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.

A person examining a gemstone with skepticism, considering whether confirmation bias may influence their judgment.

Wishful Thinking in Gem Identification: Avoid Costly Mistakes

Gem Identification, Gemology, Jewelry Education /

SummaryWishful thinking in gem identification can mislead even skilled buyers. This article explains how confirmation bias causes costly errors and offers practical steps to stay objective when testing gemstones. Introduction Wishful thinking in gem identification can quietly distort your judgment.When you want a gemstone to be valuable, your mind filters out clues that say otherwise.This […]

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Illustration showing common unreliable diamond tests like scratching glass, fogging, and heat, contrasted with professional diamond testers and gemologist certification.

Diamond Tests That Don’t Work: Why Common Home Methods Fail

Diamonds, Gemology, Jewelry Education /

Summary Many home diamond tests—scratching glass, fogging, or checking sparkle—don’t prove authenticity. Learn why these methods fail and discover safe, reliable ways to test your diamond. Introduction Many people rely on old diamond tests that don’t work, like scratching glass, fogging the stone, or checking sparkle. These DIY methods are misleading and can even damage

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GemLightbox Jewelry Photography for Indian Jewelers

GemLightbox Jewelry Photography for Indian Jewelers

Gem Tools, India, Jewelry Equipment, Jewelry Photography /

SummaryGemLightbox by Gesswein allows Indian jewelers to capture high-quality jewelry images and 360° videos using a smartphone. Optional turntables simplify rotation, providing consistent studio lighting for rings, necklaces, earrings, and gemstone jewelry. Ideal for online stores or client presentations across Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Pune. Introduction GemLightbox jewelry photography allows Indian jewelers to capture

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Diamond glowing blue under ultraviolet light showing fluorescence effects on color and clarity.

Diamond Fluorescence: What Buyers Need to Know

Diamonds,, Gemology, Jewellery Insights /

SummaryLearn about diamond fluorescence, the blue glow seen under UV light. Discover when it enhances color, reduces sparkle, and tips for buyers. IntroductionIf you’re buying a diamond, you may notice fluorescence listed on its certificate. This refers to the glow some diamonds emit under ultraviolet (UV) light. Most diamonds show a blue glow, though rare

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Gold testing methods including touchstone acid test, XRF machine scanning gold jewelry, and hallmark verification.

The Appraiser’s Toolkit: How Your Gold is Tested

Gemology, Gold Testing, Jewellery Appraisal /

SummaryLearn how appraisers test gold purity using traditional touchstone methods and modern XRF machines. Understand hallmark verification, density checks, and how each process builds trust in the gold trade. Introduction When you buy or sell gold, you deserve full clarity.Appraisers use a combination of old and new testing methods to check purity and value.From rubbing

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IndiRAM Portable Raman Spectrometer for Gemstone Testing

IndiRAM Portable Raman Spectrometer for Gemstone Testing

Gemological Instruments /

Summary The IndiRAM Portable Raman Spectrometer enables quick, non-destructive gemstone testing with dual mode acquisition, high throughput, and built-in spectral reference. It’s compact, field-ready, and suitable for lab and gem trade applications. Introduction The IndiRAM™ Portable Raman Spectrometer brings fast, non-destructive gemstone analysis to your lab or field setup.With dual mode signal acquisition, high Raman

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Modern single-pan electronic balance setup for hydrostatic weighing of gemstones using a wire cage and water beaker.

Hydrostatic Weighing with a Modern Electronic Balance

Gemology Instruments, Hydrostatic Weighing Balance /

SummaryLearn how to measure gemstone specific gravity using a modern single-pan electronic balance. This simple hydrostatic weighing method ensures fast, accurate results for stones under 3 carats using distilled water, a wire cage, and a lightweight beaker. Introduction Hydrostatic weighing is one of the most reliable methods to measure the specific gravity (SG) of gemstones.

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Foldscope: The $1 Paper Microscope Revolutionizing Science

Foldscope: The $1 Paper Microscope Revolutionizing Science

Education, Foldscope, Science, Technology /

Summary Foldscope is a $1 paper microscope created by Manu Prakash and Jim Cybulski at Stanford University.It uses simple folding techniques and a small lens to deliver strong magnification.Used by schools, health workers, and researchers worldwide, Foldscope makes science education and exploration affordable for everyone. Introduction Foldscope is one of the most inspiring innovations in

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How to Use a Spectroscope in Gemology

Gemology Tools /

Summary The spectroscope helps gemologists identify gemstones by analyzing how they absorb light.This tool separates stones like ruby, spinel, garnet, and jadeite through unique absorption spectra.Understanding these spectral lines makes gemstone identification faster, more reliable, and scientific. Learn how to use a spectroscope in gemology. Discover how this simple tool separates rubies, garnets, spinels, and

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Gemologist using a refractometer to measure the refractive index of a gemstone placed table-down with contact liquid.

Refractometer in Gemology: A Simple Guide to R.I. Measurement

Gem Testing Instruments /

Summary A refractometer measures a gemstone’s refractive index using total internal reflection. It’s a quick, non-destructive, and accurate test in gemology. You’ll need a clean surface, contact liquid, and proper setup for reliable results. Flat surfaces reveal optic properties; curved surfaces provide mean R.I. values. Introduction A refractometer is one of the most important tools

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