Judging and buying gemstones
And now a few words on the judging and buying of gem stones, a feature which is generally neglected in works on gem-ology, although it is all important to many, and interesting to all. Everyone, even the trade buyer, wishes to get the best value for his money, so we will here try to point out what one must look for in the principal jewel stones, and how far faults affect prices.
With stones, the more one spends, the better relative value one should obtain. If one can afford it, or if one is buying with a view to investment or subsequent resale, it cannot be too emphatically advised that the quality of the stone is far more important than the size. A good quality stone is always saleable, and a fine and large precious stone appreciates in value. First quality diamonds, emeralds, and rubies of size are rare, and they are eagerly sought after. A readily portable fortune, which can be realized in any civilized country, can be invested in such stones.
Most of the jewel stones which lie outside the range of the precious are not of great commercial value, but again the fine and large specimens are the more easily realized for money, if necessary. Comparison of different qualities in gem stones should be made; the stocks of first class jewelers should be studied, and visits to museums or collections which contain noteworthy specimens will be of assistance in gathering information. Every capital, and many large provincial cities, can show excellent stocks of gem stones in normal times. One should buy from reliable shops or experienced dealers, and not on trips to the East in various ports of call, unless one has reason to be confident. Many a synthetic stone, and even pastes, have brought much money to dealers in Cairo, Colombo, Singapore, and other ports, and also disappointment to the purchasers.