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.

Vivid colored gemstones including ruby, sapphire, and emerald showing rich hues and natural inclusions.

Beyond Diamonds: The Real 4 Cs of Colored Gems

Understanding the 4 Cs in Colored Gemstones When it comes to colored gemstones, the 4 Cs—Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat Weight—carry different meaning than they do for diamonds. Learning how each factor applies to colored stones will help you make smarter buying decisions. Color is King Unlike diamonds, where absence of color is prized, colored […]

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Close-up of colorful gemstones with a disclaimer about investment risks while enjoying gemstone collecting as a hobby.

Avoid the Gem Collecting Investment Trap

Summary New gemstone collectors often fall for the “it’s an investment” myth. This guide explains why collecting gems should be about joy, not profit, and how to avoid costly mistakes driven by market hype. Every gem enthusiast hears it sooner or later:“It’s an investment.” A dealer says it.A friend repeats it.Soon, you start believing that

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Nivada Grenchen F77 Mark II Gold watch with 38mm 18K gold-plated case, black onyx dial, and gold dauphine hands.

Nivada F77 Gold: A 1977 Classic Reimagined

SummaryThe Nivada F77 Gold revives a 1977 classic with a gold-plated case, black onyx dial, and Soprod automatic movement. Vintage design meets modern precision for collectors. A Golden Revival: Nivada F77 Gold Legacy The Nivada F77 Gold brings back the spirit of the 1977 F77 sports watch. It balances vintage charm with modern reliability, capturing

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Vacation tourist examining a tanzanite gemstone in a jewelry shop with a warning about overpriced stones.

Vacation Gem Trap: How to Avoid Overpriced Stones

SummaryBuying gemstones while traveling can be risky. Tourist shops often sell treated, synthetic, or common stones as rare gems. Prices can be inflated 400–1000%, leaving buyers with major losses. This guide explains why travelers fall for the vacation gem trap, how to verify gems, and ways to protect your money. Buying Gems Abroad? Beware the

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A diverse collection of colorful gemstones reflecting personal taste, away from social media trends.

Gemstone Collection for Love or Likes: The Collector’s Mask

SummaryAre you building your gemstone collection for love or likes? Many collectors chase social media trends instead of following their true passion. Learn how to buy gemstones that reflect your style and values—not just for online attention. What Drives Your Gemstone Collection for Love or Likes? When you buy a gemstone, are you doing it

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Ruby gemstone with certification documents from reputable gemological labs like GIA and SSEF.

Ruby Lab Report Value: Why Only Certified Reports Reveal True Worth

Summary Online ruby calculators miss the real story. A certified ruby lab report from trusted labs like GIA, SSEF, or Gubelin confirms origin, authenticity, and treatments — the only way to know your gem’s true market value. Introduction Can you know your ruby lab report value using an online calculator? The short answer is no.

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Gold jewelry being weighed on a digital kitchen scale, BIS hallmark visible on gold bangle, and clear photos taken with a smartphone.

Selling Gold in Kerala: 3 Expert Tips Before You Visit a Buyer

If you’re selling gold in Kerala, pause before walking into a shop. These three expert tips—refined through 40 years of real experience—can save you both money and stress. They help you detect unfair practices and keep control over your sale. 1. Weigh Your Gold at Home Always weigh your gold at home before visiting a

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Blue sapphire gemstone with a comparison between heated and unheated treatments and astrological effects.

Heated Sapphires Astrology: Does Treatment Affect Power?

Summary Heated sapphires astrology: Heat treatment improves a sapphire’s color and clarity but does not reduce its astrological power. Natural, untreated stones are ideal, but heated sapphires still work effectively for planetary purposes. Heated sapphires astrology: Do treated sapphires lose their astrological power? Many people ask me this question. With over 40 years of experience,

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