A guide to coloured gemstones
by Natasha Christou Digital Marketing ConsultantAs Marylin Monroe once said, ‘Diamonds are a girl’s best
friend’ – but when it comes to gemstones, there are a whole host of other
options that exude just as much glamour and character. Colourful gemstone
jewellery can add a unique touch to any outfit, whether you’re looking for a
new statement necklace, or an engagement ring that shows off your own personal
sparkle.
To help you choose, Angelic Diamonds have put together
a gemstone education guide, exploring historical significance, durability, and
celebrity favourites.
A Sapphire Sparkle
Sapphires take their name from the Ancient Greek word
‘Sapphueiros’, which means blue stone. All sapphires, whether blue, pink,
yellow or green, are made primarily from the mineral corundum. The more
chromium found in the corundum present, the more pink the sapphire is.
According to ancient Persian folklore, The Earth was
balanced on top of a sapphire, giving the sky its blue colour. In Asian lore,
pink sapphires were admired as symbols of love and often compared to the sacred
lotus flower, symbolising wisdom and beauty.
Today, blue sapphires are associated with royalty,
commitment, and truth. They’re found in several countries’ crown jewel
collections, such as the UK and Holland, and famously feature in the Duchess of
Cambridge’s engagement ring. Today pink sapphires represent elegance and
romance and are also often worn by royals and celebrities. One of the most
famous examples of a prominent pink sapphire is the one on the broach Queen
Elizabeth II wore while giving her 2013 Christmas Day speech.
Resplendent Rubies
Rubies get their name from ‘Ruber’ which is the Latin word
for ‘Red’. This precious gem is made up of a mineral called corundum and it can
vary in colour from a deep, dark red to a pale pink. Rubies are the third
hardest mineral substance in the world, only beaten by moissanites and
diamonds.
This iconic red gemstone has featured prominently in
historical readings. It’s mentioned several times in ancient Sanskrit scriptures
under the name “The King of Gemstones” and is referred to numerous times in the
bible with connections to wisdom and beauty. Possibly the most famous reference
to rubies is in the Wizard of Oz, when Dorothy tapped together her magical ruby
red slippers to transport her back to her home in Kansas. However, Elizabeth
Taylor, Victoria Backham and Jessica Simpson are also major fans of the
gemstones.
Emerald Enchantment
Emeralds also get their name from an ancient Greek word –
‘Smaragdus’, meaning ‘Green’. This dazzling gem is made from the mineral beryl
and gets its vibrant colour from chromium or vanadium. This gem isn’t
particularly durable, making it unsuitable for everyday wear.
Emeralds are also the birthstone for people born in May,
signifying love and rebirth. Emerald jewellery is also a traditional gift for
55th wedding anniversaries, May engagements, May weddings and to celebrate the
birth of a baby.
Emeralds were first discovered in Egypt, when Cleopatra was
said to have a passion for the gems. She famously adorned herself with the
green gemstone and the Romans were also enamoured by them, believing them to be
powerful symbols of love and fertility.
Today, emeralds are an emblem of beauty, style and wealth
with many iconic women, such as Queen Elizabeth II, Jackie Obnassis and
Elizabeth Taylor wearing them in statement jewellery.
Pink Sapphire Passion
These eye-catching gemstones have been steadily increasing
in popularity over the years. Historically, the colour pink has been associated
with delicacy, femininity, and resilience. The vibrant colour has also become a
popular choice for engagement rings, as the soft pink gemstone reflects light
beautifully.
Pink sapphires have been associated with romance for
hundreds of years. Throughout Asia, they are often compared to the lotus
flower, representing timeless beauty, purity and wisdom. Today, they are a firm
favourite of the royal family; Queen Elizabeth II is well known for her
stunning brooches, one of them a huge pink sapphire floral design that she wore
when giving her 2013 Christmas Day speech.
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Created on May 29th 2020 07:34. Viewed 299 times.