This miner is handling a kunzite crystal at the Oceanview Mine in Pala, California, for the very first time since its formation. - Brendan Laurs
Few people outside the gem industry realize the true nature of a gemstone’s journey from the mine to the jewellery-store counter. Whether the gem is being offered to consumers at a traditional jewellery store, an internet shopping site, or a television broadcast, the journey always involves a great deal of effort. Tons of earth and countless hours of labour are needed to bring a gem from mine to market.