AGTA Bans Lab-Grown diamond and Gemstones: What You Need to Know

1. In this video, we discuss the recent decision by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) to ban lab-grown gems in the jewelry industry. We explore the implications of this controversial move and its impact on the market for synthetic gemstones. Stay tuned to learn more about this important development in the world of gemology. #AGTA #LabGrownGems #Gemology

2. Join us as we delve into the decision made by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) to prohibit the use of lab-grown gems in the jewelry trade. Discover the reasons behind this ban and how it may shape the future of the gemstone industry. Watch now to gain insights into this significant development. #GemstoneIndustry #AGTA #LabGrownGems

3. This video sheds light on the recent ruling by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) to forbid the use of lab-grown gems in the jewelry sector. We examine the potential consequences of this decision and what it means for consumers and businesses alike. Tune in to learn more about the impact of AGTA's ban on synthetic gemstones. #GemstoneBan #AGTA #JewelryIndustry

Hackmanite Details

Hackmanite is a mineral that is a member of the sodalite group of minerals. It is typically pink or purple in color and is often used as a gemstone. Here is some information about Hackmanite:

Types & Varieties

Elementary Chemical Analysis

Physical Properties

Optical Properties

Uses

Hackmanite from Afghanistan 
Effect Before and after expose ultra violet  light 

Types & Varieties

Hackmanite is typically classified as a tectosilicate mineral. It is a member of the Sodalite group of minerals, which includes other minerals like sodalite, hauyne, and lazurite.

Elementary Chemical Analysis

Hackmanite is composed of sodium, calcium, aluminum, silicon, sulfur, and oxygen. Its chemical formula is Na8Ca2Al6Si6O24S3.

Physical Properties

• Hardness: 5.5-6 on the Mohs scale
• Specific gravity: 2.3-2.4
• Luster: vitreous to greasy
• Transparency: translucent to opaque
• Crystal system: isometric

Optical Properties

• Color: typically pink or purple, but can also be gray, yellow, green, or white
• Cleavage: none
• Fracture: conchoidal
• Pleochroism: none
• Refractive index:  SR,1.49-1.5

Uses

Hackmanite is often used as a decorative stone and as a gemstone. It is also used in some types of ceramics and glass. In addition, it is used in some types of radiation detectors due to its ability to fluoresce under certain conditions.

Interesting Facts About Emeralds, Rubies & Sapphires

If Cleopatra were alive today, she would be amazed by how beautiful and green emeralds can be. Her emeralds were not as bright as the ones we see today. They were often dull and had many flaws. The first emerald mines were in Egypt, operating from around 330 BC to the 1700s, and some say even earlier. Egypt was the main source of emeralds until the Spanish discovered large amounts of emeralds in South America in the 1500s. These Colombian emeralds were bigger, clearer, and greener than the Egyptian ones.

People in different cultures have valued emeralds for centuries. Muslims, for example, treasure the color green, which is important in their religion. Even in ancient Rome, people admired the intense green of emeralds. They believed that looking at emeralds could refresh and relax the eyes.

Emeralds were also thought to have healing powers. People believed that wearing them could cure diseases and bring good luck. That's why emerald is the birthstone for May, symbolizing the beauty of spring.

Did you know that emeralds and aquamarines are the same mineral? They both come from a mineral called beryl. Before the 18th century, people didn't know this. Emeralds are green, while aquamarines are blue.

Now let's talk about rubies and sapphires. They are actually from the same family, called corundum. Rubies are red, while sapphires can be any other color. They come in a wide range of colors, from blue to pink to yellow.

For centuries, rubies and sapphires have been considered royal gems. They were worn by kings and queens for good luck. Even today, they are often used in engagement rings for their beauty and symbolism.

People in different cultures believed that wearing rubies and sapphires could bring them wisdom and virtue. Buddhists thought sapphires symbolized friendship and loyalty, while Hindus associated rubies with the sun and sapphires with the planet Saturn.

