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Loose Gemstones

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Loose Gemstones For Sale
IGI Certified 6.00 Ct Oval Cut Natural Diamonds
Located in Massafra, IT
An perfect match of IGI Certified Natural Diamonds, in perfect oval cut , 3,00 carats each stone, 6,00 carats in total, I color VVS2/VS1 clarity. Absolutely stunning and sparkly diam...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Diamond

Gia Certified 24 Carat Old Cut Diamond.
Located in New York, NY
A spectacular old cut cushion diamond from the era of maharajas . This 24 carat diamond is vintage and charming and takes you back to the age of royalty. it weighs 24.38 cts and is...
Category

Early 19th Century Indian Anglo-Indian Antique Loose Gemstones

Materials

Diamond

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

2.00 Carat Natural Loose Bluish Green Dual Tourmaline Emerald Shape Gem For Ring
Located in Peshawar, PK
Loose Bluish Green Dual Tourmaline Weight: 2.00 Carats Dimension: 6.4 x 4.7 x 3.9 Mm And 6.4 x 4.3 x 3.6 Mm Colour: Bluish Green Origin: Afghanistan Certific...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Afghan Arts and Crafts Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline

4.10 Carat Natural Loose Amethyst And Citrine Gemstone For Jewellery
Located in Peshawar, PK
Loose Amethyst And Citrine Weight: 4.10 Carats Citrine Sizes: 2.45 Carat Amethyst Size: 1.60 Carat Colour: Purple Origin: Brazil Treatment: Non Certificate: On Demand Shape: Emera...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Arts and Crafts Loose Gemstones

Materials

Amethyst, Citrine

2.65 Carat Natural Loose Green And Seafoam Tourmaline Cushion Shape Gemstone
Located in Peshawar, PK
Loose Green And Seafoam Tourmaline Weight: 2.65 Carats Dimension: 6.3 x 5.9 x 4.8 Mm And 6.6 x 5.4 x 4.5 Mm Colour: Green And Seafoam Origin: Afghanistan Cer...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Afghan Arts and Crafts Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

2.5ct Radiant Cut LOUPE CLEAN Natural UNHEATED TEAL BLUE SAPPHIRE Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Embark on a journey into the extraordinary with our 2.5ct Radiant Cut Teal Blue Sapphire—a gemstone that embodies the perfect blend of elegance, vibrancy, and timeless allure. Dime...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Sapphire, Blue Sapphire

3.05ct NON-OILED Natural Blue Green EMERALD Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Introducing our exquisite 3.05ct Non-Oil Natural Blueish Green Emerald Gemstone – a true masterpiece of nature's beauty. This stunning gem boast...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

Rare Radiant Pink Natural Tourmaline Gemstone 4.40 Ct Fancy Cushion Cut for Ring
Located in Peshawar, PK
GEMSTONE TYPE: Tourmaline PIECE(S): 1 WEIGHT: 4.40 Carats SHAPE: Fancy Cushion SIZE (MM): 9.70 x 9.04 x 7.63 COLOR: Radiant Pink CLARITY: 98% Eye Clean TREATMENT: None ORIGIN: Kuna...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Afghan Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

GIA 1.00 Carat Princess Cut Natural Loose Diamond
Located in Great Neck, NY
GIA 1.00 Carat Princess Cut Natural Loose Diamond Rectangular Brillant Cut *Free shipping within the U.S.
Category

2010s American Loose Gemstones

Materials

Diamond, White Gold

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

Rare Purple Natural Amethyst Gemstone, 27.30 Ct Emerald Cut for Pendant Jewelry
Located in Peshawar, PK
GEMSTONE TYPE: Amethyst PIECE(S): 1 WEIGHT: 27.30 Carats SHAPE: Step Emerald Cut SIZE (MM): 21.79 x 14.32 x 11.82 COLOR: Purple CLARITY: Eye Clean TREATMENT: None ORIGIN: Africa CER...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Congolese Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Amethyst

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

23ct accent & 4.3 Ct GIA Certified Color Changing Cobalt Spinel center stone
Located in Omaha, NE
When it comes to Cobalt Spinel from the Famous Neon Blue Mine of Vietnam everyone knows that to have a faceted Cobalt Spinel over .5ct is extremely rare rare . A color changing cobalt Spinel has never been found until now. This fine high quality Cobalt Spinel has the signature bright neon blue color yes has a violet color change and comes in at an unheard of 4.3 Carat . It’s literally unheard of 🤯. You will be the only owner in the world with a color change Cobalt Spinel from the Luc Yen...
Category

1970s Vietnamese Vintage Loose Gemstones

Materials

Spinel

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

Loose Diamond - Round Brilliant 1.01ct GIA E VS1 Solitaire
Located in Greensboro, NC
Stone Information Natural Diamond Carat(s): 1.01ct Cut: Round Brilliant Color: E Clarity: VS1 Certified by: GIA Report Number: 10806778 Total Carats: 1.01ct Measurements Conditio...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Diamond

