Close-up photo of mineral specimen with lighting, showing risks of online buying.

Buying Minerals Online: 3 Costly Mistakes to Avoid

Gemology, Mineral Collecting, Online Buying Tips /

Summary Buying minerals online offers convenience but also carries hidden risks. Many collectors lose money because they fall for misleading photos, vague descriptions, or unclear return policies. This guide explains the top three mistakes buyers make and how to avoid them, ensuring safe and smart mineral purchases. Introduction Buying minerals online seems simple. It saves

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Dyed quartz mimicking amethyst with visible color concentrations in cracks

Dyed Quartz Identification: Spotting Fakes in Amethyst and Citrine

Gemology, Gemstones, Jewelry Buying Guide /

SummaryDyed quartz often imitates amethyst and citrine. Learn how to identify color concentrations, uneven saturation, and bright synthetic hues with simple loupe inspection and expert signs. Quartz: The Master of Disguise Dyed quartz identification is a skill every gem enthusiast and jeweler should master. Dyed quartz often imitates amethyst and citrine so convincingly that even

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Fracture-filled emerald showing flash effect under loupe

Fracture-Filled Emerald Ruby | Spot the Flash Effect

Buying Guides, Emerald, Gem Treatments, Gemology, Ruby /

Summary Many emeralds and rubies on the market are fracture-filled with glass or resin to improve their clarity. You can identify these treated gems by spotting the flash effect—bright color flashes seen through a loupe. This guide explains how fracture-filling works, how to detect it, and why it matters for gem buyers and collectors. Introduction

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A gemologist examining a gemstone under a microscope, showing the importance of professional testing.

Knowing When You Don’t Know: Key Gemologist Skill

Gemology, Gemstone Identification, Professional Skills /

Summary In gemology, the wisest skill is humility. Knowing When You Don’t Know protects credibility, builds client trust, and keeps your science sharp. Introduction After 40 years in gemology, I’ve learned this truth: Knowing When You Don’t Know is your strongest professional skill.It’s not about memorizing data or mastering instruments—it’s about knowing your limits and

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