Metals & Gems

How is platinum mined? Well, platinum mining is a complex process and we’ll get into that. But before we do, let’s look at some interesting facts about the metal. Taking its name from the ‘platino,’ the Spanish term for silver, platinum is a glistening white metal considered by many to be one of the most…

You might have heard and come across people gifting their significant others sterling silver jewelry such as a silver pendant (Amazon ASIN #B00FRIJCQI) on special occasions or as a romantic gesture. You might also have come across marketing claims for high-priced products, all because they include the element of silver in them. Electronic products, solar technology, and tableware…

You might confuse ‘red beryl’ with ruby because of its red color, but you would be surprised to know that both gemstones have nothing in common except for the color. Red beryl and rubies are totally different gemstones; red beryl is a popular variety of the beryl mineral species (like aquamarine and emeralds), while the latter…

What is Gold? You might have come across brands with marketing claims for products with a high price tag because it involves a component known as gold. You might have also heard of this metal used to make jewelry. But what is gold, and why is it so popular despite its abundance? Gold is believed…

What is Opal? Opal is known for its association as a birthstone for people born in October and a precious gemstone. This multi-colored gemstone can captivate who happens to glimpse at it catching them within the kaleidoscope of its colors. Did you know each opal has a unique color combination which is why they are so valuable…

Whether you are a jewelry collector or a gemstone aficionado, you must be keen on acquiring real gemstones. But have you mastered the art of telling a real gemstone apart from a fake one? Nowadays, unfortunately, there is a lot of forgery going around. While opal is a naturally occurring, beautiful gemstone, vendors tend to offer…

One can travel centuries back, and gold would remain one of the world’s most precious and coveted metals deep into history. Back then, gold was rare and scarcely found. Hence, sanctity and value were a given. However, today even though gold is one of the most commonly occurring precious metals, we have yet to see…

With striking blue color and a medieval feel to it, turquoise is appealing and one of the most prized gemstones of the world. First introduced by the Turks to the Eastern European region, today this December birthstone is reputed for its glorifying history and use in jewelry worldwide. Many may believe that there are the tinges…

What is Platinum? From platinum-plated jewelry to platinum credit cards with the highest number of perks, platinum as a precious metal and as a level above gold has begun to register in the back of our minds. Platinum-plated sterling silver (Amazon ASIN #B00U24CT1M) ring is a very common symbol of love and romance, so that you might…

You might be aware of a teal-colored gemstone named famous for having imitations for centuries and its use in eastern jewelry. But what is more interesting to know is how turquoise is formed. The reason is that turquoise is not just a gemstone. It is also a mineral, which means its formation is slightly different…