April 05, 2017

The Gemist: Stone File App

April 05, 2017/ Kathleen Marino

The Gemist: Stone File (The Gemist Gemstone File in the Google Play Store) application for iOS and Android is brand new this year. The app packs a lot of information into its $2.99 price tag. It provides the user with not only a gem reference guide but also a list of gemology/geology basics and gemological tests.

The app is the brainchild of students who are part of the very first BSc gemology and jewelry studies program at Birmingham City University, United Kingdom, a program that is partnered by the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A). Ryan O’Sullivan along with his colleagues Matin Abbassi DGA, Amber Clohessy-Brown DGA, Kushagra Rastogi FGA DGA, Kyalo Kiilu FGA DGA, and Olusegun Akintayo FGA DGA compiled information that they learned during their coursework into a succinct and much more portable format. O’Sullivan says, “While studying I had long thought how it would be ideal to have a phone app with easy access to useful gemmological constants and recaps on some key theories and concepts...the idea was borne out of a wish to start collating all the data we were getting from the full time testing and projects we were doing at University.”

The app includes:

A guide for testing and grading diamonds, gems & crystals
A gem reference file and high quality photos for over 120+ varieties of gemstones
The geological nature of diamonds & gemstones (occurrence, origin, locality)
Physical and optical properties of crystals and cut diamonds & gemstones
An overview of gemmological equipment and tools, the 4C's
Identifying common treatments and synthetics, like those seen in diamond, emerald, ruby & sapphire
Exploration, mining and recovery

All of this information and more are separated into four sections titled “Stones”, “Basics”, “Tests”, and “More” that are listed in a menu bar at the bottom of the app.

The “Stones” section displays a list of gem species from andalusite to zoisite, includes glass and an “organics” listing. When you tap on each species either a list of gemstone varieties or detailed information about the gem species is presented. For stones that list varieties once you click on the variety the details are displayed. The information includes: chemical composition, localities, crystal system, as well as physical and optical properties such as specific gravity, hardness, fracture, transparency, luster, etc. Some of the stones also list synthetic, simulants, and composites. The topics covered in “Basics” include the earth’s geological processes, crystal structure, composites & simulants, gem classifications, and so much more. “Tests” tackles the broad scope of gemological testing. The user can tap on various types of tests or testing equipment such as observation, or dichroscope and see what each method entails. The last section of the app is “More” which contains links to further resources and labs, links to the creators, and a contact page.

$fracture screenshot.jpg$

The Gemist app really stands apart from other gemology apps that I have used when it comes to the “Basics” and “Tests” section. The range of topics that they cover really impressed me. Gemist has effectively crammed a mini course in gemology and geology into an app format. I immediately recognized that this app was tailored for a trained or in-training gemologist, which I found to be quite refreshing. It clearly defined and explained concepts without too much oversimplification, much like a refresher course in gemology. This is not to say that the app is inaccessible to the novice by any means; the resources listed in their “More” section will help enthusiasts expand on everything that is covered in the app.

Because this app is so new I have high hopes that it will continue to expand and improve over time. The inclusion of a sort of index and dictionary for common terms as well as more images top my list of requested additions. O’Sullivan states that the app is “a great canvas to build upon, improve the content, and expand.” A fellow student at BCU, Laura Boccardo (pending DGA), is currently helping to translate and create an Italian language version which should be ready for the summer and O’Sullivan is optimistic that it will be available in other key languages soon thereafter. Beyond the expected updates for reorganization and cleanup O’Sullivan is already looking towards his next big step. He would like to add original article based content written by gemologists. He sees the app as an eventual community for gemologists to share ideas, “As we all move on from the BSc, with some of us entering into varying jobs or going onto relevant Masters, we could provide a nice microcosm of the gem industry in the future.”

O'Sullivan and his colleagues will undoubtedly have more exciting updates for this app and other projects in their future. I absolutely recommend this app to any practicing gemologist or gem enthusiast and I look forward to see what The Gemist company adds in the future.

Buy on ITunes

Buy on Google Play

Want to try this app for free? Make sure you are following me on Instagram for future giveaways!

Uploaded by The Gemist on 2017-02-11.

