Meet the Gemstones: A Guide to Sapphires, Rubies, Emeralds & More
Gemstones have captivated humanity for centuries with their dazzling colors, unique properties, and timeless elegance. At Robinson's Jewelers, we believe every gemstone tells a story, whether it's the deep blue of a sapphire, the fiery red of a ruby, or the lush green of an emerald. These natural wonders aren't just beautiful—they're also rich in meaning and history, making them perfect for creating personalized jewelry that speaks to your individual style.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore some of the most sought-after gemstones, their characteristics, and how to incorporate them into your jewelry collection. Whether you're drawn to classic diamonds or vibrant tourmalines, understanding these precious stones will help you make informed choices for your next jewelry purchase.
Sapphire: The Stone of Wisdom
Known for its stunning blue hues, sapphire is one of the most prized gemstones in the world. While blue is the most traditional color, sapphires actually come in a rainbow of shades except red (which would be classified as a ruby). The September birthstone symbolizes wisdom, loyalty, and nobility, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and pendants.
Sapphires rank 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, second only to diamonds, which makes them exceptionally durable for everyday wear. At Robinson's Jewelers, we love pairing sapphires with white gold or platinum to enhance their cool tones, though they also look magnificent set in yellow gold for a more vintage appeal.
Ruby: The King of Gemstones
With its rich red color, ruby has been revered since ancient times. As the July birthstone, rubies represent passion, protection, and prosperity. The finest rubies display a vivid red with a hint of blue, often described as "pigeon's blood" red. Like sapphires, rubies are a variety of corundum and share the same exceptional hardness, making them ideal for rings and other frequently worn jewelry.
Rubies look particularly striking when paired with yellow gold, which complements their warm tones. For a more contemporary look, try a ruby set in white gold or surrounded by diamonds. We especially love ruby tennis bracelets for a touch of everyday luxury.
Emerald: The Jewel of Kings
The lush green emerald, May's birthstone, has been associated with rebirth, love, and wisdom since Cleopatra's time. Unlike sapphires and rubies, emeralds are a variety of beryl and are slightly softer (7.5-8 on the Mohs scale), requiring a bit more care. Their signature inclusions, called "jardin" (French for garden), are often considered part of their charm, evidence of their natural formation.
Emeralds are typically cut in rectangular emerald cuts to maximize their color and protect the stone. They pair beautifully with yellow gold or rose gold, which enhance their warm green tones. For a stunning statement piece, consider an emerald halo ring or drop earrings.
Beyond the Big Three: Other Gorgeous Gemstones
While sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are considered the "big three" of colored gemstones, there are many other breathtaking options to explore:
Aquamarine: March's birthstone shimmers with pale blue tones reminiscent of tropical waters. Its clarity and durability make it perfect for stud earrings and pendants.
Amethyst: This purple quartz, February's birthstone, ranges from pale lilac to deep violet. It's affordable enough for large cocktail rings or statement necklaces.
Tanzanite: Found only in Tanzania, this violet-blue stone is rarer than diamond. Its pleochroism means it shows different colors from different angles, perfect for pendants that catch the light.
Opal: October's birthstone displays a magical play-of-color that shifts with movement. While softer than other gems, opals make stunning rings (best for occasional wear) and pendants.
Caring for Your Gemstone Jewelry
Different gemstones require different care approaches. While sapphires and rubies can handle ultrasonic cleaners, more delicate stones like emeralds and opals should only be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Always remove gemstone jewelry before swimming, cleaning, or exercising.
At Robinson's Jewelers, we recommend having your gemstone jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned at least once a year. This allows us to check stone settings and perform any necessary maintenance to keep your pieces looking their best for generations.
Finding Your Perfect Gemstone
Whether you're drawn to the classic elegance of a sapphire, the passionate fire of a ruby, or the lush green of an emerald, each gemstone offers unique beauty and meaning. Consider your lifestyle, personal style, and the symbolism that resonates with you when choosing gemstone jewelry.
Visit Robinson's Jewelers to explore our exquisite collection of gemstone jewelry, from birthstone pendants to eternity bands. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect piece to celebrate life's special moments or simply treat yourself to something beautiful.