Gemstone Guide

Agate

Agate is a type of gemstone that is made up of microcrystalline quartz. It is known for its beautiful, banded patterns and comes in a wide range of colors, including white, black, brown, red, pink, and many others.

Blue Agate from Moregola Fine Jewelry

Agates are believed to have a number of beneficial properties, including the ability to balance yin and yang energies, and to improve focus and concentration. They are also sometimes used to promote feelings of stability and security.

Amethyst

Amethyst is a variety of quartz that is widely recognized for its stunning purple color. This gemstone is one of the most popular and sought-after members of the quartz family and has been prized for its beauty and mystical properties for thousands of years. Amethyst is formed when quartz is exposed to high levels of iron and other trace elements, which give it its unique coloration.

The rich purple color of amethyst can range from light lilac to deep, saturated violet, and is highly prized by gem collectors and jewelry designers alike. The gemstone is found all over the world, with some of the most famous deposits located in Brazil, Uruguay, and Africa.

Amethyst has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans, who believed that the gemstone had powerful healing properties. The stone was also thought to protect the wearer from drunkenness and other negative influences, which is why it was often used to make goblets and other vessels for wine.

In addition to its beauty, amethyst is also highly valued for its spiritual properties. Many people believe that amethyst has the ability to calm the mind and promote spiritual awareness, making it a popular choice for meditation and spiritual practices. It is also thought to have protective qualities and to help to dispel negative energy.

Today, amethyst is widely used in jewelry and decorative objects, and its popularity continues to grow.

Aquamarine

Aquamarine is a variety of beryl that is known for its beautiful blue-green color, which ranges from pale sky blue to deep sea green. This gemstone is highly prized for its beauty and is considered to be one of the most valuable members of the beryl family. Aquamarine is formed deep within the earth's crust, where high pressures and temperatures cause beryl to form. The blue-green color of the gemstone is caused by the presence of iron in the mineral.

Aquamarine has a long and rich history, and was once believed to be the treasure of mermaids. The ancient Romans and Greeks believed that the gemstone had powerful healing properties and was thought to bring peace, good health, and happiness to those who wore it. Today, aquamarine is still highly valued for its beauty and is widely used in jewelry, particularly in engagement and wedding rings.

In addition to its beauty, aquamarine is also valued for its transparency and durability. This gemstone is relatively hard and is resistant to scratches, making it an ideal choice for jewelry that is worn every day. It is also a popular choice for those who are looking for a unique and eye-catching statement piece, as its vivid blue-green color is sure to draw attention.

Overall, aquamarine is a stunning and versatile gemstone that is sure to add beauty and meaning to your life.

Black Diamonds

Black diamonds and white diamonds are both diamonds, but they differ in color, rarity, and price.

White diamonds, also known as colorless diamonds, are the most commonly found diamonds and are prized for their clarity and brightness. They are formed when carbon is subjected to high pressure and heat deep within the Earth's mantle, and they are often found in shades of white, yellow, and brown. White diamonds are usually more expensive than other diamonds because of their rarity and beauty.

Black Diamond from Moregola Fine Jewelry

Black diamonds, on the other hand, are much less common and are prized for their unique, dark color. Unlike white diamonds, black diamonds are formed near the Earth's surface, where they are exposed to various minerals that cause the carbon atoms to form in a way that gives them their dark color.

Black diamonds are often used in jewelry to create a dramatic contrast with other gems and precious metals. They are also often used as accent stones to add depth and texture to a piece of jewelry, or as the main focus of a design. For example, black diamond engagement rings have become a popular trend, as they offer a modern, unconventional take on the traditional diamond engagement ring.

Yellow Diamonds

Yellow diamonds have a yellow tint and are more common than colorless diamonds.

The color of a diamond is determined by the presence of impurities or structural defects in the crystal. A completely pure diamond will be colorless, but the presence of nitrogen atoms, for example, can give the diamond a yellow tint.

Yellow Diamond from Moregola Fine Jewelry

Yellow diamonds have become increasingly popular in recent years, and some yellow diamonds with a rich, intense color can command a high price.

In the end, the choice between colorless and yellow diamonds comes down to personal preference and individual style. Some people prefer the classic, timeless look of a colorless diamond, while others are drawn to the warmth and uniqueness of a yellow diamond.

Diamonds

Diamonds have a long and storied history. They were first discovered in India, where they were prized for their beauty and used as decorative items and religious icons. The diamonds were eventually traded to other parts of the world, and by the Middle Ages, they had become popular in Europe as well.

