Gemstone Guide: Understanding Moonstones and Adularescence
What are the Moonstones? Those new to gemmology often find themselves drawn to the silvery blue light of moonstones, but trained gemmologists have a finer grasp of what causes this unusual optical effect. Here, Gem-A Tutor Pat Daly dives into the world of moonstones and adularescence, giving an overview to inspire further study via our […]
Buying Guide: Get to Know the Feldspar Family of Gemstones
A genealogical tree for the feldspar family of gemstones Whether you’re shopping for moonstones, obsessed with labradorite, or on the hunt for the perfect sunstone, this is the guide for you. Gem-A Tutor Pat Daly offers a rundown of the feldspar family of gemstones, including beginner’s insights into some of the most popular gems you’ll […]
Gemmology Insights: The Crown Jewels for the Coronation of King Charles IIIÂ
British Crown Jewels – A Gemmological Treasure The British Crown Jewels include ceremonial pieces that will be presented to The King and The Queen Consort during their coronation at Westminster Abbey on May 6, 2023. Looking ahead to this historic occasion, Gem-A Tutor Pat Daly dives deeper into the Coronation Regalia, including St Edward’s Crown, […]
Gemstone Discoveries: Finding a new gemstone!
Could I find a new gemstone? Professional gemmologists are often asked similar questions, like what is the rarest stone they have encountered and is there anything ‘new’ left to discover. The answers, especially to the latter, are not easy to formulate, and there are factors that a gemmologist must unpack to provide a suitable response. […]
5 Corundum Treatments In Rubies And Sapphires
Rubies and Sapphires Rubies and sapphires are often treated to improve their colour and appearance, but what are these treatment methods, and how can gemmologists pinpoint them? Here, Gem-A Tutor Pat Daly FGA DGA talks us through some of the most common methods used for corundum. Work is carried out on nearly all gemstones before […]
Six Alternative Birthstones: White Gemstone Options for April
Spring Birthstones – A gem for April Considering the high costs associated with diamonds, finding a suitable birthstone gift for the month of April can be a challenge. The trick is to look deeper into the subject of gemmology to find white and colourless gemstones that can serve as fantastic alternatives. Here, Gem-A Tutor Pat […]
Beginner’s Guide: Understanding the Process of Diamond GradingÂ
What does diamond grading actually mean? If you are new to the world of gemmology and want to get to grips with the study of diamonds and precious gems, this is a helpful place to start. Here, Gem-A Tutor Pat Daly shares beginner’s level insights into grading and assessing a diamond for its characteristics, known […]
Beginner’s Guide: 4 Interesting Inclusions In Diamonds
Can inclusions ever increase the value of a diamond? Inclusions in diamonds are typically considered a negative trait, especially where their commercial value in the jewellery trade is concerned. But, as Gem-A Tutor Pat Daly explains here, inclusions in diamonds can be a fascinating area of study for gemmologist. Let’s consider some of the ‘disruptions’ […]
Buying Guide: Get to Know the Different Types of Chalcedony
Chalcedony: Agate, Quartz & Jasper Quartz gemstones provide the jewellery trade with more varieties than any other gem species. Here, Gem-A Tutor Pat Daly FGA DGA explores one of the subdivisions of quartz – chalcedony – and discovers the stones (and challenges) that new and experienced gemmologists will discover in the field. Some quartz varieties, […]
5 Common Mistakes New Gemmologists Make
It can be easy to make mistakes For students of gemmology who are just getting to grips with the subject, it can be easy to make mistakes and fall into common gemstone traps. However, there are some gem identification issues that can bamboozle even experienced gemmologists. Here, Gem-A Tutor Pat Daly discusses some common mistakes […]
