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When buying a gemstone, one thinks of the unlimited benefits it offers. Natural gemstones have strong references in Western and Vedic astrology. Wearing a natural gemstone harnesses the positive energy of the related planet and brings luck to the person.
While affordability is always a concern for buyers, it is also important that the purchase be authentic.
Buying natural gemstones is not always a cakewalk, and that is why government-certified laboratories are designed. These certificates help you get authenticity and proof of your purchase. One of the important factors that we often forget to analyze is the grading report.
These reports are essential in providing accurate information on why a particular stone is priced high compared to the others. This blog shares insight into the importance of grading reports to ensure a quality product.
Learn More: 10 Myths Associated with Gemstone Buying in Astrology
Gems grading, in simpler terms, is the factor that specifies the quality of a stone. The grading system of gemstones is based on the 4C’s (clarity, color, cut, carat weight). Every gemstone ranks differently in this criteria.
For example, the diamond grading system follows the GIA D-Z color grading scale, whereas in colored gemstones, the grading is in terms of hues, saturation, and tone.
So, grading allows you to learn about the stone features' specific color, clarity, and transparency. Based on this information, you can make a purchase decision according to your budget. The higher the grade, the finer the quality, and the higher the price.
A Gemstone report is thus an authenticated document issued by recognized laboratories such as GIA and IGI. In India, GII (Gemological Institute of India), GTL (Gem Testing Laboratory), IDI (Indian Diamond Institute), IIGJ (Indian Institute of Gems and Jewelry), IGI (International Gemological Institute) and GIA (Gemological Institute of America).
Also Read: Gemstone Certifications: The Ultimate Guide
Grading reports for diamond and colored gemstones as per GIA standards are as follows:
Gemstones are loved for their beauty and are considered valuable investments for the future. Moreover, because gemstones possess healing properties and attract wealth, success, and other astrological benefits, the necessity to buy certified natural gemstone has increased.
The most widely used grading system for diamond color is on the “D to Z scale” developed by GIA. Colorless diamonds are rare and represented by DEF grade. Near colorless diamonds are recognized by GHIJ grade and are a popular choice for engagement ring.
Clarity is equally essential as eye-clean gemstones, which are more appealing. Diamond Grading report based on clarity are as follows:
| Flawless | No inclusions under 10X magnification |
| Internally Flawless (IF) | No Inclusions visible only under strong magnification |
| Very Very Slightly Included (VVS) | Minute inclusions difficult to see under 10X magnification |
| Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) | Minor inclusions can be seen |
| Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) | Noticeable inclusions |
| Included (I1, I2 and I3) | Inclusions seen prominently |
Color is the main criterion in colored gems, and they are graded based on it. Grading is based on factors such as hue, saturation, and tone.
Hue: Defined as the color of the stone. GIA uses 31 different hues to describe the gemstone’s color. Each color is given a code, for instance, red ®, or (orangey red), and more.
Tone: Represents the lightness or darkness of a stone. Graded on a scale from 0 to 10, ranging from colorless to black.
Saturation: Refers to the depth of the color. The “warm” end of the scale refers to red, orange, and yellow, whereas the cool spectrum refers to blue, purple, and green. The saturation scale measures from 1 to 6, ranging from brownish to vivid. The higher the saturation, the darker the color and the higher the gemstone quality.
Vivid red ruby stone with medium tone and high saturation is most desirable.
Besides ruby stone color, grading for clarity is also added as a specification. Lets look at the the natural rubies clarity grading chart:
| VVS | Very Very slightly included |
| VS | Very slightly included |
| SI 1 | Slightly Included, Little effect on Manik stone overall brilliance |
| SI 2 | Slightly Included, Overall brilliance is affected |
| I1 | Inclusions seen which affects the transparency of the stone |
| I2 | Inclusions seen prominently |
| I3 | Prominent Inclusions |
Grading values for colored gemstones range from A to AAAAA. The best gem grade is AAAAA. It determines the stone as an untreated heirloom, the best investment and gift for future generations. AAAAA ruby stone is scarce and highly sought after.
They have vivid red color and eye-clean clarity, adding value to the gemstone. AAA quality gemstones have vivid to medium colors and are slightly included.
Quality does matter, but authenticity remains a higher concern. Gemstone certificates mentioning the grading system help assure you that the stone is authentic.
Gemstone quality is evaluated based on the 4Cs. This ensures that the natural gem you are receiving is perfect in all aspects: the cut is precise, the color is vivid, the weight is well determined in carats, and the clarity is flawless.
It helps buyers assess whether the price matches the gemstone's quality and protects them against overpriced or undervalued purchases.
Information on enhancements or treatments (e.g., heat, filling) is gained with the help of a gemstone grading system. This helps the buyer decide whether a particular stone fulfills his needs. For instance, heated gemstones do not hold any significance in astrology. So, for astrological purposes, you should buy natural gemstones.
Peace of mind for the buyer.
Increases resale and investment value.
Ensures ethical sourcing.
Read Here: Why Buy Gemstones Online from Navratan?
Check the Issuing Laboratory (whether GRS, GIA, IGI, etc. issue it)
Verify the Report Number (cross check the report number)
Inspect the Gemstone Description (Verify and match the report like the stone's weight, dimensions, shape, and cut mentioned in the report)
Also Read: How to calculate gemstone carat weight correctly?
Evaluate the Origin Statement (For instance, Burma ruby stone obtained from Burma (Myanmar) are highly valued varieties)
Assess the Treatments Disclosure (report mentions any treatments, enhancements, or synthetic origins)
Check for Inclusions and Clarity
Look for a Seal
Review the Report Format
Read More: How To Verify Your Gemological Report? How To Verify My Gemstone Report?
Verify the grading report with the issuing laboratory.
Buy from reputable sellers.
Ask questions about treatments and origins.
Also Read: Tips To Buy Yellow Sapphire Online!
To conclude gemstone grading is an important criteria one must look for while buying a natural gemstone. Look for a reputable gemstone dealer like Navratan.