Diamonds are a pure form of carbon and are known for their extreme hardness and ability to reflect light. Throughout history, diamonds have been revered for their beauty and have held significant meaning in various cultures. In Tibetan culture, diamonds were believed to lead people on the path to truth. Hindus believed that diamonds captured the light of the sun, while ancient Greeks saw them as tears of the gods and Romans saw them as fragments of stars.

Diamonds have often been associated with bravery, good luck, and good health, and are thought to represent protection, purity, and immortality. They are also often given as gifts to express the depth of one's emotions.

Diamonds are evaluated for their quality based on several factors known as the "Four Cs":

Cut: This refers to the diamond's proportions, symmetry, and polish. A well-cut diamond will reflect light beautifully, while a poorly cut diamond will appear dull. The cut is graded on a scale from Excellent to Poor.
Color: Diamonds range in color from completely colorless (the most valuable) to slightly yellow or brown. Color is graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
Clarity: This refers to the presence of inclusions within the diamond and blemishes which are external flaws. The fewer and smaller the inclusions and blemishes, the higher the clarity. Clarity is graded on a scale from Flawless (no inclusions visible under 10x magnification) to Included (significant inclusions visible without magnification).
Carat: This refers to the diamond's weight. One carat is equal to 0.2 grams. The higher the carat weight, the more valuable the diamond is. However, two diamonds of the same carat weight can have very different values depending on the other three Cs.

In addition to these Four Cs, diamonds may also be evaluated based on other factors such as fluorescence (a glowing effect visible under UV light) and the diamond's shape (round, princess, pear, etc.).

It's important to keep in mind that the Four Cs are only one factor in determining a diamond's quality and value. The rarity and demand for a particular type of diamond can also impact its price.

Emeralds

Emeralds are a beautiful and timeless gemstone that have been treasured for centuries. These stunning green gemstones are known for their rich, vibrant color and are often used to create stunning pieces of jewelry. Whether set in a delicate pendant or a bold ring, emeralds add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any piece.

In addition to their beauty, emeralds are also highly prized for their durability. They are a type of beryl, which is a strong and hard mineral, making them resistant to scratches and chipping. This makes them an excellent choice for everyday wear.

If you're looking to add an emerald to your jewelry collection, it's important to keep in mind that the quality of the stone is a key factor in determining its value. Higher quality emeralds are known for their deep, rich color and clarity, and are considered more valuable. No matter what type of emerald you choose, it's sure to be a stunning and timeless addition to your jewelry collection.

Emeralds are highly prized for their stunning green color, which has made them the standard for green among colored gemstones for thousands of years. In addition to their beautiful color, emeralds have many other unique qualities that contribute to their value.

Enamel

Enamel is often applied to gold, silver, and other precious metals in order to create a clean, polished look. Enamel can be applied to a variety of different types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. It is a popular choice for wedding and engagement rings, as it gives the rings a classic, timeless appearance.

Enamel is applied to jewelry using a process called "enameling." This process involves heating the enamel to a high temperature and then applying it to the surface of the metal using a brush or other tool. The enamel is then allowed to cool and harden, forming a durable, glossy coating on the metal.

One of the main benefits of using Enamel in jewelry is that it is very durable and resistant to wear and tear. It is also resistant to water and other types of damage, making it a good choice for everyday wear. Additionally, Enamel is easy to maintain and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water.

Iolite

Iolite is a captivating and versatile gemstone with an unique appearance and exceptional quality. This gemstone is also known as the "water sapphire" due to its color-shifting properties, which resemble the shimmering colors of water.

Its color-shifting properties make it a popular option for statement pieces, while its subtle shades of blue and violet make it a versatile addition to any jewelry collection.

Mother of Pearl

Mother of Pearl (also called Nacre) is an organic material which is formed from the inner shell of certain mollusks, and is often used in jewelry due to its unique luster and texture. It is believed to have the ability to promote feelings of calmness and relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance creativity and intuition.

Mother of Pearl from Moregola Fine Jewelry

Mother of pearl is a popular choice for those who appreciate the natural beauty and unique texture of organic materials. Its iridescence and shimmering appearance make it a beautiful option for statement pieces, while its more subtle colors are perfect for adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit.

Paraiba

Paraiba tourmaline is a rare and highly sought-after gemstone that is prized for its vivid blue-green color and exceptional brilliance. This gemstone is named after the Brazilian state of Paraiba, where it was first discovered in the 1980s, and has since become one of the most coveted gemstones in the world. Paraiba wa also found in Nigeria and Mozambique in the late 1990s. While its colors are somewhat less bright than top Brazilian material, Mozambique paraiba is often less-included and has been found in larger sizes.

