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PODCAST

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast

Facet Nation is a new kind of gemmology podcast. Rigorous enough for serious students, but fascinating and funny enough for anyone craving an inside look at gemstones, jewellery and the shadowy world surrounding them. Part revision aide, part storytime, Lucinda and Simon are your qualified guides to the world’s most ancient treasures.

science natural sciences

All Episodes

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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67:05

22. Interview: Justin Prim - gemcutter, author,...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/02/02

Send us a text In this episode of Facet Nation, hosts Lucinda and Simon welcome gem cutter Justin K Prim, who shares his fascinating journey from music to gemmology. Justin discusses his experiences in the gem trade, the art and science of gem cutting, and the importance of community in the field. He also delves into his favorite gemstones, the challenges of the trade, and his exciting new projects, including a gem cutting school and a museum showcasing his extensive collection of machines an...

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62:10

21. Interview: Jeff Hapeman, Earth's Treasury....

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/01/26

Send us a text In this episode of Facet Nation, hosts Lucinda and Simon interview Jeff Hapeman, owner of Earth's Treasury, who shares his unique journey from academia to the gem industry. Jeff discusses the fascinating world of Montana sapphires, the challenges and opportunities within the gem market, and the importance of ethical sourcing and cutting techniques. The conversation highlights the growing popularity of coloured stones and the evolving consumer preferences in jewellery design. In...

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44:54

20. The Refractometer: Gem testing and how it works

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/01/19

Send us a text In this episode of Facet Nation, Simon and Lucinda delve into the intricacies of the refractometer, a crucial tool for gemmologists. They discuss its importance in identifying gemstones by measuring the refractive index, emphasising how light behaves when it enters different materials. The hosts share personal anecdotes and practical tips for using the refractometer effectively, including the significance of using the right light source and the challenges posed by contact fluid...

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56:41

19. Gemmology Exam Preparation: What to expect

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/01/12

Send us a text In this episode of Facet Nation, Lucinda and Simon discuss their experiences preparing for and taking the Gem-A exams, particularly focusing on the diploma exam. They share personal anecdotes about their study strategies, the unique challenges of the Gem-A exams, and tips for managing exam anxiety. The conversation covers various aspects of preparation, including the importance of understanding the material deeply, utilizing practice papers, and the significance of real-world a...

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43:22

18. The Best Kept Secrets of Spinel

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2026/01/05

Send us a text Summary In this episode, Lucinda and Simon explore the fascinating world of spinel, a gemstone often overshadowed by rubies and sapphires. They discuss its chemical composition, colour variations, and historical significance, as well as the modern rise of synthetic spinel. The conversation delves into the properties that make spinel a desirable choice for jewellery, its unique inclusions, and the testing methods used to identify it. The hosts also highlight famous spinels thro...

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49:57

17. Interview: Rosie Young. Lab Gemmology and all...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2025/12/22

Send us a text In this episode of Facet Nation, hosts Simon and Lucinda chat with Rosie Young, a lab gemologist at GCS Lab. Rosie shares her journey from a tax advisor to a passionate gemmologist, discussing her education, experiences, and the day-to-day operations in a gem lab. The conversation delves into the fascinating world of sunstones, including their unique properties, treatments, and the science behind their colours. Rosie also highlights her research on sunstones and the importance ...

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45:56

16. Light & Gem Testing Instruments: The Polariscope

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2025/12/15

Send us a text In this episode of Facet Nation, Simon and Lucinda explore the intricacies of gemmology, focusing on the polariscope and its significance in testing gemstones. They discuss the behaviour of light in relation to isotropic and anisotropic materials, the importance of understanding internal stress in gems, and the use of the conoscope for identifying gemstones. The conversation emphasises community engagement and the joy of learning in the field of gemmology. Titles The Fascin...

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28:19

15. Live Episode - Tanzanite - The Gem and Mineral...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2025/12/08

Send us a text In this live episode of Facet nation, hosts Simon and Lucinda share their experiences at the London Gem and Mineral Show, where they discuss the fascinating gemstone Tanzanite, its properties, discovery, and significance as a birthstone for December. They delve into the science behind Tanzanite's colour, its varieties, and its cultural importance, while also sharing personal anecdotes and insights from their gemmology journey. The London Gem and Mineral Show was a significant...

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52:07

14. Light and Optics in Gemstones

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2025/12/01

Send us a text In this episode of the Facet nation podcast, Simon and Lucinda delve into the intricate world of light and optics as they relate to gemmology. They explore the fundamental properties of light, including reflection and refraction, and discuss how these principles apply to gemstones. The conversation covers the importance of cut in diamonds, the various optical effects seen in gemstones, and the significance of birefringence. The hosts also touch on the practical applications of ...

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47:15

13. Interview: Video Game Gemstones and Precision Gem...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2025/11/24

Send us a text In this episode Lucinda and Simon speak to gem cutting pioneer Arya Akhavan, his trademarked gemstone cuts; the Void Reaver and the Legend of Zelda inspired Rupee cut are some of the most beautiful you'll ever see. Listen to this fascinating interview full of almost revealed secrets and future excitement. If you love gems, videogames or videogame gems, this is the interview for you. Arya Akhavan is a pioneer in video game-themed gem cutting. The gem cutting community is becom...

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47:24

12. Light and Wave Theory - A History

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2025/11/17

Send us a text In this episode of the Facet Nation: A gemmology podcast, hosts Lucinda and Simon explore the intricate relationship between light and gemstones. They discuss the importance of light in visibility and gem testing, delve into the characteristics of light waves, and examine historical theories of light, including Newton's corpuscular theory and Huygens' wave theory. The conversation also covers the significance of polarised light, the behaviours of light such as reflection, refra...

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50:35

Gem weight and Specific Gravity: How heavy are your...

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2025/11/10

Send us a text In this episode of the Facet nation podcast, Simon and Lucinda delve into the intricate world of gemmology, focusing on the concepts of weight, density, and specific gravity. They explore the historical significance of Archimedes' principle, practical methods for hydrostatic weighing, and the use of heavy liquids in gem identification. The hosts engage with their audience, sharing insights and personal anecdotes, while emphasising the importance of these concepts in the gem tra...

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67:54

Gem Durability: How hard are your gemstones?

Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast ·

2025/11/03

Send us a text In this episode of FacetNation, Lucinda and Simon delve into the essential aspects of gem durability, focusing on hardness, toughness, and stability. They discuss the Mohs scale of hardness, the importance of understanding these properties for both gemologists and jewellery enthusiasts, and practical tips for caring for gemstones. The conversation also covers the differences between fracture and cleavage, the impact of chemical stability on gems, and how to properly maintain an...

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29 results

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