[Jewelry making - Article 01092] - Re: [Orchid] Gem Names

[Rick Martin]

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    Sharron, if I had a list of such names I wouldn't be concerned. As
    far as I know there isn't one.  I would think gemology organizations
    like the GIA and trade groups like the AGTA, which certainly should
    be aware of the problem, would be doing something about it.  One
    factor is that the discipline of gemology has never quite grown up
    and left its "home" in the field of mineralogy. 

    As far as chrome diopside is concerned, several companies have tried
    to play off the name "Russian," and one calls it simply "Russian
    diopside."  That still doesn't tell you it's a beautiful green gem (a
    little on the soft side) but a great pendant or earring stone for
    people who want a nearly perfect look-alike for top-end Tsavorite
    garnet. 

    Please understand: there is a need for the scientific classification
    of gems and I don't suggest abandoning mineralogical names.   But I
    think some trade group should begin studying the problems resulting
    from a lack of uniformity -- and scientific truth -- in trade names
    and at least go on record with recommendations of the kind you
    suggest.  Unfortunately (IMHO) I think they're heading in the
    opposite direction.  We're into the era of gem "branding."  One
    company I know of (and there are others doing the same thing) has
    trademarked a number of names I won't repeat in full here.  One of
    them is Seafoam Tourmaline (TM).  That means no one else can legally
    use those words to describe their product unless it's purchased from
    that particular company, and the (TM) symbol is legally required when
    using that name.  That alarms me.  Trademarks don't mean zip if
    they're not rigorously defended in court, of course, and that can get
    awfully expensive.  So we'll just have to see how it all sorts out in
    the fullness of time. 

Rick Martin
MARTIN DESIGNS

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