A gemstone identifier recognises cut and rough gems from a photo — amethyst, garnet, topaz, agate, turquoise and more — and tells you the species plus the qualities that make gems valuable. It's the fastest way to answer "what gem is this?" without specialist equipment.
How to identify a gemstone with the app
Photograph the gem. Use a plain background and bright, even light to show true colour and clarity.
Tap Identify. The AI reads colour, transparency, luster and cut and matches known gem species.
Read the result. Get the gemstone's name and the factors behind its value — then save it to your collection.
Identify your gemstone now
Find out what it is — and what makes it special — free on iPhone and iPad.
Download freeWhat makes a gemstone valuable
Once you know the species, value comes down to the classic factors:
- Colour — the single biggest driver; vivid, pure hues command the most.
- Clarity — fewer visible inclusions generally means higher value.
- Cut — proportion and polish that control sparkle.
- Carat / size — larger clean stones are exponentially rarer.
- Rarity and species — a ruby and a garnet can look alike but differ hugely in value.
The app identifies the species so you're comparing like with like — the essential first step before any appraisal.
Gems that are easy to confuse
- Amethyst vs. purple glass — natural zoning and inclusions separate the real thing.
- Garnet vs. ruby — similar reds, very different hardness and value.
- Citrine vs. topaz — overlapping yellows that identification resolves.
- Turquoise vs. dyed howlite — a common substitution worth catching.
A note on appraisals
An app identifies the gemstone and explains value factors, but it isn't a certified appraisal. For insurance or resale of a high-value stone, confirm with a qualified gemologist. For everyday curiosity and collecting, a photo ID is all you need.
Frequently asked
Can it tell me if my gemstone is real?
It identifies the most likely species and flags look-alikes, which is usually enough to tell a genuine gem from an imitation. Lab testing confirms borderline cases.
Is the gemstone identifier free?
Yes — free to download and try, with optional unlimited identifications.