Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast

40:53

42. Garnet: Part Two - Tsavorite, Faberge and the...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/10/05

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 c...

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58:10

41. Interview: Arya Akhavan returns! Growing Exotic...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/09/21

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...

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39:14

40. Season 2: Garnet Part One

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/09/07

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 the...

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19:02

39. Season 2 Preview and Summer Catch Up

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/09/02

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 ins...

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41:58

38. End of Season 1: Fashioning Part Two - Gemstone...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/06/01

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 techniqu...

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49:57

37. Gemstone Fashioning Part One: An Overview for...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/05/25

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 Vocabul...

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52:43

36. Interview: Michelle Mai - Cutting and Designing...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/05/18

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 ...

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40:07

35. Tourmaline Part II: The King of Tourmaline...?

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/05/11

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 ...

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38:19

34. Gemstone Colour: Charge Transfer and Colour Centres

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/05/04

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 ...

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42:19

33. Tourmaline Part One: Conquistadors and the party...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/04/27

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 Tourm...

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28:09

32. Causes of Gemstone Colour: Dispersed Metal Ions

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/04/20

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 g...

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55:24

31. Interview: Ian Dun FGAA FGSGA, Federal President...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/04/13

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 gu...

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41:12

30. Colour: Physical Optics and Colour Phenomena

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/03/30

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 Div...

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36:36

29: Organics: Coral. Don't bleach it! Or Maybe you...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/03/23

Send us Fan Mail This episode explores the fascinating world of coral, its history, types, and significance in gemmology. Hosted by Simon and Lucinda, it covers everything from the biological origins of coral to its cultural importance and modern regulations. sound bites "Polyps are tiny creatures related to sea anemones." "Coral structures are like a living family tree." "Black and gold coral are rare and often bleached." key topics Definition of organic materials History of ...

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32:08

28. Colour: Pleochroism and Colour Filter Gem testing

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/03/16

Send a text In this episode, Lucinda and Simon explore the fascinating world of gemmology instruments, focusing on colour filters like the Chelsea colour filter and pleochroism testing methods. Learn how these tools aid in gemstone identification and enhance gem cutting techniques. Educational key topics Colour filters in gemmology Chelsea colour filter purpose and use Pleochroism and its significance in gemstone identification Testing for pleochroism with London Dichroscope and cal...

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55:39

27. Jadeite: A Cultural Icon

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/03/09

Send a text This episode explores the fascinating world of jadeite, covering its geology, colours, treatments, cultural significance, and the latest gemological insights. Hosted by gemmologists Lucinda and Simon, it offers a deep dive into one of the most revered gemstones across cultures. key topics Jadeite vs Nephrite Colours and Varieties of Jadeite Treatments and Impostors in Jadeite Cultural Significance of Jade in China and Central America Geology and Formation of Jadeite Titl...

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52:43

26. Interview: Andrew Geoghegan - Jewellery Design,...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/03/02

Send a text Join us as we explore the journey of jewellery designer Andrew Geoghegan, from childhood fascination with treasure to creating innovative collections inspired by history and nature. Discover insights on craftsmanship, branding, and staying authentic in a digital world. key topics Andy Geoghegan's early fascination with treasure and jewellery The journey from university to professional jewellery design The importance of authenticity and personal style in branding Inspiratio...

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62:52

25. Interview: Wim Vertriest - GIA Field Gemmology,...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/02/23

Send a text Join us as Wim Vertriest, head of field gemmology at GIA, shares his journey from geology to gemmology, insights into Mozambique rubies, and the fascinating science behind gemstone origin determination. Discover how field gemmology connects geology, anthropology, and the gemstone trade to deepen your understanding of these precious stones. Key topics Wim Vertriest's journey from geology to gemmology Insights into Mozambique ruby deposits and mining practices The role...

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52:55

24. Colour: The Spectroscope and Selective Absorption...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/02/16

Send a text In this episode of Facet Nation, Simon and Lucinda delve into the fascinating world of gemmology, focusing on the spectroscope and its critical role in identifying gemstones. They discuss the different types of spectroscopes, techniques for using them, and the importance of diagnostic spectra in gem identification. The conversation is rich with insights into the nuances of color absorption and the practical applications of these tools in the field. The hosts also share personal an...

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25:20

23. Colour: An introduction

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/02/09

Send a text In this episode of the Facet nation gemmology podcast, Lucinda and Simon explore the intricate world of colour in gemstones. They discuss the significance of colour in determining the value of gemstones, the science of light and how it interacts with materials to create colour, and the chemical elements responsible for these hues. The conversation also covers the colour wheel and its relevance to gemstones, the methods of analysing gemstones through spectroscopy, and the perceptio...

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