An ever popular and versatile colour, blue gemstones are the most desired colour of gem for heirloom fine jewellery. Gemstones can be found in any blue shade you can dream into existence, from dreamy pastels, to vivid deep blues. Here are 5 of my favourite blue gemstone varieties to work with.
1. Sapphire
An excellent choice for engagement rings, and frequently worn in dress pieces, sapphires are the versatile king of the gemstone world. It’s no surprise that blue sapphire holds a solid place in the ‘big 3’ most popular coloured gemstone varieties of all time. Blue sapphires are found worldwide, including right here in Australia, which is home to some exceptional blue sapphire discoveries.
Jen and David’s bespoke engagement ring features a beautiful blue Australian sapphire.
2. Aquamarine
A beautiful pastel variety, the Aquamarine is a familiar variety on the gemstone scene. Aquamarine occurs naturally in very large sizes, making them a popular choice for big statement pieces - plus, for this particular gem, a bigger size means a richer colour, making larger stones that much more appealing.
Whilemina’s statement cushion cut Aquamarine, paired with a diamond halo and band.
3. Spinel
A lesser known gemstone variety, the Spinel (spi-NEL if you’re wondering how to pronounce it) is one of the jewellery industry’s best kept secrets. Strong and durable, Spinels are perfect for a wide range of jewellery pieces, including engagement rings which call for hard wearing gems. Blue Spinels can be found in rich deep blue colours through to vibrant blue shades thanks to the element Cobalt that colours some of these gems.
A captivating deep blue spinel at the Harlequin Jewellers workshop.
4. Tourmaline
While better known for its green and pink varieties, Tourmaline is also found in magnificent blues. With rich blue colours, and vibrant flashes as they catch the light, Blue Tourmaline is a lesser known yet beautiful choice for a blue gemstone piece.
A special type of tourmaline, ‘Paraiba tourmaline’ is a candidate for the most refined of gem connoisseurs. Their colour is other worldly, reminiscent of vibrant azure waters, with an almost neon blue glow that draws you right in. Best suited for pendants and earrings, a Paraiba tourmaline is sure to become a conversation starter for any wearer.
Lani’s bespoke pendant features a stunning Blue Tourmaline.
5. Tanzanite
Found in only one location in the world, Tanzanite is a relatively recent gem to appear in jewellery making history. Tanzanites are found in vivid blue shades, and beautiful purplish blue shades, with personality unlike any other gem around. Best suited to pendants and earrings, Tanzanites are stunning both on their own and paired with diamonds.
Gloria’s bespoke Tanzanite is a beautiful shade of purplish blue.
