Gem

Gem cutters (lapidaries) use different techniques depending on the stone’s optical properties and clarity:

If you are planning to invest in a valuable gemstone, keep these rules in mind to protect yourself:

Geuda is a semi-transparent, pale, and cloudy form of corundum found abundantly in Sri Lanka. For centuries, it was considered low-value, useless gravel. However, in the 1970s, it was discovered that applying specific high-heat treatments to Geuda transforms these dull stones into brilliant, deep Blue Sapphires. This groundbreaking discovery revolutionized the Sri Lankan and global…

Many gemstones undergo treatments after being mined to improve their color or clarity. This is a standard and acceptable industry practice, provided the seller discloses it to the buyer. Common treatments include: Heat Treatment: The most common enhancement. Sapphires and Rubies are often heated to extremely high temperatures to permanently brighten their color and dissolve…

Sri Lanka is famous for its traditional, relatively eco-friendly mining methods, most commonly known as pit mining or Pathal.

While high-quality Alexandrite and Padparadscha Sapphires from Sri Lanka are incredibly rare, the Red Diamond holds the title for the most expensive gemstone per carat globally. They are so exceptionally rare that only a handful of pure red diamonds are known to exist in the entire world, often selling for over 1 million USD per…

Yes, physically, chemically, and optically, they are completely real. Lab-grown gemstones have the exact same chemical composition and crystal structure as naturally mined gemstones. Natural Gems: Take millions of years to form inside the earth and hold higher value due to their natural rarity. Lab-Grown Gems: Created in a controlled laboratory environment over weeks or…

Criteria Description Color The hue, tone, and color saturation of the gem. For colored stones, this is usually the single most important factor. Clarity The absence of internal flaws (inclusions) or surface blemishes. Clearer stones reflect light better and are more valuable. Cut How skillfully the stone has been shaped and faceted to maximize its…

Traditionally, the jewelry industry divided gemstones into two main categories based on historical rarity and value: Precious Stones: Only four gems fall into this classic category: Diamonds, Rubies, Sapphires, and Emeralds. Semi-Precious Stones: This includes almost every other gemstone, such as Amethyst, Topaz, Garnet, Tourmaline, and Opal. Note: Today, experts consider these terms somewhat outdated….

While there are simple observations you can make at home, professional identification is always best. Here is what experts look for: Weight (Specific Gravity): Real gemstones are generally denser and heavier than glass fakes of the exact same size. Temperature: Genuine stones often feel cool to the touch and take longer to warm up in…