Hey, I’m Nick.

Nikolaos Koukidis. Exploring gemstones, at his home gem lab. Gem identification at home, as a hobby. Tiktok profile @whatthegem

Exploring gems, one stone at a time.

Testing

It begins with a few tests I perform on every gemstone to gather measurable data and facts.

These tests determine the refractive index, birefringence, specific gravity, optic character, and any optical phenomena.

The results provide scientific clues that help identify the gemstone accurately.

Exploring

Under the microscope, I lose track of time.

Every gem tells a story—through its inclusions, imperfections, and unique characteristics formed over millions of years.

Each stone has something to teach—revealing its secrets one detail at a time.

determining specific gravity for a gemstone with a hydrostatic balance kit on a scale
Display of various loose gemstones arranged in numbered white containers, with each gemstone differing in size, shape, and color.
Close-up of a blue gemstone, a tourmaline, that is heavily included. Microscopic image using a kruess zoom gem microspcope.
Assorted loose colorful gemstones and crystals scattered on a wooden surface.
A close-up of a faceted, green gemstone, asphene, held by metallic tweezers, with reflections and light shining through it. Gemstone under magnification.
microscopic image of aquamarine, beryl, a heavily included untreted and unheated gemstone from brazil. Gem testing at home.

“Flawless gems are impressive—but it's the imperfect ones that feel most relatable.”

“Gemstones are like people—unique, imperfect, and beautiful in their own way.”

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Gemstone identification

Exploring gems, quickly, unboxing new deliveries.

Under Magnification

Microscopic images, a deep dive into gems.

Get in Touch!

Send me your request, and I’ll respond shortly with details.

Hobbyist gemologist testing gemstones at home.