Gemstones
| Amethyst | Aquamarine | Citrine |
| Emerald | Garnet | Morganite |
| Peridot | Quartz | Ruby |
| Sapphire | Spinel | Tanzanite |
| Topaz | Tsavorite | Tourmaline |
| Zircon |
Amethyst
An amethyst is a captivating gemstone known for its regal purple color, ranging from pale lavender to deep violet shades. It is a variety of quartz and owes its distinctive hue to traces of iron and other impurities within the crystal lattice. Amethyst has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times when it was prized by royalty and believed to possess protective and healing properties. Its name is derived from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning "not drunk," as it was believed to ward off intoxication and promote sobriety.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, amethyst has a rating of 7, making it a durable gemstone suitable for various types of jewelry. Its vivid purple color, combined with its excellent clarity and transparency, has made it a sought-after gemstone for centuries. Amethyst can occur in various sizes and shapes, and its value is influenced by its color saturation and clarity. Some of the most well-known varieties of amethyst include "Deep Russian" amethyst, which boasts a rich and intense purple hue, and "Rose de France" amethyst, which displays a delicate, pastel lavender color. As a gemstone celebrated for its beauty and symbolism, amethyst continues to be cherished and adored by jewelry enthusiasts around the world.
Aquamarine
An aquamarine is a captivating gemstone known for its enchanting blue to blue-green hues, reminiscent of the sparkling waters of the sea. It belongs to the beryl family of minerals, with its color attributed to traces of iron in its crystal structure. Aquamarines have been cherished throughout history for their calming and soothing qualities, often associated with tranquility and serenity. This gemstone's name is derived from the Latin word "aqua marina," meaning "water of the sea," perfectly capturing its oceanic beauty.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, aquamarines have a rating of 7.5 to 8, making them a durable gemstone suitable for various jewelry designs. They exhibit excellent transparency and are often cut into various shapes, including faceted cuts to enhance their brilliance. Aquamarines are available in different varieties, ranging from pale, light blue to intense, vivid blue-green colors. The most prized and valuable aquamarines usually exhibit a rich, deep blue color with a hint of green, often referred to as "Santa Maria" aquamarines. Other varieties include the sky-blue "Maxixe" aquamarines, which are heat-treated to achieve their color, and the bluish-green "Santa Teresa" aquamarines, found in Brazil. With their captivating beauty and meaningful symbolism, aquamarines remain a popular choice for those seeking a touch of the sea's tranquility in their jewelry collection.
Citrine
Citrine is a captivating gemstone known for its warm and sunny yellow to orange-brown hues, reminiscent of the glow of the setting sun. It is a variety of quartz and owes its vibrant color to traces of iron in its crystal structure. Citrine's name is derived from the French word "citron," meaning "lemon," aptly describing its bright and cheerful appearance. Throughout history, citrine has been revered for its association with prosperity, abundance, and positive energy. It was used by ancient civilizations as a protective talisman, believed to bring good fortune and ward off negativity.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, citrine has a rating of 7, making it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for daily wear in jewelry. This gemstone is commonly cut into various shapes, including faceted and cabochon cuts, to showcase its beautiful color and brilliance. Natural citrine is relatively rare, and most citrines available in the market are heat-treated amethysts or smoky quartz, which imparts their yellow to orange hues. Some notable varieties of citrine include "Madeira citrine," displaying deep reddish-brown tones, and "Palmeira citrine," which exhibits a golden-yellow color. With its radiant glow and uplifting energy, citrine remains a cherished gemstone, beloved by jewelry enthusiasts seeking a touch of warmth and positivity in their adornments.
