Gem Junkies: Recent Episodes
Parle Jewelry Design's Jonathan and Brecken Farnsworth.
We talk gemstones- the science, the history, and the fashion of the industry. Hear from gemologists, jewelry designers, and jewelry enthusiasts as they delve deep into a world of color.
In this long-awaited comeback episode of our podcast, "Is Anyone Listening?", we enthusiastically announce our return from a brief hiatus! We're thrilled to be back on air, ready to dive into the fascinating world of gemstones once again. This episode is particularly special as we cover two distinct regions: the tropical paradise of Hawaii and our very own home state, Idaho.First up, Hawaii! We'll explore the island's unique geological features and the captivating gemstones they produce. Expect to hear about Hawaii's vibrant and rare minerals that reflect its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.Then, we turn to Idaho, the Gem State. We discuss why Idaho earned this nickname, delving into the state's diverse and plentiful gemstone deposits. From the famous Idaho star garnets to opals and more, we uncover the hidden treasures beneath our feet.As always, we share personal anecdotes, fun facts, and our adventures during the hiatus. Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast, a curious listener, or just happy to have us back, this episode promises to be a gem-packed journey across two of America's most intriguing states.Stay tuned, and let's sparkle together in this exciting new chapter of our podcast!Transcription here: https://www.parlegems.com/blog/way-to-go-idaho/
It’s been a while! Between (2) quarantines and a terrible case of a stomach bug, we’re back on track to bring you Florida and Georgia.
00:00:00 Name that bool 01:30:00 Long time, no chat 03:18:00 So Florida 05:07:00 Moonstone (For more details on moonstone check out our episode – “Phenomenon-phe-no-me-no-me-non !!!”) 06:45:00 Popularity 07:06:00 Florida state stone 10:41:00 State shell 12:11:00 Georgia – Quartz 13:36:00 2nd most abundant mineral on Earth 14:38:00 Most common mineral on Earth’s crust 15:18:00 Most common mineral in Earth 16:34:00 The core of the Earth 18:42:00 Onto the state mineral—Staurolite 20:33:00 Fairy crystal 20:55:00 Good luck 22:00:00 The legend of the Fairy Crosses
Hello, 2021!! It’s already been off to a crazy start but we will kick things off with the continuation of our “Gems of the US” series. Up next we’ve got Connecticut and Delaware.
00:00:00 Rabbit hole 00:25:00 We’re back 01:45:00 Storytime – wallpaper O3:00:00 Onto Connecticut and Delaware. Neither of which has a state gemstone. 04:12:00 Connecticut State Mineral = Almandine Garnet 05:10:00 The role that Garnet has in Connecticut 05:52:00 The geology of Connecticut 08:40:00 The Garnet trail 09:42:00 Where to collect Garnet 11:19:00 Connecticut has gem-quality material and should have a state gemstone 11:46:00 Understanding mining in CT 12:24:00 Feldspar 12:42:00 Mica 13:25:00 Beryl 16:20:00 Morganite = JP Morgan 18:26:00 Onto Delaware . . . Sillimanite 19:16:00 Where does the name come from? 20:01:00 Why Sillimanite? 21:02:00 Sillimanite as a gemstone 21:56:00 What’s out on the market?
Hello, 2021!! It’s already been off to a crazy start but we will kick things off with the continuation of our “Gems of the US” series. Up next we’ve got Connecticut and Delaware.
00:00:00 Rabbit hole
00:25:00 We’re back
01:45:00 Storytime – wallpaper
O3:00:00 Onto Connecticut and Delaware. Neither of which has a state gemstone.
04:12:00 Connecticut State Mineral = Almandine Garnet
05:10:00 The role that Garnet has in Connecticut
05:52:00 The geology of Connecticut
08:40:00 The Garnet trail
09:42:00 Where to collect Garnet
11:19:00 Connecticut has gem-quality material and should have a state gemstone
11:46:00 Understanding mining in CT
12:24:00 Feldspar
12:42:00 Mica
13:25:00 Beryl
16:20:00 Morganite = JP Morgan
18:26:00 Onto Delaware . . . Sillimanite
19:16:00 Where does the name come from?
20:01:00 Why Sillimanite?
21:02:00 Sillimanite as a gemstone
21:56:00 What’s out on the market?
Up next on our journey exploring gemstones across the US we’ve got Colorado. Not only does Colorado have a state gemstone but it also has a state mineral we haven’t covered yet – rhodochrosite. Pull up a chair as we look into into this double-gemmy episode.
00:00:00 Notes 00:29:00 Colorado 01:10:00 The Charlemagne connection 03:52:00 Ranking in most hated states 05:30:00 Aquamarine 05:47:00 1880’s 08:20:00 The discovery at Mt. Antero 09:30:00 About Mt. Antero 09:55:00 High altitude gemstones 12:07:00 Mining story 14:34:00 Commercial mining 16:07:00 Largest aquamarine crystal to be found in CO 18:43:00 Renewed interest in mining 19:46:00 Get a claim 20:41:00 Rhodochrosite 22:13:00 Single-crystal versus an aggregate specimen 23:23:00 Sweet Home Mine 25:52:00 The 1960’s 26:11:50 The Alma Queen 27:03:00 1991 27:26:00 Alma King discovery 27:44:00 The Crystal Wall 29:07:00 Smithsonian 30:13:00 Off-limits 31:31:00 Other gemstones found in Colorado
Up next on our journey exploring gemstones across the US we’ve got Colorado. Not only does Colorado have a state gemstone but it also has a state mineral we haven’t covered yet – rhodochrosite. Pull up a chair as we look into this double-gemmy episode.
00:00:00 Notes
00:29:00 Colorado
01:10:00 The Charlemagne connection
03:52:00 Ranking in most hated states
05:30:00 Aquamarine
05:47:00 1880’s
08:20:00 The discovery at Mt. Antero
09:30:00 About Mt. Antero
09:55:00 High altitude gemstones
12:07:00 Mining story
14:34:00 Commercial mining
16:07:00 Largest aquamarine crystal to be found in CO
18:43:00 Renewed interest with mining
19:46:00 Get a claim
20:41:00 Rhodochrosite
22:13:00 Single-crystal versus an aggregate specimen
23:23:00 Sweet Home Mine
25:52:00 The 1960’s
26:11:50 The Alma Queen
27:03:00 1991
27:26:00 Alma King discovery
27:44:00 The Crystal Wall
29:07:00 Smithsonian
30:13:00 Off-limits
31:31:00 Other gemstones found in Colorado
Continuing with our series Gems of the US and up next we have California. A state that encompasses a plethora of gemstones we focus dabble about Spodumene, Tourmaline, and of coarse, it’s state gemstone--Benitoite. It's a big state so it is only fair to recognize these two influential gemstones.
00:00:00 Calimocho/ Kalimotxo 01:58:00 Cookie Monster + Wednesday Addams = Happy Halloween 03:24:00 This week –California 04:41:00 Benitoite 05:16:00 Its discovery 09:10:00 What is it? 12:44:00 Gemstone matrix and removing the crystals 14:40:00 You can visit the site it was discovered at 16:24:00 Cost of benitoite 17:28:00 All other minerals in California 18:10:00 Leading gemstone mined in California 18:47:00 All the Tourmaline colors 18:57:50 Rubellite Tourmaline 19:11:00 The Chinese connection 20:24:00 Spodumene = Kunzite 21:19:00 Highschool drama w/ Kunzite 26:30:00 Color fading 27:24:00 JP Morgan + George Kunz 28:07:00 Other California Gemstones 30:24:00 [SIDE NOTE] What is California’s ranking in the most hated states?
Continuing with our series Gems of the US and up next we have California. A state that encompasses a plethora of gemstones we focus dabble about Spodumene, Tourmaline, and of coarse, it’s state gemstone--Benitoite. It's a big state so it is only fair to recognize these two influential gemstones.
00:00:00 Calimocho/ Kalimotxo
01:58:00 Cookie Monster + Wednesday Addams = Happy Halloween
03:24:00 This week –California
04:41:00 Benitoite
05:16:00 Its discovery
09:10:00 What is it?
12:44:00 Gemstone matrix and removing the crystals
14:40:00 You can visit the site it was discovered at
16:24:00 Cost of benitoite
17:28:00 All other minerals in California
18:10:00 Leading gemstone mined in California
18:47:00 All the Tourmaline colors
18:57:50 Rubellite Tourmaline
19:11:00 The Chinese connection
20:24:00 Spodumene = Kunzite
21:19:00 Highschool drama w/ Kunzite
26:30:00 Color fading
27:24:00 JP Morgan + George Kunz
28:07:00 Other California Gemstones
30:24:00 [SIDE NOTE] What is California’s ranking in the most hated states?
Working our way down the alphabet which means we’ve got Arizona and Arkansas up next. These two states bring a plethora of gemmy goodness.