March 24, 2016

triple d Diamond & Gemstone Photokit

March 24, 2016/ Kathleen Marino

Taking photographs of gemstones and diamonds can truly be a struggle. Getting a clear crisp professional picture is more, often than not, the result of a lot of expense and wasted time trying to obtain the correct lighting, position, and focus. The triple d Diamond & Gemstone photo kit (available from Kassoy for $299.00) and companion app simplifies this process and makes photographing and sharing images of stones easy and enjoyable.

The triple d Diamond & Gemstone photo kit is a portable professional photo-kit that is designed specifically for use with smartphones. The kit comes in a nicely padded attractive carry case that measures 5-¼” x 3”, allowing it to easily fit in any bag or briefcase. Inside the case is the kit itself. The small size compact kit is comprised of two parts of high quality metal that attach to each other via a magnet, a high quality loupe with an LED light, tweezer stand, and a black and white removable background.

Getting started with the kit is easy. Simply slide the two kit pieces apart and then reattach them via the magnet to form a stand for your smartphone. Flip the background to black or white depending on preference, or remove it altogether. Your smartphone is then placed on the slip-proof silicone pad with the camera lens over the high quality loupe lens. The magnet that attaches the pieces together allows you to slide the base portion across so that your phone’s camera can be positioned properly regardless of the phone’s model or orientation. Once you are ready, flip on the LED light and pick up your stone in your tweezers. The tweezer stand that is on the side of the kit contains an insert that aids in stability and allows you to smoothly spin your tweezers to get images from every angle. The wheel can also be pulled out to allow larger stones to be viewed. Once your stone is positioned and you can see it clearly on your phone’s screen, start shooting; it’s that easy.

triple d has also created a free companion mobile app to facilitate easy sharing of stone images as well as any accompanying information, including any laboratory certificates. Images can be taken through the app or uploaded from your phone’s photos or videos. Once you have an image you then can add any certificates (GIA, EGL, etc) or other specific data. When that is complete, you can send the stone to your contacts or just save it to your library. The app was clean and simple. If I did have questions I found that the tutorials on the company’s website were easy to follow. When sending images of stones you have the option of creating a blind group; think of it like the BCC option in your email, everyone can see the image and information but they can’t see or tell if others are part of the conversation. The app keeps your conversations private and organized. As you can imagine, this can be especially useful for selling stones.

I am very impressed by the triple d photo kit. The compact size and light weight means I can take it anywhere. The LED light allows me to work in all light levels and, coupled with the reversible background, all colors of stones. Even somewhat difficult to photograph stones come out looking near perfect without having to retouch and color correct. The photos are crisp and clear every time right from the start; using the smart phone’s screen as a viewfinder means that I can clearly preview every image and I’m never left guessing whether I have one that works or not. I’m able to zoom in and see inclusions and examine facets without having to change lenses. The flat non-slip surface means I don’t have to fight with instability. Because the kit is made for smartphones, I’m able to easily switch over to video. I especially enjoy the video option because it allows me to present gemstones in a more compelling way.

This triple d photo kit is not designed for photographing jewelry, but I decided to push the product a bit and I was not disappointed. I simply removed the reversible background, used the travel case as extra stability for my hand and either held the piece with a tweezer or my fingers. The results were beautiful clear images of hallmarks, close ups of details on settings, and photographs of set stones as they would be seen through a loupe.

triple d has created a product that eliminates the need for expensive and cumbersome equipment or costly photo studio fees. The easy to use portable setup allows anyone, regardless of skill, to obtain stunning results without the hassle of possible wasted time spent trying to get a good shot. The images that can be captured are professional and beautiful and the ability to take videos can add a dynamic element bringing your stones to life for buyers. I personally would count this among the “must haves” of equipment for photographing diamonds and gemstones.

See the triple d photo kit in action on my youtube channel.

March 12, 2015

Friction Ball Watch Case Back Opener From Kassoy

March 12, 2015/ Kathleen Marino

The Friction Ball watch case opener from Kassoy ($4.95) is an inexpensive and easy to use tool. It measures approximately 2 inches in diameter and is made of a plastic that has a slightly sticky “grip” like feel. I had seen friction balls, but had never tried one for myself. I felt slightly silly as I stared at the squishy blue ball in the Kassoy packaging. It seemed like it was almost too simple to work. I placed the ball against the back of the screw back watch case, applied pressure while twisting the ball and the case unscrewed easily.

