Selecting Gemstones by Color

Various tourmalines

Choosing gemstones is not just about their properties and origins. It's also about appreciating their stunning colors, which can evoke emotions and convey meaning. In this guide, we explore the significance of gemstone colors, the psychology behind them, and provide tips for selecting a gemstone that matches your preferences.

The Importance of Color in Gemstones

Color plays a critical role in defining the appeal of gemstones. Each stone carries its own distinctive hue, which can dramatically influence its value and desirability.

For instance, a striking 2-carat blue sapphire can sell for over $8,000 or more, depending on its quality. In contrast, a more muted version of the same stone may fetch only one-quarter as much, illustrating jjust how vital it is to appreciate the impact of color when choosing a gemstone.

The Psychology of Color

Colors have the ability to evoke specific feelings and responses in people - a concept known as color psychology. When it comes to gems, specific colors represent various emotions, qualities, and traits. Here are some popular gemstone colors and their meanings:

• Red: Representing passion and love, red gemstones like rubies are popular for engagement rings and make a good investment, as well. A high-quality ruby can appreciate up to 60% in value over a decade, allowing one to literally invest in their marriage. Garnet, sunstone, spinel and tourmaline are other examples of red gems. I can personally attest to the berath-taking beauty of a true pigeon's blood rub.

  
  

• Blue: Often linked to tranquility, blue gemstones such as sapphires symbolize calmness and wisdom. Blue sapphires are sought after across the globe, making up over 30% of the colored gemstone market. Spinel, tanzanite, topaz, zircon, turquoise and aquamarine are also blue.

  
  

• Green: Representing growth and renewal, green gemstones such as emeralds symbolize healing. These stones can reach prices of $2,000 per carat or more depending on their quality. Garnet, sapphire, jade, tourmaline, peridot and chrysoprase all show beatiful green hues.

  
  

• Yellow: Vibrant yellow gemstones like citrine convey optimism and joy. These stones are often less expensive, starting around $10 to $15 per carat for good quality pieces. This is due to the fact that they are found in such abundance. Nonetheless, prime examples can exhibit depth of color to rival any rare gem. Heliodor, opal, sapphire, garnet, chrysoberyl, and diamond are all available in yellow.

  
  

• Purple: Associated with wisdom, creativity, royalty, power, ambition and luxury, purple gemstones such as appeal to those seeking deeper meaning. The price can vary, but quality amethysts ( perhaps my favorite faceted gem) can be found for under $50 per carat. Sapphire, alexandrite, spinel, iolite, charoite, lepidolite, and tanzanite can also be beautifully colored and are far more rare.

  
  

Understanding these emotional ties can help guide your choice in selecting a gemstone that resonates with your personal style and emotional character.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Gemstones by Color

When selecting gemstones by color, several factors come into play beyond just aesthetic appeal. Here are some critical aspects to consider:

1. Color:

Saturation and Tone

The saturation and tone of a gemstone are essential in evaluating its overall quality and desirability. Saturation refers to the intensity of the color, while tone describes the lightness or darkness of the hue. For example, an emerald that exhibits a rich, intense green of high saturation and medium hue is more desirable than one that appears dull. Vibrant colors catch the eye and communicate quality.

Generally, the more saturated the gem's hue, the greater its value. However, it is entirely possible to have too much of a good thing. When a stone is so saturated that it negatively impacts brightness and/or dispersion, value decreases drastically.

2. Personal Preference

Selecting gemstones offers a chance to express personal taste. While there are common associations between colors and emotions, your individual tastes dictate your choice. Think about colors that resonate with you and bring positivity to your life.

Are calming blues like those found in a sapphire more appealing, or does the intense red of a ruby stir your heart? Your personal preference is crucial in guiding your selection and ensuring you choose a stone you truly love.

Depending upon how you wish to accessorize, there are bright and beautiful gems available in brown and orange tones of which many people are completely unaware. Perhaps you like the flashes of gold color that can be seen in dravite tourmaline, smoky quartz (my wife's favorite faceted gem) or zircon. It's your choice.

3. Occasion and Purpose

Consider the occasion or purpose for which you are selecting a gemstone. Are you looking for everyday wear, a piece for a special occasion, or an investment-grade gem?

For instance, if you’re choosing for a marriage proposal, the timeless allure of a diamond may be perfect, while a ruby can signify deep romantic love. For gifts, consider using birthstones, which often carry sentimental value. Understanding your needs will help narrow your options.

Gems such as scapolite and kunzite which can fade in color with too much exposure to sunlight or opals which can fracture due to internal stress with sudden temperature changes such as exiting a heated building in winter are best worn as "evening" stones and/or on rare occasions.

The Role of Gemstone Treatments

Many gemstones undergo treatments to enhance their natural color and clarity. Common enhancements include dyeing, filling, and heat treatment. It is vital to understand how these treatments affect the value and desirability of the gemstone.

For example, a heat-treated sapphire may look vibrant, but will not have the same value as a natural, untreated sapphire of equal color. Always ask about any treatments so you can make an informed decision. Romano Gems will ALWAYS inform the customer of ALL known treatments to a gem. we sell

Tips for Selecting Gemstones by Color

• Do Your Research: Familiarize yourself with the gemstones you are considering. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions about quality and value as some gems can vary greatly in price based on color saturation and treatment.

  
  

• Examine Under Different Lighting: Gemstone colors can appear different in varied lighting conditions. Always check gemstones in both natural light and artificial light and at multiple angles to see how they truly appear.

  
  

• Trust Your Instincts: Let your taste guide you. I'm a gemcutter with access to virtually any gem and I still love cutting a high quality, but relatively inexpensive, amethyst. Choose gemstones that excite you. Don’t shy away from colors that bring you happiness.

  
  

• Consult with Experts: If you are uncertain, consider consulting gemstone specialists or jewelers. Their expertise can provide valuable insights into colors, treatments, and market trends that might influence your selection. I'm a certified gemologist and always happy to lend my expertise to purchase decisions.

  
  

An intricately designed jeweler's case filled with colored gemstones.

Embracing the Journey of Gemstone Selection

Selecting gemstones by color is an enriching experience that combines personal expression with an appreciation for beauty and meaning. By understanding the significance of colors, how they affect your emotions, and the various factors that impact your choice, you can make informed selections that resonate with your style and feelings. Dive into this colorful journey and discover how color can enhance not just your jewelry options, but also your life experiences.