One of the major concerns while buying used gemstones is authenticity. The authenticity of any type of gemstone determines its actual value, quality, and metaphysical properties. Such gemstones are prone to several risks.Top 5 reasons why you should not buy used gemstones
1. Used Gemstones: They lack proper documentation, such as testing lab certificates, to verify their origin, treatment, and quality. Without certificates, the buyer is left to trust the seller’s word and buy the same, which can lead to a false impression. Used gemstones may have undergone treatments and modifications which may alter their authenticity. Used gemstones may be subject to fraudulent activities such as being replaced with fake gemstones such as glass, cubic zirconia, and synthetic or lab-grown gemstones. Without proper information, the buyer may find it difficult or impossible to differentiate between real and fake gemstones. While buying used gemstones, people may find used gemstones more attractive than new ones but used gemstones can prove to be harmful to oneself. The criteria for gemstones are based on 4Cs, Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat. All the criteria are affected when used.
2. Compromised Cut: The shape of a gemstone is one of the most important factors affecting its beauty and luster. Over time, the gemstone gets worn which affects its sharpness. Used gemstones may have scratches or dings on them which reduce the symmetry and quality of the gemstone. When a gemstone is cut for correction, it loses its original shape which reduces its weight, and changes its proportions if polished further, the optical properties may be compromised which may reduce its luster.
3. Deterioration of Color: The gemstones are susceptible to color change over time. Exposure to sunlight or wearing it for chemical purposes can cause the gemstone to lose its color or become less lustrous. Sapphire and topaz can lose their natural color when exposed to extreme heat. Used gemstones may be dyed to enhance their beauty, which may reduce their effectiveness over time. Some gemstones may lose their color in the rain due to exposure to the elements and may not look attractive. This reduces its value.
4. Reduction in Clarity: Clarity refers to the absence of internal and external defects. Used gemstones are more susceptible to damage. Problems that reduce clarity are not visible to the naked eye but affect the luster of the gemstone. Scratches and dirt may accumulate on the surface which are difficult to clean. Internal fractures may occur due to pressure on coming in contact with anything which may further spoil the beauty of the gemstone, weaken the gemstone and its luster starts to disappear, and the chances of breakage increase.
5. Loss of Carat Weight: Carat is the unit of weight of a gemstone which directly determines its price. The gemstone used is then re-cut and polished to correct imperfections. This reduces the weight. Even though the shape of the stone is retained, this process may remove parts of the gemstone and reduce its weight and may also bring out internal imperfections in the form of cracks and affect its original shape. The price of any type of gemstone is often determined based on its carat weight.
