Did You Know?

A Glossary of Gemstone Faceting Terms for Beginners

A comprehensive glossary of gemstone faceting terms for students and beginner gemologists, covering all terms relating to the world of gemstone cutting.

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
4

Always Wanted A Ruby Pendant? Try Online Auctions

Always wanted A ruby pendant? Online auctions are a great place to find loose Rubies to make into any type of pendant.

1st May 2022
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Ancient Egyptian Jewelry

The ancient Egyptians valued personal adornment highly and Egyptian jewelry was worn by women and men, and of all social classes.

1st May 2022
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Are Diamonds Really Rare? The Truth And History About Diamond Popularity

Have you ever wondered why diamonds are so popular? Turns out, rarity isn’t the reason. Are diamonds really rare? Learn the truth and history of diamond popularity.

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
2
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Are Emeralds Clear or Cloudy?

As you might’ve guessed—it depends entirely on the emerald. Flawless emeralds are not cloudy, but are highly transparent or clear.

1st May 2022
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Are Irradiated Gemstones Dangerous?

There is a trend at the moment of people asking if irradiated gemstones are dangerous? The good news is, no they are not. Let us explain.

1st May 2022
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Argyle Pink Diamonds

Argyle Pink Diamonds are Australia’s rare pink diamond from the remote Argyle mine in Australia. Less than one tenth of 1% is classified Pink.

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
3

Bidding Strategies For Winning Online Bargains

Follow these 8 easy bidding strategies and start successfully winning online auctions. Smart bidding strategies for those who wants to save money and win quality items online.

Wayne Sedawie
1st May 2022
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Black Gemstones: List of 15 Black Gems

Black gemstones offer intrigue, class, and protection. Learn all about mystical black gemstones, their uses, histories, and healing properties!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
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Blue Gemstones: A List of 33 Blue Gems

Blue Gemstones are highly sought after because of their calming color. We have complied a list of all of the blue gemstones that are available for purchase on Gem Rock Auctions

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
2

Blue Topaz Vs. Aquamarine — Which Blue Jewel Reigns Supreme?

Are you on the hunt for a dazzling blue gemstone? Read our guide for side by side comparison of blue topaz vs. aquamarine to find out which blue jewel suits you best!

Steve Thomas
1st May 2022
2

Brown Gemstones: A List of 15 Brown Gems

What gems are naturally brown? So many! Find out all the brown-colored gems, brown crystals, and their uses and healing properties!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
0

Cocktail Rings - History and Allure

Cocktail rings are big, bold and make a statement by anyone who wears them. Cocktail rings originated in the 1920's when almost everything was outlawed.

1st May 2022
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Diamond Alternatives: Non-Traditional Engagement & Wedding Rings

Although diamonds have been the traditional choice for many years, couples are starting to opt for gemstones more often for a number of reasons. Gemstones are not only more affordable than diamonds, but also offer a wider range of choices in sha

1st May 2022
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Diamond Cuts and Diamond Shapes

When buying a Diamond it is important to understand the relationship between the Diamond cut, the shape and the four C's.

1st May 2022
10

Fluorescent Minerals - Rocks That Glow

One of the latest phenomena that are being exhibited in museums is fluorescent minerals or in simple terms, rocks that glow.

1st May 2022
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Fossil Safari - Dinosaurs and Fossil Hunting In Morocco

If you ever find yourself wondering what to expect on a fossil hunting trip in Morocco, have a read of our amazing Moroccan fossil safari and cultural experience.

Wayne Sedawie
1st May 2022
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Gemstone Colors - List Of Gemstones By Color

The gemstone color palette has a vast display of options. Explore our list of gemstones by color, from red to purple, black to white, and multicolor gems!

Steve Thomas
10th May 2022
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Gemstone Shapes, Cuts, and Sizes — A Full Guide

Gemstones come in a variety of shapes, cuts, and sizes like round brilliant, pear, and marquise. Find a roundup list of gemstone shapes in this comprehensive guide!

1st May 2022
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Gemstone vs Antiques In Value War

Antiques used to be the item of choice for long term investment but over time the value of these have dropped. Gemstones on the other hand have continued to increase in value.

