Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has announced the release of the Fall 2020 edition of Gems & Gemology (G&G). Inside the quarterly journal you’ll find expert insights from gemologists, scientists, researchers and industry professionals. This new issue gives readers an exciting glimpse into the world of D-to-Z diamonds, characterizes the inclusion features and chemical composition of emeralds from Swat Valley, details the acquisition and auction of European crown jewels and more. This issue also highlights the G&G 2020 Challenge winners.
The lineup of feature articles includes:
- Natural-Color D-to-Z Diamonds: A Crystal-Clear Perspective
Examines a very large dataset of colorless to near-colorless diamonds submitted to GIA and evaluates their diamond type and spectroscopic properties.
- Inclusion and Trace Element Characteristics of Emeralds from Swat Valley, Pakistan
Presents a detailed study of gemological properties, inclusion features, spectroscopic characteristics, and chemical composition of emeralds from this important source.
- A History of European Royal Jewel Sales, Including Sotheby’s 2018 Auction of Marie Antoinette’s Jewels
Chronicles important auctions of jewels from European royal collections over the years, with a focus on a recent high-profile sale of items that once belonged to Marie Antoinette.
- Unique Raindrop Pattern of Turquoise from Hubei, China
Presents spectroscopic and chemical analysis of a new variety of turquoise with a rare raindrop pattern with saturated colors.
- Vietnam: Shell Nuclei, Pearl Hatcheries, and Pearl Farming
Reports on a visit to a shell nucleus manufacturer and two pearl farms in northern Vietnam, which is emerging as a notable producer.
G&G’s regular features continue to highlight interesting gemological findings from around the world. In Lab Notes, discover how gem cutters cleverly use color zoning in alexandrite and closely spaced needles in diaspore to showcase phenomena, and how areas of dramatic fluorescence correspond to diamond defects and produce a “lightsaber” effect. Micro-World zooms in on epigenetic residue mimicking a fried egg, metal sulfide inclusions resembling trees and ferrocolumbite posing as star cruisers. Gem News International reports on bead cultured pearls with embedded electronic devices and Maxixe beryl with an unusual violet color, among other exciting topics.
This and every issue of G&G since 1934 are available at no cost on GIA’s website at GIA.edu/gems-gemology. Additional research articles are available at GIA.edu/gia-news-research.
To stay up to date and engage in gemology conversations with an online community of 12,000 members – join the GIA Gems & Gemology Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/giagemsgemology.
