The Most Precious Gemstones
The History
of Beauty
Diamond – the King of Gemstones
Diamonds are the most famous gemstones, valued for their extraordinary brilliance and unmatched hardness. They symbolize durability and luxury, making them the most common choice for engagement rings and jewelry for special occasions. Diamonds look stunning in all colors of gold, particularly in white gold and platinum, which highlight their purity and sparkle. One of the most famous diamonds in the world is the blue Hope Diamond, weighing 45.52 carats. Set in a stunning necklace, it was donated to the Smithsonian Institution by the jeweler Harry Winston.
Emerald – the Essence of Elegance
Emeralds have captivated with their deep, hypnotic green since ancient times. They contain unique inclusions, known as “emerald gardens,” which prove their authenticity and origin. They look beautiful in white and yellow gold, though white gold is often chosen for luxury jewelry. Among the most famous emeralds is the Bvlgari Emerald Necklace, a luxurious piece created by the Bvlgari house, which in 1960 was gifted to Elizabeth Taylor by her future husband, Richard Burton.
Ruby – the Stone of Kings
Rubies are among the most precious gemstones, known for their intense red color, ranging from pink to deep purple. The most sought-after rubies are those with a “pigeon’s blood” color, a pure, vivid red hue with a slight bluish tint. They pair beautifully with yellow gold, highlighting their warm color, but they also look stunning in white gold or platinum. One of the most famous rubies is the 25.59-carat Sunrise Ruby, which adorns a ring designed by Cartier.
Sapphire – a Heavenly Gem
Sapphires, though they also occur in colors like pink, yellow, and green, are most admired in deep blue hues. They often contain subtle inclusions and are among the hardest stones on Earth, alongside diamonds. Sapphires are frequently used in engagement rings, earrings, and necklaces and pair beautifully with white gold or platinum. One of the most famous sapphires is the one in Princess Diana’s engagement ring, which was later passed on to Kate Middleton. Another iconic sapphire is the brooch designed by Cartier in 1949 for Wallis Simpson, Duchess of Windsor.
Tanzanite – a Gem Like No Other
Tanzanite is a rare gemstone that changes color from deep blue to intense violet. Discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, it is considered much rarer than diamonds. Tanzanite looks best in white gold or platinum settings, which emphasize its cool hue, although it is often paired with yellow gold for a warmer effect. The most famous tanzanites adorn luxury jewelry by Tiffany & Co., who first introduced tanzanite to the global market and promoted it with the slogan: “Tanzanite: A Gemstone Like No Other.”
Pearl – the Gift of the Sea
Unlike other gemstones that form in nature, pearls require no polishing, making them a unique gift from the sea. They come in shades, from classic white and cream to delicate pinks, grays, or blacks. Pearls look magnificent in classic necklaces, earrings, and rings; their subtle beauty makes them timeless. One of the most expensive pearl jewelry pieces is La Peregrina, a 203g pearl set in a gold necklace with diamonds and rubies. It once belonged to Elizabeth Taylor.
Opal – the Rainbow Glow
Opals, with their spectacular play of colors, resemble hidden, opalescent rainbows within the stone. Opals are found in colorless, black, white, and vibrant shades. However, black opals exhibit an intense and dynamic range of colors and are the most prized. These stones pair beautifully with various metals, both gold and platinum and are frequently used in fine jewelry. Among the most famous opal jewelry pieces is a ring designed by Tiffany & Co. in 2000, regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful and expensive opal pieces.
Make Your Dreams Come True
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