1st May 2022
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Gemstones From Ancient Egypt

Aside from gold, Ancient Egyptian jewelry was often made from precious and semi-precious stones. Lets explore what these gemstones are.

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
1

Gold Price Is Set To Explode

Gold prices always rise with uncertainty. Today uncertainty is rampant with the UK Brexit, Trump causing waves in the US presidential election, the hung election in Australia and China’s slow down.

Wayne Sedawie
1st May 2022
5

Green Gemstones: List of 31 Green Gems and Their Meanings

Green gemstones come in pale, deep, and even patterned colors. Learn the properties and meanings of every green gemstone, from aventurine to topaz!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
2

Grey Gemstones: List of 15 Grey Gems

Grey gemstones channel calm and collected energies while helping you feel connected to the earth. Learn all about the uses, meanings, and healing properties of grey stones and crystals!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
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Highest Quality Sapphires Within Your Financial Reach

Sapphires might seem like they are expensive so where can you find the highest quality Sapphires within your financial reach? We will show you.

1st May 2022
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How Are Pearls Made?

Pearls are made when a small irritant finds its way inside an oyster or mollusk. This can be a grain of sand or a piece of shell but is more typically a little parasite.

1st May 2022
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How Did Birthstones Start?

Modern Birthstones are used as gifts to people born in certain months. But how did birthstones start? Did you know that they date all the way back to the Bible. Learn more about birthstones and view our stones for sale.

1st May 2022
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How Did The Incas Carve Massive Rocks?

The ancient Incas had the ability to set massive rocks together and join them with near perfect joins. Some of the rocks were over 5 meters tall and fitted together perfectly.

1st May 2022
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How To Become A Gemstone Dealer Or Gemologist: A Complete Guide

Does the fast-paced and exciting world of gemstones interest you? Then why not get paid to do what you love? Learn how to become a gemstone dealer or gemologist in this career guide!

Content Writter
1st May 2022
3

Is Goldstone A Real Gemstone or is it Man-Made?

Is goldstone made from gold? Is it a natural gemstone? The truth is that goldstone is a man-made glass used in jewelry. Learn all about the myths and misconceptions of goldstone!

1st May 2022
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Is Hand Sanitizer Bad For Gemstones? Here’s What You Need To Know

Are you loading up on hand sanitizer? Then chances are, your gemstones are getting a little residue. Is hand sanitizer bad for gemstones? Learn the secret to balancing safety for you and your gems.

1st May 2022
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Marquise Diamonds - What To Look For

Marquise Diamonds were first created in the 18th century. Now they are symbolic with royalty and fame. Check out what to look for when purchasing one

1st May 2022
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Mayan Zodiac Calendar

The ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica developed accurate written calendars and of these, the calendar of the Maya is the most sophisticated.

1st May 2022
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Mining For Mineral Specimens In Ancient Greek Mine at Attica

Watch one of our verified sellers mine for minerals in his home country of Greece. Amazing pictures of the mining operation

Efstathios Maroulis
1st May 2022
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Mining Sunstones In Oregon USA

Watch one of our verified sellers mine for sunstone in his home country of the USA. Amazing pictures of the mining operation

Gerald L Hanson
1st May 2022
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Morganite vs. Diamond Rings: Pros and Cons of Morganite

Morganite is a popular alternative to diamond for engagement rings. Learn how morganite compares to diamond in sparkle, durability, price, and more!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
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Orange Gemstones: A List of 23 Orange Gems

Orange gemstones are radiant crystals that offer joy and creativity with warm, nurturing energy. Explore the characteristics, meanings, and uses of orange gemstones from amber to orange zircon!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
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Pearl Grades - The Seven Value Factors

Many people don't know that there are different types of pearls let alone a way in which to grade them like how we grade diamonds.

1st May 2022
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Pink Gemstones: List of 26 Pink Gems and Their Meanings

Pink gemstones bring gentle affection and warmth, balancing the heart chakra and inviting love. Discover every pink gemstone’s meaning and properties, from apricot agate to pink zircon!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
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Purple Gemstones: List of 15 Purple Gems

Purple gemstones aren't just for royalty anymore! Find out all about purple crystals, including their uses, meanings, and healing properties!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
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Recutting Gemstones for Profit

The art of the recut is not for the faint of heart. It’s a skill that requires an experienced eye and an experienced cutting hand.