00:00:00 Deck issues 00:58:00 “The United States” 02:10:00 Arizona & Arkansas 03:02:00 Arizona = Turquoise 03:20:00 Rich history in Arizona 03:37:00 State neckwear 05:15:00 First mined in 200 BC 06:06:00 Turquoise legends 06:35:00 It’s found throughout the state 07:31:00 Native American translation for turquoise 08:17:00 Usage with Native Tribes 08:49:00 Healing properties 09:50:00 Famous turquoise mines 12:21:00 Sleeping beauty 14:12:00 Kingman Mine 15:12:00 Other cool gemstones in Arizona 25:37:00 Alright, Arkansas 24:55:00 State gemstone = DIAMONDS! 25:05:00 State flag 25:23:00 Feb. 22nd, 1967 27:02:00 The geology of Arkansas 28:16:00 The discovery of diamonds 29:47:00 The largest diamond found in Arkansas 30:47:00 The start of Arkansas 34:11:00 The early 90’s 35:08:00 The appearance of the diamond in their rough 36:03:00 Average diamond findings 38:25:00 Other gemstones found in Arkansas
With so many people unable to travel beyond the US border and taking more local road trips we figured now was the perfect time to explore each state’s gemstone. To start things off we’re talking about Alabama and Alaska.
00:00:00 Who’s starting? 01:01:00 Alabama and Alaska . . . cue the states song 03:17:00 Alabama – Blue Star Quarts 03:26:00 Thought it would be something red 03:48:00 1990 04:04:00 But why? 06:23:00 How is it found? 07:32:00 Blue Star Quartz being an oddity 09:22:00 Is there any mining going on in Alabama? 09:55:00 The Lane Cake 12:16:00 Moving onto Alaska 12:43:00 Jade = nephrite jade To learn more about Jade listen to our episode “Stone of Heaven, Hello Jade!” -- https://soundcloud.com/user-141776549-657959872/stone-of-heaven-hello-jade 13:16:00 Native Alaskan Inuits and their use of jade 13:27:00 Where is Alaskan Jade found? 14:34:00 First non-native to rediscover jade 15:14:00 [Storytime] The legend of the Jade House. 18:27:00 Jade Mountain 19:36:00 About the man who made the Jade Lamp 20:45:00 [Storytime] The Jade Lamp 25:00:00 Another modern legend 25:27:00 Washington Monument 27:19:0 0 Other gemstones that are being mined in Alaska?
With so many people unable to travel beyond the US border and taking more local road trips we figured now was the perfect time to explore each state’s gemstone. To start things off we’re talking about Alabama and Alaska.
00:00:00 Who’s starting?
01:01:00 Alabama and Alaska . . . cue the states song
03:17:00 Alabama – Blue Star Quarts
03:26:00 Thought it would be something red
03:48:00 1990
04:04:00 But why?
06:23:00 How is it found?
07:32:00 Blue Star Quartz being an oddity
09:22:00 Is there any mining going on in Alabama?
09:55:00 The Lane Cake
12:16:00 Moving onto Alaska
12:43:00 Jade = nephrite jade
To learn more about Jade listen to our episode “Stone of Heaven, Hello Jade!”
13:16:00 Native Alaskan Inuits and their use of jade
13:27:00 Where is Alaskan Jade found?
14:34:00 First non-native to rediscover jade
15:14:00 [Storytime] The legend of the Jade House.
18:27:00 Jade Mountain
19:36:00 About the man who made the Jade Lamp
20:45:00 [Storytime] The Jade Lamp
25:00:00 Another modern legend
25:27:00 Washington Monument
27:19:00 Other gemstones that are being mined in Alaska?
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We’ve covered gold, silver, and platinum. But how do all of these different metals work within the components of jewelry design? We take you through each step of the process from molding to polish and talk about how these metals vary within each step of the process. To ensure we don’t overlook any details we brought in our production manager, Paul Hartman, to join in on the conversation.
00:00:00 Peeing in the pool 00:40:00 All about metals from a jewelry production standpoint 01:43:00 If you would like to get know more about Paul you can listen to his interview here: https://soundcloud.com/user-141776549-657959872/productionwithpaul 02:13:00 Starting out at the beginning of the process – molding 03:17:00 Gypsum used as the investment 04:46:00 What is the casting temperate 06:06:00 Cleanliness 07:30:00 Is there a lot of difference in casting between the metals? 08:10:00 Why do we like using nickel in white gold? 10:41:00 Clipping off the tree 10:55:00 The trunk of the tree 12:48:00 Polish 16:11:00 How long is the process from casting to polish? 18:21:00 Setting 24:38:00 Plating 26:37:00 Durability of silver with tarnish on it 27:60:50 Black rhodium 28:38:00 [Story time] Cyanide bomb 24:43:00 Caustic chemicals involved with metals 31:23:50 What is the most important step in plating? 34:19:00 Wear and durability 36:17:00 Stone in place casting
We’ve covered gold, silver, and platinum. But how do all of these different metals work within the components of jewelry design? We take you through each step of the process from molding to polish and talk about how these metals vary within each step of the process. To ensure we don’t overlook any details we brought in our production manager, Paul Hartman, to join in on the conversation.
00:00:00 Peeing in the pool
00:40:00 All about metals from a jewelry production standpoint
01:43:00 If you would like to get know more about Paul you can listen to his interview here: https://soundcloud.com/user-141776549-657959872/productionwithpaul
02:13:00 Starting out at the beginning of the process – molding
03:17:00 Gypsum used as the investment
04:46:00 What is the casting temperate
06:06:00 Cleanliness
07:30:00 Is there a lot of difference in casting between the metals?
08:10:00 Why do we like using nickel in white gold?
10:41:00 Clipping off the tree
10:55:00 The trunk of the tree
12:48:00 Polish
16:11:00 How long is the process from casting to polish?
18:21:00 Setting
24:38:00 Plating
26:37:00 Durability of silver with tarnish on it
27:60:50 Black rhodium
28:38:00 [Story time] Cyanide bomb
24:43:00 Caustic chemicals involved with metals
31:23:50 What is the most important step in plating?
34:19:00 Wear and durability
36:17:00 Stone in place casting
What is denser than a diamond and is extremely ductile? PLATINUM. Once tossed away to be believed un-ripened silver that noble metal has become a popular choice in jewelry design. Learn about its discovery and its out of this world origins.
00:00:00 Dubba-dub-dub-dub 00:14:00 The game plan with the podcast 03:50:00 Garden Woes 05:54:00 So Platinum. . . how did it get its name? 06:13:00 Platinum’s discovery 08:22:00 Platinum group of metals 10:05:00 Studying the properties of platinum 13:36:00 First reference of platinum 15:12:00 The heaviness of platinum 15:47:00 Platinum is very ductile 16:19:00 Malleability 16:36:00 Durability 18:33:00 Melting point 19:43:00 Mining platinum 20:52:00 WWII 22:05:00 How did it get here? 22:43:00 The moon 22:58:00 Platinum in the Earth’s crust 24:19:00 Producing pure platinum 26:06:00 Platinum in jewelry 26:51:00 Other usages for platinum 27:28:00 Platinum vs. Gold $$$
Moonbeams and ocean reflections are just a few ways to describe the beauty of Moonstone. This week we explore the world of this translucent yet, opulent gemstone.
00:00:00 That’s an “I” 00:44:00 Moonstone 02:50:00 Why is it called moonstone? 03:43:50 The phenomenon, adularescence 04:31:00 What is moonstone? 06:36:00 Where does the name/word adularescence come from? 07:10:00 Quality factors 08:14:00 Moonstone has two cleavage planes 09:08:00 There are (2) types of moonstone 12:28:00 Moonstone is really a trade name 13:12:00 Where is moonstone found? 13:44:00 State gemstone of Florida 14:23:00 Cultural beliefs with moonstone 16:26:00 Ancient Rome 18:46:00 The lovers stone 19:25:00 The travels stone 20:34:00 Skincare
For more information head to: https://www.gia.edu/moonstone
We’ve been away for 6 weeks and we’re all excited to be back at the office! Take a seat as we recap about our quarantine experience and explore the ancient world of Lapis Lazuli. Being one of the oldest gemstones mined, it has an extensive involvement with history and folklore that will lure you in.
00:00:00 Has it really been 6 weeks? 00:29:00 The COVID experience 08:53:00 Ok, we’ve got a gemstone for you—Lapis Lazuli 09:30:00 How long has it been around? 10:12:00 It is a rock! 11:27:00 Its gorgeous blue color 12:53:00 Translucency/ luster/ hardness 13:14:00 What it has been used for 13:23:00 Trade grades and mining locations 15:34:00 How long it takes to mine 17:14:00 A prized procession during ancient time 17:49:00 Citation and translation 18:30:00 Marco Polo 18:56:00 A LOT of history and lore associated with Lapis 19:01:00 Highly favored by the Egyptians 20:24:00 King Solomon 24:45:00 Using semi-precious stones for religious purposes = Egyptian's “Book of the Dead” 28:02:00 Ancient Rome 28:49:50 What it is like in the market today and things to be mindful about when purchasing
This week we're getting back to our roots and talking about a gemstone—chrysoprase. Its golden-green tone has a rich presence in history and folklore. We also explore its healing properties and its ability to be a beacon of courage through a time of change.
