Donald Clark, CSM

Donald Clark, CSM IMG

Founder

The late Donald Clark, CSM founded the International Gem Society in 1998. Donald started in the gem and jewelry industry in 1976. He received his formal gemology training from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the American Society of Gemcutters (ASG). The letters “CSM” after his name stood for Certified Supreme Master Gemcutter, a designation of Wykoff’s ASG which has often been referred to as the doctorate of gem cutting. The American Society of Gemcutters only had 54 people reach this level. Along with dozens of articles for leading trade magazines, Donald authored the book “Modern Faceting, the Easy Way.”

Articles by Donald Clark, CSM IMG

The Microscope: A Guide for Gemologists

The Microscope: A Guide for Gemologists

Sometimes, microscopic inclusions are the only way to distinguish natural from synthetic gems. This makes the microscope an essential lab...
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Destructive Gemstone Tests: Acid Testing

Destructive Gemstone Tests: Acid Testing

Acid testing is a destructive procedure gemologists can use to determine if some pieces are real or fake. Learn how...
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A Consumer’s Guide to Gem Grading

A Consumer’s Guide to Gem Grading

Learn how gemologists evaluate color, clarity, cut, and carat for gem grading. Consumers can use this information to find the...
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Destructive Gemstone Testing

Destructive Gemstone Testing

Destructive gemstone testing, done carefully, can help gemologists with difficult gem identifications. Learn the right techniques with our 5-part series....
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Disclosing Enhancements: A Gemologist’s Guide

Disclosing Enhancements: A Gemologist’s Guide

Disclosing enhancements to gems is a key duty for gemologists. Learn what are the hardest treatments to detect and how...
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An Introduction to Gem Identification

An Introduction to Gem Identification

Gem identification is part detective work, part art. Learn how gemologists can distinguish gem species and determine whether a stone...
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Grading Gem Carvings

Grading Gem Carvings

Gem carvings are judged on material, workmanship, and artistry. Learn how to apply these criteria to a piece with our...
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Destructive Gemstone Tests: Hot Point Testing

Destructive Gemstone Tests: Hot Point Testing

Gemologists use the hot point test to determine if a piece is a plastic imitation or coated in wax. Learn...
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10X Loupe for Gemologists and Jewelers

10X Loupe for Gemologists and Jewelers

The 10X loupe is the gemologist's best friend. Learn how to examine gemstones for fractures, inclusions, color, and much more...
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Clarity Grading Diamonds

Clarity Grading Diamonds

Mastering clarity grading diamonds takes a lot of experience. This grading guide, with definitions, images, and examples, can help beginning...
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Diamond Rating: A Beginner’s Guide

Diamond Rating: A Beginner’s Guide

First-time buyers may not understand how diamond rating works. Our guide will teach you how diamonds are graded, so you...
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Diamond Lookalikes Listed by Specific Gravity

Diamond Lookalikes Listed by Specific Gravity

Distinguishing diamond lookalikes from the real thing can be challenging. Learn how to use specific gravity and birefringence to make...
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Polariscope Guide, Part 3: Testing for Gemstone Twinning, Dichroism, and Crystal Strain

Polariscope Guide, Part 3: Testing for Gemstone Twinning, Dichroism, and Crystal Strain

You can use a polariscope to observe gemstone twinning, dichroism, and crystal strain. Test your ability to identify these and...
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Polariscope Guide, Part 2: Testing for Optic Figure and Sign

Polariscope Guide, Part 2: Testing for Optic Figure and Sign

Learn how to use a polariscope to find the optic figure and sign of a gemstone. This is an important...
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Polariscope Guide, Part 1: Testing Gemstone Refraction

Polariscope Guide, Part 1: Testing Gemstone Refraction

The polariscope is an essential tool for gem identification. Learn how it works, how to use it, and how to...
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Top Spots for Gem Hunting in the US

Top Spots for Gem Hunting in the US

Visit one of the top gem hunting spots in the US. Go alone or with the family. A gemology-themed vacation...
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Gem Formation: How are Gemstones Created?

Gem Formation: How are Gemstones Created?

