Gem School

Gem Talks
Pamela is now available for speaking engagements. She presents an informative — yet accessible and engaging — talk that is perfect for social club meetings or light entertainment for trade shows and industry events (particularly in the fashion industry). In a lively presentation, Pamela will introduce you to:
- what natural gems are ...
- ... and are not! Including synthetics, simulants, composites, assembled gems and gem treatments;
- how we categorize gems into species, groups and varieties;
- an overview of testing and identifying gems;
- considerations in grading gems;
- considerations in designing gems into jewellery;
- care of gems and jewellery;
- and lots of time for questions!
Pamela has 30 years of expertise including professional training in jewellery design and gemmology. As a feature writer for Ottawa Life Magazine’s The Jewellery Box series, Pamela is constantly adding to her knowledge base. Book your gem talk today, call 613-482-1614.
The Jewellery Box
Pamela's ongoing online feature in Ottawa Life Magazine where she brings little gems of history and lore, care tips, design ideas, trends, insight, birthstones, and much more from the colourful, sparkling world gemmology and jewellery.

Pretty little pearls — A wee primer on pearl cultivation
Posted on: April 28, 2021

If June is the month of your birth, the pearl is your stone
Posted on: April 28, 2021

Disegno in Outer Space
Posted on: February 23, 2021

Birthstone overview: How 12 gemstones became natal symbols
Posted on: May 14, 2020

The exceptional emerald is the birthstone for May
Posted on: May 05, 2020

Colour in the time of COVID
Posted on: April 21, 2020

Birthstones: April
Posted on: April 03, 2020

Birthstones: March
Posted on: March 17, 2020
Lucky March baby, you have two gems to choose from: Aquamarine and Bloodstone.
Read on...
Purple rules: Four purple gems
Posted on: February 27, 2020
Nothing says “I rule” like the colour purple. Since ancient times, this is the colour most associated with royalty. Or with musicians royally renamed.
Read on...
The man manual to buying an engagement ring
Posted on: February 12, 2020

Birthstones: February
Posted on: February 10, 2020

Birthstones: January
Posted on: January 27, 2020

Intro: The Jewellery Box
Posted on: January 22, 2020
Dispatches
Pamela also enjoys a career as a freelance writer for major Canadian newspapers. Her ‘gig’ was subjects in remote areas. The more remote the better. Want to go on a little adventure? Click here.