About Precious Gemstones

What are Gemstones?

Widely known for reducing the Adverse Effect of Stars & Planets, Gemstone is a Mineral Type (or can be referred as Rock Stone Crystal Object).

It is basically used for Human Adornments.

 

Normally before using it in Jewellery below process are to be done.

  • Cutting or Faceting
  • Polishing

 

Its applications are as below.

  • Beauty Purpose
  • Metaphysical Properties
  • Commercial Uses

 

In this way, it is significant Commodity in the date.

 

They are available in different types of varied colors. In the Rough State of the Gemstone mostly less beauty is found. But after applying Skilful Cutting & Polishing, the Elegance can be achieved at a greater extent.

 

There are mainly two types of Gemstone.

  • Natural Gemstones
  • Synthetic Gemstones

 

 

 

 

Natural Gemstones

Inside the Mantle of the Earth these Gemstones are formed. Thereby, No Human Interference is the case in their formation. Basically Several & Different Chemical Compounds are been processed under the Mantle of Earth for their Formation.

 

They are classified in below.

  • Precious Stones
  • Semi Precious Stones

 


 

Precious Stones

They are Much Valuable because of the below Prosperities.

  • Hardness
  • Rarity
  • Sparkle
  • Brilliance

Due to above properties, they are comparatively much expensive.

 

Precious Stones can be any of below.

  • Diamond
  • Emerald
  • Ruby
  • Sapphire
  • Topaz
  • Pearl

 

 

 

 


 

Synthetic Gemstones

The Gemstones made through Artificial Method are Synthetic Gemstones. They do contain the Physical, Chemical & Optical Qualities of the Natural Gemstones.

 

There are two types of Synthetic Gemstones available in Market.

  • Simulated (Imitation) Gemstones
  • Treated Gemstones

 

 

Simulated Gemstones

They are same as Natural Gemstones accept for their Physical or Chemical Composition.

They are comparatively less costly than Natural ones. The Glass or Plastic is used in making them. However, a Jeweller can detect it pretty easily.

 

 

Treated Gemstones

The Improved Gemstones are called Treated Gemstones.

Some Techniques as below are performed in order to create them.

  • Laser Drilling (used to reduce the Internal Inclusions)
  • Computer Controlled Heating (used to Enhance Color)
  • Irradiating (used to Enhance Color)
  • Filling (used to remove Blemishes)

After above techniques, Color & Appearance of them are much different and amazing. They can thus be enhanced in order to increase for the desirability & Demand of them.

 

 

 

 


 

Properties of Gemstones

The Properties of Gemstones are been classified as follows.

 

  • Elegance & Expressiveness

The Elegance and the Beauty of the Gemstone is collectively based on below.

  • Color (it is the Main & Significant Characteristic)
  • Size & Shape (they play a huge role in enhancing the Beauty to an Extent)
  • Sparkle (it shines for the beautifulness of the next level)

Light that hits the Gemstones from Any Angle is escaping via the Top of the Stone. Thereby they reflect the Light from the Surface itself.

 

  • Durability & Hardness

Besides the Beauty of the Gemstones, it is also seen that how much they are durable along with their Hardness. Durability & Hardness are important factors to be considered along with the beauty so. Several different Ways are there in order to determine for the Hardness. However, the Main one is to find the value for the Resistance to Abrasion.

 

  • Rarity

If Gemstones are appeared to be rare, they will be more desirable comparatively. Based on their Exclusiveness, the Price is automatically increased. The more the Gemstones are rare, the higher will be the price all over the world in this way. However, there can be number of reasons for the Rarity of them. Truly Exceptional Color or the Clarity can be few of those reasons.

 

 


 

Reasons for Wearing Gemstones

 

There can be number of reasons why people do wear the Gemstones.

  • From Fashion to Superstition, today you can find Gemstones worn by people all around the world.
  • Social Customs can be other reason as well.
  • Colorful stones were believed to be Possess the Natural Magical Powers since the Ancient Times.
  • Normally people are attracted to Stones because of their properties as below.
    • Brilliance
    • Shiny Appearance
    • Colorful Shells
    • Crystal like Existence
    • They are referred to as the Resemblance to below.
    • Peace
    • Prosperity
    • Happiness

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

Precious Stones

 

Diamond

 

 

 


 

Emerald

 

The Hardness: 7.5 to 8 Mohs

Color: Emerald Green to Dark Green

 

It appears to be most Elegant, Remarkable & Outstanding Gemstone as a whole. The name “Emerald” is derived from the Greek Word “Maragos”. It means Green Stone.

 

It is placed among valuable Gemstones due to below properties.

  • The Beautiful Green Color
  • Durability
  • Rarity

 

Deep Green Color is much in Demand. Green Color Stones are having worth position in some Cultures & Religions.

 

 

Despite of the Notorious Flaws that can be found inside, they are pretty much High Esteemed Stones from long time. Being Rare & getting Greater Value are the reflections of Flawless Stones. Scratch seems to be avoidable due to the Good Hardness of the Stones. However, in Extreme Temperature or if Banged hard the internal damages are inevitable.

 

It has to be noted that Emerald (with Treated to Mask Internal Flaws) should not be cleaned with Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaner or Soap Washing. The Cleaning Process removes the Oil inside & the Internal Flaws will be visible.

 

 

 

 


 

Ruby

 

The Hardness: 9 Mohs

Color: Bright Red or Brownish Red or Purplish Red or Dark Red

Refractive Index: 1.762 to 1.7770

Specific Gravity: 4.00 Treatment

 

 

 

 

The Red Variety by the Mineral Corundum is known as Ruby.

