In many ways buying a color gemstone is easier than purchasing a diamond. A color gemstone is valued primarily by the depth and saturation of its true color.

Color:

• Color is the primary factor when evaluating a color gemstone. The tone and hue of color you should look for will depend on the type of color gem you choose. If the gemstone is blue as in a blue sapphire, avoid "overcast" shades of grey or green. For rubies, the ideal color is "Pigeon's Blood Red", thus a tendency towards pink will devalue the ruby. Green emeralds should avoid yellow. Thus, a deeply saturated color and true hue of the gemstone is what will set it apart from the rest. In addition, look for an even distribution and purity of color when viewing the gemstone face up.
• It is important to note that a color that appeals to you may not be the recommended color for that specific gem. Find a color that appeals to you, you are going to be the one enjoying it!

Clarity:

• Clarity is less of a factor when evaluating a color gemstone. The amount of inclusions a color stone possesses depends on the type of gem. For example, most emeralds naturally have eye visible inclusions which do not affect the value of the gem, while most other gemstones possess no inclusions by nature.
• Therefore, clarity should be evaluated on the basis of the type of color stone. A good rule of thumb is to look for a gemstone that does not have the inclusions under the table area. Make sure the gem does not have any surface reaching inclusions or chips which would affect its durability for daily wear.

Cut:

• Most color stones are cut to ensure the best potential color when facing up. Sometimes a cutter has to cut the pavilion (bottom of the gem) to unusual proportions in order to achieve the best possible color face up. As long as the shape of the gemstone is not compromised, the actual number of facets or placement of facets will not devalue a gemstone. However, if most of the weight of the gem is found underneath the stone, this will result in a smaller looking stone face up. This gives you less value for the purchase price.
  
• In contrast, if the cut of the gem is too shallow, you might see a window effect in the color gem. This window is an area of the gemstone where the color is less saturated. The best way to evaluate the cut of your color stone is to compare it to other gems in the same shape and weight range.
  

Carat Weight:

• Carat weight depends on the size you are looking for. As stated earlier, make sure the stone is not cut so deep that you lose the look of the carat weight. (The deeper cut the stone the smaller it will look face up).
  
  

Terms such as "Burmese Ruby" or "Colombian Emerald" describe the color characteristics of gems mined in those geographical areas rather than the actual origin of a particular gemstone. Fine quality color stones are found all over the world! Many gemstones possess similar color characteristics of other gems found in different countries. Look for the color that appeals to you!

Much is stated regarding the durability (hardness) of certain gems (i.e. Tanzanites or Emeralds). However, understand that the most pressure a polished stone endures is the setting process by a jeweler. If it is not damaged by this process, chances are slim that it will be damaged during normal daily wear. In addition, most color stone mountings created by Giraux Fine Jewelry are designed to protect the gem as much as possible. Remember to always insure your item(s). (See: 7 tips on keeping your jewelry in top shape)

There are many gems that exist that do not make it to the consumer market. Apatite, amblygonite, aragonite, phosphophylite, are just a few examples of gem mineral species that are rare to none in their existence on the retail market. This is because their Mohs Hardness ranges from 3-6 and thus deemed not hard enough for daily wear. Remember, for a gem to be considered valuable enough for jewelry use, it must be rare, durable, and beautiful.

Almost all color stones are subjected to enhancement. Some are heat treated or irradiated to enhance color, while others like emeralds are oiled to prevent cracking. The treatment depends on the requirements of type of gem. Treatments are often applied to enhance the color, or to strengthen the stone. Most treatments are permanent and necessary to enhance value.

Enhancements which are not permanent do not add value to the gemstone and are a mask to hide imperfections. These treatments legally must be disclosed to the client.

NO GEMSTONE SOLD BY GIRAUX FINE JEWELRY IS LAB CREATED OR ILLEGALLY TREATED.