Category: Featured Articles

AGA Conference Report

The Accredited Gemologists Association held its annual winter Conference in Tucson on Wednesday February 4. The successful conference featured several speakers from the International gemological community. American Gemological Laboratories Vice President Christopher Smith this years…

Understanding the Burma Embargo

Cecilia Gardner, President, CEO & General Counsel for the Jewelers Vigilance Committee hosted an informational presentation on the “The Tom Lantos Block Burmese JADE Act of 2008.” The program was offered in cooperation with the…

Symmetry and the Polished Diamond

Polish and symmetry errors affect the perceptible appearance of a diamond. Off center culets, lopsided pavilions, off center tables, and lopsided crowns all detract from the overall beauty. During several visits to prominent manufacturing centers, I…

Synthetic Tourmaline-Rumors and Reality

Rumors spread like wildfire on the Internet. Knowledgeable gemologists cannot be criticized for believing what appear to be well-researched facts coming from seemingly reliable sources, especially when backed by high tech equipment. Case in point…

Paraiba Lawsuit

In April 2008, gem dealer David Sherman sued the Gemological Institute of America, the American Gem Trade Association,and several of the officers of the latter organization. The officers were named due to their role as…