Gem formation usually involves mineral crystallization and other geological processes. Learn how these affect the gemstone properties gemologists study.
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Gemstone Optical Properties

Gemstone Optical Properties

Learn how gemstone optical properties, like refractive index and pleochroism, help gemologists identify gems and lapidaries choose cuts.
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Distinguishing Diamonds: Educating Your Eyes

Distinguishing Diamonds: Educating Your Eyes

Distinguishing diamonds from their lookalikes requires educated eyes. Learn what visual features to look for and the properties of many...
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Refractometer Guide, Part 3: Determining Optic Character and Recognizing Optic Effects

Refractometer Guide, Part 3: Determining Optic Character and Recognizing Optic Effects

Learn how to determine a gem’s optic character with a refractometer and identify optical effects you may encounter during gem...
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Refractometer Guide, Part 2: Cabochon Testing

Refractometer Guide, Part 2: Cabochon Testing

Sometimes, analyzing cabochon gems with a refractometer requires different techniques than those for faceted gems. Learn these cabochon testing methods....
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Refractometer Guide, Part 1: Refractive Index Testing

Refractometer Guide, Part 1: Refractive Index Testing

A gem refractometer is the best tool for refractive index testing. Learn how to use this instrument to conduct this...
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An Introduction to Gemstone Inclusions

An Introduction to Gemstone Inclusions

Gemstone inclusions are materials trapped inside gems as they form. Learn how gemologists use inclusions to help identify gemstones and...
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Choosing the Right Cut: A Faceter’s Guide

Choosing the Right Cut: A Faceter’s Guide

Choosing the right cut for a piece of gem rough is an art. Learn how to balance brilliance with color...
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What are Crystal Systems and Mineral Habits?

What are Crystal Systems and Mineral Habits?

Crystals have habits. In crystallography, mineral habits refer to the way crystals form within a specific mineral. There are six...
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Gemstone Hardness and Wearability

Gemstone Hardness and Wearability

Gemstone hardness measures resistance to scratching. A gem's wearability grade takes hardness into account, but it’s only one of many...
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Modern Diamond Cut Grading Methods

Modern Diamond Cut Grading Methods

The GIA modern diamond cut grading method is the most widely accepted in the industry. Our step-by-step guide covers the...
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How to Grade Fancy Cut Diamonds

How to Grade Fancy Cut Diamonds

Fancy cut diamonds can have any finished shape, except round. These stones have their own grading criteria, in particular regarding...
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Jewelry Nomenclature: Gem Settings

Jewelry Nomenclature: Gem Settings

Jewelry designers and consumers can pick from many different gem settings. Learn the names and uses of common and speciality...
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Traditional Diamond Cut Grading Methods

Traditional Diamond Cut Grading Methods

Traditional diamond cut grading methods prepare gemologists for making evaluations with minimal time, tools, and references. This step-by-step guide covers...
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Opal Buying Guide

Opal Buying Guide

Our opal buying guide can help you learn how opals are graded, what to avoid, and how to identify a...
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Simple Design Ideas for Freeform Gems

Simple Design Ideas for Freeform Gems

You can learn gem carving by practicing simple designs. Let the native shapes of stones inspire freeform gems you can...
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Prong Setting Gems: A Beginner’s Guide

Prong Setting Gems: A Beginner’s Guide

Using prongs is the most common way to secure a gem to a jewelry piece. Learn basic prong setting procedures...
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Australian Opals

Australian Opals

Australian opals account for 95% of the world’s supply. Learn about Australia’s geological history, the start of its opal trade,...
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Clarity Grading for Colored Gemstones

Clarity Grading for Colored Gemstones

Don't underestimate the importance of clarity, one of the Four Cs of gemstone grading. For faceted gems, basic clarity grading...
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Gemstone Polishing Laps and Techniques

Gemstone Polishing Laps and Techniques

No single gemstone polishing method will work for all people or all stones. Our guide will help you choose laps...
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Tips for Cutting Kunzite

Tips for Cutting Kunzite

Cutting kunzite and other gemstones with easy cleavage is challenging. These tips can help you facet this beautiful and valuable...
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Writing Effective Advertising for Gems and Jewelry

