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.

Warning: That ‘Astrologically Potent’ Gem Might Be Glass

Many gems sold as “astrological” are actually glass or lab-grown stones. Learn how to spot fakes, why only natural gems are valued in astrology, and what to check before you buy. Astrological gems are in high demand.But not every stone you see in the market is natural. Many so-called “potent” gems are nothing more than: […]

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Buying the Story, Not the Stone: Why Your Gem’s Royal History is Probably Made Up

Learn why gemstone origin stories are often fake. Focus on quality over fabricated tales when buying precious stones. Expert guide to authentic gem evaluation. That ruby didn’t belong to a maharaja. Your emerald wasn’t Cleopatra’s favorite stone. The sapphire with the “ancient temple” backstory? Complete fiction. Gem dealers love a good story. They know you’ll

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Professional Gem Faceting Machine – 220W BLDC Motor with Complete Accessories Kit

Professional 220W BLDC gem faceting machine with complete accessories. Cut gemstones with precision using variable speed control up to 3000 RPM. Includes grinding discs, polishing lap, and diamond powder. Product Overview Cut gemstones with precision using this professional-grade faceting machine. The direct-drive system delivers consistent results while the 220-watt brushless motor provides reliable power for

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What Are GIA Master Stones: The Complete Guide to Diamond Color Grading Standards

Learn about GIA master stones – the standardized diamond reference set used for accurate color grading. Discover how these calibrated diamonds ensure consistent D-to-Z color assessment worldwide. Understanding GIA Master Stones GIA master stones serve as the gold standard for diamond color grading. These carefully selected diamonds represent each specific grade on the D-to-Z color

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Context is King: Why the Story, Setting, and Price Are Your First Gem Identification Clues

Learn how context helps in gem identification. A Victorian diamond in a modern setting or a 2-carat ruby for $20 are clear warning signs. When identifying gems, context gives you the first and often strongest clues. A stone never exists in isolation. Look at the story, the setting, and the price. These three factors often

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Wishful Thinking: The Most Dangerous Trap in Gem Identification

Wishful thinking can mislead you in gem identification. Learn how confirmation bias makes you ignore evidence, and discover practical steps to avoid costly mistakes. Wishful thinking is the biggest danger in gem identification.You want a stone to be valuable. Your mind pushes you to ignore signs that say otherwise. That’s confirmation bias. It’s a trap

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If It Scratches Glass, It’s a Diamond — Common Tests That Don’t Work

Many old diamond tests like scratching glass or fogging the stone don’t prove authenticity. Learn why these methods fail and safer ways to test your diamond. You’ve probably heard someone say, “If it scratches glass, it’s a diamond.” That’s one of the most repeated myths in the jewelry world. I’ve explained this countless times to

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GemLightbox by Gesswein – Perfect Jewelry Photos for Indian Jewelers

GemLightbox by Gesswein – Perfect Jewelry Photos for Indian Jewelers

Indian jewelers can capture studio-quality jewelry images and 360° videos using GemLightbox by Gesswein. Compatible with smartphones, optional turntables make 360° jewelry videos easy. GemLightbox by Gesswein lets jewelers in India capture professional-quality jewelry images using a smartphone. Optional Turntables Choose what suits your needs: Why Indian Jewelers Should Use GemLightbox How It Works Practical

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The Blue Glow: Is Diamond Fluorescence a Friend or a Foe?

Explore diamond fluorescence and its effects on color. Learn when it improves diamond appearance and when it creates a hazy look. Practical tips for buyers. The Blue Glow: Diamond Fluorescence Explained When Fluorescence Helps Your Diamond When Fluorescence Can Hurt Your Diamond Practical Tips for Buyers Questions to Ask Yourself Your Takeaway Diamond fluorescence can

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The Appraiser’s Toolkit: How Your Gold is Tested

Discover how gold is tested with common appraisal methods like the touchstone method and XRF machines. Learn how these techniques build transparency and trust in the gold-buying process. When you buy or sell gold, you want to know if the metal is genuine.Appraisers use different methods to check purity and value. Here are the most

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