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Gemstone FAQ

Why is one diamond more expensive than another if they are the same size? The quality of the diamond, which includes the 4 C's of diamond grading. Keeping in mind that the proportional cut of the diamond may affect the price as much as 50%. Please refer to our diamond page for more specific information about selecting and buying diamonds.

What is the difference between synthetic, created or natural stones? Synthetic stones are made from manmade materials. Created stones are crystals that are grown in a laboratory, simulating natural growth. Natural stones are mined from the earth in their natural state.

What do I look for when shopping for a strand of pearls? Pearls are available in a variety of color. Both natural and dyed. When selecting a strand of pearls, all pearls should be matched as closely as possible for color, conformity of size, blemishes, luster and origin. The color of the pearls should be matched to the skin tones of the person wearing them.

What makes one strand more expensive than another, even when they are the same size and length? The quality of the pearl, which includes the thickness of the nicor (the coating on the pearl), color, luster and origin.

Are there different types of pearls? Yes. There are natural pearls, which are harvested from the ocean. These are pearls, which occur in their natural state with no intervention from man. Cultured pearls or farmed pearls are harvested from oysters that are seeded and placed in oyster beds for various periods of time. The longer they are cultured, the higher the luster and nicor. Fresh water pearls, sometimes referred to as Biwa pearls, are farmed in fresh water. Please refer to our pearl page for more detailed information about pearls.

How should I take care of my pearls? Alcohol, found in most jewelry cleaners, is the biggest enemy to pearls since it attacks the coating or nicor of the pearl. To prevent damage to your pearls, use a damp, soft cloth and a very mild, weak solution of dish soap. When wearing pearls, they should be the last piece of jewelry you put on and the first piece of jewelry that you take off.