I like this tool for a few reasons. Firstly I am not a watch expert. I admit that my exposure to watches hasn't been that extensive and I have a healthy fear of damaging a clients watch. The friction ball is easier to use and less damaging than other watch tools, provided that the watch being worked on is a screw back. I was also able to use the ball on more than just watches. I am frequently confronted with small decorative trinket or pill cases and the ball was able to safely loosen a stuck lid on one item and able to unscrew the top off another.
After using the friction ball for myself I can see that the tool has been fairly underrated. The ball not only offers users with less watch experience a safe first choice before attempting possibly damaging methods, but i believe that it will prove to be more versatile and could be used for more than just opening watch backs. The extremely affordable cost and ease of use make the Friction Ball a welcome addition to my tool kit.

Kathleen Marino M.A, G.G., AJP, NAJA

February 24, 2015

Precision Measuring Loupe From Kassoy

February 24, 2015/ Kathleen Marino

The Precision Measuring Loupe from Kassoy ($83.95) is a specialty measuring loupe. Like a standard loupe, it features a 10x triplet lens, but it is designed to be either held in your hand or stand on a table, allowing the user the ability to look down into the well area. The quality of the precision loupe is apparent right out of the box. The loupe has a solid feel and the focus adjustment is very smooth. The lens on the bottom is durable and readable (through the loupe). It is important to note that the user will need an adequately lit area or an outside lightsource angled into the side of the loupe’s well. This is necessary in order to be able to read the scales on the lens base.

The lens base is imprinted with four scales for measuring: rings with diameters in millimeters, a grid that measures in 0.01 inch increments, a ruler that measures in millimeter increments, and angles by 1° increments. The large opening allows items to be placed into the well and on top of the lens. The lens with the measurement gauges is not removable. The loupe measures just over 2 inches tall, and just under 2 inches in diameter.
During my time using the Precision Measuring Loupe I came to the conclusion that it is a specialty tool that works best with loose stones. However the measurement plate is removable, this makes the loupe more versatile. Jewelry may also be placed in the well, but the scales are not as useful in this position. I found that if I put the jewelry under the measuring scale plate and looked down through it then the measuring scales were more usable. The quality of the loupe was impressive and I found the added benefit of the measurement scales to be useful. While I may not use the loupe on a daily basis, it is not an overly expensive item and I believe that it would easily find a place in my tool kit.

Kathleen Marino M.A, G.G., AJP, NAJA

December 16, 2014

A Review of Richard D. Armstrong’s Photoatlas of Gemstone Spectra for Gemology Students

December 16, 2014/ Kathleen Marino

Obtaining a spectrum on a gemstone is one of the most difficult skills to master in gem identification. Richard D. Armstrong’s Photoatlas of Gemstone Spectra for Gemology Students ($14.95 excluding shipping) seeks to aid students of gemology and gemologists in this endeavour.

The photoatlas is conveniently contained on a disc made for PC computers. The photoatlas provides the user with spectra for various stones as well as tips and techniques for using spectroscopes. Armstrong has marketed the photoatlas specifically for PC use, though files for both Mac and mobile platform are also contained on the disc if the user would like to attempt to use them. The program did not autorun on my Windows 8 PC; I had to open it manually. Once open, the the format of the photoatlas is a PDF virtual book that is very user friendly.

There are some challenges that students and gemologists continually face with spectra. Firstly, the lab manuals only contain drawings of the absolute perfect spectra, which are rarely (I would cautiously say never) what an individual sees. Secondly, the spectroscopes available in a campus classroom setting are usually perfectly mounted scopes with a perfect lighting setup. Many students will never again work with, let alone be able to afford, such a setup. They leave the classroom with no real concept of how to use any other style of instrument. Lastly, there is an increasing number of distance education students who will not have the same hands-on opportunities as on-campus students. This disc helps fill these voids and gives valuable confidence to the student as well as the seasoned gemologist.