Gemstones have been prized for centuries for their beauty, rarity, and perceived mystical properties. However, not all gemstones are created equal. Some may be synthetic or artificially treated, while others may be outright fakes. If you want to buy an authentic gemstone that is worth its price, it's important to know what to look for and where to buy it. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to buy an authentic gemstone.

Gemstone Characteristics to Look For

The first step in buying an authentic gemstone is to understand its characteristics. Gemstones are evaluated based on several criteria, collectively known as the "4Cs": color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. These factors determine a gemstone's value and rarity.

Color

Color is one of the most important factors in determining a gemstone's value. Some gemstones, such as diamonds and sapphires, come in a wide range of colors, while others, such as emeralds, are prized for their intense green hue. The color of a gemstone should be even and vivid, without any visible color zoning or tints.

Clarity

Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions or blemishes in a gemstone. Most natural gemstones have some level of imperfection, but those with fewer inclusions are rarer and more valuable. A gemstone's clarity is graded on a scale from "included" to "flawless."

Cut

A gemstone's cut determines its shape, proportions, and symmetry. A well-cut gemstone will maximize its brilliance, fire, and scintillation. Poorly cut gemstones may look dull and lifeless. The cut of a gemstone should be symmetrical, with even facets and no visible chips or scratches.

Carat Weight

Carat weight refers to the size of a gemstone, measured in metric carats. One carat equals 0.2 grams. Larger gemstones are rarer and more valuable than smaller ones of the same quality. However, carat weight should not be the only factor in determining a gemstone's value.

Gemstone Country of Origin

The origin of a gemstone can also affect its value and desirability. Some gemstones are prized for their geographic origin, such as Burmese rubies or Kashmir sapphires. Others may be subject to trade restrictions or ethical concerns, such as conflict diamonds or Burmese jade. With sapphires, for example, the Ceylon variants are known to be the richest in color on average. Featuring rich blue hues. With rubies from Myanmar and emeralds from Brazil and Colombia being among the best on average. 

Researching Gemstone Dealers

Once you understand the characteristics of gemstones, the next step is to research dealers. There are many reputable dealers who specialize in authentic gemstones, but there are also many unscrupulous ones who may try to sell you synthetic or treated gemstones.

Choosing Between Natural and Lab grown Sapphires

A key consideration when it comes to buying quality gemstones is the question of their origins. Are they sourced from nature or are they man-made.

The main difference between natural and lab grown gemstones is their origin. Natural gemstones are formed in the earth's crust over millions of years, while lab grown gemstones are made in a laboratory using advanced technology that replicates the natural process.

Another difference is their price. Natural gemstones are usually more expensive due to their rarity, while lab grown gemstones are more affordable and accessible.

In terms of physical and chemical properties, natural and lab grown gemstones are virtually identical. They both have similar levels of hardness on the Mohs scale, durability, and can and color range.

Ultimately, the choice between natural and lab grown gemstones comes down to personal preference, budget, and ethical considerations.

Check for Certifications and Accreditations

One way to ensure that a gemstone dealer is reputable is to check for certifications and accreditations. For example, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) provides certifications for diamonds and colored gemstones. The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) provides accreditations for gemstone dealers who follow ethical and professional standards.

Read Customer Reviews

Another way to gauge a gemstone dealer's reputation is to read customer reviews. Look for reviews on independent websites or forums, rather than the dealer's own website. Be wary of dealers with many negative reviews or suspiciously positive ones.

Avoid "Too Good to Be True" Deals

Be cautious of gemstone dealers who offer deals that are "too good to be true." For example, if a dealer claims to sell high-quality gemstones at a fraction of the market price, it's likely that the gemstones are synthetic or