: Most gems can be cleaned with mild soap and water. However, porous stones like Opal and Pearl require specialized care to avoid damage. Gemstone Buying Guide - Gemfields
: Beginners can start by observing luster , transparency , and hardness .
: These include Diamond , Ruby , Sapphire , and Emerald .
: A broad category for all other stones, including Amethyst , Topaz , and Opal . Organic Gems : Non-minerals like Amber , Pearl , and Jet . The "4 Cs" of Gemstone Value
Gemstone Buying Guide - The National Association of Jewellers
While the 4 Cs are famously used for diamonds, they apply differently to colored stones where is the most critical factor.
: The presence of internal "inclusions" or surface blemishes. In colored gems, some inclusions are expected and can even help identify the stone.