The study of gem materials is mainly based on the analysis of their optical and chemical properties. With the exception of certain chemical analysis techniques such as LIBS, ICPMS and SIMS which are destructive (generally…
Featured ArticlesGeological Society of America, founded in 1888, is one of the biggest and most influential geosciences organizations in the world. GSA has more than 25,000 members spread out in 107 countries. The society celebrated its 125th…
Featured ArticlesThe 2013 Northwest Jewelry Conference provided an in-depth look at techniques for dating jewelry; the influence that French jewelers have on style; the gem trade through history; treatments; and current trends in pearls. Nestled away in…
Featured ArticlesThe true meaning of keshi is a talking point in seemingly every discussion or class about pearls. The original Japanese definition has been broadened by some authorities causing confusion to the trade. We examine the history…
Featured ArticlesIf there’s one thing this year’s 29th Annual Intergem in Idar-Oberstein, Germany maintains, it is the region’s standing as a superior stone cutting and carving center and source for the finest gems in the world…
Featured ArticlesBurma has been, and still is, the most famous ruby and sapphire source. There are three mining areas for ruby and sapphire: Mogok, Nanyaseik, and Mong Hsu. Mogok has a long history of having foreigners…
Featured ArticlesOrigin reports are in high demand but the science behind the reports has changed over the years. Are reports now given too much prominence overshadowing the important quality of beauty? Geology knows no borders and…
Featured ArticlesVegas was all about fancy color diamonds. Demand for melee and single stones in color is strong. Colorless diamond prices are stable despite rising cost of rough. Manufacturers are angry at mining companies for the…
Diamond MarketWhile this is an article about a recent visit to the Four Peaks amethyst mine in Arizona, it is also about amethyst in general. The February birthstone is one of few purple gems that consumers…
Featured ArticlesDr. George Harlow, curator of minerals and gems at the American Museum of Natural History, New York explained the mineralogy and the geochemistry of the Mogok metamorphic belt. Mogok has been the source of fine…
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