Gemstone Carat Weight, Demand, History & Fashion

Carat Weight:

Most colored gemstones are weighed and priced by the carat. Heavier stones cost more per carat, all other factors being equal. Because larger colored gemstone crystals are comparatively rare in certain varieties, larger polished stones may command substantially higher prices. In certain stones, prices jump at around 5 carats; in others, at about 3 carats. Some colored gemstones are not weighed, but are priced by the piece. Examples would be many of the opaque ornamental stones like lapis, malachite, coral, tiger’s-eye quartz, agate, onyx and carnelian; as well as the potentially very expensive gemstone, jadeite.

Demand, History, and Fashion:

Like all products, when demand is greater, the cost rises. Stones that have been important throughout history, like emerald, ruby, and sapphire, maintain reasonably steady demand.

Regarding fashion, the clothing industry leads the way, dressing the modern woman each season, and colored gemstone designers follow suit. When the fall colors are in vogue, citrine, topaz, Malaya and spessartite garnets appear. When the richer winter colors of the holiday season take over, the deep purples and reds of amethyst, rhodolite garnet, and red tourmaline fill the shelves of many jewelry stores.

Everyone knows that clothing fashion means temporary style. Gemstones and jewelry outlast trends, so clients should be thoughtful about their purchases of jewelry to accessorize certain outfits. Make certain that the stones and pieces you buy serve as timeless classics, as well as enhance the beauty of the current season’s wardrobe.