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

Certified 1.35 carat Purple Sapphire Oval Shape Ceylon Origin Ring Stone
Located in Makola, LK
Natural Unheated Purple Sapphire, This exquisite gemstone originates from Ceylon (Sri Lanka), known for producing exceptional quality stones. With its VVS clarity. • Variety: Purple...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Sri Lankan Modern Loose Gemstones

Materials

Alexandrite, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Purple Sapphire

2 Amethyst Cube Cts 26.42
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Illuminate your world with this pair. Each of these two exquisite amethyst cube stones is 10.1 x 10.1 mm, perfect squares with a combined weight of 26.42 carats. They have a uniqu...
Category

2010s Asian Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Amethyst

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

Meghna 2.02 Carat Fancy Light Yellow Diamond Pear Shape GIA Certified VVS1
Located in Hoffman Estate, IL
An exceptional 3.51 carat VVS1 Clarity fancy pear cut light yellow diamond certified by GIA. We can custom design as per your request, additional fees may apply depending on design. ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Loose Gemstones

Materials

Yellow Diamond

GIA Certified 51.00 Carat Natural Fancy Intense Yellow Diamond
Located in Massafra, IT
Turning dreams into really. These magnificent 51 ct yellow diamond, is the epitome of luxury and opulence. Possessing such treasures is a blessing, as they are not only symbols of u...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Yellow Diamond

Alexander Beverly Hills GIA 6.03ct Radiant Diamond J SI1
Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA
Stunning loose radiant cut diamond, GIA certified. Sold as loose diamond but can easily be made into a ring of your liking. Crafted by some of the most prestigious bench jewelers in ...
Category

2010s Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond

Meghna Jewels 3.51 Carat Fancy Pear Shape Yellow Diamond GIA Certified VS2
Located in Hoffman Estate, IL
An exceptional 3.51 carat VS2 Clarity fancy pear cut yellow diamond certified by GIA. We can custom design as per your request, additional fees may apply depending on design. Shape ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Loose Gemstones

Materials

Yellow Diamond

GIA Certified F Color SI1 Clarity 10.76 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond
Located in Hoffman Estate, IL
An exquisite 10.76 investment grade round brilliant cut diamond certified by GIA. We can custom design as per your request, additional fees may apply depending on design. Shape ROUN...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Modern Loose Gemstones

Materials

Diamond

Alexander Beverly Hills HRD Certified 8.99 Carat M SI2 Pear Cut Diamond
Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA
Stunning loose emerald cut diamonds, GIA certified. Sold as loose diamond but can easily be made into a ring of your liking. Crafted by some of the most prestigious bench jewelers in...
Category

2010s Modern Loose Gemstones

Materials

Diamond

Oscar Heyman Multicolor Sapphire Necklace Layout, 114.79 Carats
Located in New Orleans, LA
This stunning Oscar Heyman multicolor sapphire necklace layout affords a remarkable opportunity to personally collaborate with the legenda...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Loose Gemstones

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

Rare Bicolor Natural Tourmaline Gemstone, 7 Ct Step Emerald Cut for Pendant/Ring
Located in Peshawar, PK
GEMSTONE TYPE: Tourmaline PIECE(S): 1 WEIGHT: 7.00 Carat SHAPE: Step Emerald Cut SIZE (MM): 16.06 x 8.46 x 6.12 COLOR: Bicolor CLARITY: 95% Eye Clean TREATMENT: None ORIGIN: Afghanis...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Afghan Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline

Rare Bicolor Pink & Light Blue Natural Tourmaline Gemstone, 12.65 Ct Emerald Cut
Located in Peshawar, PK
GEMSTONE TYPE: Tourmaline PIECE(S): 1 WEIGHT: 12.65 Carat SHAPE: Step Emerald Cut SIZE (MM): 19.36 x 9.56 x 7.85 COLOR: Bicolor CLARITY: Slightly Included TREATMENT: None ORIGIN: Af...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Afghan Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline

No Heat Loose Burmese Round Sapphire Cts 8.76
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Its pristine beauty remains untouched by heat treatment. This exquisite 8.76 ct gem is sourced from the rich mines of Burma. It shimmers like a disco ball and dazzles on all fronts...
Category

2010s Hong Kong Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Sapphire

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

NO RESERVE 1.45ct Emerald Cut NON-OILED EMERALD Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Discover the unparalleled allure of our 1.45ct Natural Emerald Cut Non-Oiled Emerald Gemstone from Nigeria—a timeless masterpiece crafted by nature's finest hand. Meticulously cut in...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

