Welcome to the Gemfix gemstone education and buying guide section. With more than 30 years in the gemstone business and experience with thousands of colored gemstones of every variety, we’ve learned a great deal about what makes a gem beautiful, valuable, and worth buying.

As a professional gem cutter, Andrew brings an inside perspective to gemstones that goes beyond simply buying and selling. His experience selecting rough material, examining, and cutting gemstones provides practical insight into their color, clarity, brilliance, durability, treatments, and value.

Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we’ve encountered over the years. Whether you’re shopping for a sapphire, Montana sapphire, or another colored gemstone, these guides can help you understand what you’re buying and make a more informed decision.

Learn from the cutter. Buy with confidence.