00:00:00 Social distancing 00:55:00 2020 has already had it's high and lows 06:38:00 What gemstone are we talking about? 06:58:00 The meaning of chrysoprase 07:37:00 Crystal structure 08:17:00 It’s colored by nickel 11:21:00 The finest color 12:13:00 This gemstone has a rich history 13:58:00 Storytime – negotiating a chrysoprase 14:47:50 First mention of it 15:07:00 Fun stories of chrysoprase 17:19:00 The stone of Venus 17:35:00 Healing/magical properties 18:20:00 To save those who were thieves, to be hung or beheaded 18:53:00 Romanian folklore 19:49:00 King Frederick VII 19:59:00 Saint Wenceslaus Chapel 20:32:00 Assist you to embrace your courage 21:15:00 Emotional balance
One of our goals with the podcast this year is to focus on career paths. Up next, is an interview providing another perspective in opportunities within the jewelry industry--journalism. We sit down with Brecken Branstrator, with National Jeweler, to learn a little more about her role as an editor and of course, talk about the name “Brecken.”
00:00:00 I’m so bossy 01:32:00 “Oh, you’re the other Brecken? 02:22:00 Brecken Branstrator for National Jeweler 03:25:00 How did you get your name? 04:48:00 What do you think the name Brecken means? 06:38:00 How did you get into the gemstone/jewelry world? 08:06:00 Take us through your average day? 09:03:00 What are your favorite things you’ve learned and/or wrote about? 10:04:00 Back to the name Brecken 11:15:00 Anything exciting coming up with National Jewelers 11:48:00 What does your day look like while at Tucson? 15:38:00 If I was going to do something else in the industry . . . 18:03:00 How did you feel growing up with that name? 20:20:00 What is your favorite gemstone? 21:35:00 What is your first memory of a gemstone or a piece of jewelry? 23:22:00 Where are you based? 26:16:0 0 Let’s talk about National Jeweler. How did it start?
Website: https://www.nationaljeweler.com/ Instagram: @nationaljeweler https://www.instagram.com/nationaljeweler/
In honor of #womensinternationalday and #womenshistorymonth we sit down with Jennifer Markas to learn more about Women’s Jeweler Association (WJA). We dive into WJA’s history, its mission and get to know Jennifer up close and personal.
00:00:00 Are we ready? 00:16:00 We’re going to Disneyland 00:57:00 Introduction to Jennifer Markas of WJA 01:58:00 Where id WJA start? 05:06:00 A common misconception of WJA 06:57:00 What does it mean to be a member of WJA? 08:26:00 WJA connect 11:17:00 What are some of the goals of WJA? 13:49:00 Equal pay 16:38:00 Young female designers 19:20:00 How do people get involved https://www.womensjewelryassociation.com/ 20:23:00 What is going on in March with WJA? 22:08:00 How is it being promoted? 25:45:00 Tell us about yourself 30:11:00 What is your first memory of a gemstone or a piece of jewelry
We’re back with another interview from Tucson at the JCK show and continue to delve into the world of career paths within the jewelry world. Behind every brand is a marketing team that helps bring life to its story. We sit down with Ben Smittee, of The Smithee Group, to get to know a little more about him and his passion supporting the future of the jewelry industry.
00:00:00 Worse topic ever 00:29:00 Ben Smithee 01:20:00 What do you do in the industry? 02:57:00 First memory with a piece of jewelry or gemstone 05:50:00 A little background that brought you to support the jewelry industry? 12:45:00 Helping bring out the story that needs to be heard 14:58:00 Women’s Jewelry Association and involvement at the Tucson Gem Fair 15:06:00 What about Gem Legacy made you say “yes” this is soething you want to be a part of? 17:03:00 Gem Legacy providing its way to give back and telling its story. 20:34:00 Educating retail jewelers 22:33:00 Tell me about my twins
We regularly get asked, “What can I do with a GG? How do I obtain a GG?” We went straight to the source and sat down with Kimberly Overlin, the Dean of Students from GIA. We discuss the nuts and bolts about GIA (Gemological Institute of America), what it offers to students and review career paths that one can obtain. (Recording took place on the show floor of the AGTA Gem Fair. Some of the background noise was able to get reduce but not fully eliminated.)
00:00:00 Losing an episode 00:27:00 Live from the AGTA with Kimberly Overlin from GIA 01:09:00 Tell us a little bit about you and what you do for GIA? 02:44:00 You got your degree and then what? 03:41:00 The unique part of GIA 04:-2:00 When did you start working for GIA 05:11:00 No family background associated to jewelry and paving a path 05:53:00 Education being key 06:27:00 How does one learn/access more information about GIA 07:05:00 Opportunities for scholarship and financial aid 08:24:00 How to search for scholarships through GIA 09:08:00 Campuses 10:47:00 How did you get from recruitment to Dean of Students 12:34:00 Take us through your day 14:08:00 Carlsbad being a different type of campus 14:29:00 What are the career paths that you’ve seen happen? 19:08:00 What was your first memory of a piece of jewelry or gemstone? 23:34:00 Getting your GG through distance education 27:03:00 Why and how did GIA get started? 28:58:00 Value vs. Pricing 31:53:00 What was your first gemstone purchase after getting your GG?
2020 is in full swing and we thought it would be a good idea to give you an idea of things to look forward to from the podcast.
00:00:00 It’s Brecken! 00:06:00 Back from Hong Kong 05:43:00 What to expect this year 07:33:00 Delve into the world of less known/obscure gemstones 08:32:00 Speaking of Tucson . . .
We’ve been busy bees getting ready for trade show season but don’t worry Gem Junkies we haven’t forgotten about you!! For awhile we’ve teased about putting together an episode about birthstones and it’s finally come into fruition. From it’s early biblical beginning to its influence in the jewelry world we delve into its long history.
00:00:00 Take 2. Press Record. 00:24:00 Parle tradeshow line-up 01:28:00 Birthstones 01:49:00 How did it all start? 01:55:00 Biblical – Aaron’s Breastplate 04:27:00 What stones we set up in Aaron’s breastplate 06:50:00 How did we get from breastplate to birthstone? 09:14:00 A developed notion of switching out jewelry every month 10:27:00 Vedic astrological system associated to gemstones 11:25:00 Why are gemstones are connected to planets? 12:32:00 How do we get to the idea of a person always wearing and only wearing a gemstone corresponding to their birth month? 13:49:00 In 1912 – standardization of birthstones 21:05:00 The additions of birthstones 24:20:00 Chrysolite, what? Birthstones associated to zodiac sign. 26:45:00 Birthstones for mother’s jewelry 28:30:00 Parle Xmas story
Hello 2020!! For the first podcast of the year we sit down with Craig Danforth from Jewelers Mutual. With all the jewelry received over the holidays we talk about the importance of acquiring a policy for your jewelry, the history of Jewelers Mutual and of course, we get to know Craig up close and personal.
00:00:00 Sea Legs 00:42:00 Introducing Craig Danforth 02:09:00 First memory of a piece of jewelry or gemstone 02:50:00 Take us through your life 03:43:00 How did you get involved with jewelry 04:32:00 The silver run at @tiffanyandco 06:32:00 And then . . . @cartier 07:19:00 What was your favorite part about that job? 08:21:00 Working with GIA 10:52:00 Transition to Jewelers Mutual 11:36:00 The polar vortex of Wisconsin 12:39:00 The “Gem State” 13:01:00 What do you do for Jewelers Mutual? 14:10:00 The history of Jewelers Mutual 18:31:00 How do I insure this? 23:21:00 A care plan through Jewelers Mutual 24:54:00 How to learn more about Jewelers Mutual? 26:22:00 Jewelers Mutual’s involvement within the industry 29:12:00 The gem gallery at Jeweler Mutual 32:47:00 What’s your favorite gemstone?
If you’ve been wondering who is often laughing in the background when we’re recording a podcast it’s me, Stephanie Major. Hey Gem Junkies, I’m the producer and marketing coordinator at Parle. We thought it might be time to step up to the mic and for you all to get to know a little more about me.
00:00:00 Hey, @spencerpratt 03:34:00 Happy Birthday Abbey 01:39:00 [Going down a rabbit hole] A look back of the past 02:29:00 The interviews we’ve done 03:14:00 Which one was your favorite interview? 04:47:00 Another interview. . . Stephanie (our podcast producer) 06:41:00 I don’t wear a lot of jewelry 07:20:00 What’s your life story 10:19:00 10 years ago – A BIG YEAR 14:54:00 Never say no . . .fake it till you make it 16:00:00 How did you get to Pocatello 17:36:00 I am done with homeschool 19:11:00 Sh*!, what am I going to do? 21:08:00 A day in the life 22:56:00 A learning curve to get started 23:44:00 A week overview 25:45:00 A personal initiative 26:59:00 Brand Building 27:57:00 Changing the whole vibe 29:57:00 There’s another thing that you do . . .
