Articles by EraGem

  White Opal is the most common type of precious opal available on the market. Though technically a mineraloid, because of its preeminence as a gemstone most mineral databases include it for classification. Since opal comes in a variety of colors, it is interesting to see how white opals compare and contrast with the other types of opals. ...

White Opal is the astrological gemstone for the Zodiac sign Libra. Until 1912, it also served as the official birthstone for those born in October. It has long been associated with purity, love, goodness, and nurturing.  

  In Australia, opal mining is a national industry. Experts report that Australian mines produce between 90% and 95% of the world's gem-quality opal. Opal mining takes place all over Australia, with primary sites like Coober Pedy and Lightning Ridge producing the majority.   Where Opal is Found The most significant Australian mines ...

Zabargad Island in the Red Sea. Photo from Wikimedia Commons.   Zabargad Island lies in the Red Sea, just over 60 miles southeast of the Ras Banas Peninsula in Egypt. Its nearest neighbors are Rocky Island, four miles south of it, and St. John's Island, another 25 miles to the southwest. Interestingly enough, Zabargad was once referred to as ...

Lapis lazuli on display at Natural History Museum, Washington, D.C. (Wikimedia)   Lapis lazuli has long been prized for its uniquely vibrant blue color. The GIA describes the highest quality lapis as "slightly greenish blue to violetish blue" with a medium-to-dark tone and rich saturation. As with all stones, lapis owes its gorgeous ...

Egyptian Blue Pigment (Wikimedia)   Egyptian blue was the first synthetic blue pigment ever created. To create this beautiful blue color, the Egyptians tried to use lapis lazuli. However, their attempts repeatedly ended in a murky gray color caused by intrusive calcium and limestone. Instead, they found other minerals to create this ...

Crazed Ethiopian Welo Opal   Crazing is a unique form of damage that can happen to an opal under certain unfavorable conditions. It is fairly unique in gemstones, happening generally to only opals and amber. It also happens to porcelain glaze and pottery glaze. You may recognize it in pottery as a crackled finish which can make a piece look ...

  By following a few simple guidelines, you can easily authenticate vintage Tiffany jewelry before you buy. Founded in 1837, Tiffany & Co. has adhered to the highest standards in gemstone selection, craftsmanship, and branding. To authenticate vintage Tiffany jewelry, look first for certifications. Then inspect the Tiffany blue box ...

Tiffany jewelry has defined the standards for jewelry making for almost 200 years. No other jewelry brand has captured the imagination of Americans in quite the same way. Among the many ways that Tiffany stands out, I most appreciate their use of unusual gemstones, as well as their statement collections and the singular designers who created ...

  Libras love lapis lazuli because it empowers them to be their best selves in difficult situations. These balance-seeking, beauty-loving individuals can count on this deep blue stone to strive for their highest potential, to pursue peace at every turn, and to lead with their heart in every case.   Libras, The Diplomats We've ...