Gemstones are natural formations of minerals found in the earth, and have been treasured for their beauty for centuries. Sapphires, emeralds and rubies are the most commonly thought of gemstones, but many varieties such as topaz, garnet, and tanzanite loose gemstones are very popular, also. With more than forty commonly recognized varieties to shop for, how do you decide what to buy? Of course, the overall look and appeal of a stone is important, but there are other things to look for when you shop.
Loose Gemstones: Quality is the Name of the Game
All gemstones are not created equally, and you will certainly get what you pay for when you go to buy one. You will quickly see there is a wide variety of quality available in the loose gemstone market. You can pay $10 for a certain gem of lower quality, and a superior quality gem of the same type will cost $10,000. The difference between them is all about the color, clarity, cut and carat weight. Those last four terms are commonly referred to as the “4 C’s” of gemstones, and you should memorize them along with a few facts about them before you shop for any loose gemstones. Just because the stone you are looking at is huge doesn’t make it valuable – low quality stones can be large, yet not very valuable. Also keep in mind that just because the stone is part of a handmade jewelry set does not mean that you should pay top dollar.
Color is the most important factor when judging colored gemstones. Very vivid and saturated colors are preferable. Some gemstones have a muted, less vibrant color and will generally be worth less, even though they may still be perceived as very attractive. Always look at gemstones in various types of light, not just the bright store lights. Clarity is also very important. Clear stones with no visible inclusions are preferable, and usually it is very rare to find such stones. Emeralds almost always have visible inclusions, for example, but if there are none visible to the naked eye, they are considered flawless and will be very expensive! The cut of a gemstone does not necessarily make a stone cost more or less, but definitely affects the way a stone looks. A poorly cut stone will not let as much light into it, and it will look darker. Well cut stones look brighter and more “lively”. Large natural stones are quite rare, so generally are worth more, but the quality of the color, clarity and cut has to be high for them to be very valuable. Gemstones are measured in carat weight. One carat equals 1/5 gram in weight. Loose gemstones are minerals, and vary in weight depending on the mineral they are made of. So, a one carat sapphire will be a different size than a one carat tourmaline, and a one carat topaz will be a different size than the sapphire or tourmaline.
Choose Your Loose Gemstone Jeweler or Retailer Carefully!
As above, quality counts when choosing where to purchase a loose gemstone. Generally it is preferable to buy gemstones where you can see them before you buy. Ask to see the stones up close, not in a package or plastic, and look at them in different types of lighting. Also, ask to see appraisals and certificates that should accompany loose gemstones. If you are refused, do not buy anything there! Don’t be taken in by a dealer who tells you a stone is worth much more than they are asking you to pay. A reputable, honest jeweler/dealer will talk to you and answer all of your questions. Remember, you aren’t going to get a gemstone that is worth $1000 for $100!
Just by knowing a little about loose gemstones, and keeping in mind the 4 C’s, color, clarity, cut and carat weight, you will greatly improve your chances of finding and buying a good quality loose gemstone. When you are shopping for cheaper jewelry, such as cubic zirconia rings, or any fashion jewelry like sterling silver hoop earrings, you don’t need to be as cautious as you do when you shop for quality gems. Find a great jeweler, and you will definitely end up with a beautiful stone to add to your collection!
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