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Send us Fan Mail Geologist and Crystal Case Studies founder Emily Coulter joins Facet Nation hosts Lucinda and Simon to explain geology from the ground up, connecting Earth’s structure and moving plates to the environments where minerals and gemstones form. Her clear, food-based analogies make core concepts - from rock types to crystallisation - easier to understand, while the hosts bring a gemmology learner’s perspective and practical questions. Geologist Emily explains how magma chemistry, metamorphism and the rock cycle shape the rocks and gemstones we encounter. Simon and Lucinda ask the questions, connect the science to gemmology, and close with Emily’s favourite gems and where to find her. Emily Coulter traces her path from studying geology from age 12 to mineral wholesale, jewellery marketing, and founding Crystal Case Studies.Geology is the study of Earth and its processes across roughly 4.5 billion years; rocks and minerals preserve clues to that history.Minerals have a defined chemistry and ordered crystal structure, while rocks are usually mixtures of minerals; lapis lazuli is a gemstone that is also a rock.The hosts and Emily use a peach analogy for Earth’s crust, mantle, and core, and discuss differences between oceanic and continental crust.Plate boundaries include divergent, convergent, and transform settings; examples include the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the Andes, the Himalayas, and the San Andreas Fault.Gem formation depends on the right ingredients, heat, pressure, fluids, and time; Emily contrasts metamorphic garnets with opal forming in a sedimentary basin.The three rock groups are igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic; Emily explains how each forms and why metamorphic minerals may align under pressure.Intrusive igneous rocks cool underground and can develop larger crystals; extrusive rocks cool at the surface, while magma becomes lava once erupted.Igneous chemistry ranges from silica-poor ultramafic and mafic rocks to silica-rich felsic rocks such as granite and rhyolite. Emily compares runny basaltic lava with viscous felsic magma, explaining why felsic eruptions can trap gas and explode.Fractional crystallization sorts minerals as magma cools: olivine can form early, while feldspar crystallizes later.Pegmatites cool slowly and can contain exceptionally large crystals, as well as concentrated incompatible elements such as lithium and beryllium.Emily describes metamorphism as recrystallization without melting, and names garnet, ruby, sapphire, spinel and kyanite among metamorphic gems and minerals.Regional metamorphism is associated with mountain-building pressure; contact metamorphism heats surrounding rock, while metasomatism involves chemically active fluids.Fluid-driven alteration is important in Colombian emerald formation, where separated ingredients can meet and recrystallize.The rock cycle continually recycles material among igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks over geological time.Weathering breaks rock down, erosion transports it, and deposition can concentrate dense gems and gold in river gravels.Emily shares her interest in unusual amethyst localities, including Jackson Crossroads in Georgia, and her love of garnet varieties.Takeaways Geology, put really, really simply, is the study of Earth and the processes that make up the Earth.We're essentially like picking up on the writing of what Earth has left us.Minerals, there is like a set definition for a mineral, which is a naturally occurring solid with a defined chemistry and an ordered crystal structure.Rocks, on the other hand, are normally mixtures of minerals.You want something fiery going on. You want some heat, you want some pressure, you want some fluids.The longer that they are in a fluid, the longer that they are able to move around and be mobile and connect with each other and go and hold hands, the bigger the result is.Intrusive means below the Earth's surface. Extrusive means above the Earth's surface.The moment it gets above the Earth's crust, it is erupted or extruded like toothpaste. It becomes lava.The three environments within geology where all rocks form are sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous.The more quartz something has, the more viscous it is. The more felsic a rock is, thicker it is.They crystallise in sequence and basically are minerals that are able to crystallise at higher temperatures, crystallise first.I think of this as all of the elements having time to find their friends.They don't like it and they rearrange themselves. They're not melting. It is not melting. It is recrystallisation without melting.The key element of metasomatism is the fact that those mineral rich fluids are interacting