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Coloured gemstones have long been a popular choice for jewelry, and with the rise of online jewelry shops in Singapore, it has never been easier to find the perfect gemstone piece to add to your collection. From the dazzling blue of sapphires to the stunning purple of amethysts, each stone possesses its own unique charm and appeal.
Whether you are searching for a classic engagement ring or creating your own bespoke piece, a reputable online jewelry shop can provide you with a wide range of options to choose from. So, let’s dive into the world of coloured gemstones and discover their exquisite beauty that makes them irresistible.
Emerald
Emeralds are coveted for their vivid green colour, which is caused by the trace amounts of chromium and vanadium in the mineral beryl’s crystal structure. The value of an emerald is determined by the intensity of its green hue, with more vivid and deeper shades being sought-after.
Inclusions, which are microscopic flaws that can affect clarity and are frequently visible to the naked eye, are a feature of emeralds, unlike other gemstones. Because they resemble natural elements such as flora, these inclusions are commonly referred to as “jardin,” which is French for garden. This gives the stone a unique and organic appearance that many collectors find appealing.
While some buyers may prefer emeralds with fewer inclusions, others consider visible inclusions to be more desirable and valuable as they bring character and personality to the stone. However, it’s essential to note that the visibility and type of inclusions can impact the durability and overall quality of the stone.
In addition to their beauty, emeralds are known for their durability, with a Mohs hardness rating of 7.5 to 8, which is comparable to other gemstones like sapphires and rubies. However, emeralds can be more brittle than other stones due to inclusions and natural fractures within the crystal structure.
Ruby
Rubies are a type of corundum mineral, a crystalline form of aluminium oxide, and are one of the four precious gemstones alongside diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. They are found in several parts of the world, including Tanzania, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar (formerly Burma).
What distinguishes rubies is their deep red colour, which ranges from pinkish-red to purplish-red, caused by the presence of chromium in the crystal structure of the corundum mineral. The amount of chromium present in the crystal determines the intensity and saturation of the red colour.
In addition to their vibrant hue, rubies have exceptional hardness and durability, scoring 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making them highly resistant to scratching and chipping. They also have an interesting fluorescence property where certain rubies emit a glowing red light when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, caused by trace elements in the crystal structure.
The most valuable and sought-after rubies are those with vivid red colours and high clarity. Clarity, which refers to the absence of inclusions or flaws within the gemstone, plays a significant role in determining the beauty and value of the ruby. As a result, a high-quality ruby should have minimal inclusions to enhance its appearance and overall value.
Sapphire
Sapphires, a form of corundum mineral, display an array of colours ranging from blue and pink, to yellow and green, among others. The distinctive colours are due to the presence of trace elements such as iron, titanium, and chromium within their crystal structure, which selectively absorb various wavelengths of light.
Sapphires are highly sought after for use in jewelry owing to their superior durability and brilliance. They rank among the hardest minerals on the Mohs scale with a rating of 9, making them resistant to scratches and chips and ideal for everyday wear.
While blue sapphires are considered the most valuable and sought-after, pink sapphires have also gained popularity and are often used as a diamond alternative in engagement rings. In fact, non-traditional coloured sapphires have become a trendy choice for engagement rings, representing qualities such as faithfulness, trust, and loyalty.
Amethyst
Amethysts, a type of quartz gemstone, are known for their distinctive purple hue ranging from light lilac to deep shades of purple. The presence of iron and other trace elements in the crystal structure causes this. Along with their transparency and clarity, these gems are admired for their stunning beauty.
Another feature of amethysts is their ability to change colour depending on the lighting conditions. This phenomenon, known as pleochroism, can cause amethysts to display varying shades of purple or even blue-green, depending on the angle of the light source.
Due to their aesthetic appeal and durability, amethysts are a popular choice for jewelry. They have a hardness rating of 7 on the Mohs scale, making them highly resistant to scratches and chips and ideal for everyday wear. Additionally, amethysts are reasonably priced and widely available, making them an accessible option for many buyers.
Aquamarine
Aquamarines are a type of beryl mineral with a fascinating pale blue colour. This colour is caused by the presence of iron in the crystal structure, with the intensity and shade of the blue colour varying depending on the amount of iron present.
Aquamarines are admired for their transparency, clarity, and striking blue colour. They exhibit pleochroism, allowing them to display different hues when viewed from different angles or under varying light conditions, with a blue-green or greenish-blue tint being common.
High-quality aquamarines possess a vibrant blue hue and excellent clarity, making them highly valued in the gemstone market. They are often cut into larger, elegant shapes to enhance their beauty and value.
Although Brazil is the primary source of aquamarines, they can also be found in other regions, such as Madagascar, Russia, and the United States. Due to their captivating appearance, aquamarines are a popular choice for various types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and earrings.
Personalising Your Jewelry: The Appeal of Coloured Gemstones
Gemstones are a beloved choice for jewelry due to their captivating beauty and individuality. Each gemstone boasts its own unique features, from the deep green of emeralds to the vivid red of rubies. With a broad array of colours and variations available, coloured gemstones are a great way to add personality and flair to any piece of jewelry.
LeCaine Gems is a renowned jewelry retailer in Singapore that specialises in various jewelry pieces, including engagement rings, wedding bands, and Si Dian Jin sets. Our collection comprises stunning diamonds, beautiful moissanite, and alluring gemstones, ensuring you find the perfect piece that suits your taste.
Apart from our extensive range of designs, we also offer bespoke jewelry services to our customers, allowing them to create unique pieces that reflect their individuality and love. To begin designing your own timeless piece of jewelry, book an appointment or send a WhatsApp message to +65 8020 0353.