Here is an introduction to the different precious and semi-precious gemstones available.
1) Precious Gemstones - Precious gemstones, such as diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, are considered rare and valuable. These stones are often used in high-end jewellery due to their hardness, brilliance, and vivid shades.
2) Semi-precious Gemstone - Semi-precious gemstones like aquamarine, amethyst, garnet or topaz are still relatively valuable but less so than their precious counterparts. These stones come in various shapes and sizes and have multiple colours, from deep blues to vibrant pinks.
3) Synthetic Gemstones - Synthetic or lab-created gemstones are synthetic versions of natural ones using high-tech equipment such as lasers. They offer an affordable alternative to genuine gems while providing the same beauty and durability as natural ones.
4) Organic Gemstone - Organic gemstones include pearls, corals and amber, which form naturally over time rather than being cut or shaped by humans. These gems are sought after for their subtlety and rarity making them ideal for creating statement jewellery pieces.
Designing a jewellery piece with gemstones is exciting because of the wide range of colours, shapes and sizes. Whether you opt for a precious or synthetic gemstone, organic or cut stone, you can be sure that your bespoke piece is truly unique.
When looking at gemstones, it's essential to look at how they are treated and their effect on the stone. Many gems are treated to enhance their colour or clarity using chemicals such as acids, heat and irradiation. Knowing the treatments used when buying gemstones is important as this affects their authenticity, value and durability. Synthetic stones, for example, are often treated with heat or irradiation, while natural stones may be dyed or bleached. Natural treatments such as oiling are also common. Knowing the treatment process ensures you know the quality of the stone you are buying.
When looking for a bespoke piece, it is best to research the stone thoroughly before committing to buy. Exploring the physical characteristics of the stone, such as clarity, colour, and cut, will help you find the perfect gemstone for your custom jewellery piece. It's also important to look at where the stone was sourced, as different stones have different qualities that can affect the piece's durability. Suppose you're looking for a truly unique gemstone. In that case, it can be beneficial to source your stone from a certified jeweller or gemologist.
The type of setting used is also important when considering the quality of your custom jewellery piece. Different settings such as prong, bezel and channel will affect how the stone is secured and appears in the finished product. It's also important to remember that some settings require more maintenance than others. For example, prong settings are often easier to clean but have a higher risk of stones becoming loose or falling out over time. Bezel settings offer more protection for your gemstone but can be more challenging to clean.
When it comes to the metal used in your custom jewellery, you should consider quality and durability. A metal's purity or carat rating will affect its resistance to tarnishing and how well it stands up over time. Gold is one of the most popular choices for jewellery as it's strong, beautiful and holds its value. Still, other options are available such as sterling silver and platinum. No matter which metal you choose, ensure it's high-quality to keep your gemstones looking great for years.
Finally, consider the design of your custom jewellery. This may be the most personal part of deciding on a piece, as the design reflects your style and personality. There is a wide range of styles, from classic designs to modern pieces. Your jeweller will be able to advise you on different options and suggest what would look best for any stones or metals that you've chosen. Once your design is finalised, they can create the piece for you! With custom jewellery, you can be sure your piece is unique and special.