Writing Effective Advertising for Gems and Jewelry

If you’re in the gem and jewelry business, you’ll need to write effective advertising. These techniques will help you succeed....
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Cutting Star and Cat’s Eye Gems

Cutting Star and Cat’s Eye Gems

Learn how to cut star and cat's eye gems. Once you understand how asterism and chatoyancy work, you'll find unexpected...
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Custom Gem Faceting Styles

Custom Gem Faceting Styles

Gem cutters can choose from many faceting styles. Learn about the most common custom cutting techniques and pick one that...
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How to Correct Faceting Mistakes

How to Correct Faceting Mistakes

Faceting mistakes can cost gem cutters time and money. Learn some techniques for fixing common errors and making your repairs...
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Recutting Diamonds and Colored Gemstones

Recutting Diamonds and Colored Gemstones

When is recutting diamonds and other gems worthwhile for a professional gemologist? Learn how to make this determination and avoid...
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How to Grade Set Gemstones

How to Grade Set Gemstones

Gems in jewelry settings can't be evaluated the same way as loose stones. These guidelines are for gemologists learning to...
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Take the Birthstone Quiz

Take the Birthstone Quiz

What do you know about birthstones? Take our short birthstone quiz and learn about the makeup, cutting, and value of...
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Choosing the Right Jewelry Settings for Your Gems

Choosing the Right Jewelry Settings for Your Gems

How do you choose jewelry settings for your gems? Learn the pros and cons of pre-made settings, assembling findings, modifying...
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Cabochon Carving Tools and Techniques

Cabochon Carving Tools and Techniques

Whether you're creating a simple gem accent or an exquisite cameo, the tools and techniques of cabochon carving are the...
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Gemstone Dopping Techniques

Gemstone Dopping Techniques

A novice gem cutter needs to master various dopping techniques for cabbing and faceting gemstones. Learn how to attach gem...
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Polishing Metals: An Introduction

Polishing Metals: An Introduction

Getting a brilliant polish is one of the most important steps to finishing fine jewelry. Learn the tools and techniques...
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Soldering Precious Metals

Soldering Precious Metals

Soldering is one of the most useful techniques a metal smith can have. It is used both to create new...
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Gemstone Color Change Phenomena

Gemstone Color Change Phenomena

Why do certain gems change color under different lights? Explore gemstone color change phenomena and the difference between natural and...
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Appraising Opals

Appraising Opals

Opals are unique gems with their own unique terminology. Learn the modern standard system for classifying and appraising opals used...
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What is a Gem?

What is a Gem?

Even the most general definition of a gem has many exceptions. Learn what qualities have been used to identify gemstones...
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An Introduction to Gemstone Grading

An Introduction to Gemstone Grading

How goes gemstone grading work? Learn how gemologists evaluate both diamonds and colored gems and the qualities they examine.
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Appraising Gems and Jewelry

Appraising Gems and Jewelry

Appraising gems and jewelry involves opinions of value based on knowledge and research. Learn what information gemologists should include on...
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Tips and Tools for Handling Gems Securely

Tips and Tools for Handling Gems Securely

These tips and tools for handling gems securely will help novice gemologists and gem cutters reduce the risk of dropping...
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Basic Jewelry and Gem Appraisal Terms: What is Value?

Basic Jewelry and Gem Appraisal Terms: What is Value?

Many people assume that a gem appraisal sets a definitive price for an item. Actually, the price depends on the...
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A Guide to Gem Classification

A Guide to Gem Classification

Gemologists use several different gem classification methods. Learn how the most common systems work and what they cover as well...
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Glass Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Glass Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Glass has been used in jewelry for thousands of years. By itself, glass is brittle and unimpressive with very little...
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What are Allochromatic and Idiochromatic Gems?

What are Allochromatic and Idiochromatic Gems?

