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.

The Collector’s Mask: Are You Buying for Love or for Likes?

Are you collecting gemstones for personal love or just for social media likes? Learn how to avoid chasing trends and build a collection that truly reflects you. When you buy a gemstone, are you choosing it for yourself or for others to see? Many first-time buyers chase the “Instagram look.” A bright, oversized stone. A […]

The Collector’s Mask: Are You Buying for Love or for Likes? Read More »

What Your First Gemstone Purchase Says About You (And How to Get It Right)

Your first gemstone purchase often comes from insecurity or the urge to impress. Learn how to choose gems with curiosity and love instead of buying to look like an expert. Your first gemstone tells a story about you. Often that story is not about love for the stone.It’s about insecurity or the need to impress.

What Your First Gemstone Purchase Says About You (And How to Get It Right) Read More »

Is My Ruby Worth a Fortune? Why Only a Real Gem Lab Report Counts

Stop relying on online ruby price calculators. Learn why only a gem lab report from GIA, SSEF, Gubelin, IGI, AGL, or GII reveals the true value of your ruby. Can you find out your ruby’s value by typing into an online calculator? The short answer is no. A real ruby valuation starts with a professional

Is My Ruby Worth a Fortune? Why Only a Real Gem Lab Report Counts Read More »

Selling Gold in Kerala? My 40 Years of Experience Says You Must Do These 3 Things First

Planning to sell gold in Kerala? Learn the 3 essential steps before you go: weigh your gold at home, check the BIS hallmark, and take clear photos. Protect your money with these proven tips. Thinking of selling your gold in Kerala?Before you step into a shop, do these three things first. These simple steps will

Selling Gold in Kerala? My 40 Years of Experience Says You Must Do These 3 Things First Read More »

Does “Treatment” Cancel a Gem’s Astrological Power? The Truth About Heated Sapphires

Do heated sapphires lose their astrological power? Learn what gemstone heat treatment means and whether a treated sapphire or ruby can still work for astrology. Does heating remove a sapphire’s astrological power? This is one of the most common questions I’ve faced in my career. Let’s clear the confusion. What is heating in gemstones? Why

Does “Treatment” Cancel a Gem’s Astrological Power? The Truth About Heated Sapphires Read More »

The Perfect Partnership: How to Make Your Astrologer and Gemologist Work Together for You

Learn how astrologers and gemologists can work together to find your perfect gemstone. Get expert recommendations within your budget and avoid common mistakes. Why Two Experts Beat One You want the right gemstone for your needs. Your astrologer knows which stone supports your goals. Your gemologist knows which specific stone delivers the best value and

The Perfect Partnership: How to Make Your Astrologer and Gemologist Work Together for You Read More »

The Most Expensive Mistake: Letting Your Astrologer Quote a Price for Your Gemstone

Discover why letting your astrologer price your gemstone is a costly mistake. Learn the real 4Cs that determine gem value vs astrological claims. Protect yourself from inflated prices. Your astrologer calls you with urgent news. Mercury is in retrograde. You need a specific gemstone to protect your energy. They happen to have the perfect stone

The Most Expensive Mistake: Letting Your Astrologer Quote a Price for Your Gemstone Read More »

The “Magic Numbers” Mistake: How You’re Overpaying for Carat Weight

Learn why diamonds priced at “magic numbers” like 1.00 ct or 2.00 ct cost much more. Discover how buying just under these weights (like 0.95 ct) can save you thousands without any visible size difference. Why Carat “Magic Numbers” Cost You More Diamond prices jump at certain weights.These are called “magic numbers.” The big jumps

The “Magic Numbers” Mistake: How You’re Overpaying for Carat Weight Read More »

Eye-Clean” Isn’t on the Certificate: My Guide to Diamond Clarity

Learn what “eye-clean” really means in diamond clarity. Discover why both VVS2 and SI1 diamonds can look flawless to the naked eye, but differ greatly in price. When you buy a diamond, you look at the certificate.You see grades like VVS2, VS1, or SI1.But one thing you will not see on that paper is the

Eye-Clean” Isn’t on the Certificate: My Guide to Diamond Clarity Read More »

The ‘D’ Color Myth: Why a Near-Colorless Diamond is Often a Smarter Buy

Most buyers believe only a D color diamond is truly white. Learn why G, H, or even I color diamonds look just as bright once set—and how choosing them can save you big money. When you hear about diamond color, most people think D means perfect. But is D really the smartest buy for you?

The ‘D’ Color Myth: Why a Near-Colorless Diamond is Often a Smarter Buy Read More »