Gem Quiz

Gem Quiz: I Was Once ‘For Collectors Only,’ But Now More People See My Value

Published

7 years ago

February 1, 2018

Chris Burslem

INSTORE clinozoisite 2 I was once one of those minerals most aptly described as “of interest to collectors only,” but recent scientific research has found uses for me as a “fixing agent” in the production of hydrogen gas for use in fuel cells and secondly as an element in protective clothing. While I was discovered rather late (1896 in Tyrol, Austria), I’m a fairly common calcium aluminum silicate and take my name from my resemblance to a companion in the Epidote series. All pretty heavy stuff, I know. But when not hard at work with serious science nerds, I can be faceted to form a very pleasing cut stone.

Who am I?

Guess this gem for a chance to win a “Jewelry Geek” T-shirt. Be sure to include your full name and the name and address of your store. The contest winner will be selected from among correct answers to this question.

Fill out my online form.

Looking for a Seamless Sale? Call Wilkerson

After almost 60 years in business, Breakiron Jewelers in Erie, Pennsylvania, was closing its doors. And the store’s owner, Linda Breakiron, was ready for it. She had run the store as its sole owner since the beginning of the millennium and was looking forward to a change. Of course, she called Wilkerson. Breakiron talked to other jewelers who had used Wilkerson and was satisfied with their response. “They always had positive feedback,” she recalls. With the sales, marketing and even additional inventory that Wilkerson provided, Breakiron insists she could never have accomplished her going-out-of-business sale without Wilkerson’s help. She’s now ready for the journey ahead, but looking back, she’d be sure to recommend Wilkerson. “They just made the whole process very seamless.”