Buying at the Source — Dick's Law and Other Sundry Maxims of the East
An essay on buying gems at the source in Asia, with a discussion of how con men play on the greed of those who believe gems will be cheaper at the mines.
Articles
Gemology in the 21st Century — Betwixt Two Worlds
Traditional gemology considers itself a science, but typically omits a key element of the scientific method. And is gemology simply a science, or something more? Read on to learn the answer…
The Last Thai Ruby Miner — Red Sky at Dusk
In search of Thailand's last ruby miner.
Spinel — Resurrection of a Classic
Since the turn of the millennium, the price of fine spinel has risen at an incredible pace. No longer simply the poor man's ruby, spinel is finally getting the attention it deserves as one of the world's premier gems.
Downtown — Gem Hunting in Tanzania
Since the late 1960's, East Africa has been home to some of planet earth's greatest gem discoveries. And yet, little has been written about certain of these finds. In the autumn of 2007, the authors set out to fill in the gaps, specifically regarding Tanzania's Mahenge, Songea and Tunduru regions.
Tanzanite Mines of Merelani — Working the Blueseam
An over-and-underground look at the tanzanite mines of Merelani, Tanzania, where the First World meets the Third, and graphite-covered miners pull glittering blue gems from black earth.
FTIR in Gem Testing — FTIR Intrigue
The use of Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) in gem identification, with examples of sapphire & jadeite.
Gem Treatment Disclosure — Trust
The ethics of gem enhancement disclosure.
Emerald & Alexandrite from Russia — A Closer Look
A brief look at the famous emerald and alexandrite from Russia's Ural Mountain mines.
Ruby and Spinel in Tajikistan — Moon Over the Pamirs
A 2006 mission to remote ruby and spinel localities in Tajikistan.