Buying a gemstone is more than choosing a beautiful color—it’s an investment in rarity, craftsmanship, and authenticity. Whether you are purchasing your first gem or expanding a fine collection, understanding how to evaluate gemstones is essential.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to buy gemstones with confidence.
Step 1: Decide Why You’re Buying a Gemstone
Before looking at gemstones, clarify your purpose:
- Fine Jewelry – rings, pendants, earrings
- Investment – long-term value appreciation
- Astrological Use – traditional or personal belief
- Collection – rarity, origin, or unique phenomena
Your purpose will influence the type, size, and budget of the gemstone you choose.
Step 2: Choose the Right Gemstone Type
Different gemstones offer different benefits:
- Sapphire – durable, versatile, wide color range
- Ruby – rare, high value, symbol of power
- Emerald – iconic green, timeless elegance
- Tourmaline – vibrant colors, modern appeal
- Alexandrite – rare color-change phenomenon
💡 Tip: For daily-wear jewelry, choose stones with high durability like sapphire or ruby.
Step 3: Understand Color Quality
Color is the most important value factor in gemstones.
When evaluating color, look for:
- Even color distribution
- Strong saturation without being too dark
- Attractive natural tone
Examples of premium color terms:
- Royal Blue – Sapphire
- Pigeon Blood – Ruby
- Vivid Green – Emerald
- Peach-Pink – Padparadscha Sapphire
Step 4: Check Clarity (But Be Realistic)
Unlike diamonds, most gemstones naturally contain inclusions.
- Minor inclusions confirm natural origin
- Eye-clean stones are highly desirable
- Some gems (emeralds) are expected to have inclusions
Avoid stones with cracks reaching the surface, as they may affect durability.
Step 5: Evaluate the Cut
A gemstone’s cut directly affects brilliance and beauty.
Well-cut stones will:
- Reflect light evenly
- Appear lively and bright
- Have balanced proportions
Popular cuts include:
- Oval
- Cushion
- Emerald cut
- Pear
- Cabochon (for star stones)
Step 6: Ask About Treatments
Treatments can enhance appearance but must be disclosed.
Common treatments include:
- Heat treatment (very common and accepted)
- Oil treatment (emeralds)
- No treatment / unheated (rare and premium)
💎 Unheated and untreated gemstones command higher prices.
Step 7: Verify Origin & Certification
For higher-value gemstones, origin and certification are crucial.
Reputable labs:
- GIA
- GRS
- IGI
- National Gem Laboratories
A certificate ensures:
- Natural gemstone confirmation
- Treatment disclosure
- Origin (when determinable)
Step 8: Balance Budget vs Value
A higher price doesn’t always mean better value.
Smart buyers:
- Choose better color over size
- Accept minor inclusions for natural stones
- Focus on overall beauty, not just carat weight
💡 A slightly smaller, vivid gemstone often looks better than a large dull one.
Step 9: Buy From a Trusted Source
Always purchase gemstones from a seller who offers:
- Full disclosure
- Certification
- Clear images and videos
- Transparent pricing
- Return or verification policy
At Akira Gems, every gemstone is carefully selected, ethically sourced, and transparently described.
Final Advice for Gem Buyers
Take your time. A gemstone is a personal and often emotional purchase. Ask questions, compare stones, and trust your eyes as much as expert advice.
A well-chosen gemstone will reward you with beauty, meaning, and lasting value.
