Precious and Semi-Precious Stones
Below is information on some of the more commonly used precious and semiprecious stones used in our jewellery however we are specialists in using rare and interesting stones.
When choosing stones for your wedding ring, it is important to consider the durability of your choice. Even stones that are considered durable are in reality less durable in smaller sizes and can easily crack and fall out. Amethysts, garnets, peridots are examples of stones that are less durable in smaller sizes. It is also worth remembering that round stones are stronger than square.
Diamond
Birthstone = April
eternity, courage and health
The engagement and wedding ring choice of royalty! In 1477 Archduke Maximillian of Austria gave his sweetheart Mary of Burgandy the first diamond engagement ring. Rich Venetians took up the tradition, but diamonds were very rare until 1867 when large quantities were discovered in South Africa. The classic "solitaire" (single stoned) diamond is the most commonly used style but multiple stones and even coloured diamonds are a wonderful alternative.
Sapphire
Birthstone = September
serenity and truth
The same chemical composition as rubies, sapphires were believed in ancient times to heal wounds. They are generally blue though other colours occur such as pink, yellow, lilac, green and white. Australia is the main source of the deep blue almost black stones whereas Sri Lanka is where the gorgeous 'cornflower' blue stones are found. Harriet and her team source Ceylon sapphires directly from Sri Lanka which guarantees the best choice and value for money to her customers.
Ruby
Birthstone = July
love, enthusiasm and strength
Ranging in colour from a deep blood red to a light pink colour, the most celebrated source of these wonderful and dramatic gemstones is the northern, Myawmar region of Burma. However, other areas in South East Asia, Tanzania and Kenya also mine rubies. In the 19th centuary they were considered more valuable than diamonds though this has now changed.
Emerald
Birthstone = May
fidelity, love and goodness
A member of the beryl family and very brittle, emeralds are one of the most valuable stones in nature. A flawless emerald is a very rare occurance as its brittle nature means that most stones are included. First mined in Egypt at Cleopatra's mine, they are a lovely green colour. Thought should be given when choosing an emerald for your wedding ring as their brittleness means that they can easily chip or even crack.
Aquamarine
Birthstone = March
happiness and understanding
From the same family as the beryl and a lovely pale and subtle blue, aquamarines are mined from all over the world including Argentina, Australia and Russia. Setting these stones alonside diamonds and in white metal such as platinum or white gold is a particularly lovely combination.
Garnet
Birthstone = January
faith, eternity and truth
A semi-precious stone most commonly red in colour though green stones exist. The red colour can range between an orangy tone to a deep purple and they are mined from Africa to North America.
Amethyst
Birthstone = February
luck, wit and health
The most popular of the quartz family and a lovely lilac to purple colour, traditionally thought to prevent drunkeness!, it is said to reduce anger and impatience when worn during sleep. The Ural mountains of Russia are one source but they are mined all over the world.
Other Stones
Above is only a small selection of the possibilities for wedding rings. Harriet and her team are always delighted to source other stones and talk to you about more unusual choices.