Month: May 2015

Ethiopian Opal

Since reemerging in the market after a decade long hiatus, opal from Ethiopia has generated a lot of buzz during the past six years. Anyone visiting a major gem show since 2009 has likely seen…

Vesuvianite

Introduction: Vesuvianite is a tetragonal mineral with the formula Ca10Mg2Al4(SiO4)5(Si2O7)2(OH)4. As the name implies, it was named after the locality of its discovery, Mount Vesuvius, Campania, Italy. It has an interesting history in the nomenclature…

Colored Stone Market

The mood in the colored stone market became surprisingly subdued in March as business cooled rapidly after posting strong results during February gem shows. Dealers returning after the March Hong Kong show gave contrasting reports…

Spinel

The global gem market has seen the revival of spinel as a popular gem in recent years. Consumers are more aware of its beauty and rarity and recognize it as a gem in its own…

Baselworld 2015

For those who have never been to Basel, Switzerland for “Baselworld,” the world’s most impressive watch and jewelry show, this will give you a sense of the importance, or enormity, of the show. Let’s begin…