Rubies are especially prized for their intense red color and their ability to glow in the sunlight. They may be smaller than other gemstones, but their rarity makes them valuable. In fact, some rubies have sold for millions of dollars.

Sapphires, on the other hand, are known for their rich colors and versatility. They can be cut into simple shapes and still look stunning. Some sapphires even change color in different lighting.

Both rubies and sapphires have been used in many ways throughout history. They have been carved into sculptures and used in religious ceremonies. They are also used in modern technology, like lasers and watches.

So, whether you're drawn to the vibrant green of emeralds, the fiery red of rubies, or the deep blue of sapphires, these gemstones have a long and fascinating history that continues to captivate people around the world.

Mineral Names, What Do The Mean?

Minerals have been getting names since way back in the day. At first, they were named after places or the properties of the minerals, whether real or made up. A lot of these old names have super long histories and we're not even sure where they came from. As mineralogy got more advanced, especially after Georgius Agricola (1494-1555), more and more names started popping up in mineralogical writings.

 

Before 1800, there were less than 100 known mineral species, even though there were a bunch of names being used as synonyms. But as time went on, more and more new minerals were being discovered. From 1800 to now, the number of new minerals being named each year has been going up. Mandarino looked at the number of new species introduced every twenty years starting from 1800. Between 1800 and 1819, there were 87 new minerals. Then, from 1820 to 1919, there were about 185 new minerals introduced every twenty years.

 

In more recent times, the number of new minerals being discovered has shot up. From 1920 to 1939, there were 256 new minerals described. Then, from 1940 to 1959, there were 342 new ones. And from 1960 to 1973, there were a whopping 575 new minerals discovered. As new minerals are being found, old names are being looked at again to see if they're still valid. Some names end up being thrown out when it's found that they're either the same as other minerals or just slight variations of ones that are already well-known.

 

Once a mineral name becomes outdated, it's basically retired - never to be used again. Out of the 15,000 mineral names from back in the day, only about 2,000 are still considered legit species. Some others are kept around as varietal names, like agate, amethyst, carnelian, chalcedony, and citrine for different types of quartz.

 

Compared to the endless possibilities of synthetic inorganic substances, the number of mineral species is actually pretty small. In 1971, there were 1,916 mineral species that were well-established. But there were also 148 minerals that were kind of up in the air - not fully examined or still in question about their species status. However, it's likely that about half of those will turn out to be the real deal after more research.

 

Mineralogy, being an old science, is all about sticking to tradition and customs. This has definitely slowed down any progress in coming up with better mineral names. There are two main ways mineral names are chosen - the rational way, which gives you info about the mineral, and the irrational way, which... well, doesn't really make sense.

 

Although they are not as common, there are many mineral names out there that are based on things like chemical compositions, crystal forms, colors, and other properties. These names make sense and help us understand more about the minerals.

 

On the flip side, there are also names that don't really tell us much about the mineral itself. This all started back in the late 1700s with a guy named Abraham G. Werner. He started naming minerals after people, which didn't really help us understand the minerals any better.

Some names do give us a little more info, like when they're based on where the mineral was found. For example, the name franklinite tells us it's from Franklin, New Jersey, while brazilianite just tells us it's from Brazil.

So basically, some mineral names make sense and some don't. It all depends on how they were named and what info they give us.

