Jurassic Jet: A Look to the Past to Preserve the Future
With 2018 being the Year of European Cultural Heritage, Gem-A is excited to share Sarah Steele’s important collaborative project between England and Spain to preserve and maintain traditional jet workings, which has recently been granted the European Heritage Seal. Working with Spanish jet manufacturers and archaeologists, British gemmologist Sarah Steele FGA DGA of Ebor Jetworks is […]
Gold of the Scythians: Art, Culture and Techniques
On Tuesday 27th March 2018, Gem-A’s new editorial coordinator, Dr Sarah Bremner, joined a gathering of the Society of Jewellery Historians at the Society of Antiquaries, Burlington House, Central London for their March lecture: ‘Gold of the Scythians: art, culture and techniques’ by the British Museums’ St John Simpson and Aude Mongiatti. Here, she summarises […]
Birthstone Guide: Diamond for Those Born in April
Those born in the month of April can count the illustrious and historically significant diamond as their birthstone. Here, Gem-A tutor Lily Faber FGA DGA EG delves into the past to uncover why diamonds are so valued… and so valuable. First discovered in India in approximately 400 BC, diamonds have been used for thousands of years […]
As Transparent as a Diamond? Why Blockchain Technology is Making Headlines
With some of the industry’s biggest players experimenting with blockchain technology, Gem-A tutor Beth West FGA DGA, discusses the turbulent history of diamonds and how this emerging digital ledger can help to redeem their reputation among customers. Let us take a step back. The oldest diamonds crystallised approximately 150 km deep in the earth’s upper mantle […]
Myths and Legends: Discover the Ancient Link Between Amber and the Sea
We often hear the phrase “the sap is rising” in reference to the early days of spring, which makes the sunny glow of amber a most appropriate gem for those born under the star sign of Taurus (20 April – 21 May). Here, Gem-A senior tutor, Rona Bierrum FGA DGA, shares some of the myths […]
Characterising Mexican Amber From the Yi Kwan Tsang Collection
Guy Lalous ACAM EG is on-hand to summarise some of the more in-depth articles from Gem-A’s The Journal of Gemmology. Here, he delves into a feature on Mexican amber and the use of FTIR spectroscopy to determine provenance from the Winter 2017 issue. Amber is an organic gem. Organic gems are the products of living, […]
Why is Bloodstone the Alternative March Birthstone?
Chances are you’ve heard of the March birthstone aquamarine… but did you know there are actually two gems associated with the month of March? Bloodstone is considered an ‘alternative’ March birthstone, perhaps because of its gothic colour palette and unusual history. Here, Gem-A gemmology tutor Lily Faber FGA EG delves into the properties of bloodstone, which […]
Coloured Gemstones from Brazil: Past, Present and Future
Guy Lalous ACAM EG presents us a historical review, and an updated overview, of the Brazilian coloured stone industry. His latest Journal Digest from Gem-A’s Journal of Gemmology (Winter 2017. 35.8) also examines the effects of China’s emergence as a consumer market on Brazil’s gem industry. Recent information on Brazilian gem occurrences is presented from data […]
Industry Leaders Unite for ‘Diamond Terminology Guideline’
Nine leading diamond and jewellery industry organisations, including CIBJO, the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) and the Diamond Producers Association (DPA) have released a jointly developed ‘Diamond Terminology Guideline’ to foster clarity when referring to diamonds and synthetic diamonds. The organisations (AWDC, CIBJO, DPA, GJEPC, IDI, IDMA, USJC, WDC and WFDB) believe this clear […]
Gemstone of Passion: Padparadscha sapphire
Considered to be among the most beautiful of the corundum gems with its delicate colour, Padparadscha sapphire has recently hit the headlines thanks to Princess Eugenie of York’s engagement ring. Here, we explore this majestic gemstone fit for royalty. Om mani padme hum – “Hail the jewel in the heart of the lotus” – Buddhist […]
