|
Similar to diamonds, a gemstone's weight is measured in carats where one carat equals 200 milligrams. However, due to varying degrees of density that gems come in, it is not an accurate gauge of its size. Two gems of the same carat weight may be different sizes. For example, both sapphires and rubies are denser than emeralds - and as such, a 1 carat sapphire or ruby will be smaller than a 1 carat emerald. At the same time, a diamond that is the same carat weight as a ruby will be larger because a diamond is less dense than a ruby. A larger gemstone is not always more valuable. Since gems are mined, their rarity at certain size will determine their value. A gem that occurs naturally in weights of 10 carats or more may be less valuable than one that rarely occurs that large. Gemstones can also measured in dimensions (diameter, length and width) and can help you determine it's actual size when it is positioned in the setting. |
