What category of colored stone is typically sold per piece?

The category of colored stone that is typically sold per piece is large stones. Large colored stones often have a greater visual impact and can be used prominently in jewelry designs, making them more desirable for individual sale. These stones are usually valued higher and are sought after for their unique characteristics and the statement they can make in jewelry settings. When sold per piece, a large stone offers the opportunity for jewelers and customers to appreciate its quality, size, and uniqueness in a way that smaller stones may not provide.

In contrast, small stones are commonly sold in bulk or as smaller collections due to their lower individual value and the common practice of using them to complement larger pieces. Medium stones follow a similar trend, as they are often utilized in combination with other stones in designs. Exotic stones, while appealing for their rarity and unique colors or features, can fall within any size category, but their sales are not strictly defined by size, emphasizing their rarity rather than the piece sale format. Thus, the practice of selling large stones individually stands out within the gemstone market.