Those letters and numbers are the Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) gem clarity grading codes. Jewelers and gemologists frequently use this system. To understand what the codes mean, […]
Sapphire Few gems have held our attention over millennia as well as sapphire. The pure blue colors and excellent durability of this gem-quality member of the […]
From Gem Society Although emeralds occur in many localities, some sources are better known for high-quality gems than others. Learn about famous (and not so famous) emerald sources, from ancient […]
Most gemstones will respond well to warm water, mild detergent, and a soft brush at home. However, some gems do have sensitivities. Familiarize yourself with these, […]
A Brief History of Tahitian Pearls Native Tahitians collected natural pearls from the black-lipped pearl mollusk, Pinctada margaritifera, for many generations prior to Spanish and English involvement. Some […]
Geologically speaking, precious opal is a rare find. With so few localities producing gem-quality opal, scientists have had some trouble understanding exactly how this material develops. […]
How Did Diamonds Form? Scientists have found evidence that diamonds formed in several ways. Around 90 miles (145 km) below the surface in areas of the Earth’s mantle, […]
Emerald fractures can be caused by the same things that give the gems their intense green color. This is the chemical formula for beryl: Be3Al2Si6O18 Beryl is composed […]