An examination of the finger-like feature mostly found in Ethiopian opal, and proposal for its formation.

Offers a firsthand look at Sri Lanka’s mining, cutting, jewelry manufacturing, and retail sectors, where tradition and innovation converge.

An overview of the Fall 2014 issue of Gems & Gemology, as well as GIA’s efforts to promote gemological research.

Presents what is believed to be the first report of a xenotime inclusion in gem-quality diamond.

A rare look at natural pearls from a known Spondylus species, commonly called “thorny” oysters.

Examination of two CVD synthetic diamonds with an unusual Fancy Dark gray color.

This synthetic ruby specimen features two growth methods within the same crystal.

Examination of a CVD synthetic diamond with an unusual pattern of growth dislocations that resemble natural inclusions.

A look at the first CVD synthetic diamond examined at GIA that has been irradiated to a blue color.

Overview and commentary on the 2013 The Journal of Gemmology article “Peñas Blancas: An Historic Colombian Emerald Mine."

Overview and commentary on the 2014 Journal of Gemmology article “Purple to Reddish Purple Chrysoberyl from Brazil.”

Describes the phenomenon of pleochroism and its complex effect on the appearance of colored stones.

Examines the internal structure, chemical composition, and spectroscopic features of 22 pen pearls.

Introduces the Chinese nephrite mine in Hechi and characterizes the “band” and dendritic patterns found in this material.

Review of Suzanne Ramljak's Unique by Design: Contemporary Jewelry in the Donna Schneier Collection.

Review of Richard Hughes’s Ruby & Sapphire: A Collector’s Guide.

Review of Ronald McIntosh and Warren Anderson's Kentucky Agate: State Rock and Mineral Treasure of the Commonwealth.

Review of Stefano Papi’s Jewels of the Romanovs: Family & Court.

This aquamarine's most striking feature was its unusually strong dichroism, displaying very deep blue and pale bluish green colors.

The Indian Gemological Institute’s Gem Testing Laboratory recently examined a 0.30 ct colorless round brilliant-cut diamond containing an interesting inclusion.