It is comparatively the Hardest Mineral on the Earth. The Mineral Form of Alumina is Corundum. Corundum is crystallized in Hexagonal System. The Color Red of the Ruby is due to Small Amount of Admixture of Chromic Oxide. If the Corundum is with Red Color, it is Ruby. Else other Colors Corundum is Sapphires. The Expensive Ruby is Blood Red or Crimson. It is known as “Pigeon’s Blood” Red Ruby as well.

 

Ruby is Precious Gemstone available in different colors.

It is tagged with different prices based on the Quality & Carat Weight.

It is one of the “Big 3 Gemstones (Ruby, Emerald & Sapphire)” of the Industry.

 

The Colors in Ruby are as below.

  • Orange Red
  • Red Slightly Purplish Red
  • Strongly Purplish Red
  • Red

 

Ruby name is derived from the Latin Word “Rubens”. It means Red.

The meaning of Ruby in Sanskrit is “Ratnaraj”. It means the King of Precious Stones.

It was considered among most Precious Stones in the World from the beginning due to below.

  • Spectacular Color (it is Second to None, Warm & Fiery)
  • Exceptional Hardness
  • Remarkable Brilliance

It is the rarest Gemstone (It carries the Finest Qualities inside)

 

Transparent Ruby with relatively Large in Size is the Rarest Ruby all over the World.

 

If you want to make your Jewellery, the Ruby can be the Best Fit.

  • It gets you the Awesome Rich Red Hue.
  • It comes with Higher Strength & Durability as well.

 

However, in case of Rough Handling, it can be subjected to Chipping or Fracture.

 

Mostly the Improved Color of Rubies is because of Heat Treatment.

If it is heated in the presence of Flux, the Residue known as “Flux Healing” is left inside. The Method of Filling Fissures with respect to using Lead Glass can leave this Residue inside.

 

 

 


 

Sapphire

 

The Hardness: 9 Mohs

Color: Blue, Yellow, Pink, Orange, Green, White, Colorless, Brown, Purple

Refractive Index: 1.762 to 1.7770

Specific Gravity: 4.00 Treatment

 

 

Like Ruby it has the Mineral Corundum.

It is having all colors Corundum except for the Red one. Red Corundum is Ruby so. It gets same Physical & Chemical Properties as Ruby.

 

The Main Color with Sapphire is Blue.

It does have several other colors displayed as follows.

  • Green
  • Orange
  • Pink
  • Gray
  • Colorless
  • Black
  • Brown
  • Purple

 

Sapphire only refers to Blue Sapphire.

If you want to specify other color of Sapphire that Color name has to be added before Sapphire. As in Green Sapphire... Black Sapphire etc. All Sapphire except for Blue Sapphire are known as Fancy in the Industry.

 

Sapphire represents below.

  • Harmony
  • Friendship
  • Loyalty

 

Sapphire is Precious & Durable Gemstone due to below.

  • Color
  • Hardness
  • Durability
  • Lustre

 

The Value of Sapphire is determined by below.

  • Size
  • Color
  • Transparency

 

Sapphires with Best Quality are pretty rare in Industry.

It requires Skilfulness & Expertise in order to cut it right. The Cutter usually does hard work in order to orientate the Raw Crystals & brings the color to the Best Possible Improved Color.

 

Sapphire & Ruby can be produced in the Laboratories as well.

They are called synthetically produced gemstones. These Gemstones do have almost same Chemical Composition & Hardness as the Natural Gems. They are produced in France on a larger scale.

 

To Improve the Color of Sapphire usually it is being heated.

 

Sapphire is proven awesome with respect to have used in Jewellery.

It can be ranked second (Diamond is 1st) In terms of Durability & Hardness. For Everyday Purpose also it can be used unlike other (comparatively much fragile) Gemstones (Opal or Topaz). It is advisable not to handle it roughly because it can be subjected to Chipping or Fracture in that case despite of it being Durable & Hard.

 

It is most widely used in US.

 

It is among “Big 3 (Ruby, Emerald & Sapphire)” Gemstones of the Industry.

 

Color

It gets you the variety of Colors in each of 7 Primary Hues. But then again, Blue Sapphire is usual, most likely in demand & pretty costlier comparatively.

 

Cut

Native Cut Sapphire can be found. (In Native Cut, they are being Cut at the Mine Location disregard of the Skilfulness or Expertise of Cutting) Along with that, Well-Cut Stones are also in the Market.

 

Carat Weight

All Sapphires with weight more than 20 Carats are the rarest ones.

 

 

 

 


 

Topaz

 

The Hardness: 8 Mohs

Color: Blue, Brown, Green Orange, White, Gold, Colorless, Pink, Yellow, Red

 

 

The name is derived from the Sanskrit word “Tapas”. It means Fire.

 

It is usually found in the Yellow Color.

However, it changes to the Blue Color in case if exposed to Heat. It changes color if it is placed anywhere near to the Poison.

 

It is most Stunning Gemstone & is a member of Quartz Family.

It is Durable & Tough. But it is much fragile. It does Chip or Crack comparatively much easily. Thereby, a fair care is advised.

 


 

Pearl

 

The Hardness: 2.5 to 4.5 Mohs

Color: Colorless, Pink, Yellow, White, White Tinted with Cream, Blue, Brown, Purple, Black, Green

 

 

It is widely known as the Organic Gem.

