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-Paul Harvey What to Ask When Buying GemStones...excerpted from "Jewelry and Gems, The Buying Guide"-How to Buy Diamonds, Pearls, Colored Gemstones, Gold & Jewelry with Confidence and Knowledge- by Antoinette Matlins PG & A.C. Bonanno, FGA, ASA, MGA |
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| Asking the right questions is the key to knowing what you are getting when it comes to buying gemstones. It is also the only way you can be sure what you are comparing when considering gems from different jewelers. Be sure the jeweler can answer your questions, or can get the answers for you. Then, be sure the jeweler is willing to put the answers in writing on your bill of sale. Finally verify the facts, double check that the stone is as represented, by having it examined by a qualified gemologist-appraiser.
Diamond Basics, the factors used to determine the quality and value of a diamond are referred to as the "Four C's". In terms of their effect on the value of a diamond, in order of importance, we would list them as follows: -1. Color (body color), -2. Clarity (degree of flawlessness), -3. Cutting and proportions (often called the make), -4. Carat weight. More on Cut -The Most Important "C", in terms of beauty, we would place the cutting first. It's important to distinguish exactly what "cut" means when referring to diamonds and other stones. Cut does not mean shape. No matter which shape is selected, it's cutting must be evaluated. Differences in cutting can effect a diamond's beauty, durability, and cost, the latter by as much as 50 percent, or more. The cutting and proportioning of a diamond -the stone's make- is important because of its effect on the fire (the lovely rainbow colors that flash from within) and brilliance (the liveliness, -the sparkle) exhibited by the stone. Proper cutting and proportioning release the full beauty that sets diamond apart from all other gems. A stone with excellent make will be exciting, while a stone with a poor make will look lifeless, it will lack the sparkle and personality we identify with a diamond. Differences in cutting can also effect the durability of a diamond and make it more susceptible to breaking and chipping. Fine cutting requires skill and experience and takes more time. For all these reasons, a well cut diamond commands a premium and will cost much more than one that is cut poorly. When buying a diamond, be sure to ask about the cut, color, clarity and carat weight. Get the facts, in writing, and compare the diamonds you are considering. Finally have the stone examined by a qualified gemologist-appraiser to verify that it is as represented. Ideally, seek someone who holds one of these respected credentials: The Gemological Institute of America's highest award is Graduate Gemologist (GG). In Great Britain, the highest award is FGA, in Australia, FGAA, In Canada, FCGA, in Germany, DG and in Asia AG. When seeking an appraiser, look for the title "Certified Gemologist Appraiser", which is awarded by the American Gem Society, or Master Gemologist Appraisers, which is awarded by the American Society of Appraisers. What to Ask When Buying a Colored GemStone
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About the Author... Antoinette Matlins, PG, is a gem and jewelry expert, author, and lecturer, and a leading consumer advocate. A frequent guest on CNN, ABC, CBS, and CNBC providing important consumer information, Matlins devotes a large part of her work to education. She is author of four internationally acclaimed books on gems and jewelry, has written a gemology column for National Jeweler Magazine for almost as decade, and conducts product know- ledge training for some of the countries most prestigious retailers and industry groups. |