with the minerals that they're coming into contact with.Rocks, like elements within the earth and on the earth are continually being recycled and reused in different ways.Weathering, earth processes like wind, rain, ice, weather things down.Erosion moves them away from there, like from where they were living before.I feel like it's easy for people to not realise necessarily how recycled everything is.I love making Gemstone friends with people.Key Frameworks Fractional crystallisationThe rock cycleRegional, contact and fluid-driven metamorphismSound Bites "I have fear of being involved.""They crystallise in sequence""they want to be dropped."Chapters 00:00 Meet geologist Emily Coulter and hear her path into gems 05:46 A beginner-friendly definition of geology 06:58 What makes a mineral different from a rock 08:55 Granite, basalt, limestone and marble 11:21 Earth’s layers and the peach analogy 14:18 Oceanic and continental crust, plus magnetic stripes 17:57 How moving plates shape Earth’s surface 20:27 Divergent boundaries and new oceanic crust 22:26 Subduction zones, mountain building and transform faults 25:17 Why heat, pressure and fluids matter for gemstones 26:27 The conditions minerals need to crystallize 28:33 Opal’s slow formation in a sedimentary basin 31:06 The three rock types, simply explained 33:10 How pressure gives metamorphic rocks their texture 35:18 Intrusive versus extrusive igneous rocks 38:10 Mafic, ultramafic and felsic chemistry 40:21 How magma changes as it rises through the crust 40:50 Why felsic magma erupts explosively 44:01 Fractional crystallization sorts minerals as magma cools 47:02 Pegmatites, giant crystals and lithium-rich melts 50:47 Metamorphic rocks and Emily’s Scottish garnet story 53:23 Ruby, sapphire, spinel and the challenges of kyanite 55:08 Regional, contact and fluid-driven metamorphism 58:14 How fluids help form Colombian emeralds 01:00:03 The rock cycle: how rocks are recycled 01:02:17 Weathering, erosion and the journey of river gems 01:05:13 Emily’s geology takeaways and favorite gems 01:08:05 Collecting unusual amethyst and different garnets 01:11:17 Where to find Emily and the show’s sign-off geology basics, rocks and minerals, gemstone formation, tectonic plates, igneous rocks, metamorphic rocks, sedimentary rocks, crystallisation, gemmology, Emily Coulter geology, gemstones, gemmology, fractional crystallisation, pegmatites, metamorphic rocks, rock cycle, volcanic eruptions, garnet, amethyst, gemology Instagram: @crystalcasestudies Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Lucinda's favourite time of year. The Spooktacular returns for Halloween 2026. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of haunted gemstones, ghost stories linked to jewellery, and the mysterious history behind some of the UK's most intriguing ghost tales. Discover the stories, history, and cultural significance of these spectral legends. The difference between curses and hauntings in gemmology Historical ghost stories linked to jewellery and gemstones The story of Lady Ingram's lost pearl necklace and her ghost The Cheapside Horde and its ghostly apparitions The legend of the Lady in Red and her lost engagement ring Queen Elizabeth's pearls and ghostly sightings in Rye The significance of pearls in ghost stories and folklore  sound bites "The Cheapside Horde was buried for 300 years." "The woman on the fifth floor was called Rose." "Pearls symbolise purity and religious devotion." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Haunted Gemstones and Ghost Stories 01:54 The Difference Between Cursed and Haunted Gemstones 05:05 Lady Ingram's Pearl Necklace and Her Spirit 10:09 The Cheapside Horde and Its Ghostly Encounters 14:56 The Legend of the Lady in Red and the Midsummer's Ring 20:00 Queen Elizabeth's Pearls and Ghostly Sightings in Rye 25:00 The Significance of Pearls in Ghost Lore 29:58 Historical and Cultural Reflections on Haunted Jewellery haunted gemstones, ghost stories, jewellery history, UK ghost tales, gemmology, paranormal, historical mysteries, spooky stories, ghostly legends, jewellery folklore, uncanny ghost stories, gemology, spooky, halloween, horror, intrigue, mystery Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In part two, we explore the Ugrandite series of garnets, including their chemistry, history, and the stories behind famous varieties like Tsavorite and Demantoid. Join us for a deep dive into gemstone lore, geology, and the vibrant stories that make these stones so captivating.  