A colorless topaz from Nigeria hosts the only known example of willemite as an inclusion in topaz.

Extensive analysis of early beads and pendants from archaeological sites in the French islands of the Lesser Antilles identified the objects as sudoite, which has never before been documented in any lapidary production.

A selection of 74 non-bead cultured and 12 bead cultured pearls grown in cultured pearl sacs and harvested directly from operated mollusks were collected and their internal structures examined using real-time microradiography and X-ray computed microtomography analyses.

Distinguished research fellow Dr. James Shigley receives the Robert M. Shipley Award for his contribution to the science of gemology.

Although spinel is rarely treated, there have been some heated spinels available in the trade.

The optical phenomenon of iridescence creates a beautiful pearly rainbow effect in an abalone shell.

A beautiful melo pearl is accidentally served up for lunch within its host gastropod.

Inspired fashioning showcases mobile inclusions in a polished quartz specimen, reminiscent of an hourglass.

Inclusions can be found in a variety of different gemstones; they create a window that allows the viewer to picture a stone’s formation history.

Provides a visual guide to GIA’s approach to classifying and describing pearls.

Natural opal beads displaying vibrant play-of-color are strung together to create a remarkable necklace.

A rare transparent and near-colorless sodalite contains two-phase inclusions linking it to its ancient formation.

Using customized, image-based measurement systems to quantify the effect of fluorescence on the color, brightness, and transparency of gem diamonds viewed in both face-up and table-down orientations.

Analyzes a group of 23 freshwater “Edison” pearls (a trade name referring to near-round freshwater cultured pearls, usually shell bead cultured) using various gemological and advanced instrumental techniques.

Documents Namak Mandi’s transformation from a salt market to one of Pakistan’s primary gem trading centers, with a look at the commercial activities taking place today.

Phosphorescent-based screening initially results in a rare mixed-type natural diamond falsely testing as laboratory-grown.

In a delightful juxtaposition, a diamond-shaped cloud inclusion appears in the center of a 0.53 ct round brilliant diamond.

Oblique fiber-optic illumination of thin-film fluid inclusions in Brazilian aquamarine reveals a kaleidoscopic play of interference colors.

Abnormal fluorescence supports the likelihood that this amber bracelet had been “baked” to enhance its color.

Provides a visual guide to the internal features of natural, synthetic, and treated spinel, as well as inclusions of spinel in other gemstones.