Emerald
Emerald is a mesmerizing gemstone renowned for its rich green color, often referred to as "emerald green." It belongs to the beryl family of minerals, with its captivating hue attributed to traces of chromium and vanadium within the crystal lattice. Throughout history, emeralds have been highly esteemed and prized by ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Incas, for their association with beauty, royalty, and fertility. The name "emerald" is derived from the Greek word "smaragdos," meaning "green gem." These gemstones have also been associated with various legends and beliefs, symbolizing love, hope, and renewal.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, emeralds have a rating of 7.5 to 8, making them relatively durable but more susceptible to damage compared to some other gemstones like diamonds. Their captivating color, combined with their inherent clarity and transparency, has made emeralds one of the most prized and valuable gemstones in the world of jewelry. Emeralds can exhibit various shades of green, ranging from pale and light greens to deep, intense greens, with the most sought-after being the vivid and rich "emerald green." Some notable varieties of emerald include "Colombian emeralds," celebrated for their deep green color and exceptional clarity, and "Zambian emeralds," known for their intense green color and good transparency. With their timeless allure and symbolic significance, emeralds continue to captivate jewelry enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any piece of jewelry.
Garnet
Garnet is a group of gemstones renowned for their diverse and enchanting range of colors, which include red, green, orange, yellow, and more. The most commonly known garnet color is deep red, resembling the rich hue of pomegranate seeds, from which its name is derived. Garnets are a group of silicate minerals, and their striking colors are attributed to varying elements such as iron, manganese, and aluminum in their crystal structure. Throughout history, garnets have been treasured and utilized as gemstones and decorative ornaments since ancient times, often associated with loyalty, passion, and protection. They were used by ancient civilizations for talismans and amulets, believed to provide strength and ward off negative energies.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, garnets have a rating of 6.5 to 7.5, making them relatively durable gemstones suitable for various jewelry styles, including rings, necklaces, and earrings. Garnets exhibit excellent clarity and brilliance when faceted or polished, adding to their allure as stunning gemstones. There are several varieties of garnets, each with its unique color and properties. Some well-known varieties include "Almandine," which displays a deep red color with a violet undertone, "Pyrope," known for its vibrant red color, and "Tsavorite," a brilliant green garnet. Additionally, there's "Spessartite," characterized by its warm orange color, and "Rhodolite," boasting a delicate pinkish-red hue. With their captivating range of colors and versatile appeal, garnets continue to be cherished and incorporated into exquisite jewelry pieces worldwide.
Morganite
Morganite is a captivating and delicate pink to peach-colored gemstone, belonging to the beryl family, which also includes emerald and aquamarine. It derives its beautiful hues from traces of manganese within its crystal structure. Named after the American banker and gem enthusiast J.P. Morgan, morganite gained popularity in the early 20th century, becoming a sought-after gemstone for jewelry. Its soft, pastel tones exude a sense of femininity and elegance, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry pieces.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, morganite has a rating of 7.5 to 8, making it relatively durable and suitable for most jewelry designs. Its transparency and clarity allow it to be cut into various shapes and styles, showcasing its delicate color and natural brilliance. Morganite comes in various shades of pink, ranging from light baby pink to deeper peach tones, and is sometimes referred to as "pink beryl." Different varieties of morganite are distinguished by their color and origin. For example, "Pink Beryl" is a term used to describe any pink-colored beryl, and "Peach Morganite" specifically refers to morganite with a peachy hue. With its romantic appeal and gentle charm, morganite continues to capture the hearts of gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.
Peridot
Peridot is a captivating gemstone renowned for its vibrant green color, often referred to as the "gem of the sun" due to its radiant hue. It is a variety of the mineral olivine and gets its captivating green color from iron within its crystal structure. Peridot has a long and fascinating history, with origins dating back to ancient Egypt, where it was considered a treasured gemstone and was believed to have protective powers against evil spirits. The ancient Egyptians referred to peridot as the "gem of the sun," associating it with the powerful sun god Ra. In medieval times, peridot was also highly prized and used in royal jewelry, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, peridot has a rating of 6.5 to 7, making it a relatively soft gemstone compared to diamonds and sapphires. Its transparency and natural brilliance make it an attractive choice for faceted cuts, enhancing its beauty and appeal. Peridot is typically found in a range of green shades, from a vibrant lime green to a more golden-green color, depending on the iron content. While most peridots are green, there are also rare color varieties, such as "Olivine," which is a yellow-green variety, and "Chrysolite," which refers to a pale yellow-green peridot. With its lively and fresh green color, peridot continues to captivate jewelry enthusiasts and gemstone lovers worldwide, adding a touch of nature's beauty to any piece of jewelry.
