The World of Colored Gemstones & Caring for Them

Throughout the world there is a great selection and range of colored gemstones.Of course, this huge range of choice sometimes makes it harder to select just one. What criteria should you use? Your birthstone? Your favorite color? Perhaps you should look at the selections, think about what colors you really like and ask your seller about quality, durability and care.

As a rule of thumb, when you buy colored gemstone jewelry; look for richness of color, internal clarity and a well-proportioned cut. Unlike a diamond, where colorlessness is the most desired look, the best colored gems have rich, full colors. Because they are made in nature, some gemstones have tiny inclusions in them. Unless these internal flaws are very pronounced, they do not affect the value of the stone.

Because of the gemstones rarity, ones with natural color are the most valuable, but many gems are enhanced or treated to enhance their color. Some of the more common processes include irradiation, heating, oiling, dyeing and fracture filling. While these are acceptable treatments that increase the beauty of gemstones, not all enhancements are permanent and certain gems can be harmed by improper care and cleaning, treating also devalues the genuineness of the gemstone making it less expensive.

The Federal Trade Commission requires jewelers to disclose any treatment that is not permanent or one that requires special care. So if your desired item does not disclose this information be sure to ask if the stone has been treated.

Caring for Your Colored Gemstone Jewelry

      - Don't be fooled into thinking that gemstones are hard and can't be damaged. Treat them with as much care as you would its diamond cousins and those stunning colored gemstones will stay as beautiful and perfectly cut as the day you bought them.

      - Remove your colored gemstone jewelry when doing vigorous exercise or rough work.

      - Don't wear gemstone jewelry when using bleach or chemicals.

      - Try not to subject precious gemstones to sudden temperature changes.

      - Avoid using chemical or ultrasonic home cleaners for gemstone jewelry unless your jeweler has told you they will not  harm your stones.

      - Never leave gemstone jewelry loose in a jewelry box or in your purse. Stones can become scratched or chipped by other stones or metals.

      - If you get dirt, makeup or hairspray on gemstone jewelry, clean it with a mild soap and water bath, clean around the setting using a soft brush and rinse thoroughly under clear, running water. Pat dry.

      - Inspect your jewelry regularly for loose stones, broken prongs or damaged settings. If you find any damage, immediately bring the piece to your jeweler for repair.