How do you buy gemstones? The way they are cut? The feel? Its shine? Well, gemstones are so much more to look at, and it has been made easier with this guide from Gemfields. The world’s leading miner of responsibly sourced coloured gemstones, Gemfields is known to mine gemstones with transparency, legitimacy, and integrity.
It is important to note that coloured gems aren’t a rarity in nature and whether they are purchased for aesthetic reasons or for their longevity, there are a variety of factors to consider. Here is a detailed guide that will help you buy coloured gemstones with ease and as a professional next time.
Take time to fall in love…
Far and away the most important rule of buying is for the prospective buyer to – quite literally – choose the gemstone that they fall in love with, rather than opting for the one they think they should like. This may be a less ‘perfect’ gemstone – and in fact, its little quirks may be the very thing that makes the buyer fall for it.
Inclusions keep it real…
Perfection is in the eye of the beholder when it comes to gemstones carved from Mother Nature and formed deep beneath the earth’s surface millions of years ago. Inclusions – as they are called in the industry – are the little features that prove that a gemstone is authentic and that no two are the same. These are to be celebrated.
Opt for an even colour…
What is worth insisting upon when shopping for a coloured gemstone is the evenness of colour and good saturation throughout the gemstone. This is typically associated with a higher value, higher quality gem (unless it came about as the result of colour enhancement).
View gemstones in daylight…
The importance of seeing clearly when it comes to choosing a gemstone cannot be underestimated. When shopping for an emerald or ruby, a buyer would be best advised to try to see it in daylight, so that its colour is not affected by artificial light.
6 Cs to remember…
Colourless diamonds have long been measured by the 4 Cs – colour, cut, clarity, and carat – and there are two more added to the mix for coloured gemstones: character and certification. These 6 Cs are as good a guide as there is to make an informed decision – and a snappy way to remember the game’s basic rules!
Trust the brand…
Gemstones should always be purchased from a trusted supplier – someone who is known or has perhaps come through a personal recommendation. This will give the buyer peace of mind that their gemstone has been responsibly sourced and is of the quality described.
Get it in writing…
Especially if a gemstone is of significant size, it is important to request a lab report – verifying its origins and disclosing any treatments it may have received – from a certified gemological laboratory, something that all reputable labs will be happy to provide. Traceability records provide a complete picture of a gemstone’s journey to reach its final destination (in a beautiful piece of jewellery).
Do your homework…
It is important to ask questions and do research when finding a gemstone to buy. Responsible sourcing and sustainability are hot topics today, and jewellery brands, many with their in-house gemmologist teams, will be able to supply plenty of information. Many credible sources – like jewellery experts, gemological labs and industry bodies – are on hand to answer questions.
Know your gem’s journey…
Every gemstone is a tiny miracle and unique in terms of its character and journey. It’s often said the right gem will find its owner. Buyers who follow this advice and do their homework will certainly help the process along.