Gem show buying tips. Navigating Tucson, Munich, and Bangkok.

Just faceted a 5-carat blue sapphire. The pavilion angles produce incredible fire.

Polish grades. The final steps that make a stone sparkle.

My gem collection tour. Rough and finished stones from around the world.

Setting considerations. How the cut design affects mounting options.

The GIA grading system. Understanding color, clarity, cut, and carat.

Dopping technique. Securing stones for precise faceting.

Tourmaline color variety. The species with the widest color range.

The creative block was real this month. Here's what got me through it.

Photography for gemstones. Lighting that captures brilliance and color.