Gemstones
Traditional Birthstones:
- January: Garnet
- February: Amethyst
- March: Aquamarine
- April: Diamond
- May: Emerald
- June: Cultured Pearl
- July: Ruby
- August: Peridot
- September: Sapphire
- October: Opal
- November: Citrine
- December: Blue Topaz
Gemstone Measurements
Gemstones may be measured by weight, size, or both. The basic unit
for weighing gemstones is the carat, which is equal to one-fifth
(1/5th) of a gram.
Carats are divided into 100 units, called points. For example,
a half-carat gemstone would weigh .50 carats or 50 points. When
gemstones are measured by dimensions, the size is expressed in millimeters
(for example, 7x5 millimeters).
Tips in Gemstone Value
Expect to pay more for matched pairs, sets, special shapes and
cuts.- this is true for all varieties, especially the more expensive
ones.
When shopping for gemstones you will find low-to-medium quality
gemstones set in jewelry, while a wider range of qualities are in
unset gemstones.
Most jewelers do not stock a wide selection of the top quality
gems and will have to call a supplier for these.
Color is the most important value factor with Gemstones; so be
careful when purchasing online as the differences between monitors
make the color comparison of even the best photographs difficult.
When shopping online seek out the better gem retailers who will
stock and sell only top-quality gems, as well as offer a liberal
return policy so you can independently appraise your gem in order
to verify its quality.
