Today, akoya pearls are produced in Japan, China, Korea and Vietnam, with the most significant source clearly being Japan. Akoya experts report that production has declined sharply during the last three decades. According to industry…
Market TrendsThe story here on the "Crown of Light" Diamond is part Gem Note and part Appraiser's Notebook. What is it? Who is selling it? How much is it worth? Jewelers and appraisers are often quick…
*Free Featured ArticlesThe practice of appraising has been exploding for more than 20 years, spurred by a small but aggressive group of trained valuators determined to make appraising a true profession. Seemingly, books have been published overnight…
News ArchiveCos Altobeli ranks as one of the most qualified appraisal experts in the industry so it is no surprise that this comprehensive work is his doing. His experience dates back to early childhood and by 17…
Book ReviewThe colored stone market experienced a typical slow summer at the retail and wholesale level of the market. However, dealers also report that production remains stagnant in key producing areas and that is not typical…
Colored Stone MarketOver the last four months, the prices for rough diamonds have continued to rebound from the lows of November and December. It has caught many a diamontaire by surprise with its steady rise. After a…
Diamond MarketRecently, a client presented a 14KT white gold and three stone engagement ring seeking confirmation of the identification of the stones. The ring featured three round brilliant cut colorless stones set in four prong heads…
Gem NotesThe term keshi has long been misunderstood in the jewelry markets. Keshi, in the traditional use is only the Japanese saltwater natural tiny pearls. They represent only 0.5% to 1% of the total Japanese akoya…
Featured ArticlesPhenomenal gems exhibiting a true color change are rare in the industry and sought after by many collectors. The best-known example is the chrysoberyl variety alexandrite. In its finest quality, alexandrite is one of the…
Market TrendsSeveral reasons appear to be influencing demand for nontraditional gems. Among them is the current economic condition that has triggered a trend towards nontraditional materials. These are appealing in part due to their lower price…
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