TAJ has a strict rule of only dealing in NATURAL COLORED GEMSTONES. The only acceptable, industry standard treatments are allowed (oil for emeralds, heat treating for quartz family, etc.). We only deal with gem cutters and dealers that are reputable and adhere to fair trading practices. Precious stones featured either loose or in TAJ Artisan pieces include Rubies, Sapphires, Emeralds, and Tanzanites (usually 2 to 10 carats). We also offer and utilize non-precious gemstones, as well as gems that have phenomena, such as play-of-color Opals, color-change Alexandrites, and chatoyant Cat's eye gems, and Asterism Star Rubies and Sapphires. TAJ has been using many new artisan gemstones lately…like Rutile Quartz, Pietersite, Pink Opal, Larimar, Sugilite, Rainbow Moonstone, and Marlborough Mine Chrysoprase. The larger size and better color of a loose gem wanted, the higher the price paid due to rarity. When dealing with colored gemstones, TAJ usually trades in better to higher-end goods and the most preferred colors for each stone. Colored stone prices have increased since mid-2018, with certain precious Sapphires, Rubies, and Emeralds having 40+ percent increases. The semi-precious varieties of Aquamarines, Tourmalines, Opals, and Garnets have also shown strong appreciation. The better qualities of all gemstones are becoming harder and harder to source, and demand is much higher than supply…which is driving up price per carat.

John Narang, TAJ owner and artisan, is colored gemstone certified by GIA. Gemological testing and tools that TAJ utilizes include, but are not limited to, loupe, microscope, refractometer, specific gravity weight machine, spectrascope, dichroscope, and ultraviolet testing. We ensure that gemstones do not have surface reaching fractures, abraided facets, and/or improper proportions. These characteristics will all make gems less magnificent and affect color tone and dispersion. General observation of a gemstone with a naked eye will tell a trained gemologist a significant amount about any stone, its quality, and possible identification. TAJ became a member of the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) in 2017 to broaden our gemstone sourcing network, as well participate in the continuing education aspect that AGTA provides.

Most people know about the birth stones listed above, and perhaps additional zodiac sign stones used in jewelry.  Did you know that gemstones are held in respectful regard in Asia for magical and healing powers?  Asians, both men and women, wear many colored stones for good fortune, good health, and well being.  Consult with TAJ about which gems you should be wearing for auspicious and health reasons.