JTV Blog

JTV's Tool Guy Adam Returns from China with New Tool Ideas, Photos and Video

Hey JTV blog fans! It's Adam the Tool Guy finally home from China. As I discussed in my earlier blog we have made some incredible breakthroughs in terms of product sourcing and found new manufacturers to create the best gemological tools and packaging in the industry--especially for you, Jewelry Television's valued customers. Shun and I have traveled many miles, visiting 8 manufactures that currently provide product to us as well as new manufactures that we will be adding to the JTV's list of product providers.

When Shun and I left Hai Fong, China (where my last blog ended) we traveled 3 hours by car to Dongguan to visit a new packaging manufacture. We gave them a list of new ideas and they are working diligently to provide us with new samples; like new and improved gemstone displays--a continuation of our industry leading GemVue jars, and development of new high-end packaging that falls in line with JTV's GemVue brand.

                    

This new manufacturer currently provides many top US companies and others world wide that include China, Europe, and South America. They also produced the commemorative Olympic coin collection boxes for the Chinese government.Their assortment/sample closest was absolutely AMAZING! There doesn't appear to be a concept or idea they cannot find a way to manufacture.

We had arrived late in the evening via a clunky Chinese airline and the weather was...well, let's say it was a little bumpy! We had little time to rest before we were back on the road. From our hotel we traveled about an hour outside of Ningbo to the microscope manufacturing facilities. There we previewed their collection of microscopes amounting to about 40 different models.

We had good discussion about a new compact GemVue microscope, which we are updating, and are in talks to develop a NEW professional model. This will be a professional grade microscope and I can't wait to show off the new design to JTV co-founder Jerry Sisk. I think he is going to love it!

Once again our visit was short lived because the traveling continued--this time to the historical city of Shanghai. But instead of taking a car or plane we traveled on a high speed train--the Maglev--which was a first for me. These trains are popping up everywhere and can cover most of China very, VERYquickly.

Train travel is much more convenient and green than the alternative methods. China is investing in this technology at rapid paces. I believe we topped out around 431 km per hour, which translates into around 267 mph. It was pretty cool for those of you that like traveling at high speed. It was definitely an experience.

On tomorrow's blog, I'll share with you some photos and videos from my time in Shanghai. My gracious host Shun's father shared tickets with me to the World Expo! This prestigious event only happens once every five years and it was a rare privilege to go!

- Adam the Tool Guy, JTV

JTV's Tool Guy Adam Checks in From China: New Tools in the Works

Hey JTV blog readers! Adam the tool guy blogging from China. I have traveled thousands of miles in search of new and exciting gemological and jewelry-making tools. My colleague Shun, who runs our China operation, and I will travel through China in search of the best tools at the best prices to bring to our JTV customers. My trip started in Hong Kong, and has taken me to several different and exciting cities in China which include Shenzhen, Hai Fong, and Dongguan.

While in Hong Kong I attended the Hong Kong show which is the largest Jewelry and Gemstone show in the world. It was so big it had to held in two different locations! There were vendors from all over the world. It was an eye opening experience! Below are a few pictures of one of the facilities from the shore in Kowloon which is across Victoria Harbor.

One of the show facilities in Hong Kong

We met up with one of our Senior Gemstone buyers, George Williams , and crossed Victoria Harbor by ferry. That was a crowded experience!

Ferry that took us across the Hong Kong Harbor to the show

Shun (left), from JTV's China offices and JTV Gem Buyer George Williams (right)

Shun took me to the Peak which offer amazing views of the city. Needless to say the view will take your breath away!

Looking up at Victoria's Peak

 The stunning view from Victoria's Peak in Hong Kong

I have visited so many manufactures I am beginning to get them mixed up. In Shenzhen, we visited one of the top optical manufactures in the world where they were preparing a new order of our GemVue Lighted Loupe.

Manufacturing JTV's GemVue Lighted Loupes

State-of-the-art optical elements of the GemVue loupe

The GemVue Lighted Loupe item has been one of the most popular loupes ever at JTV. This product has an amazing 10X triplet lens with powerful lighting which is absolutely perfect for viewing gemstones. It even has a UV light built in to test your gemstones for fluorescence! They will be arriving at JTV sometime around the first of November.
 
We are also working on new and improved GemVue refractometer prototypes, developed exclusively for our JTV audience. Expect bigger viewing apparatuses to seamlessly identify gemstones by obtaining the refractive index of any gemstone. It will have external sodium lighting, and top-of-the-line optics. As always, we are using our JTV purchasing power to secure the best prices that cannot be beaten!

In Hai Fong we visited a well respected gemstone manufacturer where we inspected one of Callie's upcoming globe orders. These globes are by far some of the nicest globes I have ever seen. It takes several employees a total of 50 hours to cut, assemble and polish the gemstone to make just one of these 330mm globes! So if you have 1,000 globes, the combined time to manufacture is 50,000 man hours--WOW!

