Gemology

Mindat Mineral Database homepage

Mindat Mineral Database: Explore the World of Minerals

SummaryMindat Mineral Database is the most complete online resource for minerals, rocks, and meteorites. It connects collectors, gemologists, and students through verified data, photographs, and user contributions. You can search, learn, and even add to this expanding global record of mineral knowledge. Introduction The Mindat Mineral Database is the world’s central resource for mineral information. […]

Mindat Mineral Database: Explore the World of Minerals Read More »

Slater Jones, the diamond-eyed jeweler, showcasing his 2-carat prosthetic diamond eye

The Diamond-Eyed Jeweler: Slater Jones’ Brilliant Comeback

Summary Houston jeweler Slater Jones, the diamond-eyed jeweler, wears a real 2-carat diamond prosthetic eye. As a result, after losing his vision to a parasitic infection, he transformed personal tragedy into art and worldwide attention. Jones now runs Jones Jewelry & Co., inspiring aspiring artisans with his craftsmanship and resilience. The Diamond-Eyed Jeweler’s Journey from

The Diamond-Eyed Jeweler: Slater Jones’ Brilliant Comeback Read More »

Diamond yield comparison between rough and polished diamond

Diamond Yield: How Much Rough Becomes Polished

SummaryDiamond yield shows how much rough stone becomes a polished gem. Understanding diamond yield helps you estimate final weight, maximize value, and avoid mistakes. Introduction Understanding diamond yield is key when buying or cutting rough diamonds. Yield is the percentage of a rough stone that turns into a polished diamond. A 10-carat rough rarely becomes

Diamond Yield: How Much Rough Becomes Polished Read More »

Vintage Art Deco and Retro Jewellery Collection by Beth Bernstein

Modern Guide to Vintage Jewellery – Beth Bernstein

SummaryExplore Beth Bernstein’s Modern Guide to Vintage Jewellery to learn how to identify gemstones, styles, and collectible pieces from the 1930s to the 1980s. Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts. Beth Bernstein is a jewellery historian, author, journalist, and former designer. Her book Modern Guide to Vintage Jewellery explores collectible jewellery from the 1930s to the

Modern Guide to Vintage Jewellery – Beth Bernstein Read More »

CIBJO Congress 2025 Pearl Report on sustainable pearl farming

CIBJO 2025 Pearl Report: Pearls and Sustainability

Summary The CIBJO Congress 2025 Pearl Report explains how scientific research supports transparency and sustainability in pearl farming.It highlights contributions from the CIBJO Pearl Commission, GIA, and DANAT, and previews the updated Pearl Guide, a 267-page educational reference for pearl-producing species. The CIBJO Congress 2025 Pearl Report demonstrates how science is reshaping the global pearl

CIBJO 2025 Pearl Report: Pearls and Sustainability Read More »

DiamondView Zoom verification device detecting natural vs lab-grown diamonds

DiamondView Zoom Verification – Natural vs Lab-Grown Diamonds

Table of Contents Introduction DiamondView Zoom verification is the most reliable method by De Beers to determine whether a diamond is natural or laboratory grown. Using shortwave ultraviolet light, this device captures fluorescence patterns on the diamond surface, showing if a diamond is natural or a CVD/HPHT lab-grown diamond. Research confirms 0% false positives for

DiamondView Zoom Verification – Natural vs Lab-Grown Diamonds Read More »

Wishful thinking in gem identification leading to costly mistakes

Wishful Thinking in Gem Identification: Avoiding Costly Mistakes

Introduction Wishful thinking in gem identification is one of the most dangerous traps in gemology. When you want a stone to be valuable, confirmation bias can blind you to evidence that proves otherwise. This guide explains how to avoid the costly mistakes that come from desire overriding discipline. Is Wishful Thinking the Most Dangerous Trap

Wishful Thinking in Gem Identification: Avoiding Costly Mistakes Read More »

Gemology mistakes: gemologist examining stones under magnification

Gemology Mistakes: Why Every Error Is a Lesson

Introduction Gemology mistakes happen to every beginner and even to seasoned experts. Instead of fearing them, you should see each mistake as part of your learning curve. In gemology, errors often lead to sharper skills, deeper knowledge, and stronger client trust. Why Gemology Mistakes Help You Grow The key is that every mistake has a

Gemology Mistakes: Why Every Error Is a Lesson Read More »

Close-up photo of mineral specimen with lighting, showing risks of online buying.

Buying Minerals Online: 3 Costly Mistakes to Avoid

Summary Buying minerals online offers convenience but also carries hidden risks. Many collectors lose money because they fall for misleading photos, vague descriptions, or unclear return policies. This guide explains the top three mistakes buyers make and how to avoid them, ensuring safe and smart mineral purchases. Introduction Buying minerals online seems simple. It saves

Buying Minerals Online: 3 Costly Mistakes to Avoid Read More »