Olena Rybnikova, PhD
Olena Rybnikova is a gemologist and mineralogist. She has a PhD in mineralogy and petrology specializing in beryllium minerals and is a certified Applied Jewelry Professional accredited by the Gemological Institute of America. Her passion is actively promoting knowledge and appreciation of nature, geology, and gemstones.
Articles by Olena Rybnikova, PhD
Mineral Cleavage Testing: A Practical Guide
Cleavage testing is an important procedure for mineral identification. Learn what cleavage means and how to test mineral samples.
Read More
What is Crystallography?
Crystallography is the study of crystalline solids and their properties. Learn how mineralogists use this to identify minerals.
Read More
Introduction to Native Elements
Native elements or minerals include well-known materials like gold, silver, and diamonds. Learn how to identify common native minerals.
Read More
A Guide to Mineral Names and Classification Systems
Some mineral names can quickly yield important information about specimens. Learn how minerals get their names and how they're classified....
Read More
Mineralogy of Phyllosilicates and Tectosilicates
The silicate subgroups of phyllosilicates and tectosilicates include minerals used in industry and jewelry. Learn how to identify them.
Read More
Mineralogy of Cyclosilicates and Inosilicates
The silicate subgroups of cyclosilicates and inosilicates include beryl, tourmaline, jadeite, and nephrite. Learn to identify these minerals.
Read More
Mineralogy of Silicates: Nesosilicates and Sorosilicates
Silicates include well-known minerals such as zircon, topaz, and garnet. Learn how to identify minerals from two silicate sub-groups.
Read More
Mineralogy of Phosphates and Other Rare Minerals
Although phosphates and other mineral classes are rare, they still have species with important uses. Learn how to identify these...
Read More
Mineralogy of Halides, Carbonates, and Sulfites
Halides, carbonates, and sulfites are sedimentary minerals with many uses, from salt to manufacturing. Learn how to identify these minerals....
Read More
Mineralogy of Oxides and Hydroxides
Oxides and hydroxides are mineral classes that include well-known gems as well as significant ores. Learn how to identify these...
Read More
Mineralogy of Sulfides and Sulfosalts
Sulfides and sulfosalts are important sources of elements crucial to modern industry. Learn how to identify these minerals.
Read More
What is a Mineral?
How do scientists define a mineral? Learn what minerals are made of, their many uses, and the difference between gemstones...
Read More
How Old Is My Zircon?
Is zircon the oldest mineral? Find out why zircon is important for scientifically dating rocks and how to learn a...
Read More
What’s the Difference Between Gemology and Mineralogy?
There are key differences between gemology and mineralogy. Learn about these disciplines and how studying mineralogy can benefit gemologists.
Read More
