When you buy natural gemstones online, knowing the 4 Cs of colored stones is imperative – Carat Weight, Clarity, Color, and Cut.
What is the difference between synthetic and natural gemstones?
Synthetic gemstones are grown in a laboratory, while natural gems are mined from the earth. Synthetics have essentially the same chemical makeup as their natural counterparts, but an experienced crystal grower can distinguish them. The growing environment of synthetics is more controlled than what nature imposes on precious stones, which makes them easier to produce with consistent quality. Natural gemstones are also more variable because they are grown over geologic time under completely different conditions – volcanic eruptions, wind currents, etc.
What are natural gemstones?
They are minerals found in nature that possess a characteristic chemical composition and crystal structure (minerals combined with water, heat, and pressure over millions of years form rocks). Gems can be crystalline (regular atomic structure like diamonds), amorphous (no regular pattern), or organic (combination of carbon elements – e.g., pearl). There are between 50 to 70 different minerals that are used as gems. Some examples include diamond, ruby, emeralds, sapphires, topaz, quartz, etc.
Buying Natural Gemstones Online
When you buy natural gemstones online, make sure your 4 Cs are as close to flawless as possible. Since most of these high-quality gems can be expensive, it’s worth the time doing a little research before making a purchase.
Due to their rarity, price, and beautiful natural gemstones have been sought after for millennia. Today they remain popular with collectors around the world. Of course, like any collectible, there is no guarantee of future value. Still, some stones such as emeralds and rubies have remained consistently valuable over centuries of use by royalty and commoners alike. The term “precious” or “semi-precious” stone generally refers to any mineral that has been highly regarded by civilizations through history for decorative purposes up until the 20th century.
The 4 Cs of Natural Gemstones – Diamond, Ruby, Emerald, and Sapphire
Many colored gemstones have been used throughout history due to their beauty and durability. Having a basic knowledge of these gems will help you choose the best natural gemstone for your needs when you buy them online.
In conclusion, buying natural gemstones online should be done with the same care you would normally use when purchasing fine jewelry. Due to their high value, many are sold as investment pieces – this allows you to purchase quality gems without breaking the bank.