Names from Persons☝

European Mineralogists and Other Scientists American Mineralogists☝

Obsolete Names Derived from Mineralogists Names Mineral Collectors Explorers Other Professions☝

Women's Names in Mineral Names☝

Personal Names Hidden in Mineral Names☝

Minerals Honoring a Family Name or a Person More Than Once☝

Mineral Names Honoring More Than One Person☝

Names from Places☝

Names after Physiographic Features Names after Political Divisions☝

Names after Mines and Mineral Deposits Some Unusual Examples of

Names Use of Obsolete Geographical Names☝

Impersonal Names☝

Names Derived from Other Mineral Names:☝

 Names Derived from Botanical Terms☝

 Names from Institutions and Expeditions☝

 Names from Companies☝

 Names from American Indian Tribes☝

 Names from Mythological Characters☝

 Names from Chemical Composition☝

Names from Chemical Element☝

Names: Chemical Prefixes in Mineral☝

Names Chemical Portmanteau Words☝

Names Derived from Chemical Symbols Proposed Use of Chemical☝

Names References☝

Names from Greek Terms Primarily Incorporating Physical and Chemical Properties – Crystallographic Names☝

 Names Based on Crystal Twinning☝

Names Based on Mineral Cleavage☝

Names Derived from Mineral Colors☝

 Names Derived from Mineral Lusters☝

 Names Referring to Other Physical Properties and Associations☝

Names Relating to Chemical Behavior Ancient Greek Mineral Names☝

 Names from Latin Terms Names Related to Physical Properties Chemical Names from Latin☝

Names Formed from a Combination of Latin and Greek Terms☝

Names from Various Languages☝

English German Russian and Other Languages of the Soviet Union Romance Languages Arabic☝

Sanskrit and Other Languages of India Miscellaneous Languages☝

Prefixes Used in Mineral Names Prefixes Relating to Physical Properties Miscellaneous Prefixes Chemical Prefixes☝

Suffixes Used in Mineral Names☝

Common Suffixes Less Common Suffixes Names Without Suffixes.☝

The Use of Symbols with Mineral Names Polymorphism Polytypism Chemical Differences☝

Rules Regarding the Formulation of Mineral Names☝

Old Names New Names Translation of Names into English ☝

 

 

Introduction

For nearly a century, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has been at the forefront of protecting consumers and advancing the jewelry industry through its research, education, and science-based gem identification and grading services. Recently, the GIA made a significant announcement at the JCK show in Las Vegas regarding the future of their trusted grading reports. By 2025, they plan to convert all GIA paper reports to a digital format, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable and innovative future.

The Vision for a Digital Transformation

The GIA's commitment to protecting consumers and the environment is the driving force behind their decision to go digital. By digitizing their reports, they aim to revolutionize the way the world knows and experiences diamonds. Starting in 2023, the GIA Diamond Dossier will be available in a digital format, providing the same trusted data as their paper reports but in a more secure and accessible way.

Benefits of Going Digital

The conversion of all GIA reports to digital form brings with it several significant benefits. Firstly, it will result in significant environmental savings. Each year, the GIA's transition to digital will save over 20 tons of paper and 18 and 1/2 tons of plastic, reducing storage and transportation costs, as well as carbon emissions. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the GIA's mission to protect not only consumers but also the planet that provides the treasures they love.

Transitioning to the Digital Diamond Dossier

To ensure a smooth transition to the digital Diamond Dossier, the GIA has developed several tools and resources for their valued clients. These tools can be accessed in three simple ways: 1. GIA App: The GIA has redesigned its app to provide users with the ability to view, save, and send their Diamond Dossier. The app is available for download through your favorite app store. 2. Report Check: The GIA's website offers access to the Diamond Dossier and all other GIA reports through their Report Check feature. Users can view and download a PDF of the full report and the report access card. 3. API Services: IT professionals can utilize GIA's API services to integrate trusted trading results into their systems, such as inventory management or websites.

Accessing the Digital Report

To ensure easy access to the digital report, the GIA provides a report access card containing a QR code that links directly to the report. This digital asset, available for use on receipts, invoices, or in e-commerce, can be accessed in two ways: 1. Report Check: Users can access the Diamond Dossier via Report Check, where they can view and download a PDF of the full report and the report access card. 2. API Services: Both the full report and the report access card are available data points through GIA's API services.

Paper Report Option

While the GIA is transitioning to a fully digital format, they understand that some clients may still require a paper report option, such as a reprint of an old report. In such cases, clients can upgrade to a GIA diamond grading report, ensuring they receive the necessary documentation.

