Blog — diamonds and gemstones

Diamonds and gemstones: guides to choosing, treatments, care and gemmological news.

Illustration: Star sapphires: understanding the star and what to check

Star sapphires: understanding the star and what to check

A sapphire’s star is an optical phenomenon. Learn how to observe it and why it does not by itself prove natural origin.

Illustration: Heated, unheated or diffusion-treated sapphire: reading the report

Heated, unheated or diffusion-treated sapphire: reading the report

A natural sapphire may be treated. Learn why heating and diffusion need separate discussion and what documentation to request.

Illustration: Sapphire is more than blue: colours and trade names

Sapphire is more than blue: colours and trade names

Sapphires occur in blue, pink, yellow and other colours. Learn to separate the gemstone variety, trade description and declared origin.

Illustration: Ruby rings: checking the setting and caring for your jewellery

Ruby rings: checking the setting and caring for your jewellery

Ruby resists scratching well, but the setting and treatments affect care. A practical guide to wearing and storing your ring.

Illustration: Heated or glass-filled ruby: why the distinction matters

Heated or glass-filled ruby: why the distinction matters

Heating and fracture filling are different treatments. Learn what to ask about a treated ruby and how to read its description.

Illustration: Choosing a ruby: colour, transparency and proportions

Choosing a ruby: colour, transparency and proportions

There is more to ruby quality than an intense red. Learn how to compare colour, transparency and a stone’s appearance.

Illustration: The diamond 4Cs: comparing two stones with confidence

The diamond 4Cs: comparing two stones with confidence

Carat weight, colour, clarity and cut: what the 4Cs describe and how to use them together when choosing a diamond.

Illustration: Valuing gold jewellery with diamonds and gemstones

Valuing gold jewellery with diamonds and gemstones

Gold fineness, gemstone quality, craftsmanship and brand all affect jewellery value. Here is what a professional valuation considers.

Illustration: Moissanite vs. diamond: recognising the difference

Moissanite vs. diamond: recognising the difference

Moissanite may resemble diamond but is a different material. Learn why professional identification prevents an expensive misunderstanding.

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