As one-of-a-kind pieces of mineral crystals, gemstones are some of the most precious objects on Earth. The beautiful allure of gemstone jewelry—available in assorted shapes, unique sizes, and a wide range of vivid colors—fascinates consumers worldwide.
Some of the most notable vintage jewelry trends over the decades focused on gems in a variety of hues, many of which remain prominent in the modern market. Let’s examine five of the most popular colored gemstones in jewelry pieces.
Blue: Sapphire
Since the Middle Ages, precious sapphires have been gemstones of historical value and global significance. With a name stemming from the Greek word “sappheiros,” this durable celestial blue beauty is known as the gem of truth, honesty, and loyalty.
Sapphire has become a prominent symbol of royal love in recent times, displayed in the engagement ring of the late Princess Diana and the current Lady of Cambridge. To this day, high-quality blue sapphire is one of the rarest stones found in nature.
Red: Ruby
With captivating tones of rich color, rubies represent true-to-life passion, courage, and everlasting love. Their name comes from the Latin word “ruber.” As once prized possessions of rulers, emperors, and royalty, ruby gemstones have been called the king of all precious gems for centuries.
Classified by their heightened durability and fiery blood-red vibrance, rubies are the most expensive colored mineral species on the market. Many admire rubies as excellent colorful alternatives to traditional diamonds.
Green: Emerald
As gems of spring, emeralds are another of the most popular colored gemstones in jewelry. Their valuable range of intense and vibrant green hues symbolize rebirth. The first emeralds were discovered in ancient Egypt, displayed in Cleopatra’s historically famed collection, and were also popular among Spanish conquistadors and Incan kings.
Today, emerald is a timeless crowd-pleasing stone with unique beauty and value from its internal Jardin inclusion patterns. This precious green gem is primarily available in a geometric emerald cut and is not ideal for daily wear.
Purple: Amethyst
As a valuable and versatile variety of mineral quartz, amethyst is known for its exclusive purple hues. Depending on how much iron is in the gem, the beautiful color can appear as a remarkably light lavender or a deeper shade of purple.
As a stone historically symbolic of love and intellect, amethyst is a complementary choice for any occasion or outfit. You can find this gemstone in an array of affordable, brilliant settings.
Yellow: Citrine
As a yellow-hued type of quartz crystal, citrine is the warm-toned cousin of amethyst. These gemstones have a golden glow due to traces of iron, coming in paler yellow to deep amber shades. Many customarily believe citrine stones bring good luck and fortune to the wearer. Citrine is used in all varieties of jewelry to make a bold and stunning statement.
These varieties of radiant gemstones—and many more—remain favored for their timeless beauty, rarity, and longevity. Find these precious stones commonly used in fine jewelry pieces of the past and present, from earrings, rings, and necklaces to bracelets, brooches, and more.