It’s the season of giving and during this years Giving Tuesday we donated $1000 to Gem Legacy . Thus, it’s a perfect time to interview Rachel Dery of Gem Legacy. We learn about her childhood growing up in the gemstone industry and about Gem Legacy--a non-profit organization that help support communities closest to the mining source.
If you would like to learn more about Gem Legacy you can head to www.gemlegacy.org or go to www.gemlegacy.org.donate to make a donation today.
Also, a quick apology for the intermittent audio issues. It’s our first time recording through zoom so we’re still learning about it. Thanks for you understanding.
00:00:00 The voices are calling 00:34:00 Rachel Dery with Gem Legacy 01:33:00 Tell us a little about you 03:00:00 The grassroots of Gem Legacy 03:55:00 How did it happen? 05:26:00 What are some of your initiative 06:59:00 The initiatives 08:00:00 Understanding what Gem Legacy is doing 10:47:00 Finding the opportunities of gemstones making a positive impact 11:53:00 Gemstone educational training 12:32:00 [Story time] Garnets from the sky 16:15:00 The gem cutting school 19:23:00 How it supports the country 19:54:00 What small amounts can do from a donation 24:18:00 There must be more within our industry to give back to the community 25:37:00 Sustainable giving 26:11:50 What are you most proud of? 28:00:00 Gem Legacy’s ability to adopt to the need 30:38:00 What is your first memory of a gemstone or piece of jewelry? 34:04:00 100% of donations goes back toward the initiatives
We made it to New York City in time for New York Jewelry Week and had an opportunity to talk shop with jewelry designer Julie Lamb. From her childhood beginnings in jewelry to the evolution of personal brand. We also have our special co-host @thirdcoastgems joining in the fun. (We apologize for the background noise. At least you get a little sense of the NYC vibe.)
00:00:00 Who is the alpha? 00:25:00 We’re in NYC w/ @julielambny and @thirdcoastgems 01:10:00 What is your first memory with a gemstone or a piece of jewelry? 02:14:00 Give us your life history 05:01:00 Looking at colleges with a metal studio 06:35:00 When did you decide to do you own thing? 07:24:00 Yes, Avon had jewelry 08:49:00 Seeing someone own a piece of your jewelry 10:45:00 Your relationship with @thirdcoastgems as a brand advocate 11:15:00 So you started your own thing? 15:29:00 You took all you learned in Julie Lamb 21:10:00 Your first launch 23:42:50 Nicknames 24:35:00 When did you start using gemstones? 27:17:00 Then came metropolis 35:04:50 We are in the business of selling not buying 40:42:00 What is the future of Julie Lamb?
Today we answer a fans question about gemstone cuts. By no means are we experts on how to actually cut/facet gemstones rather, we’ll discuss the evolution of gem cutting and the different cut styles.
00:00:00 50th Episode 01:01:00 Common Cold 02:15:00 Introduction of Gem Cutting 03:33:00 When do you think humans began cutting gemstones 04:37:00 Bruting 05:38:00 3000 BC 06:41:00 The oldest gemstone used in jewelry 06:59:00 Other gemstones that were easy to manipulate during this time 08:01:50 Middle Ages 09:30:00 Cabochons to harness magical properties 10:37:00 The hunt to get diamonds to sparkle 11:17:00 1380 12:00:00 16th Century 12:25:00 Bruting diamonds 12:55:00 The culet 13:33:00 Hello, single cut gemstone 14:53:00 The gemstone tells us what it can do 16:14:00 Cutting colored gemstones vs. diamonds 16:52:00 Face up shape 19:43:00 The parts of the gemstone 20:32:00 Brilliant cut/variation of cuts/faceting
Today we answer a fans question about gemstone cuts. By no means are we experts on how to actually cut/facet gemstones rather, we’ll discuss the evolution of gem cutting and the different cut styles.
00:000:00 50th Episode
01:01:00 Common Cold
02:15:00 Introduction of Gem Cutting
03:33:00 When do you think humans began cutting gemstones
04:37:00 Bruting
05:38:00 3000 BC
06:41:00 The oldest gemstone used in jewelry
06:59:00 Other gemstones that were easy to manipulate during this time
08:01:50 Middle Ages
09:30:00 Cabochons to harness magical properties
10:37:00 The hunt to get diamonds to sparkle
11:17:00 1380
12:00:00 16th Century
12:25:00 Bruting diamonds
12:55:00 The culet
13:33:00 Hello, single cut gemstone
14:53:00 The gemstone tells us what it can do
16:14:00 Cutting colored gemstones vs. diamonds
16:52:00 Face up shape
19:43:00 The parts of the gemstone
20:32:00 Brilliant cut/variation of cuts/faceting
Halloween is here and we couldn’t resist an opportunity to talk about cursed gemstones and jewelry. We go as far back to the legendary Hope Diamond, The Curse of the Delhi Purple Sapphire, The Black Orlov and yes, even a cursed opal.
00:00:00 Garlic Breath 00:41:00 Halloween Special – Cursed Jewelry 01:44:00 The most famous cursed gemstone – The Hope Diamond 02:35:00 It all began in the year of 1666 04:05:00 1678 – Louise the 14th = French Blue 05:02:00 Louise the 15th = Order of the Golden Fleece 05:47:00 Louise the 16th 06:13:00 When things start to go south 07:24:00 And then the stone disappeared 08:03:00 20 years later the Hope Diamond appeared 08:41:00 1812 – Sold to King George the IV and it’s transition to the Hope Family 09:19:00 16 years after the Hope Estate 10:29:00 Getting picked up by Cartier 10:45:00 Attempting to turn it lucky 11:49:00 No hope for the Hope Diamond 12:12:50 The final curse of the Hope Diamond 13:01:00 Cool qualities about the Hope Diamond 13:36:00 The curse of the Delhi Purple Sapphire (aka Amethyst) 14:08:00 A letter from Heron Allen to the future processor of the Amethyst 18:33:00 A curse opal 21:10:00 The Black Orlov
We did Gold and now it’s Silvers turn. It is recognized as one of the 7 metals of antiquity and this week we dive into its deep history—from its physical properties to its everyday applications. We even discover the folklore behind why all monsters are destroyed by this precious metal. Come take a listen and even learn how to make it rain with SILVER!!!
00:00:00 Training for a half marathon 01:10:00 Hello . . . SILVER 02:55:00 Transition metal and silver qualities 04:55:00 Why is Silver white? 06:12:00 Silver is the highest electrical conductor 07:25:00 It’s also in mirrors 08:35:00 Silver making contact with Sulfur 09:29:00 To clean off tarnish from Silver 10:10:00 You can plate silver 12:09:00 Silver used in artificial rain making 12:47:00 Medical use to prevent infection 13:45:00 The history of Silver 14:56:00 Cuppelation 15:55:00 Earliest extractions of Silver 17:03:00 Hack Silver 17:28:00 The rise of the Greek and Roman Empire 18:32:00 19th Century with Silver 18:56:50 Into the folklore
Benjamin Guttery, of @thirdcoastgems, was in Idaho and we couldn’t resist the opportunity to record another podcast with him. We sit down and learn about his 14-day excursion unearthing the Brazilian mines--from road trip woes to #birthdaygoals playing with gemstones straight from the source. Pull up a chair and take a listen as we relive this one-of-kind mining experience.
00:00:00 Bobo = silly 00:25:00 Benjamin Guttery of @thirdcoastgems 01:42:00 Gem Junkies OG 03:10:00 Eating in Brazil – Churrascaria 05:08:00 You went as a guest for the government 06:24:00 Brazil is the Outback of gems 06:53:00 Start us out on your tour 08:43:00 Belo Horizonte – one of the largest jewelry cutting centers 09:16:00 A long drive to Ouro Preto 09:59:00 Going into the Gold mines 11:54:00 Imperial Topaz Mines 13:20:00 Cachaca: Brazilian liquor 14:55:00 Imperial Topaz continued . . . 16:35:00 Why Imperial Topaz hasn’t taken off the same way as other gemstones 17:35:00 Gold mining 19:14:50 Government involvement with mining and land reclamation 19:56:00 Itabira and the Belmont Emerald Mines 23:10:00 How long have they been in operation 25:00:00 Birthday at the mines 28:13:00 Iolite in an emerald mine 29:50:00 Learning Portuguese 30:18:00 Sorting process 31:38:00 Governador Valadares – Cruzeiro Tourmaline Mines 34:03:00 Interesting Brazil fact!! 35:13:00 The Saint of Miners 37:24:00 São José da Safira 39:59:00 Benji sized mining gear 41:07:00 Going down the tourmaline mine 51:40:00 Wash plant – piecing back together the tourmaline 52:24:00 Seven Fine Gems Offices 54:38:00 Quick run down of the last week of the trip
Getting to know you, getting to know all about Parle. We sit town with another Parle team member, Marty Burns, who is one of our traveling sales consultants. As a child panning for gold in the Merced River, Marty was destined to be involved in the jewelry industry. We sit down and learning about his early beginnings in the jewelry industry and even tornadoes.