The Future of Diamond Grading

The GIA's digital transformation represents a significant milestone in the diamond grading industry. By leveraging their decades of innovation and expertise, the GIA aims to advance their consumer protection mission while offering a modern and sustainable experience. The transition to digital reports not only streamlines processes but also aligns with the industry's increasing focus on sustainability and innovation.

Conclusion

The GIA Diamond Dossier digital transformation marks an exciting step towards a more sustainable and innovative future. By converting their paper reports to a digital format, the GIA aims to offer consumers a modern experience while reducing environmental impact. The tools and resources provided by the GIA will ensure a seamless transition to the digital Diamond Dossier, empowering clients to engage with their customers more deeply and with greater intention. As the industry's trusted authority, the GIA continues to lead the way in research, education, and consumer protection, always moving forward towards a brighter future. (Note: The content above is a transcription of a video and does not contain any personal opinions or endorsements.)

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Understanding Minerals, Rocks, Crystals, and Gems

Introduction

Have you ever wondered about the difference between minerals, rocks, crystals, and gems? In this article, we will explore their unique characteristics and how they are related to each other.

The Fascinating World of Minerals

Minerals are the building blocks of rocks, crystals, and gems. They are formed through natural activities of the Earth, such as volcanic eruptions and the movement of water through caves. Some well-known minerals include Fluorite, Gold, and Calcite.

A mineral is a solid substance composed of elements that come together in a regular pattern. This arrangement of elements forms geometric groups, which serve as the foundation for the structure of a mineral.

When the building blocks of a mineral stack on top of one another, they create a crystal. Crystals are three-dimensional objects with flat faces. For example, Quartz has a crystal structure made of oxygen and silicon atoms that repeat in a shape resembling a rhombus.

Distinguishing Characteristics of Rocks

Rocks are solid objects composed of mineral grains. Unlike crystals, rocks can contain various types of minerals. In fact, different grains of minerals can be observed within a single rock. Take Granite, for instance. It exhibits different grains of numerous minerals.

While crystals have repetitive patterns and flat faces, rocks lack these distinct features. They have a more irregular appearance, reflecting the mixture of minerals that make them up. Even Limestone, which is primarily composed of the mineral Calcite, does not exhibit the repetitive patterns seen in crystals. Instead, it consists of mashed-up fragments of Calcite.

Unveiling the World of Gems

Gems are minerals or stones that have been cut, ground, and polished to enhance their beauty. Although they may resemble crystals, gems undergo human intervention to achieve their exquisite appearance. The finished product often differs significantly from the original mineral it was derived from.

When crafting gems, artisans shape them with different flat faces, allowing the gem to capture and scatter light in mesmerizing ways. Gems are not limited to minerals alone; they can also be derived from organic sources like pearls or amber. Additionally, some gems are even artificially produced in laboratories.

Recap: Understanding the Differences

Now, let's summarize the key differences between minerals, gems, rocks, and crystals:

• Minerals are the fundamental building blocks of rocks, crystals, and gems.
• Crystals are formed when the building blocks of a mineral stack on top of one another, creating a three-dimensional object with flat faces.
• Rocks consist of mineral grains and can contain various types of minerals, lacking the repetitive patterns seen in crystals.
• Gems are minerals or stones that have been modified by humans to enhance their beauty, often resulting in a different appearance from the original mineral.
• Gems are not limited to minerals and can also be derived from organic or artificial sources.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinctions between minerals, rocks, crystals, and gems provides insights into the fascinating world beneath our feet. Minerals serve as the foundation for the creation of crystals, rocks, and ultimately, the transformation into stunning gems. Each category offers its own unique characteristics and holds a special place in the world of geology and human adornment.