key  topics The isomorphous series of garnets and their chemical formulas The story of tsavorite's discovery and its geological background The history and lore of demantoid garnet and its connection to Faberge The marketing and storytelling aspect of gemstone branding Different varieties of garnets including grossular, andradite, and uvarovite The significance of inclusions and their identification in garnets The story of Campbell Bridges and the discovery of tsavorite in Africa The cultural and historical significance of garnets in jewelry  sound bites "Garnets are part of two isomorphous series." "Tsavorite was discovered in the 1960s in Zimbabwe." "Uvarovite is a tiny, beautiful green garnet." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Garnets and Episode Overview 01:57 The Isomorphous Series of Garnets Explained 07:56 Discovery and Geology of Tsavorite in Africa 14:56 The Story of Demantoid Garnet and Faberge 28:02 Varieties of Garnets: Grossular, Tsavorite, and More 40:05 The Lore, Inclusions, and Market of Garnets 44:01 The Tragic Tale of Campbell Bridges and Tsavorite garnets, gemstone lore, tsavorite, demantoid, geology, jewellery, gemstone stories, mineralogy, gemmology, gemology, gems, Tiffany, Campbell Bridges, science Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Arya Akhavan returns! To reveal the secrets he couldn't disclose last time. Arya has been growing sapphires! And not just any sapphires, every colour of sapphire you can imagine. A gemologist and scientist, Arya shares groundbreaking insights into synthetic gemstone production, including sapphire growth, colour manipulation, and future innovations. Discover how science and passion are transforming the gem industry and what it means for collectors, faceters and jewellers alike. Get involved by joining 'The Gemstone Lab' kickstarter here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/canadacrystallabs/the-gemstone-lab-growing-never-before-seen-lab-sapphires Groundbreaking sapphire growth techniques Chemical processes in gemstone creation The role of computer modeling in gemmology Market implications of synthetic versus natural gems Innovations in gemstone colour and treatments Challenges in sourcing synthetic materials Future projects in gemstone research The impact of technology on gem cutting and design  sound bites "We want to do this scientifically, rigorously." "Some synthetics are more rare than natural gems." "Market perceptions have diverged completely." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Arya Akhavan and his work 02:54 Chemical processes in sapphire creation 06:18 Modeling and reverse engineering natural sapphires 08:34 Market trends and consumer preferences for synthetics 12:20 Industrial applications of synthetic gemstones 17:46 Market perception and the future of synthetic gems 22:37 Unique features of synthetic gemstones and market demand 28:43 Market diversification and consumer behavior 34:14 The evolution of synthetic gemstone marketing 43:56 Research and development in gemstone science 50:19 Current progress and future plans for gemstone synthesis 54:07 Closing thoughts and upcoming projects synthetic gemstones, sapphire growth, gemmology, gemology, gemstone science, lab-grown gems, gemstone colour, gemstone innovation, gem industry, gemstone research, gem cutting, faceting, lapidary, kickstarter, coloured gemstones Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Hello and welcome back to Season 2 of Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of garnets, their varieties, history, and gemmological properties, revealing insights that will deepen your understanding of these captivating gemstones. key  topics Garnet varieties and their chemical compositions Historical significance and trade of garnets Gemmological properties and identification techniques The spectrum of garnet colours and their causes Hybrid garnet varieties and their market value The importance of locality and deposit sources Chemical formulas and systems of garnet classification Inclusions and phenomena in garnet stones The story behind the names and trade names of garnets  sound bites "Most garnets you see are that common brownish red." "The Ugrandite series has calcium fixed and Y variable." "Garnet spectrum goes thick, thin, thick, thin." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Garnets and Episode Overview 02:01 Common Misconceptions About Garnet Colours 04:08 The Diversity of Garnet Varieties and Their Names 05:32 Historical Trade and Significance of Garnets 07:00 Chemical Foundations of Garnet Classification 09:06 The Pyrope and Almandine Series Explained 11:02 Understanding Garnet Spectra and Colour Variations 12:52 The Rich History of Garnet Use in Jewellery 15:10 The Discovery and Naming of Rhodolite Garnet 17:00 Identifying and Differentiating Garnet Types 18:58 Inclusions, Phenomena, and Cutting Challenges 21:00 Localities and Market Trends for Garnets 23:00 The Fascinating World of Pyrope and Spessartine Garnets 25:08 The Unique Colours and Market Value of Spessartine 26:54 The Story of Malaya Garnet and