NO RESERVE 2.70ct NON-OILED NATURAL BLUE GREEN EMERALD Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Introducing our exquisite 2.70ct Non-Oil Natural Blue Green Emerald Loose Gemstone, a treasure for both jewelry designers and gemstone collectors. This captivating gem, measuring 9...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

3.70ct Octagon Non-Oil Natural Emerald Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Elevate your collection with this exquisite 3.70ct Octagon Non-Oil Natural Emerald Gemstone, a testament to nature's unparalleled beauty. With its captivating hue and clarity, this ...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

Natural Blue Sapphire Pear and Pink Sapphire Pear & Emerald Pear Loose Gemstones
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Discover an exquisite collection of loose gemstones that encapsulate elegance and sophistication. The Blue Sapphire Pear, boasting a majestic 1.84 carat gem from Madagascar, shines in its natural beauty with measurements of 9.91x5.76x4.49mm. Next in this stunning assortment is the Pink Sapphire Pear, a remarkable 1.74-carat gemstone from the landscape of Sri Lanka with harmonious dimensions of 9.67x5.89x4.15mm. Completing this elegant trio is the Emerald Pear, a captivating 1.42-carat gem measuring 9.94x5.59x4.67mm sourced from Zambia, Africa. Together, these exquisite gemstones create a total weight of 5.00 carats. These three stones work...
Category

2010s Hong Kong Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire

1.8ct Princess Cut NATURAL UNTREATED BICOLOR YELLOW BLUE PARTI SAPPHIRE
Located in Lanham, MD
Elevate your jewelry collection with our stunning 8.9mmx 5.5mm 1.80ct Princess Cut Natural Unheated Parti Sapphire, a mesmerizing gem that effortlessly blends hues of yellow, blue, and green in a captivating dance of colors. This Loupe Clean gemstone invites you into a world of flawless clarity, allowing you to explore its depths without any visible imperfections. Parti sapphire, also known as bicolor or tricolor sapphire...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, Green Sapphire

GIA 5.01 Carat E VS2 NO FLUO Certified Engagement Diamond Round Brilliant Cut
Located in Bergamo, BG
Stunning GIA 5.01 Carat E VS2 NO FLUO Certified Engagement Diamond Round Brilliant Cut GIA Report Number = 15678430 Shape and Cutting Style = Round Brilliant Measurements = 11.18 - ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Loose Gemstones

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold

3.35ct NON-OILED Natural EMERALD Gemstone NO RESERVE
Located in Lanham, MD
Take a look at this 6.5ct Non-Oil Natural Green Emerald Gemstone, a captivating faceted stone that marries amazing clarity with distinctive inclusions. This emerald is a celebration ...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

6.5ct Octagon Cut NON-OILED Natural EMERALD Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Embark on a journey of opulence with our 6.5ct Octagon Cut Non-Oil Natural Green Emerald Gemstone, a testament to the harmonious fusion of amazing clarity and artistic, masterful inc...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

NO RESERVE 4.80ct NON-OILED Natural EMERALD Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Discover the epitome of design luxury with our 4.80ct Non-Oil Natural Green Emerald Gemstone. Renowned for its remarkable clarity and flawless composition for an emerald, this gem is...
Category

2010s African Artist Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

NO RESERVE 3.05ct NON-OILED Natural Blue Green EMERALD Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Introducing our exquisite 3.05ct Non-Oil Natural Blueish Green Emerald Gemstone – a true masterpiece of nature's beauty. This stunning gem boast...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

7.90ct NON-OILED Natural EMERALD Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Behold this 7.90ct Non-Oil Natural Green Emerald Gemstone, a true work of nature's artistry. This gem boasts not only amazing clarity but also features artistic and masterful inclusi...
Category

2010s African Artist Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

NO RESERVE 11.2ct Natural NON-OILED EMERALD Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Our exquisite 11.2 carat Natural Non-Oil Emerald Cut Emerald Gemstone – a true embodiment of timeless beauty and sophistication. This stunning gemstone is carefully crafted to showca...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

10.35ct Radiant Cut Natural NON-OILED EMERALD Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Our exquisite 10.35ct Natural Non-Oil Green Radiant Cut Emerald Gemstone, a dazzling piece that seamlessly marries classic charm with vibrant allure. Gemstone Type: Natural Non-Oil...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Emerald

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

0.5ct Trillion Cut Natural Unheated Teal Blue Sapphire Gemstone LOUPE CLEAN
Located in Lanham, MD
The enchanting allure of our 0.5-carat Trillion Cut Natural Teal Blue Sapphire. This LOUPE CLEAN gemstone is a symphony of sophistication and color, destined to captivate hearts with...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Blue Sapphire