Learn the difference between allochromatic and idiochromatic gems and why some gem species can occur in many color varieties and...
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Advice for Determining Gemstone Value

Advice for Determining Gemstone Value

Judging gemstone value is complex, and new gemologists can have trouble with this. These four exercises can help you learn...
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Carats and Gemstone Grading

Carats and Gemstone Grading

Carats are the units used to measure gem weight and one of the main factors in gem grading. Learn what...
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Money-Saving Ways to Clean Jewelry

Money-Saving Ways to Clean Jewelry

Some household products and do-it-yourself methods can clean jewelry safely and save you money. Discover the common ingredients in some...
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Product Review: GL SpectroLite

Product Review: GL SpectroLite

The GL SpectroLite is an inexpensive and easy-to-use tool that can help gemologists conduct spectroscope exams. Read our review to...
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Product Review: No Name Refractometers

Product Review: No Name Refractometers

Beware of cheap "no name” refractometers (and their distributors). These tools may not be suitable for gem identification. Read our...
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Product Review: Duplex II and Rayner Dialdex Refractometers

Product Review: Duplex II and Rayner Dialdex Refractometers

The Duplex II and Rayner Dialdex both make excellent refractometers for gemologists. How do they compare head-to-head? Learn more from...
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Phenomenal Gems: Cat’s Eyes, Star Stones, and More

Phenomenal Gems: Cat’s Eyes, Star Stones, and More

Phenomenal gems seem to do magical things with light. Learn the science behind optical effects like cat’s eyes and star...
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What are Gem Species and Gem Varieties?

What are Gem Species and Gem Varieties?

Gem species are mineral species prized for their durability and beauty. Learn how chemical formulas and crystal structures define species...
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Product Review, Gem Lab Refractometer

Product Review, Gem Lab Refractometer

A refractometer is an important tool for gem identification. The Gem Lab refractometer is an inexpensive model that’s a good...
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Lapidary Fundamentals: Cutting Rough Stones

Lapidary Fundamentals: Cutting Rough Stones

Learn the best techniques and tools for cutting rough stones. Making small pieces from big pieces is one of the...
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Lapidary Fundamentals: Cabochon Cutting

Lapidary Fundamentals: Cabochon Cutting

Cabochon cutting or cabbing is the most popular form of gem cutting. With practice, you can master this skill. Read...
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Lapidary Fundamentals: Gemstone Tumbling

Lapidary Fundamentals: Gemstone Tumbling

Gemstone tumbling is the simplest and least expensive lapidary art to learn. These guidelines can help you choose the right...
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Product Review, Achiever Microscope

Product Review, Achiever Microscope

A microscope is an essential tool for gemologists. The Achiever Microscope is an excellent choice at a good price. Read...
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Lapidary Fundamentals: Gemstone Faceting

Lapidary Fundamentals: Gemstone Faceting

Learn the basic procedures of gemstone faceting. This walkthrough for a standard round brilliant cut gem includes cutting instructions and...
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Angles for Cutting Garnets

Angles for Cutting Garnets

Cutting garnets and other color saturated gems for brilliance can be challenging. Here's some advice for choosing the best angles...
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Choosing Faceting Angles

Choosing Faceting Angles

With so many recommended faceting angles, new gem cutters can have a hard time choosing one. Learn the basic guidelines...
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Identifying Synthetic Gems

Identifying Synthetic Gems

Distinguishing between natural and synthetic gems is a critical skill for gemologists. Learn about gem making processes and the telltale...
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Paraíba Tourmaline Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Paraíba Tourmaline Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Discovered in 1989, paraíba tourmalines are among the world’s most prized gemstones. These rare gems are renowned for showing intense...
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Color Grading Fancy Colored Diamonds

Color Grading Fancy Colored Diamonds

The color grading standards for white diamonds don't apply to fancy colored diamonds. Learn the GIA and Argyle grading systems...
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A View of the Quartzsite Gem Shows

A View of the Quartzsite Gem Shows

The Quartzsite gem shows attract gemologists and rock hounds from around the world. Learn what to expect and how to...
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Difficult Gemstone Separations

Difficult Gemstone Separations

Two of the trickiest gemstone separations to make are scapolite from citrine and apatite from tourmaline. Learn some tips for...
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What Happened to the GIA GemSet Color and Hue Wheel?