Its Cultural Significance 29:02 Summary and Final Thoughts on Garnet Diversity garnets, gemstone varieties, gemmology, almandine, pyrope, spessartine, Ugrandite, gem deposits, gemstone history, bohemian garnets, jewellery, gems, science, learning, education, study Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this mini episode, Simon shares his summer adventures including gem mining in Oregon, visiting the Spectrum Sunstone Mine, and participating in gemmology events. Lucinda discusses her new gemmology brand, TikTok presence, and recent travels, highlighting the vibrant gem community and upcoming events. Gem mining in Oregon Spectrum Sunstone Mine visit Gemmology events and community outreach Lucinda's new gemmology brand and TikTok presence Travel stories and gem history insights  sound bites "Met some amazing people in Oregon" "Spotted a cougar in the wild" "Check out my new gemmology brand, Cunning Folk" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 02:09 Memorable encounters and wildlife in Oregon 03:00 Exploring Oregon’s history and hot springs 06:58 Meet George, the versatile genius 08:02 Sunstone mining and collecting experiences 09:43 Gem community events and upcoming gatherings 14:34 Lucinda’s gemmology brand and social media launch 15:26 Lucinda’s trip to California and museum highlights 16:18 Lucinda’s UK adventures and historical sites 17:37 Season updates and upcoming episodes gemmology, Oregon sunstone, gemstone mining, gem events, gem community, TikTok gemmology, Spectrum Sunstone Mine, gem education Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This episode explores the intricate process of diamond manufacturing, from designing and marking to shaping, faceting, and polishing. Hosted by gemmologists Simon and Lucinda, it offers detailed insights into cutting techniques, tools, and the science behind creating stunning gemstones. End of Season One. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING. We will be back, enjoy your summer  key  topics Diamond designing and marking Dividing and cleaving methods Shaping and faceting techniques Polishing and final finishing Tools and equipment used in gem cutting Mastering Diamond Cutting: From Rough to Brilliant The Art and Science of Gemstone Faceting  sound bites "Only diamond can cut a diamond" "Lasers cut diamonds in twenty minutes" "Start with the pavilion, then the crown" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gemmology and Diamond Manufacturing 02:35 The Process of Cutting Diamonds 05:13 Dividing and Shaping Diamonds 08:03 Bruting and Faceting Diamonds 10:28 The Role of Technology in Diamond Cutting 13:26 Understanding Diamond Facets and Angles 15:46 Lapidary: The Art of Gemstone Cutting 18:48 Understanding Facet Diagrams 21:24 Dopping Techniques and Adhesives 24:49 The Faceting Process Begins 28:19 Grit Sequence and Polishing 32:31 Cutting the Crown Facets 36:58 Final Steps and Reflections 39:49 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Wrap-Up  resources Gemology Project - Facet Diagrams - https://gemologyproject.com Ultratech Gem Faceting Machines - https://ultratec.com Andrew Ian Brown's Gemstone Design Books - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Andrew+Ian+Brown+gemstone+design Instagram - https://instagram.com/gemmology_si diamond manufacturing, gemmology, faceting, cutting techniques, gemstone design, diamond polishing, gemmology course, gemstone tools, gemmology education Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Lucinda and Simon explore the fascinating world of gemstone cutting and fashioning, covering essential terminology, techniques, and historical insights crucial for gemologists and enthusiasts alike.  key  topics Gemstone cutting terminology Differences between lapidary and diamond manufacturing Factors influencing gemstone cut decisions Historical gem cutting techniques and innovations Practical tips for evaluating rough stones Gem Cutting Vocabulary Diamond Manufacturing Process Gemstone Cut Optimization Review gemstone terminology regularly Practice evaluating rough stones before cutting Explore historical gem cutting techniques Titles Mastering Gemstone Cutting: Techniques, History, and Industry Insights The Art and Science of Gem Cutting: A Comprehensive Guide  sound bites "The old mine cut has a rich history." "Inlays and carvings add artistic value." "A break in gem cutting is coming soon." