| Asking the critical questions is crucial to getting | | | | gemstone, but it's not topaz. Always ask |
| the right jewelry at the right price. If you're | | | | specifically what a stone's name means and |
| comparison shopping for gemstones or jewelry, | | | | whether it is natural, genuine or synthetic. |
| there are a few key questions you should ask of | | | | 4. Is the clarity acceptable? Do the inclusions |
| every jeweler and about every piece before you | | | | devalue the stone or affect its durability? |
| buy. In this article, we cover them all. | | | | Because too many inclusions or flaws can actually |
| Remember, a reputable jeweler should be able to | | | | affect the durability of your stone, it's important |
| answer all these questions and include their | | | | to ask your jeweler to be up front about the |
| answers on your item's bill of sale. Always have all | | | | effect a particular diamond or stone's inclusions will |
| gems' statistics verified by an independent retailer. | | | | have on your purchase. |
| Keep reading to learn what to ask before you | | | | Ask him or her to write this answer out on paper |
| buy your next piece of jewelry: | | | | and bring it with you to your independent |
| 1. Is this a natural stone or a synthetic stone? | | | | appraisal. |
| Remember, synthetic stones can legally be | | | | 5. Do you like the color? Is it too dark or light? |
| described as "genuine," so don't get confused. | | | | Color is often a personal preference, but asking |
| Natural stones are mined naturally and develop | | | | your jeweler's opinion can give you an indication of |
| with little human intervention. Synthetic stones are | | | | how a particular stone's color can affect its value. |
| typically grown or "enhanced" with chemicals. | | | | 6. Will the color stay permanently? |
| 2. Is the color all natural? | | | | Because some color enhancement methods are |
| Some gemstones can be enhanced with dyes, | | | | temporary, it's important to ask if a stone's color |
| heat treatments, radiation, oils or colored waxes. | | | | will fade over time. Even with natural stones like |
| Before you buy, ask if the color has been | | | | amethyst and kunzite, fading is possible. |
| enhanced. Be sure to protect yourself against | | | | 7. Does this stone need a special, protective |
| buying dyed pieces that won't retain their colorful | | | | setting? |
| brilliance over a long period. | | | | Some less durable stones, like emerald or opal, |
| 3. What is this stone exactly, and what does the | | | | require a protective setting designed to keep the |
| name mean? | | | | stone safe in case it's banged or hit. These types |
| Always be sure you understand the name of a | | | | of stones ought not be set up in a vulnerable or |
| particular stone. For example, "Rio Topaz" is a | | | | unprotected casing. |