Certain Mollusks / Oysters when covered the Foreign Object with Stunning Layers of Nacre, Pearl is being produced. The entire life of Oyster is 5 to 8 years. A Well Sized Pearl takes the same time in formation.

 

The types of Pearls are follows.

  • Natural Pearl
    • The Oysters inside are wild in it.
    • In fact, it is feasibly unlikely to be found in today.
    • It is fished from the China Sea & Persian Gulf.
  • Cultured Pearl
    • It is artificially produced Pearl. 1st the Shell Beads are placed inside the Oyster. Then Oyster is made returned into the Water. Later the Pearls are being harvested. At that time, the oyster is found to have covered the Bead with Layers of Nacre. In this way, Cultured Pearl is being produced.
    • It is being produced mostly in Japan, Korea & Australia.
    • It is less expensive compare to the Natural Pearl.

 

The Colors of Pearl can be any of below.

  • White (Usually Found)
  • Creamy or Pinkish Tinge (Sometimes)
  • Tinted with Yellow, Green, Brown, Blue, Black or Purple (May be)

 

The Different Shapes of Pearl are as follows.

  • Round
  • Semi Round
  • Button
  • Drop
  • Pear
  • Oval
  • Baroque
  • Ringed

The Rarest Pearl is Perfectly Round Pearl; it is very Expensive Pearl.

 

As Pearl is a Living Substance and pretty rare; it has to be treated with a greater care.

 

Semi Precious Stones

Stones that are not covered in “Precious Stones” Category are Semi Precious Stones. Semi Precious Stones are tagged as per the Elegance of the Stones. They can be available in all type of ranges (from Low to High).

 

The Different Types of Semi Precious Stones are as follows.

  • Alexandrite
  • Amethyst
  • Aquamarine
  • Garnet
  • Iolite
  • Onyx
  • Opal
  • Peridot
  • Tanzanite
  • Tourmaline

 

Alexandrite 

 

The Hardness: 8.5 Mohs

Color: Dark to Pale Green (However, Color changes with Different Forms of Light)

 

 

Back in 1830, it was discovered in Russia.

Therefore, it was named after the Crown Prince of Russia “Czar Alexander II”.

 

It is formed out of “Chrysoberyl” Mineral. It appears to be astounding Stone. Because it is rarer Stone, the Alexandrite (above 1 Carat) is very costlier Gemstone all over the World. It is much rare compare to Ruby or Emerald or Sapphire.

 

It does change the Color (shown as below) with respect to the Different Forms of Light.

  • Green or Bluish Green in Daylight
  • Red in Candle Light
  • Green in Fluorescent Light
  • Reddish Purple in Standard Electric (Tungsten) Light

 

 


 

Amethyst

 

The Hardness: 7 Mohs

Color: Purple, Pale Lavender to Deep Reddish Purple, Bluish Violet

 

 

It is one of the Most Valued Stone that belongs to the Variety of Quartz Family.

 

The name was derived from the Greek Word “Amethystos”.

Its meaning is “Not Intoxicated” or “Not Drunken”. It is associated with bringing Good Luck & Radiating Love.

 

The Color of the Stone is due to the Existence of below inside it.

  • Manganese
  • Titanium
  • Iron

 

The Deeper the Color of the Stone the Higher will be the Price of the Stone.

As in; Rich Purple Amethyst is widely popular as it is rarer Stone.

 


 

Aquamarine

 

The Hardness: 7.5 to 8 Mohs

Color: Blue, Sea Blue

 

 

The name Aquamarine is derived from Latin Words Aqua & Mare.

Aqua means Water & Mare means Sea.

 

It is widely known Gemstones of the date.  

It gets the Color Range from Light Blue (of the Sky) to the Deep Blue (of the Sea).

The Deeper the Color Intensity of the Aquamarine the higher will be its Price.

 

It is made out of the Mineral Beryl.

Its hardness makes it tough & protects it from the Scratches.

It is used more in many ways in Modern Jewellery Design comparatively.


 

Garnet

 

The Hardness: 6.5 to 7.5 Mohs

Color: Light Red, Red, Violet, White, Brown, Black, Green, Yellow

 

 

It comes with varieties of colors based on its Constituents.

 

It was named after the Fruit “Pomegranate”.

It is because of the Color & Shape of the Seeds of Fruit is quite similar so.

 

The Colors (Except Blue) of Garnets gets different ranges as below.

  • Light Red to Violet
  • White
  • Green
  • Yellow
  • Brown
  • Black

 

Iolite

 

The Hardness: 7 to 7.5 Mohs

Color: Violet Blue, Deep Blue, Light Blue Gray, Yellow White

 

 

Its name is derived from Greek Word “Ion”.

It means “Violet”.

 

As it appears to be much similar in Color with Tanzanite, people often get confused between the both.

 

It gets the Deeper Shade of Violet.

 

Its Hues ranges as below.

  • Deep Blue
  • Purple
  • Lavender
  • Gray Blue

 

Back in time, Viking Explorers were using it as a Navigation Tool.

For that thin Pieces of Iolite were being cut. Then after, they were used as Polarizing Filter Lenses. These Lenses were helpful in finding out the Exact Position of the Sun. Thereby it was being a Guide to the New World & Back.

 

It should be protected from the Blows despite of its Hardness.

 

It gets the appropriate price & impressive color options thereby it can be the Futuristic Jewellery Staple.

 


 

Onyx

 

The Hardness: 6.5 to 7 Mohs

Color: Black, Black with White Bands, White, Brown, Red

 

 

It is made of the Chalcedony; which is a variety of Quartz.

 

Its name is derived from Greek Word “Onyx”.

