Diamond is undeniably the most valuable and sought-after gem, but colored gemstones are no less popular.
In modern times, colored gemstone engagement rings have become a widely accepted alternative to traditional diamond rings.
Whether you are looking for gemstone jewelry to gift, propose with or simply add to your collection — here are five of the most popular and gorgeous colored gemstones you can pick.
1. Ruby
July’s birthstone ruby is the most sought-after gemstone after diamond. Its deep red hue symbolizes love, passion and desire, making it the ideal gift for partners in love. The hue of this precious gemstone ranges from a bright red to reddish-brown. With a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, ruby comes a close second after diamond as the hardest substance on the earth. Its durability, beauty and representation of love make this colored gemstone the perfect choice for proposal rings. Rubies are the perfect center stone for any jewelry. Say it with a gorgeous ruby ring or sweep her off her feet with a pair of ruby earrings.
2. Emerald
Emerald is associated with royalty and referred to as the “jewel of kings.” It has a hardness rating of 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale, which means the gemstone is quite durable and resistant to scratching. Emerald comes in several shades of green that range from light to a deep, dark color. The beauty and uniqueness of this gemstone are unparalleled. It looks stunning when placed next to diamonds or any other colored gemstone. This mesmerizing gem is a popular option for engagement rings. Emerald is the birthstone for May and the traditional gift for the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries.
3. Sapphire
Sapphires are one of the most coveted stones and are known for their breathtaking brilliance and rich color. Blue sapphires are the most popular, but did you know this precious gemstone is available in several other hues such as pink, orange and yellow? On the Mohs scale, sapphire has a hardness rating of 9. It is one of the most expensive gems in the world. Sapphire is an elegant and timeless jewel that will look equally stunning whether worn as a statement necklace or a one-of-a-kind ring.
4. Tanzanite
Tanzanite is known for its intoxicating bluish-purple hue. This gemstone was discovered in 1967 and is only found in one place — the foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. On the Mohs scale of hardness, it has a rating of 6-7. The birthstone of those born in December, tanzanite is also the gem for the 24th wedding anniversary. The depleting supply of tanzanite has made it a popular gemstone in the last few years. It is expected to become quite expensive in the next 20-25 years. Therefore, now is a good time to gift yourself or a loved one a piece of gorgeous tanzanite jewelry!
5. Colored Diamonds
A trendy twist on traditional diamonds, colored diamonds have become incredibly popular in recent years. They are as rare and desirable as their colorless counterparts. Some of the most exquisite shades of colored diamonds include black, blue and brown. They have the highest rating on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means they can resist scratching better than any other gemstone. The rarity, extraordinary brilliance and durability make colored diamonds a precious must-have in every woman’s jewelry collection. Whether it’s a stunning brown and white diamond ring or an elegant blue diamond pendant, we’re sure the piece will stay in your family for generations!
