Opals require special care due to their structure. You do not want to use harsh chemicals to clean them and they should be stored separately from other gemstones that may scratch them. If you have a clothMore >>
Colored gemstones are evaluated for their cut, color, clarity, and carat weight -- just as diamonds are -- however, with different approaches. For example, color is most important. The color of ruby,More >>
Color and transparency is most important in all color gemstones. However, if the gem is too dark -- for example, in a sapphire, the dark blue is inky, it would have a lower value than a medium dark blueMore >>
HPHT stands for high pressure, high temperature. This is a treatment conducted on certain types of diamond that can permanently alter the color. Sometimes there are characteristics that an educated gemologistMore >>
The best first step is to take it to an American Gem Society member. Many professional laboratories will only accept gemstones from an established client -- not from the general public. There are differentMore >>
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 Worldnow and WALB, a Raycom Media Station. 
