Search Results for: white sapphire – Page 4

By Robin Skibicki There are several varieties of gemstones that display optical phenomena, which describes the many ways light interacts with the structural features or inclusions (internal characteristics) in the gemstone. Often these gemstones will be fashioned in a particular way that best displays these effects. The science of optical phenomena can be fascinating, although the mystery and allure of these effects are what initially attract us! In this article, we’ll discuss six of the most familiar (and magical) displays of optical phenomena in gemstones. Adularescence Adularescence is the phenomena typically seen in moonstone, which is a member of the

By Jennifer Heebner, Guest WriterA springtime tradition in Basel, Switzerland is for visitors to nosh on in-season white asparagus and dinnertime staple rösti potatoes, but many diners are also privy to a coveted non-edible feast: new fine jewelry and watches at the Baselworld Watch & Jewellery Fair.Some of the world’s glitziest brands exhibit in this high-end annual happening, which took place March 23-30, 2017. Baselworld is where the toniest international merchants shop the latest and most lavish looks. Unlike many other trade-only fairs, however, consumers are permitted entry to ogle over-the-top window displays of gem-encrusted wares alongside business-minded buyers from

If you haven’t already, be sure to mark your calendar for this Sunday, February 26, so you don’t miss the 89th Academy Awards! Millions of film and fashion fans will be tuning into ABC at 7:00 p.m. EST/4:00 p.m. PST when the stars begin to walk the red carpet. What will this year’s fab fashions be? Here’s a list of five trends that are predicted to be “scene” on the stars. We’ve included a few designs from AGS members that we think would best complement these lovely looks. Flowers and Nature Floral designs never seem to go out of style

We have a birthday present for those born in August: the spectacular spinel has been added to your month’s birthstone lineup! August now joins June and December as the only months represented by three gems. The original August birthstone was Sardonyx, and then peridot was added, becoming August’s primary gem. Without further ado, let’s welcome the spinel! Spinel The spinel is often assumed to be other gemstones because it tends to resemble either a ruby or sapphire. In fact, some of the most famous rubies in history have turned out to be spinel. But its distinguishing features, like its octahedral

For those born in July, the ruby—the king of precious stones—is your birthstone. Ruby is the red variety of the mineral corundum, colored by the element chromium. All other colors of gem-quality corundum are called sapphire, which means color is key for this royal stone. The chromium that gives ruby its red color also causes fluorescence, which makes rubies glow like a fire from within. Paradoxically, chromium is also what makes this gem scarce because it can cause cracks and fissures. Few rubies actually grow large enough to crystallize into fine quality gems, and these can bring even higher prices