Using the word cheap is not usually recommended when discussing quality gemstones. There are many alternative words that can be used, such as inexpensive, low-cost, affordable, low-priced.

Let's define the word cheap: "having a low price compared to the real value, worth more than its cost." If it is put like that, cheap doesn't sound so bad, does it? 

For this, we contacted Gandhara Gemstones owner Muhammad Farooq. We asked them how it is possible to offer a wide variety of loose and Rough Gemstones at cheap or affordable prices? Like they are offering.

Well, there are several reasons; first of all, they only operate an online gemstone business; they do have a physical retail store. This keeps costs down and means they are not running conflicting services. They are based in Namak Mandi, Peshawar, a major worldwide hub for grading, cutting, polishing, and trading all types of gemstones.

According to a survey, it is estimated that 80% of all precious and semi-precious gemstones from Asia pass through Namak Mandi, Peshawar, before reaching the jewelry stores of the world.

Thirdly, they are able to buy gemstones in bulk or wholesale lots, thousands at a time, of all varieties in all manner of cuts, shapes, and sizes at much better prices than most dealers can get. They then pass these savings onto their customers in the form of low-cost prices.

Also, he says their pricing schedule is based on the price they pay for the gemstones, not for the highest price-per-carat that can be fetched in global markets.

Creating a list of affordable gemstones is a bit tricky because many online retailers buy new gemstones every day, with dealers and traders arriving all the time with stock from Afghanistan, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Pakistan, and so on.

Furthermore, he says the market can be very unpredictable. What may be reasonably priced one day could be expensive the next. Our volume purchasing means we can be reasonably consistent with our bargain prices, but the types of gemstones can vary.

We have put together a shortlist of their regular value-for-money gemstones:

Agate: Agates come in all sorts of colors with a wide variety of patterns and decorations. Although this gemstone is spiritually powerful with exotic and unusual looks, it is available at very reasonable prices, and even the largest sizes will not break the bank. 

Amethyst: A gorgeous deep purple gemstone that was once as valuable as other precious gemstones, which can be used in any type of jewelry. This February birthstone is available in all sizes, cuts, and shapes at very reasonable prices. 

Citrine: This November birthstone comes in various shades of yellow, from lemon to honey. Their stunning appearance in all types of shapes and sizes challenges its low cost.

Garnet: Garnets are the most versatile and colorful gemstones to be found anywhere, and while some can reach very high prices, the exquisite Pyrope, Spessartine, and Hessonite are amongst the best-valued gemstones around.

Moonstone: Ancient Romans thought moonstones originated from the light rays of the moon, and when you see the sparkling surface of this gemstone, you will also believe it. Available in subtle colors with an almost liquid appearance, including some star and cat's eye gemstones, all at great prices. 

Peridot: Clear faceted green color gemstones usually fetch enormous prices - think of emeralds and tsavorites - but lovely golden-green peridots can be found at very fair rates.

Quartzes: Strawberry, Rose, Smoky, and Rutile are just some of the wide variety of quartz gemstones to be had at very realistic prices. It is easy to obtain in every style and size imaginable.

Spinel: Spinel comes in almost every color conceivable and is possibly the most underappreciated gemstone out there. These high-quality gemstones have graced the crown jewels of Europe and Asia for centuries.

Topaz: This remarkable gemstone can reach prices that rival the finest rubies and sapphires, but the blue and pink version of Topaz can be bought in outrageous sizes for a lot less than you might think.

Tourmaline: Certain members of the colorful Tourmaline family are valued more highly than diamonds, but for a much-coveted gemstone with excellent brilliance and fire suitable for fine jewelry, there are some bargains to be had.

Zircon: With a dazzling luster that can outshine diamonds, you would think about zircons as an expensive gemstone, but it is not like that. Take a look at the wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes and see how much value for money you can get from this top-quality gemstone.

Cheap is a relative term, just because any natural gemstone can be considered cheap or good value, depending on the price you pay. For instance, a stunning 1 carat blue sapphire with no inclusions would be cheap at $1000, while a gorgeous 2-carat amethyst could be thought expensive at $20. 

We hope our brief guide to affordable gemstones is useful, and remember they have over 1,000 gemstones and mineral specimens in stock in well over 100 different varieties, so please take a look for yourself - We know you will find a bargain or two.

Quick Guide to Affordable Gemstones