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Understanding Gemological Analysis and Identification Techniques

Introduction

Welcome to our GIA Knowledge Sessions, a series of talks and seminars about gemology fueled by decades of research. At GIA, we consider ourselves fortunate to be able to study and learn from gems, and it is our mission to share our discoveries and learnings with the world. In today's session, we will take a behind-the-scenes look at the analytical equipment used at GIA for gemstone analysis and identification.

The Evolution of Gemological Laboratories

Over the years, gemological laboratories have evolved to address different questions about gemstones. Initially, the focus was on identifying gemstones, distinguishing between diamonds, zircons, and other stones. As the gem trade evolved, new questions arose, such as whether a stone is natural or lab-grown, and its origin. These questions led to the development of different analytical techniques and approaches.

The Optical Approach

When it comes to identification, gemologists often consider gemstones as optical devices. By studying their refraction, birefringence, and spectrum, gemologists can determine the type of gemstone. Techniques such as refractometry, spectrometry, and polariscopy are used to analyze gemstones' optical properties.

The Geological Approach

As gemological laboratories began to encounter lab-grown stones and treated gemstones, a geological approach was adopted. This involved understanding how gemstones are formed within the Earth. By examining the inclusions and mineral composition of gemstones using a gemological microscope, researchers can determine whether a stone is natural or lab-grown and identify any treatments it has undergone.

The Mineralogical Approach

For more complex questions, such as origin determination, a mineralogical approach is taken. This involves analyzing the trace element chemistry of gemstones using techniques like laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). By measuring the concentration of elements and comparing it to known reference materials, gemologists can determine the origin of a gemstone.

Analytical Techniques

Classical Techniques

Classical gemological techniques involve standard gemological testing and microscopic observations. Refractometers, polariscopes, and spectrasopes are used to determine a gemstone's optical properties, such as refractive index and optic sign. Microscopic observations, using a gemological microscope, allow gemologists to examine the inclusions and growth patterns of gemstones.

Advanced Techniques

Advanced analytical techniques, such as spectroscopy and trace element chemistry, provide more detailed information about gemstones.

Spectroscopy

Spectroscopy involves measuring how gemstones interact with electromagnetic radiation. Techniques like UV-Visible Spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) can be used to identify the presence of specific elements or treatments in gemstones. For example, UV-Visible Spectroscopy can help identify lead glass-filled rubies by detecting characteristic lead peaks in the spectrum.

Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS)

LA-ICP-MS is a powerful technique that allows for the measurement of trace element chemistry in gemstones. By ablating a small amount of material from a gemstone and analyzing it using mass spectrometry, gemologists can determine the concentration of elements and make origin determinations.

Raman Spectroscopy

Raman spectroscopy involves shining laser light on a gemstone and analyzing the scattered light to obtain information about the gemstone's molecular composition. It can be used to identify different minerals present in gemstones and detect treatments or synthetic materials.

Conclusion

Gemological laboratories employ a range of analytical techniques to study gemstones and provide accurate identification and origin determinations. From classical gemological testing to advanced spectroscopic and chemical analyses, these techniques help gemologists better understand gemstones' properties and characteristics. By combining these techniques, gemologists can confidently identify gemstones, detect treatments, and determine their origins.

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Gemology: Diamonds and Colored Stones

Introduction

Welcome to another GIA Knowledge Session. Today, we will be discussing the similarities between diamonds and colored stones in terms of their geological formation. Although they are often seen as separate entities in the gem and jewelry industries, both diamonds and colored stones provide valuable insights into the Earth's complex geological history.

Understanding Gem Minerals

What is a Colored Stone?

A colored stone is a non-diamond, non-pearl mineral that is used as a gemstone. These minerals occur naturally on Earth and have an ordered internal structure and specific chemical composition. However, colored diamonds are not considered colored stones but rather a separate category due to their unique composition.

Some common gem-quality minerals include corundum (rubies and sapphires), beryl (emeralds), and tourmaline. These minerals can occur in different colors depending on the impurities present in their crystal structure.

