Grades of Gemstones

Reputable gemstone dealers will label their stones with grades, which indicate levels of quality. However, some gemstones at a lower grade may have a color that you simply like. A lower grade stone should have a lower price; it doesn't necessarily mean you should never buy it.

GradeDescription
AAAFlawless: even, bright coloration, beautifully drilled. Top quality and generally quite rare.
AANearly flawless, evenly bright coloration and beautifully drilled.
AMostly flawless, bright coloration, very nicely drilled
BSome flaws, but in general a nice quality stone with good coloration and is evenly drilled
CFlaws noticeable and/or may not be as bright in coloration and/or poorly drilled a bit off-center
DVery noticeable flaws and/or some uneven or poor coloration and/or poorly drilled or off-round shape