Shun inspects the fine craftsmanship of JTV's new gemstone globes

Stay tuned because Callie purchased their entire inventory and these will not last long once they arrive at JTV! If you don't have one of these globes buy as many as you can for yourself or as Christmas gifts. JTV is about all things gemstones so we offer a wide variety of gemstone related gifts and collectibles. Click here to shop JTV's Gifts and Collectibles.

Keep visiting the JTV blog for more updates from China! Adam the Tool Guy signing off for the night.

- Adam Bedwell, Buyer, JTV Tools

JTV Tools: Precision Weighing of Gems and Precious Metals with GemOro

Hello JTV blog readers, and welcome to the world of precision weighing of gems and precious metals!  Today I would like to discuss digital scales; what features to look for and what accuracy or readability is appropriate for the jewelry applications you will encounter.  I have chosen the Platinum brand of scales from GemOro as the JTV premium line of scales and overall best value for your investment.  GemOro is well known worldwide and has one of the best reputations for making precision weighing scales and balances that are supported by an amazing 5-year replacement warranty. A perfect choice for the Jewelry Television product line.
 

For weighing diamonds and precious gems, the greater the accuracy (readability), the better the scale.  You can’t have too much accuracy!  Keep in mind that any lack of precision will potentially cost you money if the stone you are buying or selling is not weighed accurately, as every 0.01ct can be valued at a lot of money, especially with high-end gemstones such as tanzanite, emerald and diamonds, just to name a few.  The minimum accuracy required for this application is +/- 0.01ct.  While some big diamond companies prefer a scale with accuracy of 0.001ct (which could cost over $1000.00)I've researched the market until I found exactly what I believe you need, at a much more affordable price. (see below)

GemOro PCT100-TSX

GemOro PCT 100-TSX Scale (Item # PCT100)

Wow! The engineers at GemOro have an amazing carat scale called the PCT100-TSX that can weigh stones and parcels up to 100ct, with high precision accuracy of +/- 0.005ct!  It’s JTV's most popular model.  It even has a convenient bright blue backlit LCD touch screen control panel!  This scale is so cool! Its patented draft shield can go from low profile to being easily expanded so that it can accommodate most of the largest of gemstones you’ll come across. Plus, not only can you weigh carats, you can also weigh small pieces of gold up to 20 grams in grams, pennyweight too. With its parts counting feature, the scale can quickly count the number of stones in a parcel like magic.  It also has the features you need including tare, memory, digital auto-calibration, and auto-off . 

This pocket-sized scale is constructed of high impact ABS and is assured to endure years of use.  It is powered by (4) AA alkaline batteries, has high-tech rubberized paint for easy handling and comes with its own protective carrying case so it may be taken anywhere and everywhere.  The padded leatherette carrying case includes batteries, gem tweezers, a stainless steel calibration weight, a weighing scoop and platform. Without a doubt, you’ll absolutely love this scale!

GemOro Platinum 600SS

  GemOro Platinum 600SS (Item # PLTSCALE)

For weighing gold and precious metals, you need minimum accuracy of 0.1g.  You’ll need a scale that weighs in grams for sure, but pennyweight, and troy ounces will also be useful.  The GemOro Platinum 600SS is our most popular model.  (see above) GemOro’s model numbers tell you at a glance what the capacity is and on this baby it’s a whopping 600g!  Most pocket gram scales I’ve seen have weighing capacities from the 100g to 200g range. 

Our friends at GemOro offer the accuracy you need, but at the same cost.  I have found two of their scales that weigh up to 600g and then as much as 800g!  These higher capacities will come in handy at gold buying parties, that’s for sure!

One of the things I really like about this scale is that it features an extra large weighing platform that will accommodate large bracelets, watches and more.  Made of durable long-life ABS construction, and it has a bright blue backlit LCD display that is really handy in both bright and dark weighing locations. 

It also has the features you need including tare, memory, and digital auto-calibration, overload protection and more.  This scale is powered by (2) included CR2032 lithium batteries with an auto-off function to preserve the battery life in case it was accidentally left on.  It comes with a leatherette carrying pouch and a weighing tray that also serves to protect the scales load cell from accidental overload when traveling. I promise you will love this scale!

GemOro Platinum Pro 800

GemOro Platinum Pro 800 (Item # PTLPRO800)

 

Now if you want to step it up a bit, I’ve also chosen the GemOro Platinum Pro 800 with its even greater 800g x 0.1g weighing capacity.  This scale is a table top design with its durable ABS construction with exclusive rubberized paint finish, it is easy to handle. Weighing modes include g, dwt, ozt, ct, gn and oz.  It has a large stainless steel weighing platform that may also be used as a convenient weighing tray for large items like beads, findings and more.

The digital electronics in this GemOro scale model provides the latest advancements in parts counting, tare, memory, overload protection and more.  The PRO 800 also comes with adjustable feet and leveling bubble to make sure your scale is on a level surface. This scale is powered by long-lasting AA alkaline batteries (included) or by its exclusive universal voltage 100v – 240v AC adaptor.  This scale is a proven winner and is up for just about any job you throw at it.