It means Nail or Claw.

 

Popularity

It was very much popular among Ancient Romans & Greek People. It is usually seen in White, Black or Black (with White Bands). However, mostly Onyx is being Dyed Black in order to improve its color.

 

Onyx Bands are Parallel & mostly consistent as well.

 

Agate Comparison

Agate is another Variety of Quartz; Agate & Onyx seems to be much similar. However, Bands in Agate are pretty much Round or Circular & they are not even consistent.

 

A Backdrop is provided by Onyx in most of the Fine Jewellery.

Black (with White Bands) Onyx is being used in Beads & Cameos.

 

Other Colored (as below) Onyx is known as Sardonyx.

  • Red
  • Brown
  • Reddish Brown

 


 

Opal

 

The Hardness: 5 to 6.5 Mohs

Color: Black, Gray, White, Yellow, Orange, Red, Colorless

 

 

It gets impressive variety of Elegant & Rich Colors.

That’s why it is widely known Gemstone.

 

Its name is derived from 3 different languages.

  • Upala from Sanskrit
  • Opalus from Latin
  • Opallios from Greek

All of above means Precious Stone.

 

Opalescence

  • It is the Remarkable Feature of Opal.
  • It means Light Play.
  • It only happens with High Quality Stones.
  • Light generally gets reflected & bounces around comparatively smaller Structures of the Stone.
  • As a result, the beautiful Aura or Iridescence appears sometimes.

 

Opal Group gets collection of Awesome Gemstones.

 

These Gemstones can be differentiated by below.

  • Basis of the Variety
  • Place of Occurrence
  • Color of the Main Body

 

The Main Body Color can be either of below.

  • Dark or Black Opal
  • White or Light Opal
  • Milk or Crystal Opal
  • Boulder Opal
  • Opal Matrix
  • Mexican Opal
  • Fire Opal

 

Opal gets colors as follows.

  • Black
  • White
  • Gray
  • Yellow
  • Colorless
  • Orange
  • Red

Among all the above, Red is the most Attractive & widely known Opal in the date.

 

Red Opals are of two types as below.

  • Cherry Red
  • Fire Red

Among the above two Red Opals, Fire Opal gets for the Wonderful Hue.

It is popular & thus much expensive comparatively.

 

The Major Supplier of Opal is Australia.

It contributes almost 95% of Opals all around the world.

 

It gets Similar Chemical Formula as of Quartz (only 3 to 10% of Water Content has to be added). It is made with Sand & Water.

 

The Harsh Light & Heat can possibly dry out (& can cause Cracks) the Opal thereby it should be protected from that. Even the hardness of the Opal is comparatively much lesser so it has to be worn with lot of carefulness.

 

It gets wonderful ranges of Shapes & Colors & Sizes.

 

Thereby below Ornamental Jewellery products can be made easily.

  • Rings
  • Earring Rings
  • Brooches
  • Charms
  • Bracelets

 

 


 

Peridot

 

The Hardness: 6.5 to 7 Mohs

Color: Yellow Green, Brownish Green, Olive

 

 

Despite of it being much older yet it is widely popular gemstone in the date.

It has the Olivine Mineral. Unlike other Gemstones (whose Color is caused by Traces of Other Elements) Peridot gets the Color from its Own Internal Structure. It is basically Iron-Magnesium-Silicate. The Color Intensity of Peridot is based on the Amount of Iron inside.

 

Under Higher Pressure & Extreme Heat, it is formed deep down the Earth.

 

Sometimes it is also known as Chrysolith or Olivin.

Peridot name is derived from Greek Word “Peridona”. It means “Giving Plenty”.  Chrysolith name is derived from Greek Word “Goldstone”. It is being one of those few stones that available in one Color only.

 

Normally the Elegant Peridot is found from the Border of Pakistan-Afghanistan.

 

However, it is also found in below Countries.

  • Australia
  • Mexico
  • Sri Lanka
  • South Africa
  • Tanzania
  • China
  • Burma
  • Arizona
  • USA

 

Mostly it is being used in Jewellery as below.

  • Earrings
  • Pendants
  • Bracelets
  • Rings

 

Tanzanite

 

The Hardness: 6 to 7 Mohs

Color: Deep Blue, Ultramarine Blue, Light Violet Blue, Purple

Refractive Index: 1.69 to 1.70

Specific Gravity: 3.35 Treatment

 

 

It is being the Blue Variety of Zoisite.

It is much Popular, Elegant & Impressive stone. Back in 1967 it was discovered in Merelani Hills in Tanzania (East African State). It is the only place to have found Tanzanite there by Tanzanite was name after that State. And that’s why the price of the stone is also comparatively high.

 

It is available in below colors.

  • Purple
  • Bluish Purple
  • Violet
  • Bluish Violet
  • Violetish Blue
  • Blue

 

 

It exhibits 3 different colors (while viewing in 3 different directions) so it is known as Trichronic.

 

It gets 3 layers of colors in this way. They are as below.

  • Dark Blue
  • Green Yellow
  • Red Purple

 

The Color of the stone is dependable on the Cutter (as how he cut) as well.

  • Stones with weight up to 20 Carats get for the Finer Quality & are available too.
  • Stones with weight up to 50 Carats are rarely available.

 

To obtain colors, the Heat Treatment is being done.

The Elegant Violet Blue Color Tanzanite is produced after Heat Treatment.

 

A lot of care should be taken while wearing it as it is much delicate stone.

Ultrasonic Cleaner shouldn’t be used to clean it. It can be shattered easily in the heat of a torch so don’t resize or repair its Jewellery Product without having the stone removed 1st.


