Please forgive me if this is not specific to gemstones, but I think it is relevant and I am curious to hear others thoughts on this.
Over the past couple of decades, it is becoming more and more clear that microorganisms (bacteria, largely) play a central role in the formation of minerals, and a number of other geological processes (erosion, etc). To date, geological theory has focused on geothermal and non-biological processes (heat, pressure, etc.) but multiple papers are published each year which challenge that theory, or at least suggest a need to rethink many of the fundamental assumptions of that field of science. For additional information search “MICP” (microbial induced calcite precipitation) or simply “biomineralization”.
The relevance to gemstones I believe is significant. Since gemology rests largely on geological theory, and it is becoming clear that bacteria/microorganisms almost certainly played a significant role in the formation of minerals/gemstones, it will likely prompt revisions to everything from mining, to synthetic synthesis of gemstones, to various theories related to gemstones themselves.
I recognize this is a touchy subject in the field of geology, and I do not want to stir up non-constructive discussion, but I am curious to hear if this emerging research has found its way into the field of gemology, or if anyone has perspective on its potential impact.