00:00:00 Story-time 01:01:50 Puzzles 02:22:00 Parle Team Member – Marty Burns 03:08:00 Tell us about your start in the jewelry industry 08:41:00 How did you get to Oklahoma? 11:59:00 So what you do for us is sales 12:30:00 What was the most interesting thing you’ve appraised? 14:14:50 How do you determine the value of a piece? 15:25:00 Did you ever have to go to court? 16:11:00 Insurance replacement value vs. cost/actual value 18:25:00 What does your day look like? 20:39:00 What is your earliest memory of a gemstone or piece of jewelry? 21:33:00 What’s your favorite gemstone? 23:19:00 (Down a rabbit hole) Let’s talk about tornadoes 30:59:00 Upcoming events with Marty
We went straight to the source to learn more about Montana Sapphire from the Rock Creek mountains of Montana. We were honored to have a guided tour from Warren Boyd, of Potentate. From the early findings, mining techniques to how they responsibly source Sapphires to ensure many years of sapphires to come.
00:00:00 Who drank all the coffee? 00:47:50 Welcome back, welcome back, welcome back 01:04:00 Introduction to Warren Boyd 01:34:00 Tell us about you first! How did you get here? 02:29:50 How did you get involved with this particular project? 02:59:00 How long have you been actively mining this area? < Some discussion about ethically and responsibly mining> 04:17:50 On-site Water Clarification System 05:07:00 Why is so important in this particular situation/setting? 05:49:00 Why water clarification for the production side? 06:17:00 THE AMOUNT OF SAPPHIRE!! How is that? 07:35:50 Tell us about the percentage of the size of rough that your typically retrieve 08:19:00 What does that mean as the sufficient size to cut and facet? 09:07:00 How does that break down size wise? 09:50:00 What is the average percentage from a rough to a cut stone? What percentage do you retain? 11:05:00 This feels like home 12:45:00 The cows are a coming 13:10:00 The reclamation of the land and a little more history of the mine 15:08:00 Technology advancement in mining 15:56:00 Only mining 5 acres at a time . . .more details about land reclamation 17:41:00 The history 18:23:50 Old timers mined the gullies 19:14:00 It’s not alluvial? 20:04:00 You said that this area is geologically different? 21:10:50 The benefits of looking at historical data and science in order to mine 21:55:00 The longevity of Montana Sapphire 22:46:50 Scalable processing operation 23:09:50 What is your first memory of either a gemstone or a piece of jewelry? 24:21:00 You also have a twin 25:39:00 What is your favorite gemstone? 26:43:60 There is a difference of the deposits within Montana
“To shine, to gleam, or to be yellow or green.” This week is all about the Midas touch --- GOLD! We explore the early history of gold, some fundamental basics, how it has become the metal of choice and of course, the lore behind it all.
00:00:00 Take 1 to 11
00:39:00 GOLD
01:42:00 What does gold mean?
02:22:00 Early history of mining for gold
03:08:00 Oldest known mine
03:33:00 Oldest recorded metal employed by humans
03:41:00 But why did we decided that gold would be the metal of choice
(A look into its properties)
06:11:00 Why else is gold desirable to work with?
08:28:00 Understanding karat gold
09:44:00 Mixing other metals with gold = alloying
15:20:00 Plentiful sources
17:37:00 Where did gold come from?
20:40:00 Gold in the ocean!! SAY WHAT!!
21:48:00 The quest for gold
25:00:00 History of the gold welding band
27:51:50 You can also eat it
29:33:00 Aura around gold
30:21:00 Alchemy
33:05:00 History between mercury and gold 00:00:00
“To shine, to gleam, to be yellow and green.” This week is all about the Midas touch --- GOLD! We explore the early history of gold, some fundamental basics, how it has become the metal of choice and of course, the lore behind it all.
00:00:00 Take 1 to 11 00:39:00 GOLD 01:42:00 What does gold mean? 02:22:00 Early history of mining for gold 03:08:00 Oldest known mine 03:33:00 Oldest recorded metal employed by humans 03:41:00 But why did we decided that gold would be the metal of choice (A look into its properties) 06:11:00 Why else is gold desirable to work with? 08:28:00 Understanding karat gold 09:44:00 Mixing other metals with gold = alloying 15:20:00 Plentiful sources 17:37:00 Where did gold come from? 20:40:00 Gold in the ocean!! SAY WHAT!! 21:48:00 The quest for gold 25:00:00 History of the gold welding band 27:51:50 You can also eat it 29:33:00 Aura around gold 30:21:00 Alchemy 33:05:00 History between mercury and gold
Getting to know you, getting to know all about . . . Paul! You’ve heard us reference Paul throughout other episodes so its time we put him in the hot seat. Parlé wouldn’t be the same company without him because heck, he manages our whole production team. We learn about his childhood passion for minerals and his journey into his role.
Don’t forget to email us at gemjunkies@parlegems.com or DM us via FB or IG to ask Paul questions you would like to know about production.
00:00:00 Parlé Spiders 00:43:00 Welcome back, welcome back 01:22:00 Intro to . . . . . . Paul 02:29:00 How long have you worked for Parlé? 03:19:00 Did you come straight out of college? 06:39:00 Instilling cleanliness 06:58:00 Proprietary vs. Secret 07:55:00 Did you ever get to learn how to cut gemstones? 08:21:00 After casting, then what? • Going from geologist to gemologist • Moving into the stone department 12:28:00 Taking a break from Parlé 14:18:00 Coming back to Parlé, in sales . . . . SAY WHAT?!?! 15:30:00 What about your geology background that helps you with gemology? 16:44:00 Where does your passion for geology come from? 18:42:00 Buying together 20:33:00 A day in the life 21:53:00 (Tangent) Farm life: raising Black Angus 23:39:00 A day in the life (continued) 26:46:50 Buying gemstones is fun 27.29.00 What is your favorite gemstone?
Mexican Fire Opal is what is up for the week! Yes, Jonathan and Brecken covered opal in 2 prior podcast episodes but thought it would be best to go into a little more detail about this mystical stone. From Aztec lore to the very core of how this opal is formed.
[Warning: we experience some technical difficulties in the middle of the recording so we apologize for the intermittent sound quality.]
00:24:00 Gemma and a little story time 03:05:00 Mexican Fire Opal introduction 03:47:00 Mexican Fire Opal 04:33:00 Aztec name for Opal 06:19:00 Where it is found 07:18:00 How is it formed? 07:41:00 Hardness 07:55:00 How is it formed (continued) 09:18:00 It almost appears to glow 09:51:00 Fire Opal/Mexican Fire opal mix-up 11:23:00 Play of color 11:52:00 Base colors of Fire Opal 12:58:50 Transparency 13:29:00 Faceted Fire Opal 14:34:00 Needles 15:19:00 Water content in opal 16:58:50 Amorphous crystal structure 18:54:00 Leopard Opal 19:58:50 Mystical properties
It's been awhile but Gem Junkies is back! Jonathan and Brecken talk about the heavenly world of Jade. As always, they'll cover the chemical compositions and Brecken favorite the lore and history among different cultures/civilizations.
