When presented with fine quality Coober Pedy opal triplets, at first glance, it may be hard to tell if they are made from natural, or lab grown. In fact, it can be hard for a Graduate Gemologist to tell as well; unless they have worked with the loose material. First off, what is a triplet? […]

There has always been a push to market less desirable products. We see successful advertising campaigns all around us. But when does it cross the line, attempting to take advantage of less knowledgable consumers? My hope is to bring some awareness, and help you to avoid attaining something that isn’t as implied. One small business […]

Recently a friend of mine obtained some black diamond beads, only to take them to a jeweler and be told they do not test as diamonds. This particular woman owned black diamonds, and nothing about them stood out as concerning. This had me questioning my own supply I had just received from a different supplier. […]

Has the Gem Faire come to a town near you? This, along with many similar events tour major cities, sometimes multiple times per year, providing an opportunity for the general public to purchase items they may not otherwise see in brick-and-mortar stores. How do you know something is what it’s stated to be? Truth is, […]

In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) states, in order for something to be considered “sterling silver”, “solid silver” or qualify for the abbreviation “ster”, it must meet the threshold of 92.5% Ag, the element of silver. Coin silver is 90% Ag (silver)*. Recently I got sucked into Temu. It is one of […]