Guides

Opal is a delicate, hydrated form of silica, and its famous play-of-colour depends partly on water held within the stone. As that moisture evaporates, the…

The art of micropave on a diamond band comes down to scale. Rows of minute diamonds are seated into recesses cut into the metal, creating a surface of…

Tourmaline is famous for an exceptional range of hues, from ruby-red and pink to blue, green, yellow, brown, black and even colourless. Much of that variety…

The science of refractive index in gem grading begins with light changing speed and direction when it enters a gemstone. Its refractive index, usually written…

A pearl strand can fail in several ways: elastic may snap, silk may stretch or fray, a knot may loosen, or the clasp may open. The appropriate repair depends…

An infinity sign has no visible beginning or end, giving jewellery a language of continuity suited to birthdays, anniversaries, family milestones and acts of…

An everyday gemstone ring must survive commuting, desk work, gym sessions and the occasional knock against a car door. The best gemstones for everyday rings…

Amber is often described as a fossilized gemstone, even though it began as sticky tree resin rather than a mineral. Over millions of years, buried resin…

Stacking bangles with gemstone accents turns wrist jewellery into an adjustable composition rather than one fixed statement. A slim stone band adds colour…

The history of cameo brooches in the 19th century follows the revival of ancient carved gems, the expansion of European tourism and the rise of jewellery as a…