How to Evaluate Garnet Jewelry

January's birthstone comes in a vast array of colors, designs and values

The deep blood-red color of garnets make them a striking and elegant additions to any jewelry box. However, many people do not realize that garnets, just like other gemstones, come in a wide array of calibers and value. When you are purchasing a garnet, you should consider many of the same qualities as when purchasing a diamond, but because these beautiful red stones actually are available in several different types of rock, your decision process should be based not only on how the stone fits into classifications like color, cut and clarity, but also on the effect you wish to achieve.

Instructions

1. 

   Decide what type of garnet you want. Some stones are a deep, deep red and seem to almost absorb light rather than reflect it. These stones make striking conversation piece jewelry and are often less expensive. However, you can also purchase garnets that sparkle and catch the light as brightly as fine diamonds. Deciding what type of piece you are looking for will help you decide whether you need a fine jeweler, an art festival or something in between.

2. Evaluate the cut of the stone. If you want a garnet that sparkles, then you will need a stone that has been cut with multiple facets that reflect light and camouflage inclusions. Just like diamonds, most garnets have interior flaws that can inhibit sparkle in inferior stones. On the other hand, if sparkle does not matter to you as much as richness of color, then you may be able to find a great deal on a large, impressively colored stone that is not faceted to a great degree.

3. 

   Decide on a setting. If you are buying a loose stone, select the setting you want first. This will help determine if your stone will be flattered by the setting that you have chosen. Take the setting with you and ask the jeweler to place the loose stones in the setting so that you can get a better idea of what your final selection will look like.

4. Shop around. Not all jewelers carry garnet jewelry, but those who do will generally negotiate with you if you can bring in competing, comparable offers. Do not assume that because some major chains like Tiffany do not usually stock this stone that you will have to take what you can get. Also, be wary of online shopping as it is easy to get scammed when you purchase jewelry sight unseen.

5. Take your garnet to a licensed jewelry appraiser. Garnets are often viewed by the general public as common stones, but a piece of garnet jewelry should be appraised and evaluated before purchase if it costs over $100 to make sure that the stone and the setting are worth the expense.

Tips & Warnings

• Garnets called "demantoids" always have inclusions, but other types of garnets can nearly always be found nearly flawless--for a price. Do not let a jeweler or vendor tell you that a garnet has to have an inclusion even if it is expensive. This may not necessarily be the case and you should get multiple opinions and offers if you are considering a major investment or purchase.