Types Of Gemstones

Jewelry has always been a symbol of beauty and elegance, and gemstones play a crucial role in enhancing their charm. At KundanMala Jewels, we bring you a diverse collection of stunning jewelry embedded with high-quality gemstones. Understanding the types of gemstone will help you make informed choices when buying jewelry, whether for fashion, investment, or personal belief in their mystical properties.

What Are Gemstones?

Gemstones are naturally occurring minerals or organic materials that are cut, polished, and used in jewelry. They come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, each with unique properties and meanings.

There are two main categories of gemstones:

• Precious Gemstones – These include diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, which are known for their rarity and high value.
• Semi-Precious Gemstones – These include a vast range of stones, such as amethyst, topaz, turquoise, and more, offering beauty and affordability.

Let’s explore the most popular types of gemstone used in jewelry.

1. Diamond – The King of Gemstones

Diamond is the hardest and most precious gemstone known for its brilliance and timeless appeal. It is widely used in engagement rings and luxury jewelry.

• Color: Mostly colorless but can have shades of yellow, brown, and rare fancy colors like blue and pink.
• Symbolism: Represents purity, strength, and eternal love.
• Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale (hardest natural substance).
• Best Use: Engagement rings, earrings, pendants, and investment jewelry.
• Interesting Fact: The largest diamond ever found is the Cullinan Diamond, weighing 3,106 carats.

2. Ruby – The Stone of Passion

Ruby is known for its vibrant red color and symbolizes love and power. It is one of the most sought-after gemstones in high-end jewelry.

• Color: Rich red, ranging from pinkish-red to deep blood-red.
• Symbolism: Associated with love, passion, and power.
• Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale.
• Best Use: Rings, bracelets, and high-end jewelry.
• Interesting Fact: The finest rubies, known as “Pigeon Blood Rubies,” come from Myanmar.

3. Sapphire – The Royal Gem

Sapphire is a regal gemstone known for its deep blue color, though it is available in various shades. It is associated with wisdom and protection.

• Color: Commonly blue but available in yellow, green, pink, and white.
• Symbolism: Represents wisdom, royalty, and protection.
• Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale.
• Best Use: Rings, pendants, and crowns.
• Interesting Fact: Princess Diana’s engagement ring featured a stunning blue sapphire.

4. Emerald – The Stone of Prosperity

Emerald is a beautiful green gemstone associated with wealth, health, and love. It is highly valued for its rarity and deep green hue.

• Color: Deep green, ranging from light to dark shades.
• Symbolism: Known for wealth, health, and love.
• Hardness: 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale.
• Best Use: Necklaces, rings, and luxury jewelry.
• Interesting Fact: The world’s most famous emeralds come from Colombia and Zambia.

5. Amethyst – The Stone of Clarity

Amethyst is a stunning purple gemstone known for its calming properties and spiritual significance.

• Color: Purple, ranging from light lavender to deep violet.
• Symbolism: Believed to promote calmness and clarity.
• Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale.
• Best Use: Rings, bracelets, and healing jewelry.
• Interesting Fact: Ancient Greeks believed amethyst could prevent intoxication.

6. Topaz – The Gem of Strength

Topaz is a versatile gemstone that comes in various colors, most commonly yellow and blue. It symbolizes strength and intelligence.

• Color: Available in shades of yellow, blue, pink, and more.
• Symbolism: Brings strength, intelligence, and good fortune.
• Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale.
• Best Use: Pendants, rings, and fashion jewelry.
• Interesting Fact: Blue topaz is the most commonly used variety in jewelry.

7. Opal – The Play-of-Color Gem

Opal is a unique gemstone with an iridescent play-of-color effect, making it a favorite for artistic jewelry designs.

• Color: Displays multiple colors with a unique play-of-color effect.
• Symbolism: Represents creativity, spontaneity, and mystery.
• Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale.
• Best Use: Earrings, rings, and artistic jewelry.
• Interesting Fact: Australia produces over 90% of the world’s opals.

8. Turquoise – The Protection Stone

Turquoise is a blue-green gemstone cherished for its protective properties and cultural significance.

• Color: Blue-green, often with dark veining.
• Symbolism: Known for protection and good fortune.
• Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale.
• Best Use: Bracelets, pendants, and traditional jewelry.
• Interesting Fact: Used in Native American and Middle Eastern cultures for centuries.

9. Peridot – The Stone of Positivity

Peridot is a bright green gemstone associated with happiness and renewal. It is a perfect choice for cheerful, everyday jewelry.

• Color: Bright green, often with a golden hue.
• Symbolism: Associated with happiness, peace, and renewal.
• Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale.
• Best Use: Necklaces, rings, and everyday jewelry.
• Interesting Fact: Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color.

10. Garnet – The Stone of Commitment

Garnet is a deep red gemstone that signifies love and trust, making it a meaningful choice for romantic jewelry.

• Color: Deep red, though also found in green, orange, and pink.
• Symbolism: Represents commitment, love, and trust.
• Hardness: 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale.
• Best Use: Rings, bracelets, and symbolic jewelry.
• Interesting Fact: Garnets have been used in jewelry for over 5,000 years.

11. Moonstone – The Gem of Femininity

Moonstone is a soft-glowing gemstone associated with intuition and balance, making it popular in feminine jewelry designs.

• Color: White with a soft glow, sometimes with blue or peach hues.
• Symbolism: Associated with feminine energy, intuition, and balance.
• Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale.
• Best Use: Earrings, rings, and bohemian jewelry.
• Interesting Fact: The ancient Romans believed moonstones were formed from solidified moonlight.

Choosing the Right Gemstone

When selecting a gemstone, consider the following factors:

• Color: Rich, vibrant hues indicate better quality.
• Clarity: Fewer inclusions make a gemstone more valuable.
• Cut: A well-cut gemstone enhances brilliance and beauty.
• Durability: Hardness determines how well a gemstone can resist scratches.

Conclusion

Understanding different types of gemstones helps in making informed jewelry choices. At KundanMala Jewels, we offer a wide range of gemstone jewelry crafted with perfection.

If you are searching for high-quality gemstones and exquisite designs, visit KundanMala Jewels—one of the best jewellers in Dehradun. Explore our collection and find the perfect gemstone jewelry that suits your style!