What Happened to the GIA GemSet Color and Hue Wheel?

The GIA GemSet offered plastic color masters for color grading gems. It's no longer in production. Software alternatives exist but...
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Combining Stones in Jewelry

Combining Stones in Jewelry

Combining stones can be more than adding diamond accents to colored gemstone jewelry. Explore colored stone combos and learn how...
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Identifying Synthetic Diamonds

Identifying Synthetic Diamonds

Although most manufacturers disclose their synthetic diamonds, some resellers don’t. Learn how to identify these lab-created diamonds.
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Gemstone Identification Quizzes: Testing Procedures

Gemstone Identification Quizzes: Testing Procedures

Gemstone identification can involve many tests. These quizzes can help novice gemologists learn to pick the appropriate ones and identify...
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Buying Gems: Test Your Identification Skills

Buying Gems: Test Your Identification Skills

When buying gems, gemologists must temper their excitement with an analytical eye. Test your gem identification skills with these quizzes....
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Gemology Cheat Sheets

Gemology Cheat Sheets

These gemology cheat sheets review gem color and clarity grading, specific information on evaluating diamonds and opals, and basic gem...
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Gemstone Visual Examination Quizzes

Gemstone Visual Examination Quizzes

A visual examination is the first step to identifying a gemstone. These quizzes will help student gemologists learn to recognize...
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Gemstone Refractometer Mini-Quiz

Gemstone Refractometer Mini-Quiz

Test your knowledge of refractometer gem analysis with this mini-quiz. You can review material on any question you miss at...
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A Gem Identification Quiz for Novice Gemologists

A Gem Identification Quiz for Novice Gemologists

Learning how to identify gems involves more than just data. This gem identification quiz can help novice gemologists learn how...
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The GIA Diamond Cut Grading System

The GIA Diamond Cut Grading System

How does the GIA diamond cut grading system work? Our guide will explain what the grades mean and how gemologists...
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Gemstone Examination Lesson

Gemstone Examination Lesson

Learning how to conduct a gemstone examination takes practice. Follow an expert gemologist step-by-step through tests of five unknown samples....
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Recommended Gemology Tools and Instruments

Recommended Gemology Tools and Instruments

Gemstone identification requires a good reference library and some basic gemology tools. Before you go shopping, learn more about what...
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Dichroscope Guide for Gemologists

Dichroscope Guide for Gemologists

The dichroscope is one of the most useful instruments a gemologist can have. Its primary purpose is to determine the...
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Ultraviolet Testing and Gemstone Identification

Ultraviolet Testing and Gemstone Identification

Ultraviolet testing can be crucial for gemstone identification. Learn the basics of this technique as well as how to make...
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The Spectroscope

The Spectroscope

The spectroscope is a fundamental gemological tool. Learn how to use it to identify gemstones based on their absorption of...
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Jewelry Metals 101: Gold, Silver, and Platinum

Jewelry Metals 101: Gold, Silver, and Platinum

Gold, silver, and platinum are the most commonly used jewelry metals. Learn about their physical properties, alloys, and history.
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Gemstone Physical Properties

Gemstone Physical Properties

The optical properties of gems attract our eyes and can give a cut stone a unique character. However, gemstone physical...
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Enhanced Gem Inclusions

Enhanced Gem Inclusions

Gem treatments can affect a stone’s value and stability. Learn how the most common procedures work and how to identify...
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Corundum Treatments

Corundum Treatments

Corundum gems receive more types of treatments than any other stones. Learn how to test rubies and sapphires for signs...
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How to Test for Diffusion Treated Gems

How to Test for Diffusion Treated Gems

Learn how to spot diffusion treated gems with a simple immersion test. This common treatment for sapphire can significantly reduce...
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Using a Reticle: A Guide for Gemologists

Using a Reticle: A Guide for Gemologists

When combined with optical instruments, a reticle can take fine measurements. Learn how gemologists use this tool for measuring lengths...
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HPHT Diamond Treatments

HPHT Diamond Treatments

HPHT diamond treatments can only be positively identified with costly equipment. However, you can learn to assess the probability that...
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Center-Fused Color Treated Gemstones

