Gemstone Detective Blog

Did you know there are over 400,000 different registered makers' marks in Britain alone?

Jewellery isn't just about sparkle; it’s about history and sentiment. But let’s be honest, understanding what you've got can be tricky...

His presentation provided a fascinating glimpse into the creative ethos and process that guide his renowned design work.

Now it's time to address a practical aspect: bringing your Pounamu jewellery home as a cherished holiday souvenir.

New Zealand Jade, or Pounamu in Māori, is not technically jade as understood in a geological sense.

Māori Pounamu jewellery offers a timeless allure that transcends fashion trends.

Russian enamelling techniques and the use of precious materials like gold and gemstones result in truly remarkable pieces.

With the rise of jewellery imitations, it's crucial to ensure that your holiday souvenirs are genuine.

This surprising revelation got me thinking about various metals and how they interact with our bodies.

Incorporating these narratives into your jewellery can give your pieces a soul and a story that captivates customers.

In the spirit of continuous learning, I decided to look into some books suitable for hobbyists, gemstone and jewellery enthusiasts.

Reputable sellers can offer you better quality and more reliable information, making your experience of choosing gemstones abroad enjoyable.

Ten essential tips for buying gemstones and jewellery.

The coral we see in jewellery is formed from the external skeletons of plant-like underwater organisms called coral polyps.

If you are new to the industry, just entering the gem trade, this jewellers’ networking evening will be a great opportunity to make new contacts within the jewellery industry, and you are guaranteed to learn something new.

Kundan meena, which flourished in India during the Mughal reign, is a stunning fusion of the minakari style and kundan jewellery.

The cut of a gemstone can refer to its shape, its cutting style or a mixture of both. Many people find that they’re drawn to gems with a particular cut – is this true for you?

I always knew that my Gemstone Detective series could be controversial – after all not everyone wants to acknowledge that gemstone scams happen in their country. It’s an uncomfortable truth. So, I’m not surprised that, while some tourist boards have privately assured me that they agree with everything I have written on gemstone scams in their countries, they’ve been too cautious to make their support and sponsorship public.

First do your homework A little caution before you shop will save tears post purchase. It’s safer to buy from retailers who have signed up to a recognised association and agreed to abide by a strict code of conduct. In the UK, we have several such associations – the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) is one of the largest.

The circle of a ring is loaded with meaning, symbolising eternity and completeness. On more down-to-earth note, rings were also a very practical way of carrying–and showing off—your wealth and status!