Coloured Gemstones

Coloured gemstones can be very beautiful and valuable, and some naturally coloured gemstones such as pyrope garnet (pictured here) and amethyst are surprisingly affordable. Here are some brief notes on a small selection of coloured gemstones:

Precious Gemstones

Emerald

The beautiful rich green gemstone Emerald is highly prized throughout the world. Emerald is related to Aquamarine, as both belong to the beryl family of gemstones. Unlike aquamarine, however, which is prized for its transparency and lack of inclusions, emeralds are rarely found without inclusions, which usually do not detract from their value and desirability. 

Ruby and Sapphire

Rubies and sapphires belong to the Corundum mineral family, and after diamond (10/10) are the hardest gemstones (9/10) on the Mohs Scale. Although we think of Rubies as being deep red as red and sapphires as blue, rubies can be any shade of red right through to a pink shade, whilst sapphires can be nearly any colour, including colourless.

Rubies and sapphires are very hard and durable, but, as with diamonds, care should be taken to avoid fracturing or chipping them.

Semi-Precious Gemstones  

Amber 

Amber was formed millions of years ago from the fossilised resin of ancient Pine trees. Amber often contains unusual inclusions such as fossilised insects and plants. A perfectly formed fossilised inclusion can greatly enhance the value of Amber.

Amber is a very soft gemstone, so great care should be taken to avoid scratching the stone. Amber is considered by some people to have purifying powers.

Jade

In the ancient world Chinese Jade was though to have talismanic qualities, attracting good fortune and personal loyalty. It was often used in statues, pendants and amulets.

There are two types of Jade : Jadeite and Nephrite. Nephrite is the more common type and is always green on colour. Jadeite however can come in several colours, including red, green, black and blue.

Often used in gem carving, Jade is a very hard and durable stone. The most valuable variety is Imperial Jade and comes from Burma.  

Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli is blue in colour, and often has tiny specks of gold. Its blueness stems from the sulphur content of the stone. 

The finest Lapis Lazuli comes from Afghanistan where it has been mined for around 6000 years. In Biblical times, Holy men wore Lapis Lazuli because they believed in the stone's spiritual qualities.

Lapis Lazuli is used both in jewellery and as an ornamental stone.

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