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gemmology and Cutting Gemstones 03:01 The Importance of Understanding Gemstone Cuts 05:43 Insights from Gem Cutting Experts 08:26 The Process of Fashioning Gemstones 11:09 Types of Gemstone Fashioning 13:58 Evaluating Rough Gemstones 16:37 Key Factors in Gemstone Cutting 19:13 Understanding Diamond Manufacture 21:58 Historical Perspectives on Gem Cutting 24:42 Modern Trends in Gem Cutting 27:24 Conclusion and Future of Gem Cutting 29:12 Understanding Diamond Cuts and Their History 32:29 The Anatomy of a Diamond: Key Features 34:51 Exploring Brilliant Cut Stones 36:42 Step Cuts vs. Brilliant Cuts: A Comparison 38:04 The Evolution of Rose Cuts and Mixed Cuts 40:32 Fantasy Cuts: The Art of Gemstone Cutting 41:35 Cabochons: The Gateway to Gem Cutting 44:25 Beads, Cameos, and Intaglios: Decorative Techniques 46:10 Carvings, Inlays, and Mosaics: Artistic Expressions The V&A Museum Gem Collection - https://www.vam.ac.uk/collections/gems UK Facet Cutters Guild - https://ukfcg.org/  guest links Instagram - https://instagram.com/facetnationgemmology Email - mailto:[email protected] gemmology, gemstone cutting, gem fashioning, gemmology exam, gem cutter, gemstone shapes, diamond manufacturing, gemmology history, gemstone grading, jewellery industry Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Join Lucinda, Simon, and Michelle Mai as they explore the art and science of precision gem cutting. Discover techniques, tools, design principles, and the inspiring journey of a master gem cutter in this engaging episode. Precision gem cutting techniques Tools and machinery for faceting Design principles for gemstones Materials used in gem cutting The journey of a gem cutter Guest  name Michelle Mai Titles Mastering Precision Gem Cutting: Techniques and Inspiration The Art and Science of Gem Faceting with Michelle Mai  sound bites "Equipment is a huge barrier to entry" "Polishing quartz is challenging for me" "Start with cabochons to learn the basics" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Precision Gem Cutting 08:09 Michelle's Journey into Gem Cutting 10:53 Understanding Gem Cutting Machinery 13:09 The Learning Curve in Gem Cutting 15:57 Design Principles in Gem Cutting 18:57 Challenges with Different Gem Materials 21:36 Creating Unique Gem Designs 24:36 The Role of Light in Gem Performance 27:00 Inspiration Behind Michelle's Designs 29:59 Favorite Designs and Techniques 32:31 Conclusion and Future Aspirations 35:41 Exploring Favourite Materials in Gem Cutting 37:53 Natural vs. Synthetic Gemstones: A Balanced Perspective 39:48 Navigating Risk and Responsibility in Gem Cutting 44:08 Advice for Aspiring Gem Cutters 51:04 Encouragement for Beginners in Lapidary Arts  resources Amateur Gemstone Faceting Volume One by Tom Herbst - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V4V7V4X UK Facet Cutters Guild - https://www.ukfcg.org/ Gem Cut Studio - https://gemcutstudio.com/ Reddit r/shinypreciousgems - https://www.reddit.com/r/shinypreciousgems/  guest links Reddit - https://www.reddit.com/user/MichelleMai Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/michellemai/ gem cutting, gemmology, precision faceting, gemstone design, gem tools, gemstone materials, gem industry, gem education Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of FacetNation, Simon and Lucinda delve into the fascinating world of tourmaline, particularly focusing on its significance in San Diego's gemstone history and the impact of the Dowager Empress Cixi on the pink tourmaline market. They explore the rise and fall of the tourmaline industry, the unique characteristics of the stone, and the methods used to identify it. The conversation is rich with historical anecdotes and insights into the gemmology field, making it an engaging listen for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Also in this episode, Lucinda and Simon delve into the fascinating world of tourmaline, exploring its color variations, treatments, and the rise of Paraiba tourmaline as a highly sought-after gemstone. They discuss the geological origins of Paraiba tourmaline, its global appeal, and highlight famous examples, including the Ethereal Carolina Divine Paraiba. The episode concludes with a look at the stunning Liddicoat tourmaline slice, showcasing the beauty and complexity of this remarkable gemstone. Tourmaline is a significant gemstone with various types. San Diego has a rich history of gemstone mining. The Dowager Empress Cixi played a crucial role in popularising pink tourmaline. Zixi's love for pink tourmaline influenced the gemstone market. The decline of the tourmaline market followed Cixi's death. Testing tourmaline requires specific techniques due to its colour variations. Tourmaline can be mistaken for other gemstones. Historical context enhances the value of gemstones. Gemstones often have fascinating stories behind them. Understanding gemstone history can enrich appreciation for them. Some stones show two completely different colours. Watermelon tourmalines need both pleochroic responses listed. Tourmaline can be treated to enhance colour. Paraiba tourmaline is the most valuable type. The discovery of Paraiba tourmaline changed the market. Paraiba tourmaline's price skyrocketed due to rarity. Geological events created the conditions for tourmaline formation. Nigerian and Mozambican tourmalines are similar to Brazilian Paraiba. Famous tourmalines often have historical significance. The Liddicoat tourmaline slice is a stunning example of tourmaline beauty. The Allure of Tourmaline: A Gemstone Journey Unveiling San Diego's Gemstone Secrets The Legacy of the Dowager Empress Cixi Tourmaline: From Mine to Market "She banned foot binding." "It's a serious bottleneck." "It's called Heitorita." "It looks like stained glass." