Color
Hue, tone & saturation — the soul of a gemstone.
Understanding Gemstones
Understanding Gemstones: Color, Clarity, Cut & Origin
Gemstones are the heart of fine jewelry — nature’s art shaped by time and light. This expert guide by OG Fine Jewelry explains the four essentials that define a gem’s beauty and value: Color, Clarity, Cut, and Origin.
Clarity
From eye-clean to included — nature’s signature.
Cut
Proportions and symmetry that bring light to life.
Origin
The gem’s birthplace and story.
1) Color — The Heart of Every Gemstone
Color creates the first impression — the depth, intensity, and emotion a gem evokes. The finest stones show vivid, evenly distributed hues with a balanced tone (not too dark, not too light) and strong saturation.
| Term | What it means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Hue | Main body color | Ruby: red; Sapphire: blue; Emerald: green |
| Tone | Lightness or darkness of the hue | Medium to medium-dark is often most desirable |
| Saturation | Intensity/purity of color | “Vivid” commands premium pricing |
Trace elements create color: chromium/vanadium for emerald, iron & titanium for sapphire, chromium for ruby.
2) Clarity — The Window Into Nature
Clarity describes how “clean” a gemstone appears and whether it shows inclusions — tiny internal features formed during growth. In colored gems, inclusions can add character and help identify origin.
- Eye-clean: No inclusions visible without magnification.
- Slightly included: Minor features visible under magnification.
- Included: Inclusions visible to the eye; may affect transparency.
In emeralds, the natural “jardin” (garden-like patterns) is common and often accepted if color is exceptional.
3) Cut — Bringing Light to Life
Cut is more than shape (oval, emerald, cushion). It’s the precision of proportions, symmetry, and faceting that controls how light enters and returns to your eye.
- Balanced proportions maximize brilliance and color.
- Good symmetry ensures even sparkle across the gem.
- Facet design highlights the stone’s best natural features.
A well-cut gem can appear larger and brighter; a poorly cut gem may look dull even if color/clarity are strong.
4) Origin — The Gem’s Signature
The birthplace of a gemstone contributes to its look and rarity. Examples include:
- Colombian Emeralds: Lush green with excellent transparency.
- Burmese Rubies: Renowned “pigeon’s blood” red.
- Sri Lankan Sapphires: Velvety medium blue tones.
- Mozambican Garnets: Rich, high-brilliance reds.
Origin reports from respected labs (e.g., GIA) help verify a gem’s story and support ethical sourcing.
Discover Gemstones at OG Fine Jewelry
Every stone in our collection is hand-selected for beauty, balance, and responsible sourcing. Find the gem that speaks to you.
Gemstone FAQ
Which matters most for colored gemstones: color or clarity?
Color drives value and beauty in most colored gems. Clarity is still important, but natural inclusions are common — especially in emeralds — and acceptable when color and cut are exceptional.
What’s the difference between shape and cut?
Shape is the outline (oval, round, cushion). Cut is the faceting style and proportions that control light return, brilliance, and overall look.
Do gemstone origins affect price?
Often, yes. Certain origins — like Colombia for emeralds or Myanmar for rubies — are historically prized and may command premiums when paired with top color and quality.
How do I choose the right gemstone?
Start with the color you love, then consider clarity and cut. If origin matters to you, request a lab report. Our team can guide you to the best option for your style and budget.