What Are Calibrated Colored Stones? Calibrated colored stones are gemstones that have been precisely cut to standardized dimensions and shapes. Unlike free-size gemstones, which come in varying sizes and require custom settings, calibrated stones adhere to specific measurements. This standardization allows them to fit seamlessly into pre-made settings, streamlining the jewelry manufacturing process. Commonly...
GIA Certificate Scam Alert: Lab-Grown and Treated Diamonds Disguised as Natural
The diamond industry is facing a new wave of sophisticated scams targeting unsuspecting jewelers and buyers alike. Fraudsters are passing off lab-grown diamonds or HPHT color-treated diamonds as natural ones, using GIA certificates and matching laser inscriptions to make the deception convincing. This scam typically involves diamonds larger than 2 carats, as the potential...
The Allure of Turquoise: A Gemstone Guide
Turquoise, a captivating gemstone, has been a symbol of wealth and prosperity for centuries. Its unique blue-green hue, often mottled with veins of matrix, has made it a sought-after material in jewelry and decorative items. The Origin and Significance of Turquoise Turquoise is formed by the action of water on copper and aluminum minerals....
The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Blue Sapphires
Blue sapphires, the birthstone of September, have been cherished for centuries for their stunning beauty and durability. These precious gemstones are second only to diamonds in hardness, making them a popular choice for jewelry. This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions about blue sapphires, from their formation and characteristics to buying tips and...
Freshwater Pearls
Introduction: Freshwater pearls – the organic gemstones that have graced the world with their timeless beauty for centuries. Harvested primarily from freshwater lakes and rivers, predominantly in China, freshwater pearls offer an astonishing array of shapes, sizes, and colors. These natural wonders, unique in their attributes, are a must-have in the world of jewelry,...
Understanding Ruby Treatments: A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Rubies
Introduction Rubies, with their radiant red hues, are one of the most sought-after gemstones. When buying rubies, understanding the various treatments these gems undergo is crucial, as treatments can significantly influence a ruby’s appearance and value. In this guide, we explore different types of ruby treatments, their impact on the gem’s worth, and what...
Jewels of Survival: Historical Figures and Their Precious Lifelines in Exile
Introduction In the pages of history, numerous prominent individuals have found themselves fleeing their homelands due to upheavals and conflicts. With scant belongings, they held onto their most valuable assets – their jewels. This article unfolds the stories of these figures, for whom jewelry became more than a status symbol, serving as the linchpin...
Debunking the Eco-friendly Myth: The Unseen Impacts of Lab-Grown Gemstones on Natural Gems’ Future
Introduction In the ever-evolving gemstone industry, the rising popularity of lab-grown and synthetic stones has sparked a global debate about their implications for natural gemstones’ future. While lab-grown gems are often marketed as eco-friendly and affordable alternatives, a closer look reveals a different reality, questioning their impact on the economy, environment, and cultural practices...
Gemstones in Everyday Life: Unconventional Uses & Applications
Gemstones Beyond Jewelry: Their Fascinating Role in Daily Life Gemstones, renowned for their radiant beauty, often steal the spotlight in the form of exquisite jewelry. However, their role extends far beyond necklaces, earrings, or rings. From cutting-edge technology to art, skincare, and even interior design, gemstones have diverse applications that often go unnoticed. Unveiling...
Opal: The Enchanting Gemstone with a Symphony of Colors
Introduction Opal, a gemstone that has been treasured for thousands of years, is renowned for its striking play of colors known as “play-of-color.” This mesmerizing phenomenon is due to the gem’s unique internal structure, which consists of countless tiny silica spheres that diffract light and create a spectrum of colors. Opal’s rich folklore, coupled...