On a final note I will be leaving for my trip to China this week. First stop is the Hong Kong show! Stay tuned to jtv.com/blog for updates on new and exciting product from the tools and packaging area!

- Adam, JTV Tool Buyer

 

Zoom In With JTV's Multi-Use Magnifying Visor

Hello once again, JTV Blog fans! I wanted to write to you today about one of our most popular tools--a multipurpose tool called a magnifying visor. This product comes in handy for just about every situation whether it be inspecting gemstones, evaluating jewelry, making jewelry, or any project that requires hands-free magnification.

Jewelry Television's Visor3 is a light weight magnifier that combines two very important functions: focusing a beam of light on an object while magnifying objects through a wide view lens. Visor 3 is practical and perfect for just about any project you throw at it! It's sure to become one of your go-to tools.

JTV item number VISOR3

This product comes with four interchangeable lenses that magnify 1.2x, 1.8x, 2.5x, or 3.5x. What this means is that each lens will magnify the object being view by 1.2 power, 1.8 power--and so on--giving the user tremendous versatility! Also included with this visor is a cloth made specifically to clean your lenses so you can care for your product over years of use. Plus, the light on this visor adjusts horizontally and vertically, giving the user plenty of control over the powerful light source.

When wearing a magnifying visor, comfort is key. The headband is very easily adjusted to fit just about every head size.  AAA batteries are included.

Right now you can purchase Visor3 for an outstanding value of $9.82 only at Jewelry Television and jtv.com, but we won't be able to offer this must-have tool at this price forever, so buy now.

I'm still making plans for my almost month long trip to China in mid September. I will be traveling to some very interesting places, developing exciting new tools for JTV's line, so stay tuned for pictures and video clips of our journey!

- Adam Bedwell, JTV Buyer for Tools, Packaging, and Education

The Right Tools for the Job with JTV's Tool Man, Adam Bedwell

Hello, JTV blog fans! My name is Adam Bedwell and I am the buyer for Gemological Tools here at JTV. I wanted to recommend some of my favorite and very useful tools that can help you explore the world of gemstones, and even set up your very own gemstone lab!

First you need the basic tools to handle your gemstones. This would be a 10x loupe, tweezers with a groove, gemstone scoop, sorting tray, polishing cloth and a light source. I would recommend our Essentials Kit (MLP765). All of the aforementioned tools are included in this kit for a tremendous value.

Essentials Kit (MLP765)

Secondly you need a refractometer which is, in my opinion, the most important tool in any lab. This is the tool to help you identify gemstones. Using a refractometer provides you with the refractive index of the gem, helping you identify that mystery stone. We offer two models here at JTV, the first being more of a beginner/intermediate model. The GV95 refractometer is reasonably priced and can open the world of gemstones to you for a fraction of what other models cost. The second model is more of an intermediate to professional model; the GemPro Refractometer (GPREF1). This model is hand made by the renown tool builder Jeff Wildman. It has a sodium filter and allows the user to do spot readings on cabochons. (Note: You will need RI fluid to use a refractometer.)

The GV95 refractometer

The third tool I would recommend is a microscope! This tool will help you look into that gemstone and observe more clearly than with a loupe. Its capability for much higher magnification is especially critical in differentiating natural gemstones from synthetics. We offer two microscope models here at JTV. For beginners to intermediate users I would recommend the GEMORO Elite Model 1030 PM microscope. It offers a lot of functions that the more expensive microscopes have, but for a killer value. For professionals I recommend the Limited Edition Elite Signature Series Diascopepro microscope (DSPRO1067), also from makers of GemOro Superior products. Their microscopes provide superior optics and a range of useful features.

Limited Edition Elite Signature Series Diascopepro microscope (DSPRO1067)

The fourth tool you need is a carat scale to verify the weights of your stones. We have a plethora of scales at your disposal, but for weighing carats I would advise you to get the My Weigh Portable Carat Scale (MXT100), which is a 500 carat capacity scale with a  .05 accuracy. For the size, this pocket scale is very accurate with a high load capacity. Usually a scale that size would only be accurate to 0.1 carats and weigh 50 carats. The second carat scale I would recommend would be the GemOro Platinum Smart Scale (PCT100). Again from GemOro, this modern scale offers touch screen capability with 100 carat capacity and is accurate up to 0.005 carats. Wow...now that is accurate!

GemOro Platinum Smart Scale (PCT100)

Finally,  you will need some storage to protect your precious gemstones. Jewelry Television is leading the industry by developing the revolutionary GemVue jars. Completely transparent, GemVue jars suspend your gem between two layersof polyurethane sheeting, allowing the gem to be viewed at all angles while simultaneously protecting it. We offer these jars and displays in multiple configurations. From 32 jar trays to single display models that allow you to show off your gemstone collection to other gemstone enthusiasts, friends or family.

GemVue jars

GemVue case

Stay tuned for more blog posts as I am prepping for a trip to China. We are developing some revolutionary tools that will be available soon only at Jewelry Television--where gemologists come to get their gemological tools!

- Adam Bedwell, Gemological Tool Buyer, JTV