Whether you're designing custom jewelry, replacing a stone, or simply curious about the size of your gem, knowing how to measure a gemstone at home is a valuable skill. At Beverly's Jewelry in St. Thomas, we often work with clients on custom pieces and repairs, and having accurate gemstone measurements can speed up the process and ensure a perfect fit. In this blog, we'll walk you through how to measure your gemstone at home using easy-to-find tools and straightforward steps.

Why Gemstone Measurements Matter

Measuring your gemstone correctly is essential for a variety of reasons:

• Ensures compatibility with existing or custom settings

• Helps determine value and estimate carat weight

• Supports repairs and replacements

• Aids in ordering or creating matching stones

For anyone interested in custom jewelry design or gemstone appraisal, understanding your stone's dimensions is a great first step.

Tools You’ll Need

To accurately measure your gemstone at home, you'll need:

1. Digital Calipers – The most precise tool for measuring millimeters (mm).

2. Millimeter Ruler – A handy backup if calipers aren't available.

3. Good Lighting – Natural light or a well-lit work area helps visibility.

4. Notebook or Phone – To jot down measurements.

Optional:

• Gem Holder or Tweezers – To hold the stone steady

• Loupe or Magnifying Glass – For examining the edges and clarity

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Gemstone

Step 1: Clean the Stone Before measuring, gently clean your gemstone with a soft cloth to remove any oils or dust. This helps get accurate readings and better visibility.

Step 2: Measure the Length and Width Use digital calipers to measure the gemstone's longest part (length) and the shortest across (width). Be sure to measure in millimeters for accuracy. For example, a round stone might be 6.5mm across, while an oval could be 8mm x 6mm.

Step 3: Measure the Depth Turn the gemstone on its side and use the calipers to measure from the top (table) to the bottom (culet). This is especially important for proper stone setting, especially in rings and pendants.

Step 4: Identify the Shape Different gemstone shapes require different measurement techniques:

• Round: Measure diameter and depth

• Oval/Emerald/Radiant: Measure length, width, and depth

• Pear/Marquise: Measure length, width at the widest point, and depth

Step 5: Record Your Results Write down the measurements in millimeters. If you’re contacting a jeweler like Beverly’s for a custom design, include these dimensions for faster service.

Estimating Carat Weight at Home (Optional)

While carat weight usually requires a professional scale, some estimates can be made using your gemstone’s shape and measurements. Online calculators are available for this, but note that these are just rough estimates.

For example:

• Round brilliant: Length x Width x Depth x 0.0061

• Oval: Length x Width x Depth x 0.0062

Always consult a professional like our gemologists at Beverly’s for an accurate carat and quality assessment.

When to Bring It to Beverly’s

If you're unsure about your measurements or want to move forward with a custom design, bring your gemstone to Beverly's Jewelry in St. Thomas. Our team includes expert jewelers and gemologists who can precisely measure, assess, and craft the perfect setting for your stone.

Whether you're designing your dream ring, replacing a missing stone, or appraising a family heirloom, Beverly’s is here to guide you every step of the way.

Final Tips

• Always handle your gemstone carefully to avoid damage.

• Measure more than once to ensure accuracy.

• Label your measurements clearly, especially if you have multiple stones.

Knowing how to measure your gemstone at home is the first step in taking control of your jewelry experience. And when you're ready to take it to the next level, Beverly’s is here to help you shine.