ACADEMY REFERENCE LIBRARY
References and learning resources
Use these external resources to extend your WantaGems modules, compare evidence and prepare for supervised practical study.
Original WantaGems lessons and external reading have different authors. A link identifies further reading, not a partnership, endorsement or permission to reproduce another provider’s course content.
International Gem Society (IGS)
Gemstone encyclopedia, educational articles, buying guides and independent courses. Some resources require membership.
Open official resource ↗Research journalGIA Gems & Gemology
Gemological research, laboratory notes and studies of identification, treatments and geographic context.
Open official resource ↗Gemstone referenceGIA Gem Encyclopedia
Material-specific introductions, quality factors and care resources.
Open official resource ↗Education and further studyGem-A
Gemmology education and public articles; course enrollment and qualifications are handled by Gem-A.
Open official resource ↗Terminology and trade guidanceCIBJO Blue Books and resources
Current nomenclature and disclosure documents. Check the edition, scope and revision date.
Open official resource ↗Gemstone databaseGemdat
Gem information, locality records and photographs. Database records do not identify an individual unknown specimen.
Open official resource ↗Jewelry-making knowledgeGanoksin
Jewelry techniques, articles and community discussions. Evaluate author expertise and follow equipment-specific safety instructions.
Open official resource ↗Faceting and communityUnited States Faceters Guild (USFG)
Diagrams, newsletters, terminology and faceting community resources. Check design permission and material compatibility.
Open official resource ↗Independent practical educationFaceting Apprentice
Justin K. Prim and Victoria Raynaud’s faceting school. Confirm courses, fees and required equipment with the provider.
Open official resource ↗Choose a source for your question
- Identification or treatment research: start with the original laboratory or journal publication.
- Trade language: consult the current applicable CIBJO document.
- Gem properties: compare a material reference with the actual specimen’s evidence.
- Faceting: use an appropriate teaching diagram and manufacturer instructions with qualified supervision.
- Jewelry methods: distinguish an established technical procedure from an unreviewed forum suggestion.
Keep a research record
- Write the author or organization, article title, publication date, URL and access date.
- Record which question the source helps answer and its material or method scope.
- Separate supplied reference ranges from measurements made on your specimen.
- Compare disagreements with another relevant original source.
- Quote only with attribution and applicable permission; link to full material rather than copying courses or images.
A pricing guide does not guarantee a transaction price or substitute for a defined appraisal. A locality record does not establish an individual gem’s origin. Check access and membership requirements with each provider.
Directory links reviewed October 2, 2026.
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