Quartz
Quartz is a versatile and abundant mineral that is one of the most common gemstones on Earth. It belongs to the silica family and is composed of silicon and oxygen atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure. Quartz comes in various colors and forms, each with its unique characteristics. One of the most well-known and widely used varieties of quartz is clear quartz, which is colorless and transparent. Throughout history, clear quartz has been revered by ancient civilizations for its mystical and spiritual properties, often associated with healing and amplifying energy.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, quartz has a rating of 7, making it relatively durable and suitable for various types of jewelry. It is commonly used in both faceted and cabochon cuts, showcasing its natural brilliance and clarity. In addition to clear quartz, there are several other varieties of quartz with distinct colors and properties. Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz, ranging from pale lavender to deep purple. Citrine is a vibrant yellow to orange-brown variety, while rose quartz displays a soft, pale pink hue. Smoky quartz is a gray to brown variety, resembling the color of smoke, and aventurine is a green variety with shimmering inclusions of mica or other minerals. With its wide range of colors and uses, quartz remains a popular and versatile gemstone, adorning jewelry pieces and spiritual items alike.
Ruby
Ruby is a captivating gemstone known for its rich, fiery red color, often referred to as the "king of gemstones." It belongs to the corundum family of minerals, with its vibrant red color attributed to traces of chromium within its crystal structure. Throughout history, rubies have been treasured and revered by various cultures and civilizations. In ancient times, they were considered the most precious gemstones, symbolizing passion, power, and protection. Rubies have been mentioned in religious texts and folklore, believed to bestow blessings and prosperity upon their wearers. As a result of their rarity and beauty, rubies have been sought after by royalty and nobility throughout the ages.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, rubies have a rating of 9, making them one of the hardest gemstones after diamonds. Their exceptional hardness and toughness make them suitable for daily wear, especially in engagement rings and other fine jewelry. The finest and most prized rubies display a vivid red color, often referred to as "pigeon blood red." Rubies can exhibit a range of red shades, from deep crimson to more pinkish or purplish tones. Other varieties of ruby include "star rubies," which exhibit a unique star-like pattern due to the presence of needle-like inclusions, and "pink sapphires," which are corundum stones that display a pink color but are considered sapphires instead of rubies due to their shade. With their captivating allure and symbolic significance, rubies continue to be cherished and admired by gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry connoisseurs worldwide.
Sapphire
Sapphire is a mesmerizing gemstone renowned for its captivating blue color, although it can also be found in various other hues such as pink, yellow, green, and even colorless (known as white sapphire). It is a variety of the mineral corundum, and its stunning blue color is attributed to traces of iron and titanium within its crystal structure. Throughout history, sapphires have held great significance and have been cherished by many ancient civilizations and cultures. In ancient times, sapphires were believed to possess powerful protective properties, symbolizing loyalty, wisdom, and purity. They were often worn by royalty and nobility as a talisman against harm and evil.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, sapphires have a rating of 9, making them one of the hardest gemstones after diamonds. This exceptional hardness, combined with their remarkable brilliance and clarity, makes sapphires ideal for various types of jewelry, especially engagement rings and statement pieces. The most well-known variety of sapphire is the blue sapphire, which ranges in shades from pale sky blue to deep royal blue. However, sapphires come in an array of colors, and each hue is considered a separate variety. For instance, pink sapphires are admired for their delicate and rosy tones, while yellow sapphires exude warmth and charm. The rare and sought-after Padparadscha sapphire showcases a unique blend of pink and orange, reminiscent of a tropical sunset. With its enduring allure and regal associations, sapphire remains one of the most beloved and desired gemstones, adorning jewelry pieces cherished by many around the world.