1st May 2022
5

Red Gemstones: List of 20 Red Gems

Red gemstones are popular for igniting passion and connecting to the root or sacral chakras. Learn the properties, meanings, and uses of every red gemstone from garnet to red diamond in this guide!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
1

Sard, Sardonyx and Carnelian - What's The Difference?

Sard, Sardonyx and Carnelian are gemstones that are often confused with each other. Find out what the difference is and what they all have in common.

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
1

Space Stones - Gems That Originated in Outer Space

When we think of how gemstones form, we assume they all come from the planet we inhabit. That is not the case for these exterrestrial gemstones. Let’s look at some gems that originated in space.

1st May 2022
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The 10 Biggest Diamonds Ever Found

Lets take a look at the 10 biggest Diamonds ever found. You will never guess how big the Diamond is that takes out the number one spot.

1st May 2022
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The Best 3D Printer for Jewelry

The ancient craft of jewelry making can now be done with technology through 3D printing. Lets take a closer look at some of these printers.

1st May 2022
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The Pros and Cons of Buying A VVS Diamond

There’s no way around it: VVS diamonds are pricey. The higher the clarity grade, the more expensive the diamond will be. But should you buy one or is there a better alternative?

1st May 2022
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The Truth about Chocolate Diamonds

Let me tell you a little about what chocolate diamonds really are. Chocolate Diamonds is a trademarked name owned by the Le-Vian group to describe the lavish shade of a brown Diamond.

1st May 2022
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Top 10 Best Types Of Stones for Rings

Diamonds, rubies, emeralds, oh my! On the hunt for the perfect sparkling rock for your engagement ring? Then look no further than our list of the top 10 best types of stones for rings!

Steve Thomas
1st May 2022
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Top 5 Most Expensive Gemstones

Rarity, size, and uniqueness are just a few of the factors that drive the value of gemstones. Check out our list of the five most expensive types of gemstones in the world to see which rank highest!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
2

Wedding Anniversaries: Gemstones and Jewelry Gifts By Year

While you love and honor your significant other every day, your wedding anniversary gives you a chance to show the love of your life just how valuable they really are to you.

1st May 2022
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What Are Conflict Diamonds

Conflict Diamonds or Blood Diamonds are Diamonds where profits are used to funds wars and conflict. Learn how the world put a stop to the sale of these Diamonds

1st May 2022
3

What Are Cultured Pearls? What To Know Before You Buy

What are cultured pearls and are they real? Learn about these beautiful organic gemstones, how they grow, and what they’re worth in this buyer’s guide!

1st May 2022
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What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds? What You Need To Know

What are lab-grown diamonds and are they right for you? Learn about the process of growing diamonds in a lab, and whether they hold up to natural diamonds.

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
1

What Are Organic Gemstones?

Organic gemstones are gemstones that are produced by a living organism. Unlike other gemstones that are made of minerals, organic gemstones are renewable and in some cases can be farmed (like Pearls).

1st May 2022
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What Are Peacock Sapphires and Mermaid Sapphires?

From the sumptuous spectrum of peacock feathers to Ariel’s dreamy underwater colorscape in The Little Mermaid, there are few tones as ethereal and breathtaking as those emitted by these stunning sapphires.

1st May 2022
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What Are Salt and Pepper Diamonds?

Salt and Pepper Diamonds are taking the world by storm. Once an undesirable Diamond, these stones are now considered unique, rare and beautiful. Read more about what makes these gemstones incredible.

Sarajane Newlands
1st May 2022
5

What does Amethyst, Ametrine and Citrine have in common?

Amethyst, Ametrine and Citrine re all from the same family of gemstones, Quartz. Learn more about this gemstone and browse the beautifully cut stones we have for sale.

Steve Thomas
1st May 2022
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What Is A Padparadscha Sapphire? Learn All About This Elusive Gem

A Padparadscha Sapphire is one of the worlds rarest and majestic gemstones. This Sapphire shows incredible pink / orange colors and is one of the most expensive Sapphires

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
3

What is Cubic Zirconia?