Diamond Formation

Where Do Diamonds Form?

Natural diamonds form deep in the Earth's mantle, an inaccessible part of the Earth. The mantle is located below the crust and core of the Earth. Most diamonds are found below the Earth's oldest continents, known as cratons. These diamonds are brought to the surface through rare volcanic eruptions called kimberlites.

The host rocks of diamonds include kimberlite, eclogite, and peridotite. Diamonds can also contain colorful mineral inclusions, such as orange garnets, pinkish-purple garnets, and greenish clinopyroxene.

Overall, diamonds provide valuable information about the Earth's deep geological processes and can be studied to understand their formation and origin.

Colored Stone Formation

Geological Environments for Colored Stones

Unlike diamonds, colored stones form in the Earth's crust, closer to the surface. The Earth's crust is the topmost layer of the Earth, and it is where various geological processes occur.

Colored stones, such as corundum and beryl, can form in different geological environments based on factors like magmatic activity, metamorphism, and tectonic movements. For example, rubies and sapphires can form in metamorphic environments where sedimentary rocks are exposed to high pressures and temperatures, while tourmaline can form in pegmatites, which are late-stage fluids from granitic intrusions.

These geological environments provide valuable insights into the formation of colored stones and their associations with specific mineral assemblages.

Trace Elements and Gem Minerals

Understanding Trace Elements

Trace elements play a crucial role in determining the color and composition of gem minerals. For example, chromium in corundum gives rubies their red color, while iron and titanium pairs in corundum produce blue sapphires. Other trace elements like magnesium, vanadium, and gallium also influence the color of gem corundum.

Measuring trace elements in gem corundum is easier compared to diamonds since corundum has a more varied chemical composition. Techniques like laser ablation and ICP-MS can be used to analyze trace elements in corundum and provide insights into their geological origins.

However, measuring trace elements in diamonds is more challenging due to their high purity and limited impurities. Current techniques, such as offline laser ablation and acid solutions, allow for trace element analysis in diamonds but require extensive lab work and lack clear distinctions between different diamond localities.

Diamond Fingerprinting and Colored Stone Origin

Distinguishing Diamond Origins

Currently, there is no foolproof method to determine the origin of a diamond based solely on its composition. While some suites of rough diamonds from specific localities may have similar characteristics, these features are often lost after cutting and polishing. Carbon isotopes and other trace elements can provide some insights into diamond origins, but the global data set still lacks clear distinctions between different localities.

In contrast, colored stones like corundum can be more easily traced back to their origins using trace element analysis. Compositional characteristics, surface features, and inclusion morphologies can help identify the source of colored stones. However, the Diamond Origin Report, which matches known rough diamonds to cut stones, is currently the most reliable method for determining diamond origin.

Conclusion

Both diamonds and colored stones offer valuable insights into the Earth's geological history. While diamonds provide information about deep Earth processes and mantle origins, colored stones give us a glimpse into the geological environments of the Earth's crust. Trace elements play a crucial role in determining the color and composition of gem minerals, with corundum being a prime example. While diamond fingerprinting is still a challenge, colored stones can be traced back to their origins through trace element analysis. Overall, the study of gem minerals enhances our understanding of the Earth's geological processes and history.

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Understanding Gemstone Species and Varieties

Introduction

Today, we will be discussing four different gemstone species: beryl, corundum, garnet, and quartz. These gemstones have multiple varieties within them and are important to the gem and jewelry trade. We will explore their chemical compositions, colors, and typical inclusions. Let's dive in!

Beryl

Beryl is a beryllium aluminum silicate and is typically colorless. However, it can be found in various colors such as green, yellow, blue, and pink when additional elements are present. Some popular varieties of beryl include emerald, aquamarine, and green beryl. Emeralds, in particular, are known for their vibrant green color, while green beryls are typically duller in appearance. Inclusions in emeralds can include crystal inclusions, feathers, and calcite rhombs.

