| Whether purchased as a gift or a treat for | | | | stone and a synthetic substitute. Also what |
| yourself, buying gemstones as jewelry is | | | | characteristics make the stone more desirable, |
| becoming more popular than ever. Part of the | | | | for example depth of color, the best cut to |
| allure of gemstones is the many beautiful choices | | | | enhance the natural beauty, etc? Also research |
| of cut and color. Add to that the fact that the | | | | customary price ranges on-line. This type of |
| price of a gemstone is generally more affordable | | | | research will be valuable when you begin viewing |
| than a diamond, and it's apparent why gemstones | | | | actual jewels. |
| are increasingly desirable. Thanks to modern | | | | At this point I suggest going to jewelry or |
| jewelry enhancing treatments there is a larger | | | | department stores to look at some pieces of |
| selection of colored stones available than any time | | | | jewelry up close before you actually make a |
| in history. | | | | choice. Ask the jeweler to let you look through |
| When selecting a gemstone for jewelry, the first | | | | his loupe and scan for inclusions and flaws. |
| thing that's usually considered is the color. People | | | | Remember that some flaws are actually assets in |
| select stones based on wardrobe preferences, | | | | certain stones. |
| birthstones, favorite colors, or any number of | | | | Once you've looked at a few examples, go back |
| other criteria. Also considered is price, size, cut, | | | | to the internet and search some reputable sites |
| setting, and type of jewelry in which the | | | | for the same stones, comparing price, quality, |
| gemstone will be placed. | | | | guarantee, and return policy before making a final |
| Because gemstones are minerals that are mined | | | | decision. Another good idea when purchasing on |
| from the ground in various parts of the world, it's | | | | line, just as with traditional jewelry stores, is to |
| usually a good idea to do an internet search once | | | | review customer testimonials. A good review by |
| you know what kind of stone you know you will | | | | a past customer goes a long way in determining a |
| be buying. One thing to look for is where the best | | | | comfort level with a retailer. At this point you |
| stones mined. I also like to find consider how they | | | | usually have some good information to help you |
| are mined and what detrimental effects the | | | | evaluate where and how to buy. |
| mining has on the environment. | | | | Regardless of your choice of stone, topaz, |
| Additional things to explore are the hardness of a | | | | emerald, sapphire, ruby, quartz, or any of the |
| particular stone, the effects of treatments | | | | many choices available, with a bit of research you |
| commonly used to enhance the stones luster, and | | | | can choose a gemstone that will bring you many |
| how to tell the difference between a natural | | | | years of enjoyment. |