RARER THAN DIAMONDS: A GUIDE TO UNIQUE GEMSTONE CHOICES
When it comes to choosing a gemstone for an engagement ring or fine jewellery, diamonds often steal the spotlight. But did you know that some gemstones are even rarer than diamonds?
We’ve spent over 60 years and three generations working with gemstones - not just diamonds - to create one-of-a-kind engagement rings and bespoke jewellery. Our expertise allows us to uncover and showcase the rarest and most beautiful gemstones the world has to offer. If you're looking for something truly unique, these gemstones might just be the perfect choice.
Why choose a gemstone rarer than diamonds?
When it comes to rarity, diamonds often take the lead, but they’re not always the rarest gemstone. Factors like geological conditions, mining availability, and market demand mean that certain gemstones, such as Alexandrite or Paraiba Tourmaline, are far more scarce. Diamonds have long been celebrated for their enduring beauty, brilliance, and versatility, making them a cornerstone of fine jewellery. However, exploring gemstones that are rarer than diamonds opens the door to a world of individuality and intrigue. These exceptional stones, with their unique colours, origins, and histories, offer an opportunity to create truly unique pieces. While diamonds remain the timeless choice, considering rare gemstones allows you to blend tradition with exclusivity, adding a fresh perspective to the art of fine jewellery.
Gemstones to consider instead of diamonds for engagement rings
If you're considering a gemstone that offers both beauty and individuality, rare alternatives to diamonds are a perfect choice. These gemstones bring uniqueness and character to engagement rings, combining durability and charm. For a deeper dive into non-traditional options, check out our blog post on Unique Alternatives to Diamond Engagement Rings.
Alexandrite
Known as the ‘emerald by day, ruby by night’, Alexandrite captivates with its rare ability to change colour - from green in daylight to red under bright light. This remarkable optical phenomenon, paired with its rarity, makes Alexandrite a mesmerising option for an engagement ring.
Paraiba Tourmaline
With its electrifying blue and green hues, Paraiba Tourmaline stands out as one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. First discovered in Brazil, its vivid neon colour and rarity make it a show-stopping choice for a truly unforgettable ring.
Padparadscha Sapphire
Named for its lotus flower inspired pink-orange hue, the Padparadscha Sapphire is as rare as it is breathtaking. Its sunset-like tones offer a delicate yet bold alternative to diamonds, perfect for those seeking something different.
Tsavorite Garnet
Vibrant and vivid, Tsavorite garnet dazzles with its bright green hue that rivals the finest emeralds. Unlike emeralds, Tsavorite garnets are naturally more brilliant and free from inclusions, making them an eye-catching and durable option.
Gemstones with similar durability to diamonds
Durability is essential when selecting a gemstone for an engagement ring or everyday jewellery, as it must endure regular wear. The Mohs scale, which measures a gemstone’s hardness, ranks diamonds at a perfect 10. While few stones achieve this level of durability, many come close, offering a perfect balance of beauty and strength.
Sapphires and Rubies (Mohs 9)
Sapphires and rubies, both part of the corundum family, are excellent choices for engagement rings. They are almost as hard as diamonds and come in a variety of colours, with blue sapphires and red rubies being the most popular.
Topaz (Mohs 8)
Topaz, particularly in its imperial golden and blue shades, is a durable and colourful alternative to diamonds that can be very rare.
Why trust us for rare gemstones?
With over 60 years of experience and three generations of expertise, we specialise in working with some of the rarest and most exquisite gemstones in the world. We are dedicated to helping clients find the perfect gemstone for their engagement rings or fine jewellery. We go beyond diamonds, offering a curated selection of unique gemstones that tell their own stories.
Our commitment to craftsmanship ensures that each piece we create not only highlights the beauty of the gemstone but also stands the test of time. Whether you're drawn to the vivid green of Tsavorite garnet or the mesmerising shifts of Alexandrite, we’ll guide you every step of the way to craft a piece destined to become an heirloom.
With our decades of experience, we’re here to help you discover these extraordinary gemstones and incorporate them into timeless designs.