Facet Nation: A Gemmology Podcast

Facet Nation
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Natural Sciences

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.

  1. 6d ago

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

    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 Vocabulary Diamond Manufacturing Process Gemstone Cut Optimization Review gemstone terminology regularly Practice evaluating rough stones before cutting Explore historical gem cutting techniques Titles Mastering Gemstone Cutting: Techniques, History, and Industry Insights The Art and Science of Gem Cutting: A Comprehensive Guide  sound bites "The old mine cut has a rich history." "Inlays and carvings add artistic value." "A break in gem cutting is coming soon." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gemmology and Cutting Gemstones 03:01 The Importance of Understanding Gemstone Cuts 05:43 Insights from Gem Cutting Experts 08:26 The Process of Fashioning Gemstones 11:09 Types of Gemstone Fashioning 13:58 Evaluating Rough Gemstones 16:37 Key Factors in Gemstone Cutting 19:13 Understanding Diamond Manufacture 21:58 Historical Perspectives on Gem Cutting 24:42 Modern Trends in Gem Cutting 27:24 Conclusion and Future of Gem Cutting 29:12 Understanding Diamond Cuts and Their History 32:29 The Anatomy of a Diamond: Key Features 34:51 Exploring Brilliant Cut Stones 36:42 Step Cuts vs. Brilliant Cuts: A Comparison 38:04 The Evolution of Rose Cuts and Mixed Cuts 40:32 Fantasy Cuts: The Art of Gemstone Cutting 41:35 Cabochons: The Gateway to Gem Cutting 44:25 Beads, Cameos, and Intaglios: Decorative Techniques 46:10 Carvings, Inlays, and Mosaics: Artistic Expressions The V&A Museum Gem Collection - https://www.vam.ac.uk/collections/gems UK Facet Cutters Guild - https://ukfcg.org/  guest links Instagram - https://instagram.com/facetnationgemmology Email - mailto:facetnation@facetnation.co.uk gemmology, gemstone cutting, gem fashioning, gemmology exam, gem cutter, gemstone shapes, diamond manufacturing, gemmology history, gemstone grading, jewellery industry Support the show

    50 min

  2. May 18

    36. Interview: Michelle Mai - Cutting and Designing Gemstones

    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 The Art and Science of Gem Faceting with Michelle Mai  sound bites "Equipment is a huge barrier to entry" "Polishing quartz is challenging for me" "Start with cabochons to learn the basics" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Precision Gem Cutting 08:09 Michelle's Journey into Gem Cutting 10:53 Understanding Gem Cutting Machinery 13:09 The Learning Curve in Gem Cutting 15:57 Design Principles in Gem Cutting 18:57 Challenges with Different Gem Materials 21:36 Creating Unique Gem Designs 24:36 The Role of Light in Gem Performance 27:00 Inspiration Behind Michelle's Designs 29:59 Favorite Designs and Techniques 32:31 Conclusion and Future Aspirations 35:41 Exploring Favourite Materials in Gem Cutting 37:53 Natural vs. Synthetic Gemstones: A Balanced Perspective 39:48 Navigating Risk and Responsibility in Gem Cutting 44:08 Advice for Aspiring Gem Cutters 51:04 Encouragement for Beginners in Lapidary Arts  resources Amateur Gemstone Faceting Volume One by Tom Herbst - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V4V7V4X UK Facet Cutters Guild - https://www.ukfcg.org/ Gem Cut Studio - https://gemcutstudio.com/ Reddit r/shinypreciousgems - https://www.reddit.com/r/shinypreciousgems/  guest links Reddit - https://www.reddit.com/user/MichelleMai Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/michellemai/ gem cutting, gemmology, precision faceting, gemstone design, gem tools, gemstone materials, gem industry, gem education Support the show

