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.

tanzanite gemstone after heat treatment showing vivid blue violet color

Why Tanzanite Is Heated — And Why It’s Perfectly Natural

Summary Almost every tanzanite on the market is heated to reveal its vivid blue-violet color. The process is permanent, stable, and globally accepted. Heating doesn’t reduce authenticity or value—instead, it it enhances the gem’s natural beauty, much like polishing perfects a diamond. Introduction When you first learn that heat treatment in tanzanite is standard, you […]

Why Tanzanite Is Heated — And Why It’s Perfectly Natural Read More »

Learn why heat treatment in sapphires is a standard and accepted practice.

Why Your Heated Sapphire Isn’t Fake

Summary Over 95% of sapphires go through heat treatment to boost color and clarity.This stable, permanent process doesn’t harm the gem or make it fake.Heated sapphires offer beauty and strength at lower prices, while unheated ones remain rare and expensive.Buyers should always check lab reports and compare values before purchasing. Introduction When you hear the

Why Your Heated Sapphire Isn’t Fake Read More »

Natural pearls can form in many mollusks.

Discover Conch, Melo & Rare Pearls Beyond Oysters

Summary Most people think pearls only come from oysters, but nature offers much more. Rare natural pearls form in conch, melo, abalone, clams, and scallops. Knowing about these pearls helps collectors, jewelers, and buyers recognize unique gems. Pearls Beyond Oysters People often associate pearls only with oysters. However, rare natural pearls can form in several

Discover Conch, Melo & Rare Pearls Beyond Oysters Read More »

Learn the difference between saltwater and freshwater pearls.

Saltwater vs Freshwater Pearls: Why They’re Not the Same

Most people assume all pearls are the same. However, saltwater and freshwater pearls differ significantly. Understanding these differences can save you from costly mistakes and help you choose the right pearls for your collection or jewelry. Natural Saltwater Pearls Almost all natural pearls you see today are saltwater pearls. They form in oysters along ocean

Saltwater vs Freshwater Pearls: Why They’re Not the Same Read More »

A close-up of natural pearls in various shapes—baroque, button, and drop—gleaming with subtle luster, showing their organic beauty and individuality.

Natural Pearls Shapes: Baroque, Button & Drop Explained

Summary Understanding natural pearls shapes helps buyers and collectors choose authentic, beautiful, and valuable pearls. Baroque, button, and drop pearls showcase individuality, while perfectly round pearls are rare and expensive. Introduction When buying pearls, knowing natural pearls shapes is crucial. Many buyers assume roundness equals value or beauty. However, natural pearls form organically inside mollusks,

Natural Pearls Shapes: Baroque, Button & Drop Explained Read More »

A side-by-side view of a natural pearl and a cultured pearl, illustrating their differing origins with a visual analogy of a wild berry versus a farmed berry.

Natural vs. Cultured Pearls: Don’t Make This Common Mistake

Summary Many buyers still confuse natural and cultured pearls. This article uses a simple wild berry vs. farmed berry analogy to explain how each type forms, why the price gap exists, and what to check before buying. Learn to tell them apart, avoid paying more than you should, and appreciate the beauty behind your pearls.

Natural vs. Cultured Pearls: Don’t Make This Common Mistake Read More »

Popular global drinks including tea, coffee, beer, kombucha, and bubble tea.

Most Popular Drinks in the World You Should Try Right Now

Summary Discover the world’s most popular drinks — from tea and coffee to kombucha and bubble tea. Learn how culture, health, and sustainability shape what we drink today. Find your next favorite beverage as you explore how global tastes evolve. Introduction Have you ever wondered what the most popular drinks in the world are? You

Most Popular Drinks in the World You Should Try Right Now Read More »

Interior of Darjeeling Express, a London restaurant with vibrant decor, serving traditional Indian Mughlai and Calcutta dishes by an all-women kitchen team.

Darjeeling Express London – Asma Khan’s Homestyle Indian Feast

Summary Founded by Asma Khan, Darjeeling Express London celebrates homestyle Indian cooking and women’s empowerment. The restaurant, inspired by her Mughlai roots and Calcutta memories, features an all-women kitchen that redefines hospitality. Asma’s story—spanning from home suppers to global fame—connects food, heritage, and purpose. Introduction In central London, Darjeeling Express offers a rare experience—home-cooked Indian

Darjeeling Express London – Asma Khan’s Homestyle Indian Feast Read More »

A rustic private cottage with a rock-carved pool nestled in the natural landscape of Brij Lakshman Sagar, a boutique retreat in Rajasthan.

Brij Lakshman Sagar, Pali – Rajasthan’s Heritage Retreat Reimagined

Summary Brij Lakshman Sagar in Pali, Rajasthan, is a restored 19th-century hunting lodge turned into a heritage boutique hotel. Spread over 32 acres, it offers 12 private cottages, each with a plunge pool, rustic architecture, and views of the Aravalli hills. The retreat blends sustainability, culture, and comfort, offering guests a deep connection to Rajasthan’s

Brij Lakshman Sagar, Pali – Rajasthan’s Heritage Retreat Reimagined Read More »

Handcrafted boutique villas nestled in terraced Himalayan forest at Amaya, Solane, Himachal Pradesh, with stone pathways and mountain views.

Amaya Solane – Boutique Villas in Himachal Pradesh

Summary Amaya in Solane, Himachal Pradesh is a sustainable retreat designed by Bijoy Jain of Studio Mumbai. Set amidst terraced forests, it offers handcrafted villas, organic food, a heated pool, saunas, and a library. The resort blends Nordic minimalism with Himalayan tranquility, providing guests a serene space to reconnect with nature. A Serene Retreat in

Amaya Solane – Boutique Villas in Himachal Pradesh Read More »