Natural stone classification

Each gemstone is unique. To quickly understand the quality of a stone, a classification of natural stones has been established. This is expressed in grades. It is based on key criteria such as color, clarity and cut.

• Color: Color is one of the most important criteria for grading gemstones. It is assessed according to three aspects: hue, saturation and tonality. Hue refers to the actual color of the stone (red, blue, green, etc.), saturation to the intensity of that color, and hue to the degree of lightness or darkness of the color.
• Clarity: The clarity of a fine stone refers to the absence or presence of inclusions (internal elements) and blemishes (surface imperfections). Stones are often classified from 'without inclusions' (completely transparent) to 'with inclusions' (imperfections visible to the naked eye), but not all inclusions are considered defects.
• The cut: The cut does not refer to the shape of the stone, but to the quality of its cutting and polishing. A good cut maximizes the reflection of light inside the stone, which affects its brilliance and luster.

Gemstone classification chart

There is no international grading standard for gemstones. Only diamonds have a universally established and respected grading system, with rigorous and strict criteria, such as those of the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), which use the four Cs: carat, clarity, color and cut.

Beauty is a subjective quality. Everyone has their own definition of beauty. So don't be too quick to judge a stone: the singularity of an A-rated gemstone could move and captivate you, even more than a AAA-rated stone. It's all a question of taste!

What is a gemstone?

A gemstone is a natural stone, i.e. a stone found in nature. Gemstones are classified into 3 main families:

• gemstones: this select group comprises four stones: ruby, sapphire, emerald and diamond. These stones are particularly prized for their rarity, exceptional beauty and great hardness.
• semi-precious stones: these include all the stones previously known as"semi-precious stones", such as amethyst, amazonite, aquamarine and lapis lazuli. They are less rare than gemstones, but are also highly prized for their colors and unique properties.
• organic stones: these are stones derived from living organisms, i.e. from organic rather than mineral sources. Examples include amber, cultured pearls and coral.

To choose a gemstone, you can base your choice on its color, beauty and reflections, as well as its properties and meaning. If you're still undecided, take a look at our gemstone guide or rely on your birth month. Find out which is your birthstone or that of your loved ones on our data sheet!

Once you've chosen your ideal stone, get inspired by our many natural stone jewelry tutorials.