Choosing tourmaline: separate colour, treatment and origin
Build a precise colour-zone and cut brief, with separate treatment and origin questions.
Read articleGemstones
Notes on gemstones, silver and the pieces we live with.
More to read
Choosing turquoise: compare pattern and treatment disclosure
Choose texture and matrix deliberately while accounting for porosity and treatment.
Choosing zircon: confirm identity and plan careful wear
Choose a brilliant natural gem with clear identity, size and storage expectations.
Star and cat’s-eye gemstones: how to view the effect
Learn how to view a star or cat’s-eye gemstone, clarify its species name and separate the optical effect from identification.
Gemstone optical terms explained in plain English
Understand gemstone optical terms, from lustre and transparency to fire, iridescence and adularescence, with practical viewing questions.
Rough versus polished gemstones: what a specimen photo can show
Compare rough specimens and finished gemstones, understand cutting uncertainty and ask for a clear description of what you are buying.
Opal doublets and triplets: understand the construction
Learn the construction questions to ask about opal doublets and triplets, including component identity, viewing and suitable care.
Emerald filler descriptions: read the exact laboratory wording
Read emerald filler descriptions carefully, including extent, filler identity, testing date and the distinction between fissures and cavities.
Gemstone report types: natural, synthetic and imitation material
Compare gemstone report types by their scope, material eligibility and findings for natural, synthetic and imitation material.
Carved hardstones: appreciate the pattern and clarify the material
Learn what hardstone means in carved jewellery, how to appreciate pattern and workmanship, and which material and care questions remain.
Natural glass in jewellery: identity, appearance and care
Understand natural glass in jewellery, including obsidian and moldavite descriptions, imitation concerns and material-specific care questions.
Matching gemstone earrings: decide what should match
Compare gemstone earrings by face-up appearance, colour, dimensions and design priorities, with a clear brief for intentional variation.
