In this episode of the 5000 Hours podcast, host Brandi interviews Jodi Hudson, a GIA graduate gemologist with over 30 years of experience in the fine jewelry industry. They discuss Jodi’s journey from working at Zales during her early college years to becoming a market director at Diamond Banc, the fastest-growing luxury retail jewelry buyer and lender in the U.S.

Jodi shares insights into her career, highlighting her extensive background in retail sales, gemstone and jewelry buying, and appraising fine jewelry. She explains how her fascination with gemstones started and why she finds the scientific side of gemology so intriguing.

The conversation also covers the differences between natural and lab-created gemstones, the value of gemstones, and the challenges and rewards of helping people buy and sell fine jewelry. Jodi emphasizes the importance of establishing a relationship with a trusted jeweler and seeking multiple opinions when appraising or selling jewelry.

Key websites and resources mentioned in the episode include:

- [Diamond Banc](https://diamondbanc.com) - Jodi's current workplace, which specializes in buying jewelry from the public.

- Jodi's social media: [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/jodi.dickeycoles) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jodi_diamondgirl_hudson/) for following her updates and insights into the gemology world.

You are encouraged to reach out to Jodi for more information and advice on gemology and jewelry appraisal.