    53 min

  3. May 11

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

    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 it an engaging listen for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Also in this episode, Lucinda and Simon delve into the fascinating world of tourmaline, exploring its color variations, treatments, and the rise of Paraiba tourmaline as a highly sought-after gemstone. They discuss the geological origins of Paraiba tourmaline, its global appeal, and highlight famous examples, including the Ethereal Carolina Divine Paraiba. The episode concludes with a look at the stunning Liddicoat tourmaline slice, showcasing the beauty and complexity of this remarkable gemstone. Tourmaline is a significant gemstone with various types. San Diego has a rich history of gemstone mining. The Dowager Empress Cixi played a crucial role in popularising pink tourmaline. Zixi's love for pink tourmaline influenced the gemstone market. The decline of the tourmaline market followed Cixi's death. Testing tourmaline requires specific techniques due to its colour variations. Tourmaline can be mistaken for other gemstones. Historical context enhances the value of gemstones. Gemstones often have fascinating stories behind them. Understanding gemstone history can enrich appreciation for them. Some stones show two completely different colours. Watermelon tourmalines need both pleochroic responses listed. Tourmaline can be treated to enhance colour. Paraiba tourmaline is the most valuable type. The discovery of Paraiba tourmaline changed the market. Paraiba tourmaline's price skyrocketed due to rarity. Geological events created the conditions for tourmaline formation. Nigerian and Mozambican tourmalines are similar to Brazilian Paraiba. Famous tourmalines often have historical significance. The Liddicoat tourmaline slice is a stunning example of tourmaline beauty. The Allure of Tourmaline: A Gemstone Journey Unveiling San Diego's Gemstone Secrets The Legacy of the Dowager Empress Cixi Tourmaline: From Mine to Market "She banned foot binding." "It's a serious bottleneck." "It's called Heitorita." "It looks like stained glass." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tourmaline Part Two 02:30 Exploring San Diego's Gemstone History 05:57 The Dowager Empress Cixi and Pink Tourmaline 17:20 The Decline of the Tourmaline Market 18:22 Testing Tourmaline: Identification Techniques 22:01 Understanding Tourmaline's Colour Variations 25:01 The Treatment and Enhancement of Tourmaline 26:17 The Discovery of Paraiba Tourmaline 30:39 The Rise of Paraiba Tourmaline's Value 34:00 Geological Origins of Paraiba Tourmaline 38:25 The Global Appeal of Paraiba Tourmaline 39:05 Famous Paraiba Tourmalines and Their Significance 42:30 The Liddicoat Tourmaline Slice and Its Beauty tourmaline, gemstones, San Diego, Dowager Empress Cixi, gemmology, pink tourmaline, gemstone testing, history, gem market, California tourmaline, Paraiba tourmaline, gemstone treatment, colour variations, gemmology, gemstone value, geological origins, famous gemstones, Liddicoat tourmaline Support the show

    40 min

  4. May 4

    34. Gemstone Colour: Charge Transfer and Colour Centres

    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 bites "Blue sapphire's colour is a football match of ions." "Charge transfer mechanisms reveal gemstone secrets." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Colour in Gemmology 02:53 Understanding Charge Transfer in Gemstones 05:35 Oxygen to Metal Charge Transfer 08:28 Metal to Metal Charge Transfer: The Sapphire Story 10:58 Organic Molecular Electron Transition 16:22 Colour Centres in Diamonds 22:39 The Science of Synthetic Diamonds 25:27 Understanding Green Diamonds 27:44 The Mystery of Pink Diamonds 30:48 Exploring Colour Centers in Diamonds 35:28 The Future of Gemmology and Podcasting resources Gem-A Gemmology Course - https://gem-a.com/education Instagram - https://instagram.com/facetnationgemmology Email - mailto:facetnation@facetnation.co.uk gemmology, gemstone colour, charge transfer, sapphire, diamond, heat treatment, colour centres, spectroscopy, mineralogy Support the show

    38 min

  5. Apr 27

    33. Tourmaline Part One: Conquistadors and the party where everyone's invited

    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 Tourmaline: From Conquistadors to Colourful Crystals Unlocking the Secrets of Tourmaline: Varieties, Formation, and Lore  sound bites "Paraiba tourmalines glow like neon blue." "Rubellite is the most popular tourmaline." "Rubellite is a deep, moody red." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Facet nation and Personal Updates 04:26 Shout Outs and Community Engagement 08:38 Exploring Tourmaline: A Gemstone Overview 12:59 The Chemistry and Characteristics of Tourmaline 17:28 Historical Significance and Unique Properties of Tourmaline 20:26 The Science Behind Tourmaline 24:17 Formation of Tourmaline 29:24 Varieties of Tourmaline 36:40 Favourite Tourmalines and Their Unique Qualities Instagram - https://instagram.com/facetnationgemmology tourmaline, gemstones, gemmology, mineral formation, jewellery, gem varieties, gemstone history, gem testing, gem inclusions Support the show

