Performing Scratch Test on Rocks (Follow These 8 Steps)
A scratch test is an essential tool for mineral identification. It is popular due to its simplicity. A scratch test is based on the Mohs …
Olena Rybnikova
6 Factors Why Jade is Valuable (+ Prices for Colors & More)
Jade is the most valuable gemstone in Asian culture. It has been known for 5,000 years since the Neolithic as a material for tools, carvings, …
8 Factors Why Opal is Valuable (Prices for Different Types)
Opal is a unique, high-value gemstone. Simply saying “highly praised” and “extremely valuable” it’s insufficient to explain opal’s beauty. Its exciting use of color captivates …
Real vs. Fake Garnet: Focus on These 6 Differences
Without gemological tools, it’s hard to tell the difference between fake and real garnets. Since real garnet is a pretty common material, garnet fakes aren’t …
8 Minerals That Show Double Refraction (+ Explanation Why)
Double refraction, or birefringence, is a fascinating optical property in many minerals. Minerals can exhibit this property when crystallizing in shapes other than perfect cubes. …
Real vs. Fake Labradorite: Focus on These 8 Differences
Labradorite possesses a unique optical phenomenon called labradorescence, which creates its captivating play of color. This effect is difficult to replicate artificially, making fake labradorites …