Gemstone quality is generally based on the four C’s color, clarity, cut and carat. Though there are many characteristics that factor into the quality of a gemstone these four determine value.
Intensity refers to gemstones color strength. The stronger, brighter more beautiful the color is where the value lays. A gem with dull unattractive color is less valuable. A gem stronger in color yet not top color is easy to find and enjoyed by many. The most valuable and ideal gems will be bursting with intense color and are the most beautiful.
When it comes to clarity the clearer the stone the more valuable it will be. If a stone can be seen through with no impurities then it will be considered a clear stone. Impurities or cracks in a stone are called inclusions. Other minerals trapped inside a crystal during its formation are the most common forms of inclusions.
The cut of a stone will highlight a stone’s natural beauty. It should be symmetrically proportioned and polished perfectly. The most commonly used form of cutting a gemstone is faceting. Faceting allows for the best light reflection and most sparkle enhancing the beauty of the gem and making it the most desired. Faceted stones include many cuts including Princess, round brilliant, cushion, oval, marquis, heart, emerald and fancy cuts. Gems with less clarity or ones that are opaque such as onyx or opal are most typically cut cabochon style. Stones with brilliant color that would show too many inclusions are cabochon cut allowing the gem to be kept at a larger size.
The measurement of weight for a gem is a carat; a carat is 1/5 of a gram and commonly divided into points. The size of a gem or carat can play the largest role in value. A 1 carat colored stone with good clarity and color versus a half carat with same color and clarity can cost a substantial amount more. Not just because of size but because of the rarity of the size. This is especially true when it comes to diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. Some stones including topaz and amethyst are more readily available in larger sizes and so other characteristics determine their value.
Each gem, precious, secondary precious, semi-precious and opaque will have different characteristics and qualities that increase or decrease it’s worth. Colored gemstones add personality to a jewelry wardrobe.