How to Identify Loose Gemstones

You can use several methods to identify gemstones.

Gemstones are a beautiful addition to a piece of jewelery or household display. With around 135 different types of gemstone, it might be difficult to identify specific pieces. You will need to check the gemstone is real, as imitation stones can often look very similar to an original stone but have less market value. The texture, hardness and reflection of the stone are all methods you can use to identify individual gemstones.

Instructions

1. Familiarize yourself with the types of gemstones. Different gemstones have different colors and patterns, and if you are familiar with these it will be easier for you to differentiate between the various types of gemstone. When researching gemstones, also look at other properties, such as the hardness of the stone, as this will help you identify it more accurately.

2. Feel the texture of the stone. If it is rough, sandy or malleable (easily shaped), then it is not a gemstone. Gemstones are made up of tiny crystals, so they should be hard and smooth when polished.

3. Look at the reflection the gemstone makes on a hard surface. Place the stone in front of a light. If the stone is a true gemstone, the light should refract in a rainbow spectrum. Red gemstones, such as garnets, absorb much of the yellow color in the rainbow, leaving reds and blues. However, other colored gems provide a full spectrum.

4. Scratch the stone to test its hardness. Try making a small scratch on the surface of the stone with a penknife or another sharp object. Some gemstones scratch more easily than others, and the results of this test will give you a better idea of what kind of stone it is.

5. Test the stone using the streak method. Many gemstones will leave a streak when rubbed on a ceramic plate. You can compare the streak the stone makes to a streak chart which shows the streak patterns of different stones. This will help you identify individual stones.

Tips & Warnings

• Always seek expert advice if you are not sure whether a gemstone is real or if you are unable to identify it, especially if you are purchasing precious gemstones.

References

• Gemstone Artist: Gem Identification
• All Color Gemstones: Steps to Identify Gemstones

Resources

• Gem Select: Gemstone Types