Understanding Gemstones: Insights from Our Expert Gemologist

While diamonds go with anything, we see people mixing and matching their jewelry with gemstones for a more unique look. Yes, our primary customer base typically purchases diamonds, but we do see a steady number of buyers searching for gemstones, too.

Our gemologist, Kyle Kopischke, is a gemstone expert and knows more than anyone how they appeal to our customers. He says, “Many colored gemstones have been given meanings over the years, and some people like to represent themselves that way. Others just want something different than the norm, and there are plenty of options there.”

Whether you want to give a gemstone as a gift, an anniversary memento, or want to incorporate it into an engagement ring, the expertise from our gemologist will help you make your decision. We sat down with Kyle to talk all things gemstones and what you should look for as a buyer.

Meet Your Gemologist

Kyle attended the Gemological Institute of America and is a Graduate Gemologist. Working in the jewelry industry for over 10 years, he has a robust understanding of gemstones and applies it to his work at The Diamond Room. Kyle is largely responsible for grading diamonds and identifying gemstones, which he uses in appraisals, informing customers on the value of their piece, and advising our goldsmiths on what gemstones can withstand heat should the piece need repair.

Gemstone 101

Gemstones vary in color, value, cost, and durability. The type of gemstone you’re looking for and your budget can influence your purchasing decision. Luckily, our expert gemologist, Kyle, can educate you on the variables.

Notable Differences in Gemstones

Gemstones are most easily differentiated by their color, and those colors tell a story. Oftentimes, a gemstone’s appearance determines its value, which determines its cost. Using the GIA Colored Stone Grading System during his appraisals, Kyle describes a stone’s color in three parts:

Hue: The basic color
Tone: How light or dark the color is
Saturation: The intensity, or vibrancy, of the color

Some gemstones come in one color, like ruby, while others come in different shades, like sapphire and garnet. “Sometimes those colors can overlap, but there will always be differences between them. Many gemstones can be blue, for example, but the shades can vary depending on the gemstone,” Kyle says.

Determining a Gemstone’s Value

There are a number of features to look for when appraising a gemstone, because those identifiers determine the stone’s value, in turn affecting its price.

Rarity is the number one factor a gemologist looks for when studying a gem. A rare, precious gemstone garners a lot of attention for its uniqueness and exceptionality, making it incredibly valuable. When comparing stones of the same type, Kyle says, “color is king.” A gemstone with interesting colors or patterns is often thought of as rare in the jewelry industry.

Buying With a Budget

“While large gemstones are fun, you can have a ring with beautiful color and lots of design by using smaller gemstones along with diamonds,” Kyle says. Gemstones are a colorful, brilliant addition to any piece of jewelry. Whether you want to use them as an accent or as the main event on your piece, these timeless precious stones can be customized at The Diamond Room to fit your budget.

Gemstone Durability

While diamonds reign supreme in durability, gemstones are a close second, varying in durability depending on the type. For instance, sapphires and alexandrites are among the most durable, while opals are a little more fragile. Kyle recommends that you be mindful when wearing jewelry with gemstones, making sure to be gentle with them and not wear them day in and day out.

Buying Gemstones for Different Occasions

People purchase gemstones for a variety of reasons—whether it be an engagement ring, an anniversary gift, or a birthday present. Kyle notes the specific characteristics that people look for when purchasing these gems, and what The Diamond Room’s most popular gemstones are.

Gemstones in Engagement Rings

Typically, people choose diamonds for their engagement rings; however, gemstones add a touch of originality and individuality to any ring, making it truly special for the couple getting married. Sapphires are one of the best options for a centerpiece in an engagement ring as they are the most vibrant and durable of colored gemstones.

Gemstones in Anniversary Gifts

Buying a gemstone as part of an anniversary gift is often determined by the couple or by the milestone they’re celebrating. For example, the 40th anniversary stone is a ruby. Some look for a gemstone that has a personal meaning; however, Kyle says that this can be limiting. “Too many people think there has to be a meaning behind a gemstone to give it as a gift, and pass up on many amazing pieces because of that.” At the end of the day, choosing a stone that would appeal to your partner’s taste and one that they’ll cherish forever is the goal when purchasing an anniversary gift.

Gemstones in Birthday Gifts

This type of gift has the most variation, as the gemstone you buy depends on the recipient’s birthday. Some months have multiple stone options like June— alexandrite, moonstone, and pearl. Even the months that have less popular stones, like November’s citrine, come with alternate options that Kyle will be happy to point you to.

Purchase Your Gemstones at The Diamond Room

The Diamond Room team is fully staffed with industry experts. Between our diamond wholesalers, on-site goldsmiths, and gemologist Kyle, we are certain we can handle your jewelry with care and exceptional expertise.

Ask us about our custom design services so you can create your own uniquely special gemstone piece. Kyle and our other expert jewelers are more than happy to guide you in choosing your gemstone and will stop at nothing to make sure the design fits your desires.

From sapphires to rubies to emeralds, The Diamond Room has it all. Stop by our showroom to visit with our friendly team and see what gemstones we have in store.