Gemstones - How to Find High Quality Gemstones

Naturally occurring precious stones are of many types. They occur as varieties of some common minerals obtained from different locations. These precious stones are classified according to their hardness, transparency, rarity and some other factors. Different stones differ in quality because either they are full of flaws or inclusions, or they have not been mined or cut properly. In order to locate excellent gems, both precious and semi-precious, you need to know a few distinguishing and grading characteristics. First-rate gems are normally very expensive. If you are looking for high quality loose gemstones or gemstone jewelry, this guide will come in handy.

There are now hundreds of websites where fine quality stones and jewelry articles are available. The jewelers list some characteristics of their stones along with information on where they obtained those stones from. The location plays in important role in determining the quality of a gem. For example, natural tanzanite is found in Tanzania and is a sparkling violet blue stone. A 5.76ct. tanzanite with oval shape and IF (Internally Flawless) clarity is available for somewhere around $3680. If a stone is priced that high, you can be assured of its quality. However, it will also be a good idea to examine its authenticity before buying it.

Similarly, other high quality loose gemstones can be found. One of the important characteristics that help to distinguish between low and high grade stones is their clarity. There are several clarity ratings, such as VVS (Very Very Slightly Included), SI (Slightly Included), I (Imperfect), and Dcl (Declasse). Stones with inclusions exhibit lower clarity and they are not normally used in jewelry. However, loose gems with slightly lower clarity might be available at decreased rates. 8.52ct. tourmaline in golden orange color with VVS clarity can be bought for as low as $600.

Rare gemstones tend to be more expensive even if they are classified as semi-precious. Hardness also determines the value of a stone and normally greater than 7 hardness rating on a scale of 10 is considered as superior. Other characteristics of high quality stones are durability, transparency, and brilliance. Some stones are heat treated to change their natural color and this process decreases their value. Untreated stones are considered more precious and valuable. Brilliance is measured by the refractive index of a stone. Higher the refractive index, greater the brilliance. Stones that can be found in a variety of colors are usually more expensive than those that exhibit only one or two colors.

Some of the less expensive gemstones include rainbow moonstone, lapis lazuli, citrine, agate, turquoise and tsavorite garnet. Nowadays, people also like to collect large gems. You can find stones in this category that weigh up to 160ct. and even more. Round checkerboard smoky quartz that weighs 88.1ct., comes in smoky brown color and has IF clarity is available for only $126. This means large stones are quite affordable. Another beautiful stone known as star ruby comes in purplish red color with opaque clarity and 164.3ct. weight. This lovely stone can be bought for a little above $1000.

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