BUYING GUIDE

Although consumers are mostly aware of the 4C's in relation to diamonds, equal care must be taken when examining and identifying other gemstones for purchase. The 4C's refers to the Cut, Clarity, Carat and Colour of a gemstone and a broad knowledge of these categories will greatly enrich your buying experience. The Cut of a gemstone should not be confused with the shape of a gemstone. The shape of a gemstone is essentially just that and may be a round, emerald or cushion shape for instance. Cut, whilst encompassing the shape, refers also to the proportions of a polished stone. In the case of a diamond for instance, a well-cut stone with the correct proportions will appear to have much more fire and brilliance than a stone with incorrect proportions. The size of gemstones is expressed in carats, where one carat (1.00ct) is equal to 0.2g. However, due to the variety of specific gravities (or densities) of gemstones, a 1.00ct diamond will not be the same physical size (diameter and depth) as a 1.00ct tanzanite.

Katannuta has compiled buying guides for each of the major gemstones we offer. We hope that these guides will assist, inform and guide you towards the best purchase possible. Please note that the buying guides below are not an exhaustive list of all the gemstones we offer and should other gemstones be requested, we shall willingly assist in sourcing such gems.

• Buying Guide - Diamonds
• Buying Guide - Tanzanite
• Buying Guide - Sapphires
• Buying Guide - Rubies
• Buying Guide - Emeralds
• Buying Guide - Precious Metals

Should you require more information with regards to any of the gemstones, please feel free to contact us directly to have your questions answered, or submit your question via our Ask an Expert page.