Its vivid blue-green color and exceptional brilliance make it a popular option for statement pieces, while its subtle shades of color are perfect for adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit.

Paraiba tourmaline is a rare and exotic gemstone that is perfect for those who appreciate the unique and the unusual. Its vibrant color and exceptional brilliance make it a beautiful and eye-catching choice for any jewelry collection.

Pearls

Pearls are one of the most timeless and elegant gemstones, prized for their natural beauty, luster, and iridescence. These organic gemstones are formed inside the shells of certain mollusks, and are highly valued in jewelry for their unique texture and sheen.

Pearls are a classic and timeless choice for those who appreciate the natural beauty and elegance of organic gemstones. Their subtle and iridescent sheen make them a versatile option that can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion.

Gold pearls, also known as South Sea pearls, are a rare and highly valued type of pearl that is known for its large size, rich golden color, and beautiful luster. These pearls are typically produced by the gold-lip variety of the Pinctada maxima oyster, which is found in the waters of Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Gold pearls are a luxurious and rare choice for those who appreciate the unique and the unusual. Their rich golden color and beautiful luster make them a beautiful and eye-catching addition to any jewelry collection.

Red Coral

Red coral, also known as corallium rubrum, is a highly prized and valuable gemstone that is prized for its deep red color. This gemstone is made from the skeletons of tiny marine animals called coral polyps, which form colonies on the ocean floor. Over time, these colonies build up into large structures that are often harvested for their beauty and use in jewelry and other decorative objects.

In ancient times, it was believed to have powerful protective properties and was often worn as a talisman to ward off evil and bring good luck. In many cultures, red coral was also associated with the goddess of love, and was believed to bring passion and love to those who wore it.

Red coral is valued for its durability and versatility. It is resistant to scratches, making it an ideal choice for jewelry that is worn every day. It is also a popular choice for those who are looking for a unique and eye-catching statement piece, as its deep red color is sure to draw attention.

Rhodolites

Rhodolite is a type of mineral that belongs to the garnet group, and it is known for its stunning rose-pink to red color. This gemstone was first discovered in Cowee Valley, Macon County, North Carolina and was given its name due to its rose-like appearance, which is derived from the Greek word "rhodon". The coloration of rhodolite, as well as its typically inclusion-free nature, has made it a popular choice for use as a gemstone. Along with other pink mineral types like rhodochrosite and rhodonite, rhodolite is highly valued for its unique and beautiful color.

One of the most notable characteristics of rhodolite is its exceptional clarity and brilliance. It has a high refractive index, which means that it reflects and refracts light in a way that makes it appear particularly sparkly and luminous. This makes rhodolite a popular choice for use in jewelry, particularly in rings, earrings, and necklaces.

Rhodolite is found in a number of locations around the world, including Africa, Brazil, India, and Sri Lanka. Some of the most prized rhodolite gemstones are found in Tanzania, where they are known for their particularly intense and vibrant colors.

Rubies

Rubies are a stunning and classic gemstone that have been prized for centuries for their rich, red color. These beautiful stones are known for their durability and are often used to create a wide range of jewelry, including rings, pendants, and earrings.

They are known for their rich, red color, which ranges from a pinkish-red to a deep, blood red. The most highly prized rubies are those with a deep, saturated red color known as "pigeon's blood" red. However, rubies can also come in a variety of other colors, including pink, orange, purple, and even brown. These stones are known as "fancy" rubies and are often less valuable than the traditional red rubies.

In addition to their beautiful color, rubies are also highly prized for their unique properties. They are a type of corundum, which is a mineral known for its hardness and resistance to wear and tear. This makes rubies an excellent choice for everyday wear.

If you're looking to add a ruby to your jewelry collection, it's important to keep in mind that the quality of the stone is a key factor in determining its value. Higher quality rubies are known for their deep, rich color and clarity, and are considered more valuable. No matter what type of ruby you choose, it's sure to be a stunning and timeless addition to your jewelry collection.

Sapphires

Sapphires come in a wide range of colors, including blue, pink, yellow, and even green, making them a perfect choice for a variety of jewelry styles.

In addition to their beautiful color, sapphires are also highly prized for their unique properties. They are a type of corundum, which is a mineral known for its hardness and resistance to wear and tear. This makes sapphires an excellent choice for everyday wear.

If you're looking to add a sapphire to your jewelry collection, it's important to keep in mind that the quality of the stone is a key factor in determining its value. Higher quality sapphires are known for their deep, rich color and clarity, and are considered more valuable. No matter what type of sapphire you choose, it's sure to be a stunning and timeless addition to your jewelry collection.

Tanzanites

Discovered in 1967 in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, this gemstone is known for its mesmerizing blue-violet color and its unparalleled beauty. Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, and its unique blue-violet color is caused by the presence of vanadium, a rare mineral that is only found in a few locations around the world.

This gemstone is highly valued for its striking color, as well as its exceptional clarity and brilliance. It is a popular choice for use in jewelry, particularly in engagement rings, pendants, and earrings.

Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness rating of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. As such, it requires special care to maintain its beauty and luster. We recommend that you take extra care when wearing your tanzanite jewelry, avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals and high heat.

Topaz

Topaz is available in a variety of colors, including blue, pink, yellow, and colorless, and is a popular choice for jewelry due to its brilliance and luster. Topaz is believed to have several healing properties, including the ability to increase energy levels, promote emotional balance, and enhance creativity and self-expression. It is also associated with the zodiac signs of Scorpio and Sagittarius and is said to be the birthstone for those born in the month of November.

Blue topaz is the state gemstone of the US state of Texas. Naturally occurring blue topaz is quite rare.

Tourmalines

Exuding an alluring charm that has captivated hearts for centuries, tourmalines are a gemstone of unparalleled diversity and splendor. From the rich hues of pink and red, to the tranquil shades of green and blue, these stunning stones come in an array of colors that are sure to complement any style.

Tourmalines from Moregola Fine Jewelry

But tourmalines offer more than just a beautiful exterior. These gemstones possess a unique quality known as pleochroism, which allows them to change color when viewed from different angles or under different lighting conditions. This adds an element of intrigue and mystique to these already captivating stones.

In addition to their captivating color and alluring properties, tourmalines are also renowned for their durability. As a type of borosilicate mineral, they are resistant to scratches and chipping, making them a perfect choice for everyday wear.

When seeking to add a tourmaline to your jewelry collection, it is essential to consider the quality of the stone. Higher quality tourmalines are distinguished by their deep, rich color and clarity, and are therefore considered more valuable. Regardless of the specific variety you choose, a tourmaline is sure to be a stunning and timeless addition to your collection.

Difference to Sapphires

One of the main differences between sapphires and tourmalines is their color. Sapphires are known for their deep blue color, although they can also come in other colors such as pink, yellow, and even green. Tourmalines, on the other hand, come in a wide range of colors, including pink, red, green, blue, and even multicolored.

Another key difference between the two gemstones is their composition. Sapphires are a type of corundum, which is a hard and durable mineral. Tourmalines are a type of borosilicate mineral, which is also hard and durable.

Finally, sapphires and tourmalines can differ in value depending on their quality. Higher quality sapphires and tourmalines are known for their deep, rich color and clarity, and are therefore considered more valuable.

Turquoise

Turquoise is a gemstone that is known for its distinctive blue-green color and unique, veined patterns. It is a hydrated phosphate mineral that is formed when water seeps through porous rock and reacts with copper and aluminum minerals. Turquoise has been used for centuries in jewelry-making, and is often associated with the American Southwest, where it has been a staple of Native American art and culture.

It is also found in other parts of the world, including China, Iran, and Egypt. Turquoise is a symbol of wisdom, protection, and good fortune, and is believed to have a number of positive effects on the wearer. It is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness rating of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, so it requires special care to maintain its beauty and luster.

Actress and style icon Audrey Hepburn was known for her love of turquoise jewelry and was often photographed wearing it in her personal life. More recently, actress Emma Stone has been seen wearing turquoise earrings and necklaces at various events. Other actresses who have been known to wear turquoise include Jennifer Lawrence, Blake Lively, and Salma Hayek. Turquoise's unique color and texture make it a popular choice for jewelry, both for its beauty and its cultural significance.

Tsavorites

Green garnet, also known as tsavorite, is a rare and stunning gemstone that is highly valued for its vibrant green color and exceptional brilliance. This gemstone is a type of garnet that is predominantly found in Kenya and Tanzania and is known for its striking resemblance to emerald.

Green garnet is a relatively hard gemstone, with a rating of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable option for everyday wear. This gemstone is also believed to have healing properties, including the ability to enhance intuition, increase creativity, and promote emotional balance.

Language

Currency

Psst...want a little secret?

Confirm age

Come back when you're older