 

Tourmaline

 

The Hardness: 7 to 7.5 Mohs

Color: Black, Red, Gray, Yellow, Pink, Green, Blue

 

 

Each Tourmaline is unique as no two Tourmaline stone will be alike.

Thereby, it gets a Special Place in the world of Gemstone. It has deeper Brilliance. It renders variety of different colors. It is Mixed Crystals. It is made out of Aluminium Boron Silicate. It has changing & complex composition as a whole.

 

Its name is derived from the Singhalese Word “Tura Mali”.

It means “Stone with Mixed Colors”.

 

With different color it gets the different name as in below.

  • With Intense Red Color, it is known as Rubellite.
  • If it changes the color in light source, it is known as Pink Tourmaline or Shocking Pink Tourmaline.
  • With two colors inside, it is known as Bicolored Tourmalines.
  • With more than two colors inside, it is known as Multicolored Tourmalines.

 

It gets for the amazing Wearing Qualities. It is easy to care as well.

 

 

 

 


 

Some Important Precautions while Buying Gemstone

 

We have categorized Tips in a Simpler Manner to help you buy the Perfect Gemstone in all the way.

 

4Cs are well considered for making buying decision of Diamonds. However, these 4Cs are applicable in case of Gemstones as well. In anyways, 4Cs are best to find out the Best-Match-Gemstones with respect to your requirements.

 

Our Buying Tips Include for below generalized Types.

  • Color
  • Clarity
  • Cut
  • Carat

 

 


 

Color Stone

A Very Close & Careful Attention is required while making decision of buying Colored Gemstones. It shouldn’t be too Light or too Dark in Color.

 

The below Color Shades seem to be Best.

  • Bright
  • Rich
  • Intense
  • Pure
  • Vivid

 

Interesting Insights

  • Put the Stone in White Light and the True Color of Gemstone will be revealed.
  • Gemstones should be checked for Colorations under Different Light Conditions.
  • The Color Changing Properties of Gemstones should also be checked under different Exposure of Daylights & Other (Incandescent) Light Sources.

 

Color of the Gemstones gets below Characteristics.

  • Hue
  • Saturation
  • Tone

 

Hue

It is the Shade of the Color. It is also known as the Tint of the Color. In this way, it is what we call the Basic Color itself is.

Nearest to all Gemstones get the other Color Shades inside. The Gemstones who reflects only Slight of Hues of Other Color & Major Hue of the Pure Color are the Valuable ones.

 

Saturation

It is basically the Measure of Purity (or Intensity) of the Hue of the Color of the Gemstone.

Most Strongly Saturation in Gemstone means the respective Gemstone is Free from Brown or Gray Hues; this Gemstone is valuable in compare to that which gets the Lower Saturation.

Based on Saturation, the Cut of the Gemstone is being decided.

 

Tone

The Color Depth of the Gemstone is known as Tone. Relatively it can be Light Hue or the Dark Hue as a whole.

It can be classified into below.

  • Light
  • Medium Light
  • Medium
  • Medium Dark
  • Dark

The Gemstones with Color Tone Medium Light to Medium Dark are Most Valuable ones.

 

3 Characteristics described in above, are associative with each other so closely.

And they have their own importance in defining for the color of the Gemstone. The Higher the Intensity of the Color the Higher will be the Value of the Gemstone.

 

In any way, based on the Color, the overall value of the Gemstone is determined.

50 to 70% weightage of the Value of Gemstone is classified by Color.


 

Gemstone Clarity

 

The Existence or the Non-Existence of the Flaws inside (or on the Surface) the Gemstone determines the Clarity as a whole.

The Value & Quality in turn is defined by the Clarity of the Gemstone.

Gemstone with Flawlessness is totally rare on the earth and thereby the price is accordingly placed higher on that.

 

There will be Inclusions or Tiny Mineral Flaws inside every Gemstone in general.

It is only seen to the Expert Eye or under Magnification. However, sometimes these inclusions don’t affect the Durability of Gemstones. In that case the Value of Gemstone won’t be affected.

 

In anyways you need to see the Clarity as the Most Important Factor.

Mostly, we won’t be found Clean Colored Stones in reality. No Clarity or Variation Grading System is standardized in the date. In anyways there are no two alike gemstones in this world.

 

Look for the Inclusion after seeing it by face up on the Table.

If no Inclusions are visible, the Value is higher.

 

Gemstones (like Emeralds, Sapphires & Rubies) do contain some sort of flaws.

However, those inclusions are pretty invisible to the naked eye.

 

 

On the Clarity Ground, Gemstones can be found so clean & at the same time they can contain heavy inclusions too.

 

Nearly Flawless Gemstones are as below.

  • Amethyst
  • Aquamarine
  • Blue Topaz
  • Citrine
  • Kunzite
  • Tanzanite
  • Yellow Beryl

 

Gemstones with Few Inclusions are as below.

  • Ruby
  • Sapphire
  • Spinel
  • Tourmaline

 

Gemstones with Heavy Inclusions are as below.

  • Emeralds
  • Red Beryl

 

 

Conclusively, the lesser the Inclusions in Gemstones the Higher will be the Value.

But then again, there are some rare cases in which inclusions do increase the Value in turn.

For Example, Star Rubies & Star Sapphires

  • They are Translucent.
  • They get Stemming Inclusions which when reflected against the light; do produce for the Star Results.

