Like with our Diamond education page, we see a lot of value in presenting more than one source of colored stone information. Our favorite is here - the colored stoned encyclopedia from our friends at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA)

Once you see ALL of the available options, here is some information on the grading/quality that jewelry graded stones fall into.

Color

The jewelry industry recognizes the quality of gemstones by purity of their hue, their depth of tone, and the color saturation.

Many gemstones have been treated to enhance their color. The most common methods of treatment are heating, bleaching or irradiation.

This treatment does not hurt the stone but enhances the color characteristics to be closer to whats considered ‘ideal’ for that particular gemstone.

Clarity

Nearly all gemstones contain blemishes or inclusions. As with Diamonds, truly flawless gemstones are very rare and exceptionally expensive.

Cut

Gemstones don’t have an ‘Ideal’ cut in the same way that a diamond would - instead gemstones are cut to showcase the most true color, and the fewest inclusions.

Size

Unlike with Diamonds, gemstones cannot be accurately measured/compare using carat weight. Most jewelers (TJD included) list the diameter of the gemstone viewed from above.

Wear, Care, and Stone Selection

Some gemstones, while beautiful, can be very soft and suitable for only the most gentle of wearers and situations. While that isn’t a reason to avoid adding them to your collection, know that abrasive surfaces, chemicals, and impact can damage your stones.

We try to balance the beauty of a stone selected for our pieces with the durability and suitability of everyday wear.

Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions on the suitability of a custom or heirloom stone you’d like us to set or design around.