Fake Names of Gemstones, Nothing More Than a Marketing Ploy

As a jewelry artist names of gemstones can be confusing.

Many time gemstones have obscure names that make things even more complicated. The reason is that gemstones are in the rare position of fitting both in the commercial and the mineralogy world.

That is the case with the commercially known “Ruby” also known by its mineralogy name Red Corundum.”

There have even been some instances when the name of a gemstone has been changed for marketing reasons. A perfect example is when Tffany and Co. changed the word of blue Zoisite to Tanzanite.

This inconsistent use of names for gems stones makes it difficult to know what you are getting when buying precious stones.

Because the danger of intentionally giving a misleading name is especially high in the gemstone trade, definitions for gemstones are now regulated through an international organization known as the Confédération Internationale de la Bijorterie, Joaillerie, Orfèvrerie des diamants, Perles, et Pierres. This organization provides a valuable service in helping jewelers identify the stones they purchase and sale.

As you read many of the jewelry ads available in magazines and newspapers, you begin to see descriptive terms attached to the names of gemstones such as, Oriental emerald which is really a green sapphire, American ruby which is a garnet and Australian jade gemstones which is a treated quartz.

Many of the terms being used in advertising of gemstones, are deceptive, and some sellers hope you won't notice that they replaced what you think is a more expensive gem with either a look-alike gem that's less expensive or components made from glass and other materials.

Common Examples of Misleading Names Used for Gemstones