How to Buy Jewelry

Jewelry Buying Guide

So, you’re thinking about buying some jewelry. Maybe it’s an engagement ring. Maybe it’s a birthday or anniversary gift that has to be special.

You can shop better by taking the time to learn how to buy jewelry. Here are a few explanations to help you understand the wonderful world of fine jewelry without having to purchase a jewelry buying guide.

What are natural gemstones?

Natural gemstones are found in nature. They are created in and mined from the earth. Pearl is the notable exception, since it comes from a living creature! Natural gemstones are sometimes enhanced, which means they were treated in some way (such as heat) to improve their color and/or clarity.

What are laboratory-created gemstones?

Laboratory-created gemstones, as the name implies, are made in a laboratory. These stones, which also are referred to as laboratory-grown, manufacturer-created, or synthetic, have essentially the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural gemstones. Laboratory-created gemstones do not have the rarity or value of natural colored gemstones. All gemologists will recognize the difference.

What are imitation gemstones?

By contrast, imitation stones look like natural gemstones in appearance only and may be a manmade or a natural stone. Laboratory-created and imitation stones should be clearly identified as such.

Gemstone basics: what to look for.

Gemstones may be measured by weight, size, or both. The basic unit for weighing gemstones is the carat, which is equal to one-fifth (1/5th) of a gram. Carats are divided into 100 units, called points. For example, a half-carat gemstone would weigh .50 carats or 50 points. When gemstones are measured by dimensions, the size is expressed in millimeters (for example, 7x5 millimeters).

What is an enhanced or treated gemstone?

Gemstone treatments or enhancements refer to the way some gemstones are treated to improve their appearance or durability, or even change their color. Many gemstones are treated in some way. The effects of some treatments may lessen or change over time and some treated gemstones may require special care. Some enhancements also affect the value of a gemstone, when measured against a comparable untreated gemstone. Treatments and/or enhancements should always be disclosed by the seller, along with any special care that might be required.

Planning to buy a diamond? Learn about diamond buying!