Pyrite vs Gold: Differences and Identification
Compare pyrite vs gold by crystal form, hardness, density, and testing limits. Learn why identifying a shiny grain does not establish a rock’s gold content.
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Crystal Guides
Explore crystal identification, look-alike comparisons, mineral varieties, and practical care. Each guide explains what visual clues can tell you and when professional testing is needed.
New to identification? Start with the crystal identification chart or our non-destructive identification guide.
Types of Jasper: Colors, Patterns, and Trade Names
Explore types of jasper, including red, picture, brecciated, and mookaite varieties. Learn which names describe appearance and which need closer scrutiny.
Read guide →Types of Agate: Patterns, Inclusions, and Names
Explore types of agate, from banded and moss agate to dendritic and fire agate. Separate visible features, trade names, treatments, and locality claims.
Read guide →Agate or Geode? The Difference Explained
Agate or geode is not always an either-or choice. Learn how banded chalcedony, hollow cavities, and quartz crystals can occur together in one specimen.
Read guide →Types of Turquoise: Color, Treatment, and Origin
Understand types of turquoise by color, matrix, treatment, and origin. Learn why mine names and photographs alone cannot authenticate a turquoise stone.
Read guide →Jadeite vs Jade: Where Nephrite Fits
Jadeite is a type of jade, not its opposite. Compare jadeite and nephrite, understand treatment labels, and separate material identity from quality.
Read guide →Opalite vs Opal: Glass, Natural Opal, and Names
Opalite vs opal explained: compare manufactured glass, natural opal, play-of-color, and confusing trade names before choosing or identifying a stone.
Read guide →Garnet vs Ruby: Key Differences and Safe Checks
Compare garnet vs ruby by mineral identity, color, hardness, and testing limits. Learn what photos reveal and when a gemologist should examine your stone.
Read guide →How to Tell If Jade Is Real: Safe Checks
Learn how to tell if jade is real without damaging it. Understand flashlight limits, Type A/B/C treatments, seller claims, and when lab testing helps.
Read guide →How to Tell If Turquoise Is Real: Safe Checks & Common Mistakes
Real, untreated, and imitation turquoise are different claims. Use a non-destructive observation checklist, ask better seller questions, and avoid misleading home tests.
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