Sources & References Policy

Sources are chosen according to the kind of claim being made. A geology claim and a folklore claim do not require the same kind of source.

Preferred factual sources

For mineralogical and gemological information, we prioritise recognised geological surveys, museums, universities, professional gemological organisations, scientific literature and established mineral databases.

Retail and supplier information

Supplier statements can be useful for provenance, treatment disclosure and trade terminology, but they are identified as supplier information rather than independent proof.

How references appear

Where a page relies on factual reference material, a Sources & further reading section may appear near the bottom. Links are provided to help readers inspect the supporting material rather than to create an impression of authority through a long bibliography.

Conflicting information

If reputable sources disagree or a locality/treatment claim cannot be independently verified, we say so instead of forcing certainty.