Buying certified emeralds is important for several reasons:
- Authenticity: Certified emeralds provide assurance of the gemstone's authenticity. A reputable certification ensures that the emerald is indeed a natural gemstone and not a synthetic or imitation stone. This gives you confidence that you are purchasing a genuine emerald.
- Quality Assessment: Certified emeralds come with a detailed assessment of their quality characteristics, such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The certification provides an objective evaluation of these factors, giving you a clear understanding of the emerald's quality and value. This information helps you make an informed purchasing decision and compare different emeralds accurately.
- Disclosure of Treatments: Emerald certifications typically disclose any treatments that have been applied to the gemstone. As mentioned earlier, emeralds are often treated to enhance their appearance. Knowing the extent and type of treatment is essential, as it can affect the emerald's value and long-term care requirements. Certified emeralds ensure that any treatments are properly disclosed.
- Investment Value: Certified emeralds can hold and potentially increase in value over time. When you have a certified emerald, you have documented evidence of its quality and characteristics. This is particularly important if you intend to purchase an emerald as an investment. The certification serves as a reference point for future valuation and can provide potential buyers or appraisers with the necessary information.
- Trust and Confidence: A certified emerald from a reputable gemological laboratory or certification authority instills trust and confidence in your purchase. It provides an unbiased and reliable assessment of the emerald, backed by the expertise of gemologists who have examined the stone. This transparency and trustworthiness ensure that you are getting what you paid for and helps protect you from any fraudulent or misrepresented gemstones.
When purchasing certified emeralds, look for renowned gemological laboratories or certification authorities such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society). These organizations are known for their strict grading standards and reliable certifications.
Overall, buying certified emeralds gives you peace of mind, ensures the gemstone's authenticity, provides accurate information about its quality, and helps protect your investment.