Gemstones have an ‘ology too: the Science Behind the Sparkle

Gemmology – the science of gemstones – is a science that, although practiced since 300 BC, wasn’t fully recognised until the 19th century. It is, however, an essential discipline in the context of the jewellery industry – or indeed, for anyone working with gems. It is the work of the gemmologist to ensure that every stone sold is exactly what it pertains to be – that every ruby is a ruby and not a red garnet, or that your diamond is not a white sapphire in disguise. It is also an incredibly rich and interesting subject, traversing crystallography, mineralogy, geology, physics, chemistry, history, art and design.

In this talk, Beth West from Gemmological Certification Services (GCS), the UK’s leading gemmological laboratory will introduce her subject, as well as enlightening the audience with the many stories a gemstone can tell us; about the universe, our planet and, often, the nature of humanity itself.