Buying gemstones is a huge investment financially, and if you believe in the astrological benefits of gemstones, it is an emotional investment too. Many people fall into the trap of wearing a fake or synthetic gemstone instead of a real birthstone.
Every yellow colour stone may not be yellow sapphire and every blue colour tone will not be blue sapphire, so do not make yourself a fool by buying fake gemstones. Thus understanding the checks you must perform before buying gemstones becomes crucial. Here are some essential tips to ensure you make an informed and confident purchase. -Rajesh Jain, who deals in gemstones in Delhi says, "Research and understand all about carat, colour, clarity, and cut of the gemstones before buying. Establish that the stone is well-certified and thus authentic. Further, know about the origin, and understand that the value of the stone depends on the place of its origin."
He further sheds light on checking if the gem is heated or colour-enhanced and the importance of working with a reputable dealer.
Understand the 4 Cs
The 4 Cs are carat, colour, clarity, and cut. These four factors directly influence the price and quality of a gemstone.
Carat: Carat refers to the measuring unit of weight of the gemstone. Of course, larger stones are more valuable, provided the quality of both stones is the same. Many gemstones undergo treatments to enhance their colour or clarity. It's crucial to be aware of any treatments a gemstone has undergone, as this can impact its value and long-term care.
Colour: Though the hue, tone, and saturation of a gemstone increase its attractiveness, check if they have undergone treatment to enhance the colour. Treated stones are considered ineffective if you are buying stones for astrological benefits. A Natural Yellow Sapphire sourced from Sri Lanka called Ceylon sapphire would be less colourful compared to a heated sapphire from Thailand, nevertheless the former will be more expensive.
Clarity: Gemstones with inclusions are more trusted as they are considered signs of purity. It is rare to find an emerald with minimal inclusions or a clean surface. Emeralds often have more inclusions visible to the naked eye.
Cut: The way a gemstone is cut affects its sparkle and overall appearance. Lapidaries or cutting are used to transform rough crystals into stunning gemstones by giving them a specific shape and enhancing their shine and colour. A finely cut gemstone is pricier than an irregularly shaped or poorly cut one.
Origin
The origin of a gemstone can make a gemstone pricier. Gemstone for instance sapphires from Kashmir will be pricier than those from Sri Lanka or Burma. Rubies from Myanmar will be pricier than rubes from Madagascar or Mozambique. The first check of origin can be from colour and texture. Always check the origin of the certificate before buying.
Reputable Dealers and Gemstone Treatments
Gemstones often undergo treatments such as heating and fracture filling to enhance their colour. Reputable sellers are more likely to disclose information about treatments, and this information is typically included in certification documents. It's important to ask whether a gemstone has been treated, and if the treatments are effective for reduced effectiveness for astrological purposes. Natural, untreated gemstones are generally more valuable than those that have been artificially enhanced.
Certification
Ensuring that the gemstone comes with a certification from a reputable gemological laboratory is vital. From the name of the Gemstone to its weight, shape and cut, dimensions all are mentioned in the certificate. It should also have a microscopic view of inclusions the gemstones like Ruby-Rutile Needles. The colour of the gemstone, its origin, and its refractive index also will be mentioned. Check the comments section in the certificate to see if it's natural or treated. A government-authorised lab in Delhi that has a branch in Jaipur called the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council of India (GJEPC) is a good set-up to test the gemstones. Further, if the seller procures a certificate from the Gemological Institute of India (GII) or IGI that has bases in in Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur it can be trusted.