Center-Fused Color Treated Gemstones

Center-fused color treated gems are assembled from natural rough. Learn how the procedure works and how to identify this stable...
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A Beginner’s Guide To Common Gemstone Heat Treatments

A Beginner’s Guide To Common Gemstone Heat Treatments

Gemstone heat treatments can increase the beauty and value of many rough pieces. Learn how to conduct the most common...
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Identifying Garnets Simplified

Identifying Garnets Simplified

Identifying garnets by species is complicated. Learn how to use refractive index, hue, and absorption spectrum readings to simply the...
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Destructive Gemstone Tests: Dye Testing

Destructive Gemstone Tests: Dye Testing

Gemologists can use dye testing to determine if a gemstone has been dyed to alter its color. Learn how to...
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What are Gemstone Enhancements?

What are Gemstone Enhancements?

Gemstone enhancements improve the appearance and wearability of gems. Learn about the most commonly used procedures and frequently treated types...
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Destructive Gemstone Tests: Scratch Testing

Destructive Gemstone Tests: Scratch Testing

Gemstone scratch testing can help determine the Mohs hardness value of a mineral sample. Learn how to conduct this destructive...
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The Minimum Cutting Technique for Gemstones

The Minimum Cutting Technique for Gemstones

The minimum cutting technique will help you get the largest gems possible from rough. Learn how to deal with internal...
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Inclusion Management and Gemstone Faceting

Inclusion Management and Gemstone Faceting

Inclusion management is one of the most challenging aspects of gemstone faceting. Learn when to remove and when to keep...
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Carving Techniques for Handling Inclusions in Transparent Gems

Carving Techniques for Handling Inclusions in Transparent Gems

Inclusions don't have to result in a loss of mass or value when cutting transparent gems. Learn how to manage...
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The Gemstone Butterfly Cut

The Gemstone Butterfly Cut

The Gemstone Butterfly is a stunning design for a custom-cut gem. Our step-by-step guide will show you how to facet...
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Diamond Buying Guide – Special Free Preview

Diamond Buying Guide – Special Free Preview

First-time gem buyers may find diamond grades confusing. Our consumer guide explains how diamonds are evaluated and gives advice on...
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Frosted Stars: Variations on Star-Cut Gemstones

Frosted Stars: Variations on Star-Cut Gemstones

“Frosted Stars” are variations on classic five and six-pointed star-cut gemstones. Learn how to facet these gem designs and make...
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How to Add Sparkle to an Emerald Cut

How to Add Sparkle to an Emerald Cut

Add sparkle to an emerald cut with a new cutting technique. You can apply this design to gemstones with standard...
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Destructive Gemstone Tests: Streak Testing

Destructive Gemstone Tests: Streak Testing

Streak testing is a destructive gemstone test rarely used by gemologists. Most gems leave no streak. Learn which gems do...
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Calcareous Concretions Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Calcareous Concretions Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Several species of marine mollusks produce stony growths called calcareous concretions or non-nacreous pearls. Varieties such as conch pearls, tridacna...
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Tips for Cabbing and Carving Opals

Tips for Cabbing and Carving Opals

Opal cabochons can fetch high prices but may be difficult to cut. These tips for carving opals can help gem...
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Uncommon Elements Make Uncommon Gemstones

Uncommon Elements Make Uncommon Gemstones

Why are some gems so rare in nature? Learn which elements in the Earth’s crust are the rarest and how...
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An Introduction to Gemology

An Introduction to Gemology

Learn what gemologists do in our introduction to gemology. Whether your interest is casual or professional, the world of gems...
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Chicken-Blood Stone Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Chicken-Blood Stone Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

One of the most prized ornamental materials in China, chicken-blood stone has been used for centuries to create carvings with...
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A Guide to Gem Cutting Styles

A Guide to Gem Cutting Styles

Gem cutting styles refer to the shape and arrangement of facets. The three most basic styles are brilliant, step, and...
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Gemstone Facets: Terminology and Functions

