Into the Stone: Photomicrography from E. Billie Hughes
E. Billie Hughes, FGA, is a co-founder of Bangkok-based Lotus Gemology, a respected gemological laboratory and educational resource.
A graduate of UCLA, and a Fellow...
Understanding Fei Cui: The Trade Term Now Found on Jade Reports
Beginning June 1st, 2025, jadeite jade authenticity reports issued by Mason-Kay, started to look a little different. Mason-Kay, U.S. jade experts located in Colorado,...
Lotus Gemology: Emerald and Alexandrite in the same stone!
It’s not every day you come across a gemstone that brings together two of the trade’s most treasured varieties—emerald and alexandrite—in a single, faceted...
Rediscovering Red: Vietnamese Garnet and the Partnership Behind Its Return
Over the course of decades in the business, Richard von Sternberg has handled more than his share of remarkable gems. He’s built a long...
Ethical Gem Fair – Seattle
The Ethical Gem Suppliers collective is excited to announce its first-ever Ethical Gem Fair Seattle, taking place July 26th and 27th, 2025, open 10AM-5PM...
Hanging Up His Hiking Boots: Gary Bowersox Talks Gems, Journeys, and What’s Next
We’ve known Gary Bowersox for decades—first when he would visit GIA in Santa Monica, sharing tales of his gem-hunting expeditions in Afghanistan, and later...
Brazilian Paraíba Tourmaline: Vivid Blue “Heitorita” Color
37-Carat Unheated Paraíba Tourmaline Emerges from Private CollectionA 37.34-carat Brazilian Paraíba tourmaline with stunning vivid blue hue—unheated, and reported to be from the original...
Australian Opal Awards: Deadline Approaches!
The prestigious Australian Opal Awards are fast approaching, providing a platform for talented jewellers and carvers to gain national recognition for excellence in opal...
Grizzly Zambian Emeralds Announces Another Strong Auction
"I am pleased and proud to announce that this has been another strong auction for Grizzly," says Grizzly's chairman, Abdoulaye Ndiaye. "Our medium and...
Anthill Garnet: The Pyrope Unearthed with the Help of Insects!
Gemstone mining is anything but an easy task. But for one small group of hardworking insects, finding and moving gem material is simply a...
Reminder: Beware Color Instability in Irradiated Ruby, Sapphire, & esp. “Padparadscha”
On Monday, March 24, 2025, CIBJO, The World Jewellery Confederation, sent out a joint press release alerting members of the trade regarding an uptick...
Guatemalan Jadeite Jade – A New Look for an Ancient Treasure
The market for fine Type A jadeite jade, free of any and all treatments and enhancements, is undeniably centered in East Asia. There, buyers...
