The Complete Gem Encyclopedia: Understanding Precious Stones

A comprehensive guide to the world's most precious gemstones, their properties, origins, and what makes each one rare.

Why it matters

Every stone Billoo Gems lists carries a Digital Stone Passport: species, origin, treatment and certification stated plainly. This guide is written in the same spirit — so that you understand before you acquire.

What to look for

• Colour first: saturation and hue decide more of the value than carat weight.
• Treatment: ask, and expect a straight answer. Heated, oiled, untreated — each is honest when disclosed.
• Origin: a Kashmir or Mogok origin can multiply a price; make sure a laboratory agrees.
• Certification: GRS, GIA, AGL, Gübelin and SSEF are the names collectors trust.

"I don't buy a stone because it has a certificate. I buy it because when I hold it in the light of Peshawar, something happens." — Billoo

Talk to Billoo

If you are considering a stone like the ones in The Complete Gem Encyclopedia: Understanding Precious Stones, send a request or chat on WhatsApp — every message is answered personally.