Gemstones offer a never-ending world of beauty, rarity, durability, and color that only nature can create. Most gemstones are minerals, naturally occurring chemical compounds that have formed in very unusual conditions deep within the earth’s core. Others – like amber, coral, and pearls – are formed from plants and animals.

The same four C’s that establish quality (and price) in diamonds are used for colored gemstones: cut, carat weight, clarity and, most important, color.

Color - The strength and purity of a gemstone’s color is of prime importance.
Cut - Proper cutting emphasizes the richness of a gemstone’s inherent color.
Clarity - Inclusions are characteristic to most gemstones. Even the most expensive contain some inclusions.
Carat Weight - The size or weight of a gemstone also affect its value.

Since most consumers don’t know what to look for when purchasing a fine colored gemstone, Moritz-Reusch encourages its customers to personally consult us when making a selection. We believe that it is important to educate you on your purchases.

For your protection, we recommend bringing your colored gemstone jewelry to Moritz-Reusch for regular cleaning and inspection. Colored gemstones should be treated differently than diamonds. For instance, some colored gemstones cannot tolerate the heat of cleaning and/or should not be cleaned with certain solutions.

Although gemstone cutting is the most basic enhancement method necessary to fully display the beauty of a gemstone, there are many fascinating methods by which man has demonstrated his ability to draw maximum color, luster, clarity, and brilliance from nature’s earthbound treasures.

An understanding of these enhancement techniques will add to your appreciation of the beauty, durability, and value of the gemstone jewelry you already own or will purchase in the future.