The Curator's Journal

Gemstone Inclusions Decoded: A Journey into the Micro-World

When evaluating a gemstone, many buyers immediately look for absolute perfection. However, to a gemologist, a completely flawless stone can sometimes be a mystery lacking a story. Gem inclu...

The Art of the Gem: Shapes and Cutting Styles

SKYJEMS.CA Anatomy Shapes Explorer Cutt...

The Darkfield Lens: Illuminating the Hidden Micro-World

SKYJEMS.CA Provenance · Pedigree · Privacy If you've ever tried to look inside a gemstone using standard lighting, you know how fr...

Introduction to Gems: The Science and Art of Gemology

Fine gemstones are not products. They are assets, artifacts, and geological records.

Understanding Gemstone Colour: Hue, Tone, and Saturation

Fine, precious gemstones have been objects of desire throughout human history, and the most important quality factor driving this fascination has always been one thi...

Gemstone Properties: The Collector's Interactive Reference

Gemstone Properties, Physical Characteristics & Optical Data ♦ ♦ ♦ Click on any column header to sort the table. Click on a gemstone name to view its collection o...

Gemstone Internal Architecture: The 3D Micro-World

When we admire a faceted gemstone, we are observing how light interacts with its external shape and polish. However, a gemstone's true identity is locked within its internal archite...

Why do Emeralds, Rubies, and Other Gemstones Have Inclusions?

If you're a fan of colored gemstones, you've probably come across the term "inclusions" before. Inclusions are tiny imperfections or impurities that can be found within a gemstone, and they can ha...

The Perfection of Peridot, part 6: The Zephyrs of Zabargad

Despite the presence of peridot in mediaeval Europe, evidence suggests that mining operations of the island of Zabargad were still stagnant during the middle ages. The 12th-13th Century C.E. Arabic...

The Tantalizing Tale of Tanzanite

The story of Tanzanite began not all that long ago.  It was discovered by Masai tribesman Ali Juuyawatu of Merelani Hills, Tanzania, in 1967, and it hit the market in 1968. Tiffany and Co was respo...