Gemstone Clarity
Here is what you need to know about gemstone clarity and how to select the perfect stone for your engagement ring on gem set jewellery piece
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Gemstone Inclusions
The different types of inclusions helps gemologists determine whether the gemstones you are purchasing are natural or synthetic, their variety and country of origins. Inclusions are minerals, gases, liquids or crystals which got trapped in the gemstone during its formation.
Each coloured gemstone is unique and consists of a combination of trace elements and minerals which create inclusions and marks. Imperfections don’t necessarily affect the beauty or desirability of the stone. Some gemstone varieties naturally have many inclusions while others are naturally clear. Inclusions and nuances could occasionally be a desired gemstone feature, depending on cutomer preferences and overall stone appearance.
How To Shop For Gemstones
Some varieties of coloured gemstones naturally have less inclusions than others. Naturally low in internal imperfections are the aquamarine, blue topaz and morganite, compared to the emerald, red beryl and ruby. To get a clearer idea of the stone’s quality, match the gemstone clarity to the standard for the gemstone variety.
When searching for the perfect gemstone for an engagement ring or other gem set jewellery, Steven Stone experts recommend choosing aesthetics over grading or parameters and personal preference over quality.
Expert Tip
"When choosing the perfect gemstone for an engagement ring or other gem set jewellery, Steven Stone experts recommend choosing aesthetics over parameters and personal preference over quality."
Clarity is an important factor when choosing and comparing coloured gemstones, however clarity grading scale was initially created for grading colourless diamonds, not coloured gemstones. Some gemstone inclusions prove the stone is natural and might be a desired feature, which provides the stone with nuances and positively affects its overall appearance. Gemstones with few or no inclusion are extremely rare and costly.
Based on their clarity, the GIA classes different gemstone varieties in 3 types. Type 1 gemstones are usually naturally eye-clean, which means that no imperfections can be seen with the naked eye. This gemstone group includes morganites, aquamarines, tanzanite and smoky quartz. Type 2 gemstones naturally have more imperfections, however inclusions might be a desired feature in Type 2 gemstones. This group includes sapphires, rubies, amethysts and garnets. Type 3 coloured gemstones are naturally almost always included. Some Type 3 gemstone varieties are the tourmaline and red berryl.
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