Friday 17 July 2015

The Buying Tips: The Fine Gemstone Jewelry Buying Guide

By Olive Pate


When we talk of jewelry, we are more often talking of special stones or minerals. Gold, silver, copper, and diamond are among the most sought after stones and minerals used for jewelry. However, this does not mean that they are the only used minerals. The stones such as diamonds belong to a unique category of stones commonly referred to as gemstones. In this category, diamonds tends to be the most expensive ones, however, those who cannot afford the diamond or simply don't want them, then the fine gemstone jewelry collection is quite wide, and the buyers need tips in buying these jewelry.

The main consideration is the color characteristics of the stone. There are three aspects of gemstone color; the hue, saturation and the tone. The hue describes the stone's primary color and can be described as a tint or a shade of blue, red or any other color.

As for the hue, the focus is on its base color (shade or tint). The intensity of the base color is described by saturation and the tone is the description for the color depth. Generally, too light or too dark gemstones are not the best ones, instead, choose the one that has a bright, rich, intense and pure color that is also vivid.

The second aspect in your selection should be the clarity. It describes the flaws present or absent either on the surface or inside the stone. It plays a crucial role in the gem value and quality. Generally, it is very rare to find a gem that is completely flawless and are thus very expensive. The value of diamond get most affected by flaws, however, the value of most other stones are not affected much by the flaws not unless these flaws affect its durability.

The gems also come in different cuts and according to experts, polishing or cutting is determined by the color. For optical efficiency, shallow cuts are used for highly saturated colors while deep cuts help increase the vividness of the less saturated ones. The common cuts include Table, Square, Brilliant, Rose, Cabochon, Step, Emerald, and Triangular.

The other important aspect is carat weight. Since the gems are sold depending on their weight and not their size, the heavier ones are likely to cost more than the lighter ones. Generally, it is your budget that determines the carat you choose. However, you are better off buying an average sized gem that has quality cut, clarity and color than choosing a larger one that sacrifices color, clarity and cult.

The other important tip is the treatment or enhancement used. The enhancement is done improve the appearance in terms of its color and clarity and may also enhance durability. It may be done by oiling, dying, heating, waxing, bleaching or irradiating among other methods. As such, determine if it is natural or treated and if treated then determine the method used. Determine if special care is required and if the treatment affects its durability.

The last tip is to always ask for the certificate particularly if buying a costly gemstone. It may mean that you have to spend more but it provides the necessary peace of mind. In the certificate, there are details that can help you in comparing different options before the actual purchase.




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