The "Term" Gemstone Genuine & How to spot an authentic jewelry store

Is Your Gemstone Genuine?

Jewelry is big business and the real value of any jewelry is dependent on the gemstone that is part of it. What are the qualities or characteristics to check or watch for to be sure that the gemstone is genuine?

It takes training and the right equipment to determine if a gemstone is genuine. The term "genuine " means that the gemstone doesn't only look as expected, it should also meet the physical and chemical characteristics unique to that gemstone. Before going any further, are treated gemstones still genuine? Some gemstones are treated to enhance their appearance and decorative value.

Yes, there are professionals to perform the tests that determine if a gemstone is genuine or not but it is a valuable asset to any gemstone buyer to know the attributes to be tested.

1.0 Chemical composition and atomic structure
The stone's hardness, and light reflection is dependent on the atomic structure. Gemstones usually have crystalline structures.

2.0 Hardness and durability
Testing Laboratories

American Gemological Society (AGS)
American Gem Trade Laboratory of the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA). AGTA the largest trade organization of gemstone traders
American Gemological Laboratories (AGL)
European Gemological Laboratory

Advancements in science have produced synthetic "gemstones" which cost just a fraction of the genuine gemstones.

How to spot an authentic jewelry store

There are so many jewelry stores and almost every store has the same pieces of jewelry. It's almost impossible for an amateur buyer to determine if the store sells authentic jewelry or not. Some stores trick their buyers into buying fake jewelry, so here are some helpful tips in spotting an authentic jewelry store.

Watch for the papers

Authentic jewelry comes with a price for a reason. So if you were to buy a real diamond ring, don't buy it without the essential papers. These authentic pieces of jewelry come with a product registration card and signed certificate of authenticity. If the store fails to give you these papers, they might be selling fake or imitation jewelry.

Beware of online stores or eBay

Not all pieces of jewelry fetch a high price. So if a store is selling a 1-carat diamond for a low price, be suspicious.

Finding authentic jewelry stores may be a big challenge for an amateur, so asking around or consulting a professional jewelry maker will help a lot. Don't be lured by words or sweet-nothings, but certainly watch out for these tips in finding an authentic jewelry store.