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tourmaline Part Two 02:30 Exploring San Diego's Gemstone History 05:57 The Dowager Empress Cixi and Pink Tourmaline 17:20 The Decline of the Tourmaline Market 18:22 Testing Tourmaline: Identification Techniques 22:01 Understanding Tourmaline's Colour Variations 25:01 The Treatment and Enhancement of Tourmaline 26:17 The Discovery of Paraiba Tourmaline 30:39 The Rise of Paraiba Tourmaline's Value 34:00 Geological Origins of Paraiba Tourmaline 38:25 The Global Appeal of Paraiba Tourmaline 39:05 Famous Paraiba Tourmalines and Their Significance 42:30 The Liddicoat Tourmaline Slice and Its Beauty tourmaline, gemstones, San Diego, Dowager Empress Cixi, gemmology, pink tourmaline, gemstone testing, history, gem market, California tourmaline, Paraiba tourmaline, gemstone treatment, colour variations, gemmology, gemstone value, geological origins, famous gemstones, Liddicoat tourmaline Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Explore the fascinating science of gemstone colour, focusing on charge transfer mechanisms, the role of ions, and how treatments like heat affect gemstone hues. Perfect for gemmology enthusiasts and professionals alike.  key topics Charge transfer in gemstones Colour centres and defects Effects of heat treatment on gemstone colour Titles The Science Behind Gemstone Colours: Charge Transfer Explained Unlocking the Secrets of Sapphire and Diamond Colours  sound bites "Blue sapphire's colour is a football match of ions." "Charge transfer mechanisms reveal gemstone secrets." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Colour in Gemmology 02:53 Understanding Charge Transfer in Gemstones 05:35 Oxygen to Metal Charge Transfer 08:28 Metal to Metal Charge Transfer: The Sapphire Story 10:58 Organic Molecular Electron Transition 16:22 Colour Centres in Diamonds 22:39 The Science of Synthetic Diamonds 25:27 Understanding Green Diamonds 27:44 The Mystery of Pink Diamonds 30:48 Exploring Colour Centers in Diamonds 35:28 The Future of Gemmology and Podcasting resources Gem-A Gemmology Course - https://gem-a.com/education Instagram - https://instagram.com/facetnationgemmology Email - mailto:[email protected] gemmology, gemstone colour, charge transfer, sapphire, diamond, heat treatment, colour centres, spectroscopy, mineralogy Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Join us as we explore the fascinating world of tourmaline, its formation, varieties, and historical significance, with insights from gemmologists Lucinda and Simon. Tourmaline's chemical complexity and isomorphous series Formation of tourmaline in pegmatites and metamorphic rocks Varieties of tourmaline and their unique features Historical lore and the myth of pyroelectricity Testing and identifying tourmaline in gemmology Simon and Lucinda Titles The Hidden World of Tourmaline: From Conquistadors to Colourful Crystals Unlocking the Secrets of Tourmaline: Varieties, Formation, and Lore  sound bites "Paraiba tourmalines glow like neon blue." "Rubellite is the most popular tourmaline." "Rubellite is a deep, moody red." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Facet nation and Personal Updates 04:26 Shout Outs and Community Engagement 08:38 Exploring Tourmaline: A Gemstone Overview 12:59 The Chemistry and Characteristics of Tourmaline 17:28 Historical Significance and Unique Properties of Tourmaline 20:26 The Science Behind Tourmaline 24:17 Formation of Tourmaline 29:24 Varieties of Tourmaline 36:40 Favourite Tourmalines and Their Unique Qualities Instagram - https://instagram.com/facetnationgemmology tourmaline, gemstones, gemmology, mineral formation, jewellery, gem varieties, gemstone history, gem testing, gem inclusions Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This episode explores the science behind gemstone colours, focusing on dispersed metal ions, valency states, atomic environments, and their effects on colour and luminescence. Hosted by Lucinda and Simon, it combines scientific insights with personal reflections and industry tips. Dispersed metal ions and their role in gemstone colour Valency states of transition metals and their effects Atomic environment and its influence on gemstone hue Luminescence and fluorescence in gemstones Energy transfer and electron excitation in gemology Energy transfer in electrons Valency and atomic environment influence on colour Colour change effect in gemstones Review the valency states of transition metals in your gemstone collection Use a spectroscope to observe absorption bands and fluorescence Experiment with heating and irradiation to alter gemstone colors The Science of Gemstone Color: Dispersed Metal Ions and Atomic Environments Unlocking Gem Colors: Valency, Atomic Environment, and Light "Light as packets of energy excite electrons." "Atomic arrangement affects gemstone colour." "Chromium electrons jump, causing fluorescence." