Learn about two prevalent gemstone frauds targeting buyers and investors. The first involves ruby in zoisite specimens from Tanzania's Longido mines—legitimate carving material worth $200-$400 per kilogram—being fraudulently valued at millions of dollars through inflated appraisals paired with legitimate GIA reports. The second scam involves cheap ceramic mill balls sold online as rare "lonsdaleite diamonds" or "hexagonal meteorite diamonds" for prices ranging from $20 to $195,000. Discover the warning signs of these frauds and learn how to protect yourself with proper verification and professional gemological expertise.

AN EXHIBIT AT THE HOUSTON MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS (HMFA)

The HMFA annually rotates its jewelry loans and donations, showcasing exquisite and rare pieces that span centuries. The current exhibition, "For Your Eyes Only: The Secret Language of Jewelry," presents a striking departure from traditional jewelry, which is typically worn to signify status or wealth. Instead, these intimate adornments were designed to carry private meanings known only to the wearer. The settings often formed part of the secret message conveyed through the jewelry. Garnets frequently expressed friendship, while turquoise, being rare and valuable, was thought to protect the wearer from ill health. Pearls, due to their purity, perfection, and cost, were regarded as symbols of the very nature of love.

The collection spans from the 17th century to the present day. It features deeply personal pieces, such as miniature portraits and delicate locks of hair, serving as cherished reminders of loved ones held close, both in memory and in heart.

When it comes to jewelry appraisals, understanding the value of colored stones is crucial. Gemological reports play a key role in providing detailed information about the quality and characteristics of gemstones. In Houston, where the jewelry market is thriving, having a gemological report can make all the difference in determining the true worth of a piece. Let's dive into the importance of gemological reports for colored stones and how they impact the jewelry appraisal process.

A jewelry appraisal is a specialized field, and an expert appraiser can provide you with a comprehensive assessment of your jewelry’s worth. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the top reasons why it’s important to have your jewelry appraised.

Knowing what to expect during your jewelry appraisal appointment can help you feel more at ease. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what you can expect when you visit your appraiser. With this information, you can be prepared for your appointment.

Understanding the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds.