Bringing nature and the beauty of the world into our jewelry is always a fantastic idea. Precious gemstones allow the wearer to always be in contact with the elements they love.

This short guide will give you a glimpse at some of our favorite precious gemstones, giving you a selection to look out for in your next jewelry purchase.

1. The Sobering Amethyst

Gleaming with a deep royal purple hue, this gemstone is composed of the mineral quartz and is one of the most valuable purple gemstones. Only royalty could wear the jewel in the past. The amethyst was believed to protect against intoxication by the ancient Greeks. 

Its name derives from the Greek word amethystos, which means “sober.” It’s most commonly found in South America, and cut forms of the stone are particularly popular for necklaces and brooches. Its royal purple hue looks beautiful, set with diamonds or other gemstones. 

2. Aquamarine and the Sailors’ Precious Gemstones

Aquamarine’s name is derived from a combination of Latin words for “water” and “sea.” Early sailors thought that aquamarine talismans bearing engravings of the sea god Neptune shielded them from the perils of the ocean.

The most sought-after color of aquamarine is sea-blue, although more rare shades such as pale green to yellow, pink, and even purple exist. The gemstone looks stunning when set in white or yellow gold, and also makes an elegant addition to diamond-studded jewelry.

3. The Fiery Gem That Is Ruby

Rubies are not only valued for their eye-catching, deep red color, but for their rarity, durability, and hardness. Rich in history, the fiery gem is a symbol of health, vitality, and passion.

Rubies are found in almost every major country around the world, from Kashmir in India to Myanmar. Ancient Hindus considered the ruby, the birthstone for July, to be the “king of stones” and considered it to shield the wearer from harm.

In cluster settings, rubies and diamonds are frequently mixed, although other colored gemstones can also be used in addition to rubies.

4. Sapphire and the Precious Gemstone of September

The vibrant blue hue of sapphire captures the eye and captivates the soul. They are typically found in Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, and Australia, though they can also appear in locations all over the world.

The birthstone for September was long supposed to ward off evil and poisoning. The sapphire, which has historically been a favored stone of priests and rulers, stands for both innocence and knowledge.

5. Calming Turquoise

Turquoise is the national stone of Tibet, and Native American Indian tribes view turquoise as a sacred “living stone” that is extremely significant to their way of life. According to Navajo mythology, turquoise is created when the Earth is wetted with human tears of joy following a protracted drought.

With its deep blue and green hues, the birthstone for December is often used in jewelry and other decorative ornaments. It has been a symbol of luck and friendship, and wearing one is said to calm the mind and shield the person from harm. 

The Arizona-mined Sleeping Beauty turquoise is regarded as one of the best because of its superior quality. Learn more about Sleeping Beauty Turquoise.

Learn More About Precious Gemstones

Precious gemstones are a beautiful gift from mother nature. Every gemstone has its unique characteristics, color, and beauty to choose from. The world of colored gemstones is very vast, from diamonds to stones like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.

To explore the beauty of gemstones, visit your local jewelry store and explore all the different shapes, sizes, and colors. 

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