 

 

Important Things for Gemstone Clarity

In order to examine the Colored Gemstone, we need to see it from the Top or Face up Position. While examine in the same way, if you don’t find any sort of Inclusions the Value or the Beauty will be unaffected. Sometimes Gemstone setting hides for the Inclusions, however you don’t need to worry as value isn’t affected in that as well.

Other trick is used by Jewellers. They examine the imperfections with 10X Magnifying Glass or Microscope.

You should give priority to Color instead of Clarity while buying the Gemstone.

 

 

 


 

Gemstone Cut

 

The Cut of the Gemstone is related to its Symmetry & the Proportions in a way. The Entire Beauty of the Gemstone is based upon the Qualitative way it was being cut.

 

If the Gemstone is Well-Cut, it will reflect the light in Evenly Manner across its Surface area while being Held Face up. The Surface Area will be Dark if Stone is Much Deep & Narrow. The Parts of Gemstone will be Lifeless or washed out in case if the Stone is Much Shallow or Wide.

 

For the Optical Efficiency, the Color is also considered before cutting the Gemstone.

  • For Highly Saturated Colored Gemstone, A Shallow Cut will be applied in order to get passed more light.
  • For Less Saturated Colored Gemstone, A Deeper Cut will be applied in order to increase the Vividness.

 

The Variety of Cuts in Gemstones is below.

  • Cabochon
  • Table
  • Rose
  • Brilliant
  • Square
  • Triangular
  • Step
  • Emerald

 

Cutting & Polishing Process of Gemstone is referred to as Lapidary.

 

Pearls & Corals are needles to be cut. It is because they are organic Minerals. They are left in their Natural State only. But then again, it is important to polish them on a regular basis.

 

It is the duty of Cutter to increase the Yield & produce the Larger Stones from the existing Material. It is because Gemstones are being sold by their weight so Larger Stones are priced more comparatively.

 

Buying Tips for Gemstone Cut

  • You need to look for the Ideal Cut (with Desired Shape) Gemstone while you are going for buying the one.
  • You should know that a good cut stone might not affect the cost of the Gemstone. But it is important to look for because it determines the Beauty of the Gemstone.
  • Please be ensuring with it being properly Polished & getting Perfect Symmetry. If the Stone is Symmetrical in all Dimensions, it will be appearing more balanced so.
  • Out of all, the 1st preference has to be given to the choice of the wearer with respect to the Cut & the Shape of the Gemstone.

 

 

Gemstone Carat Weight

 

The Carat is the widely known Weight Measurer of the Gemstone.

  • 1 Carat = 0.2 Grams

Or

  • 1 Carat = 1/142 of an Ounce

 

Sometimes Carat can be defined in terms of Points as well.

  • 1 Carat = 100 Points
  • ¼ Carat Gemstone means Gemstone with 25 Points.
  • ½ Carat Gemstone means Gemstone with 50 Points.

 

Gemstone in general way isn’t sold with respect to the Size. It is sold by Weight only. Same Carat Weight Gemstones can have different sizes with respect to the Density.

 

The higher the Size the Price will be higher exponentially.

As an Example, 2 Carat Ruby Stone with its Color & Quality is valued more compare to the two 1 Carat Ruby Stones of the same Color & Quality.

 

Useful Things for Gemstone Carat Weight

  • It is always up to the budget in order to go for the Carat Weight of the Gemstone.
  • An Average Sized Gemstone (with Good Color, Cut & Clarity) must be your preference over the Larger Gemstone (with No Good Color, Cut & Clarity).
  • You should know the difference between the terms Carat & Karat. Karat is used in describing the Fitness or Purity of Gold.

 


 

Gemstone Enhancement / Treatment

 

Gemstone Enhancement is the Treatment Process.

It is used in order to improve the Appearance in terms of Color & Clarity and the Durability of the Gemstone. It is no way related to Cutting or Polishing Process.

 

The different types of Treatment Process can be as below.

  • Heating
  • Oiling
  • Irradiation
  • Waxing
  • Dying
  • Bleaching

 

The Treatment Process can either be Temporary or Permanent as well.

 

Nowadays it is very common practice to have used widely in the industry.

Thereby, Mostly Gemstones of Today’s are priced higher because of the treatment process done properly.

 

Precautions while Buying Treated Gemstone

  • What you need to 1st look into while buying the Gemstone is if the Gemstone is Treated or Natural. Find out the Method of Treatment used if it was been treated Gemstone.
  • Treated Gemstones are priced lesser compare to the Natural or Untreated Gemstones. You have to ask to the Jeweller if the Treatment Process is Temporary or Permanent in case if it is Treated Gemstone.
  • In anyways, you also have to ask for the Special Cares to be taken into consideration.

 

 


 

Gemstone Certificate

 

A Gemstone Certificate basically is the Grading Report of the respective Gemstone.

The Independent Gemmological Laboratory is issuing it as a Statement. The Experienced Stone Graders use the Various Gemmological Instruments in order to evaluate the respective Gemstone. The Gemstones in question are been examined, Measured & Scrutinized by them in a nutshell. The Certificate or the Report contains the Characteristics of the particular Gemstone.

 

The below are the list of Reputed Laboratories available for Gemstone Certification.

  • GIA (Gemmological Institute of America)
  • AGSL (American Gem Society Laboratories)

The above Institutes are pretty much well known for the consistently unbiased Gemstone Grading Systems.