Corundum

Corundum is aluminum oxide and can be found in a range of colors. The most well-known varieties of corundum are rubies and sapphires. Rubies are red corundum, while sapphires can come in a variety of colors such as blue, yellow, and pink. Inclusions in rubies and sapphires can include crystals, feathers, and color zoning. Star rubies and sapphires exhibit an asterism effect, which creates a star-like pattern when light is shone on the stone.

Garnet

Garnet is a large group of species within the garnet family. Some popular varieties of garnet include pyrope, almandine, and spessartine. Pyrope is typically red, almandine is deep red, and spessartine is bright orange. Inclusions in garnets can vary, but commonly include crystals, feathers, and silk. Tsavorite garnet is a green variety, while hessonite garnet is an orange variety.

Quartz

Quartz is an abundant mineral found in various colors and varieties. Some popular macro-crystalline varieties of quartz include amethyst (purple), citrine (yellow), and rose quartz (pink). Chalcedony, a polycrystalline variety of quartz, includes varieties such as agate, carnelian, and chrysoprase. Quartz can also exhibit optical effects such as aventurescence in aventurine quartz and chatoyancy in tiger's eye.

Conclusion

Gemstone species and varieties offer a wide range of colors and fascinating inclusions. From the vibrant green of emeralds to the deep red of rubies, gemstones have captivated humans for centuries. Understanding the different species and varieties can help you appreciate the unique beauty of each gemstone you encounter.

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The Science Behind Pink Diamonds

Introduction

Welcome to GIA Knowledge Sessions, a series of talks about gemology, drawing on decades of research at GIA. In this session, Dr. Sally Magana, the senior manager of Diamond Identification, will discuss the science behind pink diamonds. Pink diamonds are a rare subset of the already rare colored diamond family, and their unique characteristics make them highly valued in the gemstone market.

Understanding the Color Distribution of Pink Diamonds

Pink diamonds come in various shades and intensities, ranging from very light to fancy red. The color distribution can be seen within the pink family, which includes straight pink diamonds, pinkish-purple, brownish-pink, and orange-pink diamonds. These different hues all result from similar causes of color, which will be explained in detail throughout this talk.

The Role of Nitrogen in Pink Diamonds

Nitrogen is a key element in the formation of pink diamonds. Most diamonds start with single and isolated nitrogen atoms, which eventually pair up to form aggregates. The type of nitrogen aggregates present in a diamond determines its color and other characteristics. For example, type Ia diamonds have a mixture of A and B aggregates, while type IIa diamonds have no detectable nitrogen.

The Formation Process of Pink Diamonds

Pink diamonds are formed under specific geologic forces. They are typically exposed to high temperatures and pressures, which cause plastic deformation and create the pink color. The exact process and depth at which pink coloration occurs are still not fully understood, but researchers have observed that pink diamonds from the Argyle Mine in Australia are often associated with eclogitic inclusions formed at around 1200 degrees Celsius.

Golconda Pinks: The Rare Pink Diamonds

Golconda pinks are a subset of pink diamonds that are exceptionally rare. They get their color from nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers, which are formed through a combination of natural radiation and low-temperature heating. Golconda pinks are characterized by their pale color and unique fluorescence under ultraviolet light, which is directly related to the nitrogen-vacancy centers present in the diamonds.

Color Treatment and Bleaching of Pink Diamonds

Pink diamonds can be treated to enhance their color. The most common treatment involves irradiating diamonds with nitrogen and inducing vacancies to create NV centers. This treatment is used for both natural and lab-grown diamonds. It's worth noting that pink diamonds, including Golconda pinks, can undergo temporary bleaching when exposed to ultraviolet light. However, the color reverts back to its stable state over time.