00:00:00 Getting back into the swing of things 01:26:00 Intro to Jade 01:56:00 Two types: Nephrite and Jadeite 02:26:00 Toughness vs. Hardness 03:03:00 Toughness scale of Jadeite and Nephrite 03:29:00 Jade is just a general term 05:24:00 Lore - Stone for the pain in the side 05:51:00 Nephrite derives from. . . 06:49:50 More history and lore (the juicy stuff) 06:55:00 Tools and weapons 07:04:00 A great appreciation in China 08:01:00 Chinese association with Jade 08:58:00 Butterfly significance in Chinese legend 09:39:00 Jade should be worn to touch the skin 10:31:00 Jade to reflect the life of the wearer 11:00:00 1784 - How jadeite took over 11:50:00 The importance in New Zealand 12:10:00 Nephrite holds a better edge than iron 12:47:00 Using Nephrite to carve out tiki figures 14:03:00 Wizard to source Nephrite 15:34:00 Jade on Central America 16:31:50 16th century with Jadeite 17:17:00 The impact on the Mayan Culture 17:37:50 Major sources for Jadeite 18:32:00 Major sources for Nephrite 18:46:00 Quality and value (color, transparency and texture) 19:04:00 Finest color (Jadeite) = GREEN 19:33:00 Imperial Jade 20:51:00 Transparency 21:36:00 Texture 23:15:00 Jade treatment/enhancement 24:33:00 FUN FACT: How Jade helped out the opal industry 25:16:00 Blind shopping for Jade 25:43:00 Two varieties of Jadeite 26:30:50 Care for Jade 26:40:00 Purchasing Jade = Price
00:00:00 Mickey isn’t real 01:21:50 Returning to the basement and what we’ve been up to 04:35:00 Phenomenal Gemstones (2) main types: Structure and Inclusions 05:04:00 Structure of phenomenal gemstones 05:24:00 Play of Color Our favorite gemstone – opal 06:11:00 Iridescence = Pearl 07:31:50 Ladradorescence = Ladradorescence 09:22:50 Adularescence = Moonstone 10:48:00 Moonstone Lore 13:01:00 Second Type of Phenomenon: Inclusions 13:09:00 Chatoyancy = Cat Eye + Alexandrite 14:52:00 Milk and Honey effect 16:08:00 Cat Eye Lore 16:36:00 Asterism 17:36:00 Gemstone varieties that exhibit asterism 17:51:00 Idaho Star Opal 18:58:00 Intersecting, paralleling inclusions 20:30:00 Star Sapphire Lore – Stone of Destiny 22:48:00 Adventurescence 23:09:00 Most commonly known = Sunstone 24:19:00 Color change – transitional element 26:04:00 The difference between color change and color shift 27:11:00 Review of the different types of gemstone phenomenons
Ask and you will receive? You all requested more interviews and Jonathan and Brecken come back with another special guest. You can call him Leo Valentine, the Beyoncè of AGS but we know him as John Carter – President of the American Gemstone Society and owner of Jack Lewis Jewelers. Learn about John’s early beginnings at Jack Lewis his transition into ownership and even some awesome gem junkie banter.
00:00:00 Valentine Drive 00:45:00 Introduction to John Carter 02:01:00 What is your first memory of jewelry? 04:04:00 She wanted to buy a really nice cocktail ring 04:51:00 Tell us about Jack Lewis Jewelers. Tell us about how you get your start. 11:45:50 When did you get an opportunity to buy? --Jack Lewis was the reason to stay and attend Illinois State --Fraternity President and learning about leadership and friendship --Time on the road with Maurice Lacroix 24:35:00 And then you went where? Returning to Jack Lewis 30:37:00 The heart of what AGS stands for 40:42:00 How would you tell someone not involved with AGS to get involved with it? 44:49:00 Talking about what we love 45:47:00 Gem Geek-out Banter
A Northern Californian taking the gemstone world by storm with her paintings. Yes, PAINTINGS!! Jonathan and Brecken sit with Angie Crabtree. From her childhood memories to geodes, teaching to stumbling into the world of gemstones we get to better know the woman behind the canvas.
00:40:00 Introduction to Angie Crabtree 01:55:00 What inspired you to do this? 05:23:50 Somehow I accidentally slipped into this 6:48:00 What is your first memory of a gemstone or jewelry? 08:14:50 Going to GIA to get a tour 09:02:50 My first time at AGTA 10:29:50 Growing up on a ranch 11:10:00 I always loved geology 11:41:00 Finding a geode 12:47:00 I’ve always fished too 13:31:00 Have you painted a geode yet? 14:01:00 Have you painted a process series? 12:12:50 My mom is amazing. She is my best friend. 16:39:00 So what goes into doing a live painting? 18:04:00 And then it was opals 19:02:00 What about cellphone cases? 19:55:00 So transitioning to your own painting selections? “Do what inspires me.” 20:49:00 Painting with gemstones 21:24:00 So are you going to Luxury in Vegas? 22:29:50 Coming to the Parle booth
Eureka!! We have diamonds!! Jonathan and Brecken finally talk about the #1 gemstone sold –Diamonds! There’s a lot to cover when it comes to Diamonds so this episode will cover some lore, its history and even touch base on the subject Natural vs. Synthetic Diamonds.
00:00:00 Intro 00:41:00 Diamonds!!! 01:53:50 Discover the best donuts in the world 02:50:00 Back to our regular scheduled program 😊 03:24:00 The name! Where does it come from? 03:47:50 Earliest references of diamonds 04:31:00 4th Century BC in India w/ diamonds 05:05:00 9th Century and Aristotle and Alexander the Great 07:39:00 600 AD 08:08:00 Lore behind Diamond dust 12:06:50 In Ancient China 12:28:50 1800s demand for diamonds changed 12:48:00 The “Modern Diamond Market” 14:54:50 3 years after the Eureka Diamond 15:23:00 The making of De Beers 16:36:00 From 1871 – 1915 17:59:00 “Diamonds are forever” 19:53:00 What is a Diamond? 21:16:00 The most common habit 24:10:00 Help us answer a question 24:23:00 Let’s talk color!! 25:43:00 Color: order from least rare to rare 26:39:00 Black Diamonds 27:36:00 Let’s talk about the 4 – Cs 27:52:00 Clarity 28.22:00 Color 29:49:00 Cut 30:21:00 Carat weight 31:17:50 Natural vs. Synthetic 36:57:00 Responsible sourcing 38:12:50 Call to ask from you the followers!!
Eureka!! We have diamonds!! Jonathan and Brecken finally talk about the #1 gemstone sold –Diamonds! There’s a lot to cover when it comes to Diamonds so this episode will cover some lore, its history and even touch base on the subject Natural vs. Synthetic Diamonds.
00:00:00 Intro
00:41:00 Diamonds!!!
01:53:50
02:50:00 Back to our regular scheduled program 😊
03:24:00 The name! Where does it come from?
03:47:50 Earliest references of diamonds
04:31:00 4th Century BC in India w/ diamonds
05:05:00 9th Century and Aristotle and Alexander the Great
07:39:00 600 AD
08:08:00 Lore behind Diamond dust
12:06:50 In Ancient China
12:28:50 1800s demand for diamonds changed
12:48:00 The “Modern Diamond Market”
14:54:50 3 years after the Eureka Diamond
15:23:00 The making of De Beers
16:36:00 From 1871 – 1915
17:59:00 “Diamonds are forever”
19:53:00 What is a Diamond?
21:16:00 The most common habit
24:10:00 Help us answer a question
24:23:00 Let’s talk color!!
25:43:00 Color: order from least rare to rare
26:39:00 Black Diamonds
27:36:00 Let’s talk about the 4 – Cs
27:52:00 Clarity
28.22:00 Color
29:49:00 Cut
30:21:00 Carat weight
31:17:50 Natural vs. Synthetic
36:57:00 Responsible sourcing
38:12:50 Call to ask from you the followers!!
Part III of the interview series from the Tucson AGTA Gem Fair. Jonathan and Brecken interview fellow designer William Travis Kukovich. Transforming his life from a traumatic childhood to becoming a recipient of 17 AGTA Spectrum Awards.
00:00:00 How the podcast started? 00:48:00 Introducing William Travis Kukovich 01:26:80 Want to see the scar? 01:56:00 So you were 4 years old. What happened? 04:44:00 You said your brain rewired itself. 05:28:00 I can sculpt anything 06:11:50 I don’t write, I draw words 06:34:20 5th generation metalsmith 09:05:00 Take us through your story 10:40:70 So after school, did you open up a store immediately? 13:32:30 At 26, Breast Cancer 18:39:50 Warrior rings 21:04:80 My kids 24:51:50 To live like you were dying 26:05:00 What inspired your first Spectrum Award piece? 27:47:00 First memory of jewelry/gemstone 29:56:00 Favorite Gemstone 30:29:00 Where does the inspiration come from when you’re creating Spectrum pieces 32:04:00 What comes first? Designer? Gemstone? 32:47:00 What makes a great designer? 34:23:50 Where are you now? 37:02.20 Where is this journey going to take you next? 39:45:50 Saying “YES”
St. Patrick’s day is just around the corner and to bring in as much luck as possible we explore the lore behind lucky gemstones. Crack open a beer, enjoy some laughs and discover the perfect gemstone to bring you the best luck!!
1:05:00 Juicy Gem 2:49:00 Green. The color of St. Patrick’s Day and Luck 4:40:00 Finding luck in Jade 5:24:00 Luck in birthstones > Zodiac birthstone gemstone 7:41:00 Aquarius = Garnet 8:05:00 Pisces = Amethyst 8:23:00 Aries = Bloodstone 8:50:00 Taurus = Sapphire 9:26:00 Gemini = Agate 9:42.00 Cancer = Emerald 10:02:00 Leo = Onyx 10:27:00 Virgo = Carnelian 10:43:50 Libra = Chrysolite/Peridot 11:52:50 Scorpio = Beryl 12:45:00 Sagittarius = Topaz 13:00:00 Capricorn = Ruby 13:58:00 Optimizing the powers of your gemstone 15:00:00 Do you have a ring you like to wear that brings you luck? 16:09:50 An unlikely stone 21:13:50 Most Famous Stone in Ireland
Jonathan and Brecken explore the world of Aquamarine. The birthstone of March provides unique gemstone qualities and an expansive folklore behind it. Who wouldn’t want to conjure people from the dead, carry a piece of mermaid treasure or ensure a life-long marriage?
