Valuation – Optional Activity

Experiment: Color Evaluation Master Class

1. Create Your Color Standards:
   • Make color comparison charts using colored paper or paint samples
   • Set up hue categories (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet)
   • Create a tone scale from very light to very dark with 5-7 steps
   • Make a saturation scale from dull/grayish to vivid/pure with 5 steps
2. Analyze Specimen Colors:
   • Look at colored specimens under the same lighting every time
   • Identify the main hue and any secondary hues
   • Rate the tone on your scale (1=very light, 5=very dark)
   • Rate the saturation on your scale (1=very dull, 5=very vivid)
   • Write complete color descriptions for each specimen
3. Understand Value Impact:
   • Compare specimens with similar hues but different tones/saturations
   • Learn which colors are typically most valuable in different gem types
   • Notice how lighting affects how you see colors
   • Practice using consistent color description words

International Gem Society

View All Articles