Q: What is the Mohs scale of hardness?
A: The Mohs Scale of Hardness is a relative scale of hardness established by the Austrian mineralogist Friedrich Mohs. He based the scale on ten minerals...Read more
Q: Do you have stone sizing charts?
A: Yes, first select the stone shape to find out more... ...Read more
Q: How do you polish pearls?
A: As pearls are quite a soft, delicate gemstone we recommend that you wipe them using a soft dry or dampened cloth. ...Read more
Q: Do you have an Ethical policy?
A: Here is our Conflict Minerals Policy statement and a copy of our Ethical statements ...Read more
Q: Which gemstones can be fired in Metal Clay?
A: The table below should help. ...Read more
Q: How do I work with agate?
A: Agate Hardness: 6-7MohrsSpecific Gravity: 2.6Refractive Index: 1.53-1.54Crystal System: TriagonalChemical Composition: Silicon DioxideWorking with Agate...Read more
Q: Do you have any gemstones that can be fired?
A: To look at our range of fireable gemstones click here ...Read more
Q: How can I measure cabochon stones?
A: One way of finding the outside measurement of a cabochon stone is to draw around it with a pencil. Usa a small piece of removable adhesive tack to hold it...Read more
Q: Why after applying heat onto my gemset silver ring, have they both changed colour?
A: If you are using sterling silver, this is an alloy that contains 92.5% silver and copper. If heated to a temperature of 650ºC, in air; the copper...Read more
Q: What does the back of square cut gemstones look like?
A: The back of square gemstones from stock are faceted...Read more
Q: How do you protect stones from being affected by rhodium solution?
A: We recommend a product called lacomit lacquer*. This can be applied with a brush to mask areas where plating is not required. After the plating process,...Read more
Q: How do you repair jewellery that has gemstones already set in them?
A: For heat resistant gemstones This generally includes diamond, ruby and sapphire. They normally do not have to be removed before the metal is soldered or...Read more