0:25.0 Welcome! We’re back in the basement!! (Reminisce about Tucson and meeting Gem Junkie fans) 3:05.0 So aqua, in the barrel family (Birthstone and other barrel gemstones) 4:06.0 Where does the name Aquamarine come from 4:47.0 Gem Lore #1 – Mermaids 5:23.0 Gem Lore #2 – Why was it worn? 5:43.0 Gem Lore #3 – Love 6:28.0 Gem Lore #4 – Cleansing emotional body and open communication 6:48.0 Gem Lore #5 – Long life lover stone 7:21.0 Gem Lore #6 -- Color Energy 8:09.0 Gem Lore #7 – During the Middle Ages 9:00.0 Gem Lore #8 – Meditation 9:25.0 Continue with Gem Lore #6 – During the Middle Ages 13:16.07 King Wenceslas (Brecken sings us a little tune!!! A MUST LISTEN!) 16:56.0 Aquamarine Color 17.25.0 It grows in pegmatites 18:15.0 Cutting Aquamarine 22:49.0 Treatment for Aquamarine
Jonathan and Brecken interview Danielle Miele of Gem Gossip. From her early childhood memories with jewelry, how Gem Gossip started and even about her new role into motherhood.
0:35.00 – Introduction with Gem Gossip 1:14.20 – Starting out as a blog 1:36.20 – What is your first memory of a piece of jewelry/gemstone? 2:59.00 – If your family in the jewelry/gemstone business? 3:13.00 – How did you get involved with jewelry? 6:05.00 – Substitute teaching, then what? 7:06.50 – Why Nashville? 7:46.60 – Is this when you started your blog? 8:50.30 – Where does your style get inspired from? 10:03.00 – What is your favorite gemstone? 10:14.00 – First memory of the opal you saw 11:09.50 – Opal Superstition 13:10.00 – What’s the future of Gem Gossip? 14:18.00 – Is there a time period/style that you look for when purchasing? 15:05.00 – Do you have any tips on purchasing estate jewelry? 16:31.00 – Do you have a shopping list of what you’re looking for? 20:11.30 – Having a little boy? 20:38.00 – Any names picked out? 22:05.70 – Do you plan top bring him out to Tucson next year?
Tuscon was another great year and we were fortunate enough to interview THE Doug Hucker -- CEO of AGTA. Take look into how it all with the AGTA Gem Fair, the lore behind the show and even define the term "ethically sourced".
0:46.0 - First memory of a piece of jewelry or gemstone 1:30.0 - What's your story? How did you get here? 5:41.0 - What direction are you steering the ship? 8:06.0 - Elaborating on disclosure/transparency about gemstones 9:25.0 - What does the AGTA provide in regards to education? 16:46.0 - Showing color 20:07.0 - AGTA Experience 22:06.0 - Passion, knowledge and success. 23:08.0 - Excitement around color 25:32.0 - How did the show get started? 32.17.0 - Favorite Tuscon experience 36.33.5 - What was the first year you came to Tuscon? 40:02.0 - Ehtically sourced 43:35.0 - Let's define what doing good is? 49:37.0 - Smiles from mine-to-market
Tuscon was another great year and we were fortunate enough to interview THE Doug Hucker -- CEO of AGTA. Take look into how it all with the AGTA Gem Fair, the lore behind the show and even define the term "ethically sourced".
0:46.0 - First memory of a piece of jewelry or gemstone
1:30.0 - What's your story? How did you get here?
5:41.0 - What direction are you steering the ship?
8:06.0 - Elaborating on disclosure/transparency about gemstones
9:25.0 - What does the AGTA provide in regards to education?
16:46.0 - Showing color
20:07.0 - AGTA Experience
22:06.0 - Passion, knowledge and success.
23:08.0 - Excitement around color
25:32.0 - How did the show get started?
32.17.0 - Favorite Tuscon experience
36.33.5 - What was the first year you came to Tuscon?
40:02.0 - Ehtically sourced
43:35.0 - Let's define what doing good is?
49:37.0 - Smiles from mine-to-market
Back to talking about gemstones!! Explore the wonders of Montana Sapphire. Jonathan and Brecken discuss the early beginnings and the lore behind America's finest gemstone.
Jonathan interviews Brecken and puts her in the hot seat. Reminisce through childhood memories and her journey leading into the world of jewelry.
Getting to know you, getting to know all about -- Jonathan!! We've spent this past year talking about gemstones and thought you should get to know us a little more. Get a personal interview about Jonathan--childhood memories growing up in the jewelry industry, being an SOB (not the SOB you're thinking of) and some personal stories.
Starting off the new year with January's birthstone, Garnet. While it provides the world a wide array of colors (except blue) Jonathan and Brecken explore the world of the red tones of the Garnet Family. From Biblical times to Greek mythology Garnet has made it stamp in history.
Jonathan and Brecken reflect on the past year--share more stories and look back on their favorite episodes. In the Holiday Spirit, they also talk about how Parle is giving back to the jewelry community. Stay tuned for the full episode for a special Parle surprise!!
Jonathan and Brecken reflect on the past year--share more stories and look back on their favorite episodes. In the Holiday Spirit, they also talk about how Parle is giving back to the jewelry community. Stay tuned for the full episode for a special Parle surprise!!
This year marks 45 years in the jewelry business for Parle!! Jonathan and Brecken interview the man who started it all, Frank Farnsworth. It's a journey into the past--the first mining excursion, being on the road, how the industry has evolved and tips for future entrepreneurs.
Jonathan and Brecken discuss Zircons unique properties-- high doubling, high refractive index and even radioactive!! (Don't worry it's not harmful to wear.) Even learn how to ward off phantoms and demons. Intrigued? Come take a listen!!
Gem Junkies are back!! Brecken shares her recent buying experience purchasing in Hong Kong. What a common day looks like being on the road and buying tips. The Holiday are here and they give a shopping guide to help select the perfect piece of jewelry to gift.
Brecken and Jonathan break out the purple quartz and their drinking goblets this episode to talk all about the sobering gemstone- Amethyst. This variety of quartz has been adorned by some of the most pious in history, making it quit a "pure" stone, but where is it from, and how does it get it's color? Well, just listen to find out!
Brecken & Jonathan are in a golden state of mind in this week's episode where they discuss November's birthstone, Citrine. Learn the recipe to a great new detox (just in time for the Holiday food fest!), how to get "more smarter," and all that other science-y stuff the Gem Junkies bring. Get into the ~Golden~ mood with us.
On this Halloween Special be careful of holding onto your gems too tightly, as they might turn on you. Brecken and Jonathan take us back to a time where gemstones would come alive, and possess secret powers- a time when science couldn't answer the ponderous sundries of coincidence and superstition. But were all of those ancients really crazy- or do some gemstones actually display some otherworldly gifts?
Brecken & Jonathan tackle another member of the Garnet family- this one turns green under pressure- the Grossular Garnet! Known to the jewelry industry as Mint or Tsavorite Garnet this beauty can rival that of Emerald, but how? Learn more about its well-timed discovery, the science behind its green glow, and what the jewelry market makes of this green goddess with this weeks episode!
This week Jonathan and Brecken talk about something truly phenomenal- Alexandrite. This two-faced gemstone has captivated the gemstone world by setting the standard for a true color-changing gem. The question is, how? Catch this show for the breakdown of science, lore, and the gemstone market, all about Alex!
00:00:00 Sorry Standford 00:30:00 We’re back and gators 02:13:00 A request for Alexandrite 02:43:00 What is Alexandrite? 03:17:00 187 years ago it was discovered 04:03:00 A royal gemstone 04:46:00 1861 05:33:00 Heavily linked to Indian lore and astrology 06:57:00 After WWII in Russia 08:24:00 So chrysoberyl . . . 09:09:00 How light source can affect the color of a gemstone 09:49:00 Where does Alexandrite come from? 10:07:00 The Russian source 10:43:00 Sri Lanka source 11:32:00 Brazil 13:15:00 Synthetic Alexandrite 14:11:00 Did you know that Alexandrite can have another phenomenon?
Because of popular demand Gem Junkies explore the long and exotic history of Turquoise. A gemstone as old as time is sure to have been used for some weird stuff. Explore the lore and science behind this blue treasure and keep an eye out for a Turquoise on your next shopping trip- Brecken will be!
Gem Junkies are back from their venture into Tanzania to explore the mines of the gemstones featured in 'Sharing The Rough.' They recap their visit to the mines, the cutters, and the Maasai school, and of course the SAFARI! Join us for a fun episode, and get some insights on how the jewelry industry does business.
