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News — gem news

What is the Difference Between Australian and Ethiopian Opals?

Karin Jacobson gem buying gem news opals

What is the Difference Between Australian and Ethiopian Opals?

Opals, known for their mesmerizing play of color, are mined in various parts of the world, but Australian and Ethiopian opals stand out for their unique qualities. If you’re an opal enthusiast or a potential buyer, understanding the differences between these two types of opals can help you make an informed choice.   Australian opals above. Ethiopian opals above. *Note the honeycomb pattern on the top opal in the lower right photo. Origin and Formation Australian Opals: Australia has been the world’s largest supplier of opals for over a century, with iconic mining areas such as Coober Pedy, Lightning Ridge, and...

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All About Opals: Fascinating Facts About This Gem

Karin Jacobson gem news opals

All About Opals: Fascinating Facts About This Gem

One of my favorite things about making jewelry is getting to work with all kinds of fascinating gemstones. They may be beautiful, but they are also incredibly interesting. Today, I want to share a little bit about opals - a marvelously varied and mesmerizing stone that I love using in my jewelry designs!

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Living Coral - Opening September 28 at Alchemy 9.2.5

Karin Jacobson gem news inspiration show news

Living Coral - Opening September 28 at Alchemy 9.2.5

I was so happy to be invited to participate in the Living Coral show at Alchemy 9.2.5 - a beautiful jewelry gallery in Belmont, Massachusetts.

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Pearls 101: Your Intro to This Luminous Gem

Karin Jacobson gem news jewelry design pearls

Pearls 101: Your Intro to This Luminous Gem

Confession: Before I created a collection for the pearl-themed show at Aaron Faber in spring of 2018, I hadn't considered pairing them with my Origami Collection. But now, I’m a convert! So I thought I’d dig into how they’re formed, the differences between various types, and a few tips for pearl care. And this post is especially timely because pearls are June's birthstone! Read on ... it turns out that pearls are as fascinating as they are gorgeous.

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Raw Inspiration: Buying Gems in Tucson

Karin Jacobson gem buying gem news travel

Raw Inspiration: Buying Gems in Tucson

There’s nothing like a gem-buying excursion to get a jewelry designer’s heart thumping! I just got back from the Tucson Gem Show and my head is still spinning from all the gorgeous cut gemstones and mineral specimens I saw there. Read about my trip and see a preview of some of my buys here....

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