 

Buying Tips for Gemstone Certificate

  • You always need to ask for the Gemstone Certificate while buying the Costlier Gemstone. However, it might cost you a little but the peace of mind is worth as well. It is because when you spend your hard earned money it has to be for the rightly priced product.
  • The Exact details of the Gemstone will be helpful for you to do some sort of comparison before making any kind of purchase.
  • The Certificate tells you the Characteristics of the Gemstone you are paying for. No Jeweller can charge you more based on the certificate. On the Contrary, there are pretty good chances on getting the Best Deal on the same.
  • Not only that, in case you want to sale your gemstone, the Certificate can get you comparatively much better re-sale price.
  • Even for the Insurance of the Gemstone the Certificate is Mandatory.

 


 

General Buying Tips

 

The below Buying Tips will surely be helpful in making some sort of right decision.

 

  1. Convenience & Pace

It should be bought at your own convenience & Pace.

 

  1. Budget

Set your Budget before everything in order to buy a Gemstone. Then Explore as many options as possible.

You will find different Range, Carat Weight & Qualities accordingly.

 

  1. Personification

Always keep in mind the Personality & Preferences of the People for whom you are buying Gemstone.

 

  1. Reputed Jeweller

A Reputed or A Well known Jeweller should be approached for buying Gemstone.

You can also have recommendations for Jewellers from Family & Friends.

 

  1. Gemstone Being Treated or Not

Ask your Jeweller if the Gemstone you are purchasing was been treated or Enhanced for Color or Covering flaws or not.

Treated Gemstone is less expensive than Natural one.

 

  1. 4Cs

Please be sure that Gemstone you are buying fulfils the basic criteria of 4Cs.

 

  1. Color Preference

The Color is to be seen over Cut, Clarity & Carat Weight.

 

  1. Lighting Inside the Shop

The Lighting inside the Jewellery Shop consists of Quartz or Halogen Bulbs.

It can be deceive for your buying decision as it contains for High Intensity Streams of Light. Because of that, Product looks like Crown Jewels.

 

With above tips, you can confidently buy any of the Gemstone for sure.

 

 

Historical Value

In the history of mankind, Gemstones have been well praised. They are most desired & treasured elements from time to time. Several Centuries ago, they were being found in Ruins Dating. Gemstones or Jewellery made out of Gemstones are valuable in terms of Gifting or Love Symbolizing or Appreciation.

 

 

Valuing

The more the Exclusiveness in the Gemstone the higher will be the Grade in turn.

As an Example,

1 Carat Gemstone (with Overall Featured Value) is rarer compare to the 100 Carat Gemstone.

So the Size (being Larger Gemstone) doesn’t mean it is a better choice to make. However, it comes at the end at the preference of buyer who can judge correctly what can be the True Value of Gemstone to him or her.

 

Please Note the term Grade or Grading means Exclusive Characteristic of the Gemstone in here. It nowhere means to have the values like more Durable or Beautiful or Better suited for you.

 

You should look what suits best with respect to your feelings while selecting a gemstone.

 

 


 

Standard Industry Gemstone Grading

 

Please have a look into our Diamond Buying Guide in case if you haven’t gone through.

We have described 4C’s there. The 4Cs are Color, Cut, Clarity & Carat Weight. It is being Famous in Industry. However, Gemstone does differ from Diamond. Thereby, we need to add one more C into 4Cs. That makes it 5Cs. And the 5th C here is Cost Factor. It refers to have an idea regarding what is the True Value of the Gemstone after all.

 

 

 

The Color of the Gemstone

There are 3 Main Components of the Color as per ICGA (International Colored Gems Association). They are as below.

  • Hue
    • Like Red, Blue, Green...
  • Saturation
    • Like Strong, Pastel, Deep, Shallow...
  • Tone
    • Like too Light, Light, Medium, Dark, too Dark...

 

Stronger Rich Color (or Purple Hues) gets the Higher Value to the Gemstone.

Some Sort of Subtle Changes in High Quality Stones can make an huge Difference in Price as well. As in... The value of below does vary at the greater extent

  • Slightly Greenish Sapphire
  • Pure Blue or Bluish Purple Sapphire

 

However, the difference is not that apparent usually to the People. Only Experts can detect the Slightest Detail as they do observe the Gemstones on a Daily basis so.

 

People with Strong Personalities go for the Strong & Bold Colors of Gemstones.

Rest do prefer the Softer & Brighter Stones. The ultimate Decision can be the outcome of the Skin Complexion or the Outfit of the respective person.

 

 

 

See the Gemstones and you’ll find only fewer among them are having completely Deepest & Richest Colors. These Gemstones are highly in demand thereby the price is comparatively much higher for the same.

 

Gemstones with the Below Color Variations are generally desired more.

  • Clear
  • Medium Tone
  • Intense
  • Saturated Primary Colors

 

Economically viable Gemstones are coming with Muted Colors & Colors between Hues. They are much impressive in terms of appearance.

 

However, it is totally & absolutely your Personal Preference that determines the Choice of the Gemstone.

 


 

The Cut of the Gemstone

 

The Final Brilliance & Elegance of the Gemstone is given by the Cut.

Without any darkness or Windowing when the Ideal Cut gets all the light in an even pattern, it becomes the Best Cut Gemstone as a whole.

 

Cut doesn’t affect the Cost.

However, the Elegance & the Beauty of the Gemstone do depend on the Cut. The Gemstones with Colors get for the More & Different Cut Variations compare to the Diamonds.

 

Cut doesn’t require any Fixed Rule while Cutting.

However, it should be done with the hands of Skilful Cutter as he does have careful considerations of both Proportion & Yield.

 

In order to lessen the Amount of Inclusions, Gemstones should be cut in even atleast. Optimal Shape in this case is envisioned 1st by the Cutter. Intensity of Color is also considered.