Wrapping things up in our own special coating of Nacre with our part 2 of the Pearl series. Brecken and Jonathan follow the life of a well-traveled Pearl, we also head to a very strange place to uncover the worlds biggest Pearl, all while discussing what makes this little organic gem so valuable. Join us for this epic journey into the sea of Pearls!
00:00:00 Your fly is down 00:41:00 Assembling furniture/A busy weekend 02:50:00 Back to Pearls . . .the worlds LARGEST pearl 04:00:00 Any mollusk can produce a pearl 05:01:00 Another famous pearl in history – La Peregrina 09:29:50 There are 7 factors that go into the value of a pearl: https://www.gia.edu/pearl-quality-factor 09:37:00 Factor #1 – Size 10:06:00 Factor #2 – Shape 13:42:00 Factor #3—Color 16:09:00 Factor #4 – Luster classification 17:21:00 Factor #5 – Surface quality 18:04:00 Factor #6—Surface quality 20:38:00 Nacre and its chalk appearance 21:11:00 Factor #7—Matching pearls 23:14:00 To make black pearls 24:41:00 Gamma rays 25:41:00 The process of essence d’orient 26:27:00 How to take care of your pearls
For more details and articles head over to GIA: https://www.gia.edu/pearl
Well, with the world as our oyster there is only one thing on our mind- PEARLS. Brecken & Jonathan begin to delve into this timeless, organic gemstone in their two-part series. In this episode, we learn how Cleopatra brings all the kings to the yard, how Oysters are responsible for these glossy beauties, and Jonathan discovers an easy way to cool off in the hot summer months. So gather around the campfire fellow junkies, and let's get gemmy!
00:00:00 Gonads 00:18:00 The world is our oyster = Pearl 01:43:00 First mention in history 02:02:00 Association with the moon 02:13:00 Ancient times 02:38:00 So where did these Ancient people get their pearls? 02:55:00 Christopher Columbus discovering pearls when he came to the new world 03:48:00 Cleopatra and her pearls 06:12:50 What is a pearl? 07:33:00 The pearl's luster 08:36:00 Pearls were treasured in ancient times 09:22:00 Overfishing led to the development of cultured pearls 11:23:00 Farming pearls 14:55:00 Cultured pearls 17:07:00 In the 90’s . . . 17:48:00 South Sea cultured pearls 20:32:00 Tahitian Pearls 23:20:00 Freshwater cultured pearls
Finally, the track we have been teasing about- Brecken and Jonathan discuss a fiercely trending gem, and all of the death and destruction revolving around this impostor crystal. So come for the lore, and stay for the science as we breakdown Spinel in this week's episode of GEM JUNKIES.
Gem Junkies, Brecken and Jonathan spend this week chatting with friend, and beloved Instagram Jewelry Guru, Benjamin Guttery, a.k.a. THIRD COAST GEMS! We hear how Benjamin and Third Coast Gems came to be, get a hard lesson in consistency and perseverance in the social media game, and are given insights into the magic behind a great Instagram presence.
Brecken and Jonathan Farnsworth sit down and chat with good friend, and filmmaker, Orin Mazzoni, to discuss his most recent work documenting the journey of a gemstone from mine to market. His film takes a deeper look at all of the hands a gemstone touches and the lives it affects along the way as it is crafted into a piece of jewelry. The jewelry industry is a funny thing and has a way of pulling people back in and deeper than before. Hear the touching story of Orin's family and see how even when we think we want to escape our roots, they can be our biggest inspiration.
This week we touch on a pretty gemstone that you might be surprised comes in more colors than blue- TOPAZ. Brecken wants to share stories of what those crazy ancient people thought the stone did, and Jonathan makes a medical discovery. As always we will delve in to a lesson on color and answer the question, "You mean Topaz isn't just blue?!" Oh boy, fellow Gem Junkie, do we have show in store for you!
This week on the pod, junkies Brecken and Jonathan dive into the legends, history, market, and science behind this green(ish), August birthstone. Whether you perido like it or preidon't like this gemmy, you should peritry to understand it!
This week on the pod junkies Brecken and Jonathan dive into the legends, history, market, and science behind this green(ish) August birthstone. Whether you perido like it or preidon't like this gemmy, you should peritry to understand it!
A curiosity recently unveiled in the gemstone world, this week Brecken & Jonathan talk Tanzanite. What makes them gemstone valuable, and why does that change so much? What gives this gemstone color, AND WhY DOeS ThaT CHaNGE sO MUCh?! So many questions, well we've got some answers!
On this episode of Gem Junkies, Brecken and Jonathan discuss a little of everything, everything but the kitchen sink. We are talking Tourmaline, people! You asked, so here it is a full episode on this colorful, fun, and jam packed gem.
Brecken & Jonathan are back with part 2 in the Sapphire series where they discuss the rainbow world of this corundum. Sapphire is a sophisticated gem, she has many sides. They also take a look at Phenomenal Sapphires and discuss the market for these fancy- and I do mean FANCY- Sapphire
The truth is revealed on this episode of Gem Junkies. Where are Blue Sapphires mined? What makes them blue? Wait, isn't that the same stuff that makes Ruby, red? The answer to all this and more can be found in the episode! We wouldn't lie to you, we have our Sapphires on.
All the best things in life are green... We’re talkin’ Emeralds, people! Gem Junkies cross off number 2 of the big three (Rubies, Emeralds, & Sapphires). We head to COLOOOMBIAAA, check out Emerald mines, and look at this inclusive little gem. Join the Junkies and get hooked!
00:00:00 Jardin 01:00:00 Recuperating from the Luxury/JCK Show 04:14:00 Ruby correction 04:42:50 B for beryl = Emerald 06:54:00 When you are talking about Emerald, they have inclusions Not clean to the eye How they are treated 08:30:00 Differentiate between oil and resin 09:18:00 Durability 09:50:00 Purchasing emeralds 10:11:00 13th Century Italy 11:00:00 Mt. Smaragdus 12:00:00 Seeing the future 12:21:00 To reveal truth 13:17:00 Cure diseases 13:38:00 Protection against evil spells 13:48:00 Traditional birthstone for May 13:56:00 When the first Emerald were found 14:22:00 Cleopatra and her love for Emeralds 14:42:00 Who else mined the Egyptian mines? 15:16:00 Columbia is where the best Emeralds are found 16:09:00 Ethiopian Emeralds 16:42:00 In terms of production . . . 17:19:00 3 mining districts in Columbia 17:33:00 Trapiche Emeralds 18:16:00 3 phase inclusions 19:10:00 The traditional Emerald Cut 20:20:00 How are they found? 21:03:00 How are they mined? 23:13:00 (Storytime) Visiting Emerald mines in Brasil 24:17:00 African Emeralds 25:08:00 Synthetic Emeralds
We are ready for part two on Opals. In this episode we head to the south, the southest of souths- Australia! We talk opal types, miners, markets, and kangaroos. So, grab your breaky (as any Aussie would say) and join us!
All hail The King of Gemstones, RUBY! You might have heard of it, but do you know why its so renowned and associated with wealth and power? Or what gives Ruby the rich red color? Gemologists and jewelry designers Brecken and Jonathan explore the hefty reputation of this prized gemstone.
00:00:00 Col-o-ra-do 00:36:00 Tell us how hard our teeth are? (Follow-up question from prior podcast episode.) 01:46:00 Ruby – The King of all gemstones 02:19:00 Corundum family 02:28:00 Pink Sapphire vs. Ruby 03:33:00 The color red 05:29:00 How rubies are formed 06:01:00 What kind of deposits they're found in? 06:28:00 Chromium 06:49:00 Rubies from Cambodia and Thailand 07:18:50 Rubies from Greenland 07:48:00 Ruby formation and connection with Pangea 08:34:00 Ruby mining 08:50:00 The specific gravity of ruby 09:35:00 Burma rubies 09:47:00 Mozambique rubies 10:07:00 Global Demand 11:28:00 Tom Lantos Act 12:05:00 Valuing a ruby 13:32:00 Rutile needles and treatment 14:42:00 Inclusions and check out @microworldofgems on Instagram 15:57:00 Glass-filled rubies 16:34:00 Color treatment 17:16:00 Ruby Market and pricing 18:16:00 [Storytime] Growing up with ruby marbles
We are ready for part two on Opals. In this episode we head to the south, the southest of souths- Australia! We talk opal types, miners, markets, and kangaroos. So, grab your breaky (as any aussie would say) and join us!
What do Opals, Queen Victoria, and a sassy shoulder have in common? Find out as we introduce Part One of our Opal series. In this episode we discuss the origination of Opals, the science behind their creation, stories and fables from this ancient gemstone, and a brief look at all of the regions producing this fabulous rainbow gem.
Gemologists and Jewelry Designers Brecken and Jonathan Farnsworth discuss a new discovery in the gemstone world.