Gemstone Facets: Terminology and Functions

Not only do gemstone facets create beautiful patterns on gem surfaces, they also help gems shine. While gem cutters will...
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An Introduction to the Lapidary Arts

An Introduction to the Lapidary Arts

Lapidary is the art of working with gemstones. Learn more about the four basic lapidary arts: tumbling, cabbing, faceting, and...
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Identifying Inclusions of Specific Gems

Identifying Inclusions of Specific Gems

Some natural as well as synthetic gems have specific, characteristic inclusions. Learn the identifying inclusions of some of the most...
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Color Grading White Diamonds

Color Grading White Diamonds

Mastering the art of color grading white diamonds is a challenge. Learn about the standards, terms, tools, and testing procedures...
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Evaluating Gem Color: Hue, Tone, and Saturation

Evaluating Gem Color: Hue, Tone, and Saturation

Accurately describing gem color is critical to determining a gemstone's value. Learn how to grade hue, tone, and saturation and...
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Advanced Cutting Techniques For Cabochons

Advanced Cutting Techniques For Cabochons

Leftover gemstone rough is a great material for learning to cut cabochons. Learn advanced cabbing techniques and find new inspiration...
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The Art and Science of Identifying Gemstones

The Art and Science of Identifying Gemstones

Gemology is both art and science. Learn how identifying gemstones combines traditional testing techniques, modern software, and deductive reasoning.
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An Introduction to Jewelry and Metalsmithing Tools

Manufacturing jewelry is a great way to tap into your creative side along with having something cool and original to...
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Shattuckite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Shattuckite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Shattuckite is often mixed with quartz, and data often reported for properties may be erroneous. The cabochons are rich blue...
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Product Review, Opal Smart Chart

Product Review, Opal Smart Chart

The newest thing in the opal world is the Opal Smart Chart. This is a software package designed to help...
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Spodumene Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Spodumene Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Extraordinarily difficult to cut, spodumene has several colorful varieties, such as hiddenite and kunzite, highly coveted for jewelry.
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Product Comparison, Polariscopes

Product Comparison, Polariscopes

Polariscopes are one of our most useful instruments. They come in a wide variety of prices and qualities. There are...
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Product Review, GemPro 50, Digital Scale

The least expensive digital scale for gem use is now the GemPro 50. It sells for around $150, which is...
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Product Review, Sony Cyber-shot

Product Review, Sony Cyber-shot

A Product Review on Sony Cyber-shot. Overall, it is an excellent camera and I was surprised by the low cost.The...
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Product Review, Opal The Smart Chart

Product Review, Opal The Smart Chart

The newest thing in the opal world is the Opal Smart Chart. This is a software package designed to help...
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Product Review, Diamond Calculator

Product Review, Diamond Calculator

There is a new piece of software available that will be of interest to many of you. It is called...
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Living With Your Faceting Machine

Living With Your Faceting Machine

One serious pitfall for the novice is the quality of advice they get in choosing what faceting machine to buy....
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Faceting Machine Survey

Recently, a survey was taken to see what kind of Facet Machines are being used by members of the Faceter's...
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Australian International Faceting Challenge 2000

The Australian International Faceting Challenge is a competition to see a cutters ability to cut a perfect stone. With designs...
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Synthetic Gemstone Inclusions

Synthetic Gemstone Inclusions

Identifying lab-created gems is a critical skill for gemologists. Learn how to spot the most common synthetic gemstone inclusions.
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How to Build a Home Gemology Laboratory

Learn what you need to set up a your own gem lab. You may be surprised to learn that this...
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How to Make a Beaded Necklace

How to Make a Beaded Necklace

An overview on How to Make a Beaded Necklace. Detailed information on the tools, materials, designs and techniques on making...
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How Rare is That Gem?

How Rare is That Gem?

Rarity is one of the most prized qualities of gemstones. But some gems are far more rare than others! This...
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Finding a job in the gem or jewelry business

This is a quick story about finding employment (a job) in the gem or jewelry industry. It explains why starting...
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Test Taking Tips and Strategies

Learn these quick and simple test taking tips and strategies to help you on your next gemology test.
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