Rare Teal Blue Flawless Tourmaline Gemstone, 15.30 Ct Emerald Cut-Ring/Pendant
Located in Peshawar, PK
GEMSTONE TYPE: Tourmaline PIECE(S): 1 WEIGHT: 15.30 Carats SHAPE: Emerald SIZE (MM): 13.02 x 13.83 x 10.03 COLOR: Teal Blue CLARITY: Loupe Clean TREATMENT: Not treated ORIGIN: Afgha...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Afghan Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline

Rare Greenish Blue Flawless Natural Tourmaline Gemstone, 13.05 Ct Emerald Cut Af
Located in Peshawar, PK
GEMSTONE TYPE: Tourmaline PIECE(S): 1 WEIGHT: 13.05 Carat SHAPE: Emerald SIZE (MM): 14.43 x 11.17 x 8.97 COLOR: Greenish Blue CLARITY: Loupe Clean TREATMENT: Not treated ORIGIN: Af...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Afghan Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

12.7ct Triangular Cut Amethyst Loose Gemstone
Located in Lanham, MD
Introducing our stunning 12.7ct Triangular Cut Amethyst Loose Gemstone, a dazzling masterpiece that combines size, shape, and color in perfect harmony. This exceptional gemstone boas...
Category

2010s African Artisan Loose Gemstones

Materials

Amethyst

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

Thai Sapp Oct Pair Carats 1.87
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Thai Sapp Oct Pair cts 1.87 Wonderfully matched pair of Sapphires that can be made into a well designed pair of earrings. Buying in the raw, affords you to customise the earring ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hong Kong Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Blue Sapphire

GIA Certified Paraiba Tourmaline 1.52 Carat Natural
Located in Laguna Niguel, CA
It comes with the Original GIA Certificate Natural Paraiba Tourmaline Carat Weight: 1.52 Carats Measurements: 6.99 x 6.13 x 5.57 mm
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Tourmaline, Paraiba

Loose Gemstones for Sale on 1stDibs

Are you shopping for diamonds and other loose gemstones to create your own custom jewelry? 

Why might you purchase a diamond or gemstone “loose” — that is, on its own, not mounted in a piece of jewelry? Perhaps you’re a connoisseur looking to acquire a unique investment. The scarcity of high-quality colored diamonds, for instance, especially pink diamonds, means that their value increases over time; the same is true of rare Kashmir sapphires and Burmese rubies. Far rarer than diamonds, Paraiba tourmaline, discovered only in the 1980s, is treasured as much for its extraordinary color as its scarcity, both of which contribute to its high value.

A more common scenario would be that you’re hoping to create a very special piece of custom jewelry, such as an engagement ring or a milestone-birthday present, and want to personally select the most beautiful, unusual, or ultra-rare stone you can find and afford. Doing so adds to the romance and substance of the gift and can be a part of the story told as the jewel is passed from generation to generation.

If this sounds like you, read on for tips on becoming one of the world’s savviest gem hunters.

Educate yourself: When buying any piece of gem-set fine jewelry, you should familiarize yourself with the factors that determine a stone’s price. This will enable you to streamline your search for the perfect gem and have intelligent, productive conversations with sellers.

There is a wealth of information online, such as our diamond-buying guide and this overview of colored gemstones for engagement rings. The buying guides of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), searchable by stone type, are also a widely trusted source for consumers venturing into the world of diamonds and gems for the first time.

Vet your vendor: If you peruse 1stDibs with any regularity, you know there is no shortage of vendors who deal in top-quality loose gemstones. (Read about our vetted sellers.) Finding a trustworthy, established dealer may be as easy as getting a recommendation from friends or family. And, although it may sound obvious, it pays to Google your candidates — and consult customer reviews — before making contact.

Harakh Mehta, designer and founder of the Mumbai, India–based fine-jewelry brand Harakh, has an innate understanding of proper client relations, especially when the customer is in unfamiliar territory. “Start chatting with the dealer, get to know them better," he says. "It’s very important to establish a comfort level. We never push a sale, as we want it to be a carefully considered purchase. So, if the client is not in a rush, we do it over a few virtual meetings or phone calls.”

Request documentation: The best dealers go to great lengths to furnish clients with documents verifying the quality rating, natural origin and provenance of a stone — showing, for example, that loose emerald hails from the famous Muzo mine in Colombia — and disclosing any treatments applied to enhance its appearance. (And who doesn't love emerald jewelry? The most valuable emeralds are the ones that have a deep bluish-green to true green color and no visible inclusions.)

If no grading report is available for a stone you are interested in, the dealer should be able to provide an authenticity document, such as an appraisal or info sheet, that has been signed by an in-house gemologist or professional appraiser. Google those names, too, for extra peace of mind.

Ask for videos and visuals: When transacting with a gem dealer online, you should always request real-time videos and photographs, since professional photos of a stone, usually on a white background, have likely been retouched for optimal presentation.

Read more about how to buy loose gemstones and find your dream gems today on 1stDibs.

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