In a discovery detailed in the spring issue of Gems & Gemology, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) examined a near-colorless 6.87-carat synthetic diamond that manufacturers intentionally crafted to mimic the appearance of a rough natural diamond crystal. This piece marks the first known instance of a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) lab-grown diamond being deliberately shaped by creators to imitate natural, uncut diamond rough.
The GIA has published an insightful report on the huge South Sea cultured pearl in the Spring issue of Gems & Gemology, GIA's quarterly gemological journal. Must-read.
Consumers beware. It always happens. If you have doubts, always consult a reputed gem testing laboratories like the GIA.
Colored stone miners, dealers and gemologists must read. Many thanks to Gems & Gemology for the insightful report.
Take a look at two kinds of copper-bearing inclusions in agate from Yanyuan.
This rare inclusion offers a glimpse into the long and unique journey each diamond takes to the earth's surface.
Take a look at a well-formed gem-quality aquamarine crystal with unique hexagonal growth hillocks. Many thanks to GIA gemologists.
Take a look at an hexagonal apatite inclusion with interference colors in smoky quartz.
Maki-e is an ancient Japanese lacquer technique that translates to sprinkled picture and is said to have originated more than 1200 years ago. It's a unique piece of art.
Opals are treated either to conceal the cracks or to improve the appearance. If doubtful, ask questions.
Fluorites are dyed to improve color or clarity. If doubtful, consumers should consult a reputed gem testing laboratory like the GIA before purchasing colored stones.
Take a look. Gem identification is always challenging. If doubtful always consult a reputed gem testing laboratory like the GIA.
The imitation candy agate could be defined as a new type of epoxy-filled chalcedony which shows similar colored cores to natural candy agate. The most effective non-destructive methods for identifying this product are Raman spectroscopy and microscopic observation. If doubtful always consult a reputed gem testing laboratory like the GIA.
A new source of blue zircon from Malawi is a welcome addition to the colored gemstone trade.
Take a look at the banded turquoise from Zhushan county, Hubei Province, China.