 

 

 

It is apparent if you reduce the Carat Size the Gemstone will become lighter comparatively. If the Size of “Too Dark Stones” is reduced, the Color gets improved. But the Light Color Stones lose the value if the Size is reduced.

 

However, we would consider Shape & Cut in order to clarify.

The Physical Form or the Contour of the Gemstone is Shape. And the Cut gets you the result of how Well the Shape is been executed.

 


 

The Carat Weight of the Gemstone

 

In order to know how much the Gemstone Weighs for, the Gemstone Industry considers the Metric Unit of Weight, Carat as the Weight Measurer.

  • 1 Carat = 1/5 of Gram
  • As in 5 Carats = 1 Gram

In terms of Decimal Fractions of the Carat the Point is 0.01 of the Carat (like 1/100th of the Carat).

 

 

 

Stones with Larger Size are having higher price Per Carat.

However, the relationship between Per Carat Prices & Sizes gets differs with respect to the Group of the Gemstone.

 

It doesn’t get you the Figures of Dimensions.

The Density does vary from Very Light Stones (as in Opal) to Very Heavy Stones (as in Zircon).


 

The Cost of the Gemstone

 

The Price of Any Commodity in the date is pretty much based on the ratio of Demand and Supply. Just like that, the Price of Gemstone does also depend on Demand & Supply values.

 

Finer Gemstones aren’t available easily in relatively greater quantity.

And people do look for the Exclusive Stones. So Demand is comparatively much higher. Deposits are consumed pretty quickly. So Mining comes to an end. On the other hand, sometimes Deposits on the Surface gets exhausted. So mining seems to become Expensive.

Deeper the Mining Process the higher will be its Expensiveness. It is because of considering other costs (in order to recover the Gemstones) as below.

  • Machinery
  • Fuel
  • Time
  • Effort

So Deeper the Depth the Higher will be the Price for the Gemstone in the end. In cases like; if Production Price is higher than the Market Price, the Mining itself will be Stopped.

 

Sometimes Celebrities do create the demand after wearing Gemstones (like Sapphire, Ruby and Emerald) at Events (like Red Carpet). Demand & Fashion are two driving factors in this way.

 

 


 

Gemstone Treatments & Enhancements

 

Today Majority of the Gemstones are going through the Treatments in the Gemstone Industry.

 

Out of all treatments, Heat treatment is widespread.

It enshines the outlook of the Gemstone. Thereby, the treated Gemstones are known as Enhanced Gemstones.

 

The Treatments bring the Permanent Nature to the Gemstones.

As a result the brilliance & Color are maximized to a significant extent.

 

On the other hand, Untreated Gemstones (that too with Top Conditions) seem to be found in less quantity.

 

Treated or Untreated Gemstones; sometimes there is no Value Variations between them especially in Few of Precious & Semi Precious Colored Gemstones. On the contrary, the Treated Gemstones add the Value of the Gemstone. But then again, High Quality Unheated Rubies & Sapphires are pretty rare. Thereby the Market Selling Price of them is much higher.

 

If you want to purchase for the High Quality Rubies or Sapphires, you should know that Unheated Material is pretty much unheard in general. Heat Treatment however is well praised & widely accepted because of the value it outpours in the end.

 

The below is the list of Common Gemstone Treatments.

 

  • Emerald

Commonly Oiled with Colorless Oil to Improve Appearance

 

  • Ruby

Commonly Heated to Improve Color & Appearance

 

  • Sapphire

Commonly Heated to Produce Intense or Light Color &/Or Improve Overall Color Uniformity

 

  • Tanzanite

Commonly Heated to Produce Blue to Violet Spectrum Colors

 

  • Aquamarine

Commonly Heated to Improve Color

 

  • Blue Topaz

Commonly Irradiated & Heated to Produce Blue Color

 

  • Tourmaline

Commonly Irradiated to Intensify Pink, Red & Purple Color

 

  • Jade

Commonly Impregnated with Colorless Wax

 

  • Lapis Lazuli

Commonly Impregnated with Colorless Wax or Oil

 

  • Coral

Commonly Bleached

 

  • Pearls

Commonly Bleached to Improve Color & Appearance

 

  • Black Onyx

Almost Always Dyed

 

 


 

Lab Created Gemstones

 

Both the terms “Natural Gemstones” & “Lab Created Gemstones” are used by Gemmologists all around the world. Natural Gemstones are formed in the Earth.

 

Lab Created Gemstones are the result of Man Made Process.

This Process is used in order to Stimulate the Natural Conditions. As a result, the similar (to the Natural Gemstones) Gemstones are created. Lab Created Gemstones are pretty common these days.

 

Lab Created Gemstones are Suitable Alternative to the Natural Gemstones.

It is indeed specially for those customers who have budget specific Constraints. However, the Durability is comparatively low in the same.

 

Gemstone Buying Guide

  • Gemstone Buying Task has become tougher with respect to the time. It requires the Trust on our own Judgement. It depends on the Sales Person’s Representations as well.
  • Other useful factors to be taken into consideration are as below.
    • Tangible Weight
    • Clarity
    • Color
    • Origin
  • The Lab Report Listing of Color, Cut, Clarity & Weight can also be considered. The Comment about Treatments or Origin can be referred.
  • If imported from Particular Country, Certain Sapphire or Ruby gets for the Premium Price. So that info can be helpful as well.

However, Certain Guarantees offered by the Seller can also be preferred in lieu of an Independent Grading Report.