    42 min

  6. Apr 20

    32. Causes of Gemstone Colour: Dispersed Metal Ions

    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 gemstones Energy transfer and electron excitation in gemology Energy transfer in electrons Valency and atomic environment influence on colour Colour change effect in gemstones Review the valency states of transition metals in your gemstone collection Use a spectroscope to observe absorption bands and fluorescence Experiment with heating and irradiation to alter gemstone colors The Science of Gemstone Color: Dispersed Metal Ions and Atomic Environments Unlocking Gem Colors: Valency, Atomic Environment, and Light "Light as packets of energy excite electrons." "Atomic arrangement affects gemstone colour." "Chromium electrons jump, causing fluorescence." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Colour in Gemmology 02:50 Philosophical Reflections on Energy and Colour 05:31 Understanding Ions and Their Role in Colour 08:03 The Impact of Valency State on Gemstone Colour 10:47 Atomic Environment and Colour Variations 13:30 The Role of Chromium in Colour Change 16:16 Luminescence and Its Connection to Colour 18:56 Fluorescence and Crystal Defects 21:25 Conclusion and Future Topics resources Gem-A (Gemological Association of Great Britain) - https://gem-a.com Spectroscope and Light Source Information - https://www.gemologyonline.com Simon and Lucinda's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/facetnationgemmology/ gemmology, gemstone colour, dispersed metal ions, valency, atomic environment, luminescence, gemstone spectroscopy, Alexandrite, ruby, emerald Support the show

    28 min

  7. Apr 13

    31. Interview: Ian Dun FGAA FGSGA, Federal President Gemmological Association of Australia

    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 guest  name Ian Dun Titles Unlocking the Secrets of Gemmology with Ian Dun Australian Gemstones: A Deep Dive into Opal and More sound bites "Welcome to Facet Nation, a gemmology podcast." "Opal is misunderstood and polarizing." "Australian opal is my favourite gemstone." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Facet Nation and Ian Dun 01:52 Ian Dun's Gem Story and Career Path 08:49 The Gemological Association of Australia: History and Courses 12:55 Diploma of Diamond Technology and Practical Grading 21:42 The Online Opal Course: Development and Purpose 23:39 The Journey of Opal: From Mine to Market 27:36 Understanding the Opal Course: Structure and Feedback 29:21 The Allure of Opal: Personal Perspectives 34:19 Opal's Renaissance: Trends and Design Innovations 38:19 Research and Future of Opal Studies 40:39 Exploring Other Australian Gemstones 52:32 The Future of Gemmology: Education and Career Paths Resources Gemological Association of Australia - https://www.gem.org.au/ Opal Course - https://www.gem.org.au/courses/opal-studies/ CIBJO Opal Guide - https://www.cibjo.org/ keywords gemmology, gemstones, Australian gemstones, gemstone grading, gemmological education, opal, diamond, jewellery design, opal study, education Support the show

    55 min

  8. Mar 30

    30. Colour: Physical Optics and Colour Phenomena

    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 Dive sound bites "Iridescence is caused by wave interference." "Labradorescence is due to the chemistry of feldspar." "Pearlescence results from stacked layers of aragonite." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Physical Optics 02:09 Understanding Iridescence 11:00 Exploring Twin Planes and Their Effects 14:11 The Fascination of Labradorescence and Adularescence 20:03 The Nature of Light and Colour 21:06 Exploring Rainbow Moonstone 22:28 The Allure of Pearls 25:06 Understanding Iridescence in Pearls 28:27 The Mystique of Opals 36:52 Reflections on Quality and Value in Gemstones  resources Facet Nation Podcast - https://youtube.com/@facetnationuk  guest links Instagram - https://instagram.com/facetnationgemmology TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@facet.nation.pod Email - mailto:facetnation@facetnation.co.uk gemmology, physical optics, iridescence, labradorescence, opalescence, gemstone science, thin film interference, gemstone phenomena Support the show

    41 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

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.

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