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.

Astrologer consulting with a gemologist to select the perfect gemstone based on astrological guidance and gem quality.

Astrologer and Gemologist Partnership for Gemstone Success

Astrologer, Gemologist, Gemstone Guidance /

Summary Your astrologer identifies the right gem; your gemologist ensures it’s genuine and worth the price. Learn how this partnership helps you choose wisely and confidently. Finding your perfect gemstone becomes easy when your Astrologer and Gemologist Partnership works together. Your astrologer identifies which gem aligns with your planets, while your gemologist ensures the stone’s […]

Astrologer and Gemologist Partnership for Gemstone Success Read More »

Two diamonds side by side, one just under 1 carat and one exactly 1 carat, showing almost identical size with a price difference.

Diamond Magic Numbers: How to Avoid Overpaying

Diamond Buying Guide, Diamonds /

When buying a diamond, diamond magic numbers like 1.00 ct, 1.50 ct, or 2.00 ct can cost far more than slightly smaller stones. These “jump points” make prices increase sharply, yet the diamond looks almost identical. Knowing this helps you save thousands without compromising brilliance. Why Diamond Magic Numbers Cost More Diamond prices rise steeply

Diamond Magic Numbers: How to Avoid Overpaying Read More »

A sparkling diamond set in a ring showing near-colorless brilliance, highlighting G, H, and I color grades.

Near-Colorless Diamonds: Why They Are Smarter Than D

D, Diamond Buying Guide, Diamond Education, /

Many people believe that only a D color diamond can achieve a perfect white appearance. However, near-colorless diamonds—graded G, H, and I—can look equally radiant once placed in a setting. Choosing them helps you save a significant amount while maintaining the same brilliance and luxury appeal. To understand why these options are so valuable, it

Near-Colorless Diamonds: Why They Are Smarter Than D Read More »

Close-up of a perfectly cut diamond showing brilliance and sparkle under light.

Diamond Cut vs Shape: What Really Makes Your Stone Shine

Diamond Buying Guide, Diamond Education, Diamonds /

SummaryDiamond cut vs shape is a common confusion. Cut determines brilliance, fire, and sparkle, while shape is just the outline. Learn why cut matters more than color or clarity and how to spot a well-cut diamond. Diamond Cut vs Shape: The Key Difference Many buyers confuse diamond cut vs shape. When you hear “cut,” you

Diamond Cut vs Shape: What Really Makes Your Stone Shine Read More »

Two GIA-graded diamonds side by side showing different levels of brilliance and sparkle under light.

Diamond Certification Over Actual Quality Mistake: Choose Beauty

Diamond Buying Tips, Diamonds, Jewelry Education /

Buying a diamond? Many first-time buyers make the diamond certification over actual quality mistake by trusting the certificate more than their own eyes. A grading report lists carat, color, clarity, and cut, but it cannot capture the diamond’s real sparkle or fire. Example from my gem lab:Two diamonds. Same size, color, and clarity. Both had

Diamond Certification Over Actual Quality Mistake: Choose Beauty Read More »

Close-up of lustrous round pearls next to a branded jewelry box, showing shine and surface quality.

Pearl Quality vs Brand Hype: Are You Paying for the Pearl?

Gem Buying Guides, Pearl Buying Guide /

SummaryLuxury brands often charge premium prices for pearls based on image, not actual quality. Learn how to judge real pearl quality and make smart buying decisions without falling for brand hype. Pearl quality vs brand hype is a question every buyer should ask. When you purchase pearls, you want to know if the price reflects

Pearl Quality vs Brand Hype: Are You Paying for the Pearl? Read More »

Close-up of a pearl showing dye concentration near the drill hole and surface blemishes.

Natural vs Dyed Pearl Color Identification: The Costly Mistake

Gemology,, Jewelry Buying Guide, Pearls, /

SummaryMany buyers confuse dyed pearls with natural-color pearls. This guide shows how to identify dyed pearls by examining color near drill holes, overtones, and blemishes — plus when to ask for a certified lab report to protect your investment. Why Natural vs Dyed Pearl Color Matters When buying pearls, your first question should be: Is

Natural vs Dyed Pearl Color Identification: The Costly Mistake Read More »

Variety of Tahitian pearls showing natural dark colors like gray, green, and peacock with different shapes and sizes.

Tahitian vs Dark Pearls: What Buyers Must Know

Gemology,, Jewellery Education, Pearls, /

Many buyers see a dark pearl and assume it’s Tahitian. That’s a costly mistake. In reality, most dark pearls sold as “Tahitian” are dyed or treated. Understanding Tahitian vs dark pearls helps you avoid imitations and choose authentic jewellery that holds long-term value. Key Clues to Identify Real Tahitian Pearls 1. SizeTahitian pearls range from

Tahitian vs Dark Pearls: What Buyers Must Know Read More »

Subscribe
Subscribe