5 Factors That Boost the Value of Your Gemstones

When selling jewelry, one of the key factors that affects the price is the gemstone in the piece. Gemstones are often valuable enough to be sold on their own, regardless of attached jewelry - but only by understanding why certain gemstones are more highly valued can you get the best return on your investment.

To help you sell your gemstones at their maximum, consider how you can use these five factors that bring more value to each stone.

1. Popularity

Certainly, the more popular a gem is, the more people will pay to have it. Diamonds are the best example, as they are a perennial favorite among most jewelry wearers. Diamonds have been cemented into the public consciousness as the must-have ring for engagements and weddings, securing their high value on a permanent basis.

If you have diamonds in your collection, you can pretty much always get a good price for them - often around $2,000 for a half carat stone. Prices will fluctuate, of course, but you aren't going to lose much value in a stone that is always in demand. You can, then, rely on a diamond as a sort of continuous backup when other gems aren't as highly-priced.

2. Durability

One feature of gems that is often overlooked is how durable they are. Just because a gem is called a stone doesn't mean all will stand up equally up to the test of time. The more durable stones can often command a higher price because they will last longer and can be used in more ways. Sapphires and amethyst gems are often in demand for just these reasons.

Lack of durability can also, oddly, work in your favor at times. Pearls, for instance, are easily scratched or tarnished. However, this translates to a better value if you have undamaged pearls because these are found less often.

3. Rarity

All gems are valued because they are relatively rare. But when you have a stone that is very rare, even if it's less well-known, you may find a better price than more ubiquitous choices (such as a diamond).

You may never have heard of purple musgravite, red beryl, or the illusory alexandrite. But don't let that stop you from exploring their true price potential. Alexandrite, for example, can be more valuable per carat than diamonds. And pearls may seem old fashioned to some, but their rarity and romantic connection to the sea means you can often get a good deal.

4. Trendiness

The jewelry market runs both on stable performers (like diamonds and sapphires) and trendy choices that go in and out of style. Morganite is enjoying a period of popularity as a less expensive and more romantic substitute for some diamonds in wedding rings. Garnet stones are often popular when rubies are in fashion, as they can create a similar look. If you keep an eye on jewelry trends, you can take advantage of this.  

5. Condition

Finally, the individual gem's value will vary widely depending on its condition. The main factors that make a stone more or less valuable are often called the Four C's: color, carat, clarity, and cut. Learn more about your gem's qualities to see how they can affect its price. For instance, a well-cut diamond has a brighter shine and may even be worth more than one with more carats.

Want to explore the current value of your own gemstones? Start with a visit to the jewelry professionals at 2 J's Pawn & Gun. We will work with you to help you find the best sales price for your pieces. Call today to make an appointment or stop by when in Davie, Florida.