Zimbabwe’s Sandawana mines have been an important producer of emeralds for 40 years. Since the mines came under new ownership in 1993, consistent production has been established and, in addition to ...

For over 200 years, the only known source of imperial topaz has been a small mining district near Ouro Preto. One of the oldest and most productive mines in the district is the Capão do Lana. This ...

Although Afghanistan has historically been well known for its lapis lazuli deposits, significant amounts of fine emerald, tourmaline, kunzite, and some rubies are now emerging from that embattled ...

In recent years, significant amounts of gem-quality sodalite/hackmanite—some unusually transparent—have been produced from the Mogok region of Myanmar and Badakhshan Province in Afghanistan. Samples ...

Adjacent amethyst and citrine colors in the same crystal of quartz have been reported from South America, although there appears to be uncertainty as to the exact locality of origin. Such material has ...

The cutter took full advantage of this iolite’s color and transparency, fashioning it into a uniquely carved gem, ready for use in jewelry. – Lydia Dyer, Gem courtesy John Dyer & Co. Affordable and ...