Explore the World of Precious Gems Through Film

Description: Although not entirely a documentary, this film dramatizes the real issues surrounding conflict diamonds in Sierra Leone, offering a poignant narrative on the human cost of the diamond trade.

Fact: The film's release led to increased awareness and support for the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.

Description: This documentary delves into the history of diamonds, exploring their role in shaping economies, cultures, and even wars. It provides an in-depth look at the diamond trade from Africa to Antwerp, highlighting the ethical issues surrounding conflict diamonds.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special.

Description: Focuses on the infamous Hope Diamond, tracing its journey from India to its current home in the Smithsonian. The film explores the alleged curse that has plagued its owners, offering a mix of history, superstition, and intrigue.

Fact: The documentary features interviews with descendants of the diamond's owners, providing personal insights into the curse's impact.

Description: This film explores the world of pearls, from natural to cultured, and the cultural significance they hold across different civilizations. It's a journey through time, showcasing the beauty and the economic impact of pearls.

Fact: The documentary was filmed in locations like Japan, where pearl cultivation was pioneered.

Description: Follows the quest for the world's most valuable emeralds, from the mines of Colombia to the auction houses of London. It highlights the geological rarity and the human stories behind these green gems.

Fact: The documentary features exclusive access to the Muzo mine, one of the oldest emerald mines in the world.

Description: This documentary uncovers the allure of sapphires, exploring their mining, history, and the myths associated with these blue gems. It includes visits to Sri Lanka, where some of the finest sapphires are found.

Fact: The film was shot over three years, capturing the sapphire trade's seasonal fluctuations.

Description: A journey into the heart of Burma (Myanmar) to explore the ruby trade, this documentary captures the beauty of rubies and the often harsh realities of their extraction.

Fact: The film includes interviews with miners who have worked in ruby mines for generations.

Description: This three-part series examines the opal industry in Australia, focusing on the unique properties of opals, their mining, and the cultural significance to the Aboriginal people.

Fact: The series was filmed in the opal fields of Coober Pedy, known as the "Opal Capital of the World."

Description: Chronicles the journey of amethyst from the mines of Brazil to the global market, exploring its spiritual significance and its role in the gem trade.

Fact: The documentary includes a segment on the largest amethyst geode ever discovered.

Description: This film follows the trail of garnets, from the ancient mines of Bohemia to modern-day jewelry, highlighting their historical significance and the geological processes that create them.

Fact: The documentary features a visit to the famous garnet mines in the Czech Republic, which have been in operation for centuries.