Gemstone Education

Colored stone grading showing hue tone saturation comparison in rubies sapphires and emeralds.

Colored Stone Grading: An Expert Guide

Introduction to Colored Stone Grading Colored stone grading serves as a vital language in gemology, enabling buyers and sellers to communicate quality effectively. However, unlike the straightforward D-to-Z scale for diamonds, the world of colored gems lacks universality, linearity, and full objectivity. Instead, multiple systems from labs like GIA blend standardized terms with expert judgment, introducing nuance and […]

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Gemology notebook practice with a gemologist writing stone details—color, clarity, and luster.

Gemology Notebook Practice: Document Every Stone for Lasting Expertise

Gemology Notebook Practice: Document Everything Gemology notebook practice is the simplest way to grow your expertise.Instead of relying on memory, write down every detail of the stones you examine—color, clarity, cut, luster, inclusions, and weight. This habit builds a personal knowledge base that no textbook can replace.Over time, your notebook becomes your most powerful tool.

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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

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Shopping for gems and jewelry – jeweler inspecting a diamond ring with a loupe.

Shopping for Gems and Jewelry: What Every Buyer Must Know

When shopping for gems and jewelry, you need to follow practical rules that protect your money and guarantee quality. A reliable jeweler gives you authenticity and accountability. A proper receipt documents purity, gemstone type, and any warranty. How to Inspect Jewelry Before Buying Use a 10x magnifying lens. Check: 💡 The key is simple: You

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A rainbow-colored collection of tourmaline crystals showcasing shades of pink, green, blue, black, and brown.

Tourmaline Colours: The Full Rainbow Explained

Summary Tourmaline colours cover the full spectrum, from black Schorl and golden Dravite to rainbow Elbaite and rare colourless Achroite. Learn how to identify each type and buy wisely. Introduction Tourmaline colours are often misunderstood. Most people think of only pink or green stones. However, the tourmaline family is much more diverse, offering a full

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Vivid colored gemstones including ruby, sapphire, and emerald showing rich hues and natural inclusions.

Beyond Diamonds: The Real 4 Cs of Colored Gems

Understanding the 4 Cs in Colored Gemstones When it comes to colored gemstones, the 4 Cs—Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat Weight—carry different meaning than they do for diamonds. Learning how each factor applies to colored stones will help you make smarter buying decisions. Color is King Unlike diamonds, where absence of color is prized, colored

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