Gemology

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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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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The Billion-Dollar Mistake: Why You Shouldn’t Call Your Red Spinel a Ruby

Red spinel has been mistaken for ruby in history, but misidentifying it lowers its value and hurts your credibility. Learn the difference and why honesty is your strongest tool. The most famous mistake in gem history sits in the British Crown Jewels. The Black Prince’s “Ruby” is not a ruby at all. It’s a red

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Understanding the Gemological Microscope: A Closer Look

Understanding the Gemological Microscope: A Closer Look

Introduction to the Gemological Microscope: A Beginner’s Guide Learn how a gemological microscope works. Understand the role of objective and ocular lenses in gemstone analysis and discover how magnification helps you see inclusions, cuts, and surface details clearly. A gemological microscope is one of the most important tools you can use as a gemologist. It

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The “Flawless” Fallacy: Why Some Inclusions Actually Prove a Gem is Natural

Is every inclusion a flaw?Not really. In gemology, some inclusions do the exact opposite of what most buyers think. They don’t reduce value—they confirm authenticity. Let’s break that down. What Are Inclusions? But here’s the key point: Not all inclusions are bad. Some are useful. Some are beautiful. Some are proof. Inclusions That Prove a

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“Pigeon’s Blood” & “Cornflower Blue”: Don’t Buy the Story, Buy the Stone

You’ve heard the names.“Pigeon’s Blood” for rubies.“Cornflower Blue” for sapphires. Sounds poetic.But does it mean anything? Here’s the truth: These terms started in gemology with specific meanings. But in most jewelry shops, these labels are marketing bait. Ask yourself this: What dealers won’t tell you: What you should do: A quick example from Jaipur: You

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A Gemologist’s Secret: The First Question I Always Ask a Jaipur Jeweler

Jaipur Gem Buying Tip | Gemstone Treatment Awareness | Jewelry Shopping in India Most gem buyers make the same mistake. They focus on price, not process. But any gemologist will tell you—The first question you ask can save you thousands. Ask This First: “Is this stone natural, and has it been treated in any way?”

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Why Your Astrologer is Not a Gemologist (And Why That’s Okay!)

Astrologers recommend gemstones based on your birth chart. Gemologists ensure the stone you wear is real and effective. Learn why both roles matter and how to get the best results from your planetary remedy. Your astrologer and your gemologist play different roles.Both are important.But they’re not the same. Let’s break it down. Astrology is About

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Natural vs. Synthetic: A Beginner’s Guide to Spotting Fakes in Jaipur

Don’t assume every gemstone you see in Jaipur is natural. Many stones on display are lab-made or heavily treated. Here’s how you can protect yourself—even if you’re not an expert. 1. Perfect Clarity Can Be a Red Flag Natural gems usually have some inclusions—tiny crystals, feathers, or fine lines. If a stone looks too perfect,

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