Cubic Zirconia (CZ) was introduced in the commercial market in the 1970s. Take a look at what Cubic Zirconia is and why so many people love them

1st May 2022
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What Is Filigree Jewelry? — Filigree Definition

There are some outstanding jewelry pieces out there, but Filigree is one that truly stands out from the crowd. Let's take a closer look at what this style of jewelry is and how it is made.

1st May 2022
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What is Gemstone Cleavage?

Gemstone cleavage is an important physical property of gemstones that allows them to be easily split in certain directions.

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
1

What is Medusa Quartz?

Medusa Quartz is also known as Paraiba Quartz. It has a very unique appearance due to the Gilalite inclusion inside the stone. Learn more about this incredible gem.

1st May 2022
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What is Mystic Topaz?

Mystic topaz was first seen in September of 1998, at the Hong Kong Jewelry Fair. Learn how this gemstone gets it's color and how it should be cared for

1st May 2022
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What Is Nephrite Jade? Meaning, History, Value, And Price!

Jade is one of the oldest gemstones in the world, but did you know that it comes in two forms? Learn about nephrite jade meaning, history, value, and price!

1st May 2022
1

What is Special about the Asscher Cut?

The Asscher cut is a Diamond cut that has history, elegance and a stature. It is one of the few cuts that have lasted centuries and kept up with modern trends.

1st May 2022
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What Is The Best Diamond Color for Yellow Gold Rings?

The best diamond color for yellow gold rings are white diamonds. Learn about the different white diamond grades to help you pick the perfect diamond for your gold ring!

1st May 2022
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What Is The Difference Between Nephrite Jade and Jadeite?

What's the difference between nephrite jade and jadeite? From chemical structure to hardness and desirability, read about the differences between these two similar gems!

Steve Thomas
1st May 2022
1

What is the Kimberley Process for Diamonds?

The Kimberley Process is the system that is aimed at eradicating the trade in conflict Diamonds. It has helped to stop the trade of blood Diamonds into the market.

1st May 2022
2

What Is The Meaning Of Scarab

What Is The Meaning Of Scarab and how far back in history does this symbol begin? This symbol has a very interesting history

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
0

Where Are Emeralds Found In The World

Though Emerald can be mined all throughout the world, the three main sources are in Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia.

1st May 2022
1

Where Do Conch Pearls Come From? Finding The Rarest Pearl In The World

Where do conch pearls come from? Learn about the rarest pearl in the world, how it grows within Conch shells, where it’s found, and what makes this ocean jewel so rare!

1st May 2022
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Which Minerals are Used in Sandpaper?

Like many tools and utilities, sandpaper is constructed with natural minerals from the earth. Which minerals, you ask? Lets find out

1st May 2022
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White and Colorless Gemstones: List of 15 White Gems

Diamonds aren't the only white gemstones — there are so many different white crystals out there! Learn what crystals are white in color, as well as all their properties, meanings, and uses.

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
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Who is Harry Winston (aka the King of Diamonds)?

1st May 2022
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Why are Rubies Red?

Rubies get their distinctive red color from a natural process including atoms and light. So, why are rubies red and what causes it?

1st May 2022
4

Why Do People Trust The GIA For Diamond Certificates?

There are hundreds of independent diamond-grading labs in the world, but GIA is the industry authority. Why do people trust the GIA for certificates? Find out in this in-depth guide!

1st May 2022
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Yellow and Golden Gemstones: List of 27 Yellow Gems

Yellow gemstones send blissful rays of sunshine to your soul and open the solar plexus chakra. Discover all the uses, meanings, and properties of yellow crystals, from citrine to yellow diamond!

Iris Administrator
1st May 2022
0

Zircon - World’s Oldest Gemstone

Zircon is a gemstone with incredible brilliance and color flashes of fire. It is considered to be a rare gemstone, but is actually a very common mineral in the earth and the oldest known gemstone of any kind formed on Earth.

1st May 2022
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Zultanite, Csarite And Diaspore – What is The Difference?

Zultanite, Csarite and Diaspore are all causing confusion among gem collectors. Whats the difference? Let us explain what the difference is.

1st May 2022
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