Metals & Gems

Platinum often referred to as “White Gold”, can be found in the earth’s crust originating in igneous rocks. Platinum components can be found in rocks like chromite and olivine. Platinum is commonly found as grains and nuggets and finding them in the form of crystals is extremely rare. Before platinum and other hard rocks became…

Opals are typically multicolored, comprised of small silica spheres in regular patterns with water accumulated between them. These spheres diffract light, breaking into the entire color spectrum through a process known as ‘opalescence.’ It is this unique feature that affords opals their popularity amongst jewelers and goldsmiths. But, how are opals mined? Unfortunately, these luminous…

Gold mining is one of the toughest jobs out there. It requires you to work long hours, carrying heavy tools and equipment in all types of weather. You have to be strong enough to withstand the physical strain that comes with being on your feet for days at a time. And as if that wasn’t hard…

Throughout history, especially during the Middle Ages, scientists and alchemists aspired to convert regular lead into valuable gold. At the time, these alchemists faced rejection and were labeled as delusional for attempting to do the impossible. However, as time went on and we entered the era of modern technology, we were able to produce gold.…

Derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Upala’ meaning ‘precious stone’, opal is a stunning iridescent gemstone that changes its color in different lights. It is the birthstone for the month of October and is often used to mark 14 years of a happy marriage. The stone’s color is a magnificent mystery and it can display every…

Gold is a precious metal that is found in multiple forms in the earth’s crust. While it can be found in moderate to large pieces embedded in rock, it can also be found as tiny particles mixed with clay and dirt. Considering the value of gold, each speck can add up to be worth a fairly…

A metal detector is a device that gives an audible signal when it is close to something metallic. These tools are excellent for metal collectors and those who like to go looking for items buried at the beach or off the regular paths. They can even help you find some hidden treasure if you are lucky.…

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…