Spinel
Spinel is a captivating gemstone that comes in a wide range of brilliant colors, including red, pink, blue, purple, and black. It is a mineral belonging to the spinel group, distinct from corundum (which includes sapphire and ruby) despite some historical confusion between the two. Throughout history, spinel has been mistaken for other gemstones due to its resemblance to rubies and sapphires. In fact, some of the world's most famous "rubies," such as the "Black Prince's Ruby" in the British Imperial State Crown, are actually red spinels. This confusion is so renowned that the term "spinel" itself is believed to have originated from the Latin word "spina," meaning "thorn," referencing the pointed shape of spinel crystals.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, spinel has a rating of 7.5 to 8, making it a durable gemstone suitable for a variety of jewelry pieces. Its high clarity and luster add to its allure, and spinel is often cut into various shapes, including faceted cuts to maximize its brilliance. The most famous variety of spinel is the red spinel, which has been prized for its deep crimson color and is often confused with rubies. However, spinel comes in a diverse array of colors, including the pink to purple hues known as "lavender spinel," and the rare and highly coveted "cobalt spinel" with its stunning blue shades. Spinel is also found in mesmerizing shades of orange, gray, and even black, known as "black spinel." With its captivating colors and fascinating history, spinel continues to be an admired and sought-after gemstone in the world of jewelry.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a captivating and enchanting gemstone known for its mesmerizing blue-violet color, which ranges from deep royal blue to lighter lavender shades. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite, and its unique color is attributed to the presence of vanadium within its crystal structure. Tanzanite was discovered relatively recently in 1967, in the Mererani Hills of northern Tanzania, hence its name. Since its discovery, tanzanite has quickly gained popularity and become a highly sought-after gemstone due to its limited availability and stunning color. Tanzanite has been regarded as a symbol of transformation and spiritual awakening, and it was designated as the December birthstone in 2002, making it one of the modern birthstones.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, tanzanite has a rating of 6.5 to 7, which makes it relatively soft compared to other gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. This means that tanzanite requires careful handling and protection to preserve its beauty and minimize the risk of scratches. The color of tanzanite is influenced by the orientation of the crystal during its cutting and polishing process. Vivid and intense blue-violet hues are the most desired, while lighter shades are sometimes referred to as "bluish-violet" or "lavender tanzanite." Tanzanite is often cut into various shapes, including oval, cushion, and pear, to accentuate its remarkable color. With its captivating beauty and intriguing history, tanzanite has secured its place as a cherished and sought-after gemstone in the world of fine jewelry.
Topaz
Topaz is a captivating gemstone known for its wide array of colors, including shades of blue, yellow, orange, pink, and even colorless. It is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine, with its various colors attributed to impurities and defects within its crystal lattice. Topaz has a rich history, dating back to ancient times when it was believed to have protective and healing properties. In ancient Egypt, topaz was associated with the sun god Ra and was revered as a powerful talisman for strength and vitality. In the Middle Ages, yellow topaz was thought to bring wisdom and prosperity to its wearer. Topaz has also been associated with numerous legends and folklore, symbolizing love, passion, and friendship.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, topaz has a rating of 8, making it a durable gemstone suitable for various jewelry designs. Its exceptional hardness allows it to be faceted and polished into a wide range of shapes and styles, highlighting its natural brilliance and clarity. While the most well-known color of topaz is the vibrant blue variety, other color varieties are equally captivating. For instance, "imperial topaz" showcases a rich orange to pinkish hue, "golden topaz" exhibits a golden yellow color, and "pink topaz" exudes a lovely pink shade. There is also "colorless topaz," often used as a diamond alternative, and "mystic topaz," which displays a stunning rainbow effect due to a special coating. With its diverse colors and captivating allure, topaz remains a popular and cherished gemstone, adorning jewelry pieces treasured by many worldwide.
