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.

7 Questions You Must Ask Your Jeweller in Kerala (And the Answers You Want)

A practical checklist for buying gold in Kerala. Ask these 7 questions to your jeweller to ensure transparency, correct making charges, BIS certification, and buy-back policies. Buying gold in Kerala can be simple if you ask the right questions. Here are 7 key questions to ask your jeweller and the answers you should hear. These […]

7 Questions You Must Ask Your Jeweller in Kerala (And the Answers You Want) Read More »

Dahlia White Gold & Red Coral by Beauregard – Swiss Horology Meets Canadian Artistry

Discover the Beauregard Dahlia White Gold & Red Coral watch. A Swiss-made flying tourbillon with handcrafted gemstone petals, set in diamond-paved white gold. A rare union of Swiss horology and Canadian jewelry craftsmanship. Beauregard’s Dahlia is more than a watch.It combines fine Swiss watchmaking with hand-cut gemstone artistry from Montreal.Every detail is shaped by human

Dahlia White Gold & Red Coral by Beauregard – Swiss Horology Meets Canadian Artistry Read More »

Don’t Buy a Thing in Jaipur Until You Do This One Thing

Planning to shop jewelry in Jaipur? Learn about Kundan, Meenakari, and gemstone jewelry, discover key markets like Johari Bazaar, and find out why research before shopping saves you time and money. Shopping for jewelry in Jaipur is tempting. The city’s markets are full of glitter, color, and history. But walking in unprepared can overwhelm you.

Don’t Buy a Thing in Jaipur Until You Do This One Thing Read More »

World Gourmet Festival Bangkok 2025: Celebrating 25 Years of Global Culinary Excellence

Celebrate 25 years of the World Gourmet Festival at Anantara Siam Bangkok from 22–28 September 2025. Experience Michelin-starred dinners, wine pairings, and global culinary talent in one unforgettable week. World Gourmet Festival Bangkok 2025 This September marks a milestone.The 25th Annual World Gourmet Festival returns to Anantara Siam Bangkok from 22–28 September 2025. For 25

World Gourmet Festival Bangkok 2025: Celebrating 25 Years of Global Culinary Excellence Read More »

The “Too Good to Be True” Price: Why the Cheapest Diamond Melee is Never the Best Deal

Cheap diamond melee often means poor cut, weak color, or questionable sourcing. Learn why chasing the lowest price can cost you more in the long run. Why the Lowest Price Comes with Hidden Costs When you see diamond melee priced far below the market, stop and ask why. No seller gives away value for free.

The “Too Good to Be True” Price: Why the Cheapest Diamond Melee is Never the Best Deal Read More »

Are They Selling a Mineral or a Story? Spotting Over-Hyped Specimens

Learn how to avoid overpaying for common minerals dressed up with grand stories. Spot over-hyped specimens and make smarter buying decisions. Are They Selling a Mineral or a Story? When you buy minerals, you may not just be paying for the specimen.You may also be paying for the seller’s story. Some sellers wrap a common

Are They Selling a Mineral or a Story? Spotting Over-Hyped Specimens Read More »

Thinking All Tourmalines Are Pink or Green? A 40-Year Gem Veteran’s Guide to the Rainbow Stone

Think tourmaline is only pink or green? Discover the full rainbow of this diverse gem family. Learn about Schorl, Dravite, Elbaite, and rare varieties like Achroite. When most people hear tourmaline, they picture pink or green. That’s only the beginning. Tourmaline is one of the most diverse gem families in the world. It covers a

Thinking All Tourmalines Are Pink or Green? A 40-Year Gem Veteran’s Guide to the Rainbow Stone Read More »

Mistake #1: Applying the “Colorless” 4Cs to a Colored Diamond

Many buyers apply the traditional 4Cs of colorless diamonds to fancy colored diamonds. Learn why Color is the key factor and why clarity and cut take a back seat. When you buy a colorless diamond, the 4Cs guide your choice. That order shifts completely when you buy a fancy colored diamond. For Colored Diamonds, Color

Mistake #1: Applying the “Colorless” 4Cs to a Colored Diamond Read More »

Your Family Jeweller vs. The Big Brand Showroom: Where Should You Buy Your First Gold Chain?

Choosing between your trusted family jeweller and a big brand showroom for your first gold chain? Learn the pros and cons of both. Understand personal trust, designs, HUID hallmarking, and offers before you decide. Your Family Jeweller vs. The Big Brand Showroom: Where Should You Buy Your First Gold Chain? Buying your first gold chain

Your Family Jeweller vs. The Big Brand Showroom: Where Should You Buy Your First Gold Chain? Read More »