Gemfields explains all the important 6 C’s and offers the ultimate guide to buying colored gemstones.
There are many factors to consider when it comes to buying colored gemstones – and not all of them are obvious.
Some of them relate to aesthetics, others to the verification of the origin of the stone, but they are all equally important.
The complexity of the gemstone buying process largely reflects the miraculous set of circumstances it took to shape these extraordinary freaks of nature.
Emeralds and rubies, which have been attributed to mystical properties since ancient times, are not an ordinary purchase: they are durable, and therefore it is important to analyze every detail before choosing “the one”.
Don’t rush to fall in love…
The most important buying rule is that the potential buyer must – literally – choose a gemstone they have fallen in love with, not choose one they think they should like.
It may be a less “perfect” stone – and, in fact, its little quirks may be the very thing that makes the buyer fall in love with it.
Inclusions confirm authenticity…
Perfection is in the eye of the beholder when it comes to gems that were created by Mother Nature and formed deep underground millions of years ago.
Inclusions – as they are called in the industry – are small features that prove that the gemstone is genuine and that no two are alike.
Choose a uniform color…
When buying a colored gemstone, you should insist on the uniformity of color and its saturation throughout the stone.
This is usually associated with a more expensive, higher quality stone (unless it comes from a color enhancement).
Examine gems in daylight…
The importance of clear vision when choosing a gemstone cannot be underestimated.
When buying an emerald or ruby, it is best for the buyer to try to view the stone in daylight so that its color is not affected by artificial lighting.
6 C’s to keep in mind…
Colorless diamonds have long been graded on the 4 Cs of color, cut, clarity and carat, and for colored stones two more are added: character and certification.
These 6 C’s are a good guide to making an informed decision, as well as a handy way to remember the basic rules of the game!
Trust the brand…
Gemstones should always be purchased from a trusted supplier – someone who is well known or may have come on a personal recommendation.
This will give the buyer confidence that their gemstone was sourced responsibly and is of the quality advertised.
Put it in writing…
Especially if the gemstone is of significant size, it is important to request a laboratory report confirming its origin and disclosing any processing it may have undergone from a certified gemological laboratory, which all reputable laboratories will gladly provide.
Traceability reports give a complete picture of how far a gem has traveled to reach its final destination (beautiful jewelry).
Do your homework…
When choosing a gemstone to buy, it’s important to ask questions and do research.
Responsible sourcing and sustainability are hot topics today, and jewelry brands, many of which have their own gemological teams, will be able to provide a lot of information about the stone.
There are many trusted sources such as jewelry experts, gemological labs and industry organizations who are always available to answer questions.
Know the path of your gem…
Each gem is a small miracle, completely unique in its character and path. It is often said that the right stone will find its owner by itself.
Buyers who follow this advice will surely help the process.