Ruby, sapphire, emerald and other popular gemstones

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.