Journal · 177 notes
Stones & grading
Written for buyers rather than for search engines: what a specification actually means, where an order usually goes wrong, and what to ask before you pay a deposit.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Jade vs. Jadeite: A Bench Jeweler's Guide
Nephrite and jadeite are two different minerals sold under one name. We explain hardness, cuts, color grades, and how to care for both.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Hiddenite: The Green Spodumene Named for a Financier
Hiddenite is the green gem variety of spodumene, sibling to pink kunzite. Learn its color, sources, durability and how to wear it well.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Larimar: The Caribbean Blue Stone Found in One Place
Larimar is found in only one mountain range on Earth. Here is what makes its blue unique, how durable it really is, and how to care for it.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Demantoid Garnet: The Horsetail Inclusion and the Green That Outsparkles Diamond
Demantoid is the rarest green garnet. We explain horsetail inclusions, Russian vs Namibian material, dispersion, and how to set it.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Rhodolite Garnet: The Raspberry Purple-Red Gem
Rhodolite garnet is a pyrope-almandine blend with raspberry color. Learn where it is found, why it makes a great ring stone, and how to care for it.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Amethyst Gemstone: Color, Heat Treatment, and Care
Amethyst hardness, color zoning, why heat turns it into citrine, fading in sunlight, and how to clean and wear it. Straight from the manufacturing bench.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Howlite and Magnesite: The White Stones That Often Become 'Turquoise'
Howlite and magnesite are frequently dyed to look like turquoise. We explain the difference, how to spot it, and how to care for each.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Rhodium Plating Bath Maintenance and Trouble Spots
pH, contamination, brightener dosing, and anode choice: the daily checks that keep a rhodium bath bright instead of streaky.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Turquoise Gemstone Guide: Properties, Color & Care
Turquoise is porous, soft and notoriously individual. Learn what makes good turquoise, how it is stabilized, and how to keep yours from fading.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Unakite: The Pink-and-Green Granite You Can Wear
Unakite is a pink and green granite made of feldspar, quartz and epidote. Learn why it is cut into beads and cabochons and how to care for it.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Labradorite and Spectrolite: The Stone That Turns Colors
Labradorite flashes blues, greens, and gold when you tilt it. Learn what labradorescence is, where spectrolite comes from, and how to set it for wear.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Iolite Gemstone Guide: The Water Sapphire That Costs Less
Iolite is a violet-blue gem with strong pleochroism. Learn its hardness, sources and why it is an affordable tanzanite alternative.