Conclusion

Pink diamonds are a fascinating subset of the diamond family, known for their rarity and unique characteristics. The science behind their coloration involves nitrogen-vacancy centers, plastic deformation, and specific geological processes. As the Argyle Mine, a major source of pink diamonds, is set to close, the future of pink diamond supply remains uncertain. However, the beauty and allure of pink diamonds continue to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

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Mimetolith Topographic on chert

Mimetolith is defined as a topographic feature on rock, Mineral specimen, loose stone etcetera  with any combination of shape and pattern that resembles a real tree, plant, animal, human etcetera.
The stone shown in the pictures is a chert on which clearly seen an old lady's topography which is naturally formed. 

Watch this video for more information 

Mimetolith Topographic on chert

Mimetolith Topographic on chert

Mimetolith Topographic on chert

Mimetolith Topographic on chert

Mimetolith Topographic on chert

All about "Yooperlite".

 "Yooperlite" is a trade name used to refer to fluorescent pebbles found along the beaches of Lake Superior in Michigan. These unique rocks are a type of syenite containing the mineral sodalite, which exhibits a distinct fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. 

Yooperlite video

The term "Yooperlite" pays homage to the residents of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, who are colloquially known as "Yoopers." Using a UV fluorescent light to illuminate these rocks reveals their captivating glow, making them a popular find among rockhounds and collectors.

introduction to gemology

Gemology is the study of gemstones, which includes gem properties, locations, and origins. Gemology is often studied by people in the jewelry business, including business owners, buyers, designers, and appraisers. Others studying gemology include antique dealers. People in these jobs need to be able to identify gems and gemstones and describe their properties.

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What is a Gemmologist?

A gemologist is someone who can identify the gemstone with the help of Instruments.

What is mineral?

Mineral is defined as the substances which have the following characteristics

• Naturally occurring  

• Inorganic

• Defined chemical composition

• Orderly atomic structure.

What is Gemstone?

Gemstone is a natural, inorganic or organic substance that has substantial beauty, rarity, and durability.
Organic Gems: An organic gem is one that was made by living things, present or past. Examples include pearls, coral, jet, ivory, shell and amber.
Inorganic Gems: Inorganic gems are those which are created by geological process and (usually) dug from the ground.

1.Beauty 2. Rarity 3. Durability
Beauty
 To be considered a gem, a material must possess to a large degree this preliminary qualification. Beauty in gemstone may depend on such qualities as color, transparency, luster, brilliance, pattern, optical phenomena and, in some cases, distinctive inclusions.
Rarity
This is a valued attribute of gems. It is is natural for man to esteem most highly the things, which are hard to obtain, and this can come about if the gemstone is simply unavailable in the marketplace, or genuinely scarce(limited or short supply) in nature, even if it does not possess qualities above others of similar beauty. A good example of this is taaffeite, which is not especially attractive, (Usually a pale reddish-violet color like some spinels), but will fetch (take) a very high price because of its rarity.
Durability
Durability depends upon on three factors
1. Hardness 2. Toughness 3. Stability
1) Hardness is the ability to resist scratching. Commonly measured on the "Mohs" Scale of 1 - 10. Talc lowest (1), diamond highest (10). 

Gemology MCQs

1. Which of the following best describes gemology?

• a) The study of jewelry design
• b) The study of gemstone properties, origins, and locations
• c) The study of metalworking techniques
• d) The study of precious metal refining

2. Who typically studies gemology?

• a) Architects
• b) Farmers
• c) People in the jewelry business
• d) Software engineers

3. What is the primary role of a gemologist?

• a) Jewelry design
• b) Gemstone identification using instruments
• c) Gemstone mining
• d) Gemstone marketing

4. What distinguishes minerals from other substances?

• a) Their man-made origin
• b) Their organic nature
• c) Their defined chemical composition and orderly atomic structure
• d) Their lack of physical properties

5. According to the definition provided, which of the following is NOT a characteristic of minerals?

• a) Naturally occurring
• b) Organic
• c) Inorganic
• d) Orderly atomic structure

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Gemology MCQs No.2