Evaluating Gems <p>When evaluating a gemstone it is often the case that we are searching for perfection. Any perceived deviations from the perfect example of any particular gemstone are taken into account when evaluating the gem material.</p> <p>There is a wide range in the qualities of certain properties in each gemstone. </p> <p>Different gemstones are are prized for various properties and so a general rule cannot be applied across all gemstones.</p> <p>However we can say that we examine each gemstone under the following categories of evaluation.</p> <p>COLOR - To be considered as displaying a fine color a gemstone should have a good depth of color it must not be too pale as too appear weak or dilute but it should also not be too dark as to darken significantly. So we are looking for a true vivid example of each particular color. The color should be distributed equally through out the material in general any perceived zoning of color, that is visibly different levels of color saturation in any one material, may be undesired.</p> <p>CLARITY - It is of course important for most material to be free of visible flaws and inclusions. The importance that clarity plays varies from gemstone material, for instance, a fine aqua marine should be virtually without flaw but a fine emerald will almost certainly not be free from inclusions. A gemstone which is e<span>xcessively included might not be durable.</span></p> <p><span>WEIGHT - The weight of a gemstone is a constant factor in determining its price. Some gem crystal are very rare and so the price increases greatly when dealing with a large example. The value of diamond, ruby and emerald will dramatically increase with the weight because large crystals are rare. For example large Topaz increase far less in value as large samples of these gemstones are more available and less rare.</span></p> <p><span>CUT & POLISH - Cut refers to the shape of the stone (round, oval etc.), but also to how well the proportions, symmetry and polish are executed.</span></p> <p><span>The quality of cut can greatly affect the overall value because of its influence on color. Well-cut stones bring out the beauty and brilliance more. Badly cut stones will see light leak out of the stone instead of being returned to the viewer’s eye.</span></p> <p><span>Polish and Symmetry refer to how sharply and well defined the relationship is between the crown and the pavilion . All facets should be polished well and the facets will align properly for the shape of the gemstone.</span></p> <p><span>Great care is taken with the selection of our claddagh gemstones to provide a beautiful visual experience to its wearer.</span></p> <p><span><img src="//cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0298/1853/files/pink_ladies_claddagh_ring_large.png?15604252269865646171" /></span></p> <p> </p>