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Colour in Gemmology 02:50 Philosophical Reflections on Energy and Colour 05:31 Understanding Ions and Their Role in Colour 08:03 The Impact of Valency State on Gemstone Colour 10:47 Atomic Environment and Colour Variations 13:30 The Role of Chromium in Colour Change 16:16 Luminescence and Its Connection to Colour 18:56 Fluorescence and Crystal Defects 21:25 Conclusion and Future Topics resources Gem-A (Gemological Association of Great Britain) - https://gem-a.com Spectroscope and Light Source Information - https://www.gemologyonline.com Simon and Lucinda's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/facetnationgemmology/ gemmology, gemstone colour, dispersed metal ions, valency, atomic environment, luminescence, gemstone spectroscopy, Alexandrite, ruby, emerald Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This week we are joined by Ian Dun, president of the Gemological Association of Australia. Discover insights into gemstone grading, Australian gemstones, and the future of gemological research. Of Particular interest is GAA's, world first, Opal Studies Course. Come and listen to find out all you need to know. key  topics Gemological education and certification in Australia Australian gemstones: Opal, Sapphire, and more Advances in gemstone grading and identification guest  name Ian Dun Titles Unlocking the Secrets of Gemmology with Ian Dun Australian Gemstones: A Deep Dive into Opal and More sound bites "Welcome to Facet Nation, a gemmology podcast." "Opal is misunderstood and polarizing." "Australian opal is my favourite gemstone." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Facet Nation and Ian Dun 01:52 Ian Dun's Gem Story and Career Path 08:49 The Gemological Association of Australia: History and Courses 12:55 Diploma of Diamond Technology and Practical Grading 21:42 The Online Opal Course: Development and Purpose 23:39 The Journey of Opal: From Mine to Market 27:36 Understanding the Opal Course: Structure and Feedback 29:21 The Allure of Opal: Personal Perspectives 34:19 Opal's Renaissance: Trends and Design Innovations 38:19 Research and Future of Opal Studies 40:39 Exploring Other Australian Gemstones 52:32 The Future of Gemmology: Education and Career Paths Resources Gemological Association of Australia - https://www.gem.org.au/ Opal Course - https://www.gem.org.au/courses/opal-studies/ CIBJO Opal Guide - https://www.cibjo.org/ keywords gemmology, gemstones, Australian gemstones, gemstone grading, gemmological education, opal, diamond, jewellery design, opal study, education Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Explore the fascinating world of physical optics in gemstones, focusing on iridescence, thin film interference, and the science behind colour phenomena like labradorescence and opalescence. Perfect for budding gemologists and enthusiasts alike. key  topics Physical optics in gemstones Iridescence and wave interference Thin film interference in gem materials Unveiling Gemstone Colours: The Science of Iridescence and More The Hidden Physics of Gemstone Beauty: A Deep Dive sound bites "Iridescence is caused by wave interference." "Labradorescence is due to the chemistry of feldspar." "Pearlescence results from stacked layers of aragonite." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Physical Optics 02:09 Understanding Iridescence 11:00 Exploring Twin Planes and Their Effects 14:11 The Fascination of Labradorescence and Adularescence 20:03 The Nature of Light and Colour 21:06 Exploring Rainbow Moonstone 22:28 The Allure of Pearls 25:06 Understanding Iridescence in Pearls 28:27 The Mystique of Opals 36:52 Reflections on Quality and Value in Gemstones  resources Facet Nation Podcast - https://youtube.com/@facetnationuk  guest links Instagram - https://instagram.com/facetnationgemmology TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@facet.nation.pod Email - mailto:[email protected] gemmology, physical optics, iridescence, labradorescence, opalescence, gemstone science, thin film interference, gemstone phenomena Support the show