Tsavorite
Tsavorite is a stunning and rare green gemstone belonging to the garnet family, specifically a variety of grossular garnet. It is prized for its vibrant and vivid green color, ranging from a lively green to a deep emerald-like hue. Tsavorite was first discovered in the late 1960s in the Tsavo National Park in Kenya, from which its name is derived. Its striking color and brilliance quickly gained popularity among gem enthusiasts and jewelry connoisseurs. Tsavorite has become highly sought after due to its limited availability, as high-quality gemstones are relatively rare, making it a valuable and coveted gemstone in the world of fine jewelry.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, tsavorite has a rating of 7 to 7.5, which makes it relatively durable for most jewelry designs. Its exceptional clarity and brilliance allow it to be cut into various shapes and styles, including faceted and cabochon cuts, to showcase its captivating green color. Tsavorite's vibrant green hue is often compared to that of emerald, but tsavorite is valued for its superior clarity and fewer inclusions, making it a more attractive option for many gemstone enthusiasts. Some tsavorite varieties may display variations in color, ranging from a pure grass-green to a slightly bluish or yellowish tint. With its captivating beauty and limited availability, tsavorite continues to be treasured and admired by jewelry enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline is a captivating and versatile gemstone known for its incredible variety of colors. It belongs to the boron silicate mineral group and is one of the most colorful gemstones found in nature. Tourmalines can be found in shades of green, pink, red, blue, yellow, and even colorless. The name "tourmaline" is believed to have been derived from the Sinhalese word "turmali," meaning "mixed gemstones," reflecting the gem's wide range of colors. Tourmalines have been known for centuries and have been cherished by various cultures and civilizations for their beauty and unique properties. In ancient times, tourmalines were believed to possess mystical and healing powers, offering protection and promoting creativity and inspiration.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, tourmalines have a rating of 7 to 7.5, making them relatively durable and suitable for most jewelry types, including rings, earrings, and necklaces. Their outstanding clarity and brilliance allow them to be cut into various shapes and styles, and they are often faceted to maximize their natural beauty. Tourmalines can exhibit several different color varieties, each with its unique name and appeal. Some of the most popular varieties include "rubellite," which is a deep pink to red tourmaline, "indicolite," displaying shades of blue and green, and "watermelon tourmaline," which showcases a pink center surrounded by a green outer rim, resembling the colors of a watermelon. Additionally, "chrome tourmaline" features an intense green hue due to chromium impurities, while "paraiba tourmaline" is prized for its neon blue to green colors, a result of copper and manganese elements. With its captivating array of colors and unique properties, tourmaline remains a beloved and sought-after gemstone, adorning jewelry pieces cherished by many worldwide.
Zircon
Zircon is a stunning gemstone renowned for its brilliance and wide range of colors, including shades of blue, green, yellow, orange, brown, and even colorless. It is a mineral belonging to the nesosilicate group and is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, dating back over 4 billion years. Zircon has been used as a gemstone and ornament for centuries, and in the Middle Ages, it was believed to possess healing properties and offer protection against evil spirits. However, zircon's history is not without confusion, as it was often mistaken for diamond due to its brilliance and high refractive index. This led to the creation of the term "jargoon" to refer specifically to colorless zircon.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, zircon has a rating of 6.5 to 7.5, making it relatively durable and suitable for various types of jewelry. Its exceptional brilliance and dispersion (also known as "fire") make it a captivating gemstone when faceted and polished. Zircon can exhibit different color varieties, with blue zircon being one of the most popular and sought-after. Other color varieties include "yellow zircon," known for its warm golden hue, "green zircon," which exudes a lively green color, and "brown zircon," displaying earthy and warm tones. The colorless variety of zircon, known as "hyacinth" or "jargoon," is valued for its brilliance and resemblance to diamonds. Zircon is a beloved gemstone for its stunning beauty and unique characteristics, adding a touch of elegance and charm to any piece of jewelry.