There are many factors that determine the price of a piece of jewelry. The type of metal from which the item is made, the type of gemstones it contains, and the quality of the craftsmanship are usually the most important. There are several things to consider when purchasing gemstone jewelry.
Obviously, the type of gemstone in the piece can have a huge impact on the price, as some gemstones are more precious or rarer than others. Naturally mined, real gems are usually more expensive, although lab created and synthetic gems are usually flawless and have more vibrant colors. It is also important to note that sometimes retailers will say an item is “man-made” or “synthetic” when in fact it is simulated. Artificial Edelstein are glass, rhinestones or any other material that mimics a real gemstone. A simulated gemstone does not have the same composition and properties as a natural gemstone, while lab created and synthetic gemstones do.
Another factor that affects the price of a gemstone jewelry piece is the size and quality of the gemstone. As with diamonds, most gemstones are measured in carats (1 carat equals 1/5 gram). The higher the carat weight, the larger and more valuable the stone. And while no natural gemstone is flawless, any noticeable scratches, chips or inclusions will diminish an item’s value.
Also, keep in mind that jewelry prices vary widely. Precious metal prices change from day to day, as do the prices of many gemstones such as tanzanite. The timing of your purchase, like everything else, can affect the price of your item. And of course each retailer may have a different markup, so it’s always a good idea to shop around. In the end, by far the most important thing is that you will be happy with your purchase for years to come! If you’re like me, nothing else matters when you find that piece of jewelry that you fall in love with instantly!
Gem buying tips
Gemstones have been coveted and prized throughout history. They were found in ruins several thousand years old. They are appreciated as gifts that symbolize love. In general, the price of a gemstone is determined by: size, cut, quality (color/clarity/treatment) and type. Here are some quality questions:
Has it been treated?
Is the stone natural or synthetic?
Are scratches, chips or inclusions visible?
Is the color consistent throughout the stone?
How good is the color? (Is it alive?)
If you buy the stones for earrings or cufflinks, do the stones go well together?
There are many ways traders deal with gems. The smart buyer will ask lots of questions and hopefully test the results. Here are some treatments to look for:
Irradiation: It is common practice to irradiate aquamarine, London blue topaz, emerald and diamond and other stones. This treatment brings out the color and eliminates imperfections. Many dealers know if the stones they sell have been irradiated. Honest people will tell you if they know about the treatment.
Heat Treatment: Amethyst, aquamarine, ruby, tanzanite, and topaz are often heated at high temperatures to intensify color.
Dye: This is the most commonly used treatment. On clear stones, dye may be visible in cracks that are darker than the rest of the stone. Sometimes dyes appear as staining residues or as white spots. Lapis and rose quartz are commonly dyed. Amethyst and citrine are often colored. Black Onyx is permanently colored with normal processing.
Coatings: Jasper is often dipped in petroleum products to bring out the color and seal it. emerald is oiled; Turquoise is waxed.