Gem buyer's guide .....
If you are planning to make a gem purchase, there are several points to keep in mind.
What is your budget?
While gems have no daily value like gold or silver, they do increase in value over time.
Often there is no price difference between a good quality gem and a lower quality gem.
It is imperative that the seller and buyer are knowledgeable.
High quality gems are usually sold by established showrooms.
Be aware of methods of measuring gems by weight and be prepared to calculate the actual prices for comparison purposes.
Although jewelers will sometimes accept returns of gems, they will not once the gem has been placed in a setting.
Keep in mind that some gems are fragile and breakable. Consider the use and setting when deciding upon a gem.
The price of a gem is dependant on several factors: color, size, weight, cutting, shape, clarity, lustre. For example, a two carat gem will be more expensive that 2 one carat gems - a two carat gem of low quality cannot be compared to a one carat gem of the best quality. It is important to be aware of all factors.
Jewelers often offer fabulous prices on gems if the jewelry setting is also to be done by them (which compensates for the discount on the jewel). Therefore, it is worthwhile to have both in mind while visiting varied jewelers for comparison purposes.
Diamonds
For information pertaining to Diamonds, please refer to the Diamonds Information. The 4 C's of Diamonds may be accessed by clicking here. A list of minerals commonly substituted for Diamonds along with a comparison is found at Diamond Imitations.
Pearls
For information pertaining specifically to Pearls, please refer to the Pearls Information.
