Ruby, sapphire, emerald and other popular gemstones
Recognise gemstone names and ask the right questions about identity, origin, treatment and condition.
Example items; some may have been sold. Check with the branch before visiting.
A red stone is not necessarily ruby, and a blue stone is not always sapphire. Colour helps you choose what you enjoy, but proper examination is needed to establish identity, origin or treatment.
Common gemstone names
Ruby is red corundum; blue sapphire is blue corundum, while sapphires also occur in other colours. Emerald is green beryl. Garnet is a group with several colours, amethyst is purple quartz, and aquamarine is blue to greenish-blue beryl. These descriptions introduce names; they are not a photo-identification test.
Why prices vary within one name
Colour, clarity, weight, cutting, condition and treatment matter. Origin can also matter when supported by suitable evidence. A price for another stone cannot simply be multiplied by weight to value yours.
Ask separate questions
Natural origin, laboratory growth and treatment are different topics. A natural stone may be treated; a simulant may be another gemstone or glass. Ask what is known and have important descriptions recorded.
Before buying or asking about pawning
View the actual piece in ordinary light. Check fractures, edges and setting security. Read the scope of any report; a report does not guarantee resale value. Money OK must inspect the item before confirming acceptance. Treatments and care · Contact a branch.
Sources
Questions about your visit
Have a question? Talk to your branch
Ask branch staff about materials or our services. Identifying and confirming the details of an item requires a physical inspection.
Related reading
Treated gemstones: what to ask before buying or cleaning
Understand heat treatment, fracture filling and why cleaning methods must suit the actual stone.
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Natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds and simulants: what is the difference?
Understand diamond origin, lab-grown material, moissanite and CZ before buying or asking about pawning.
3 minHow to read a diamond report: 4Cs and the checks that matter
Understand carat, colour, clarity and cut, verify report details and inspect the actual ring before buying.
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