Coloured Gemstones
Coloured gemstones have fascinated people for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. Each stone carries its own personality, shaped by nature over millions of years, which means no two are ever quite the same.
With over 60 years and three generations of experience working with diamonds and gemstones, we’ve learned that sourcing coloured stones is as much about instinct as it is about science. It’s about knowing when a stone has that something special the moment you see it.
Sapphires
Sapphires are far more diverse than most people expect. While blue sapphire is the most well known, sapphires naturally form in a wide range of colours including pink, yellow, green, teal, peach, and padparadscha.
Each colour has its own feel. Blue sapphires are bold and timeless, pink sapphires feel softer and more romantic, yellow sapphires bring warmth, and green sapphires offer a more subtle, modern look. It’s one of the reasons sapphires are so popular for engagement rings.
Emeralds
Emeralds are one of the most recognisable coloured gemstones, known for their deep green colour and natural character. What many people don’t realise is that inclusions are expected in emeralds and are part of what makes each stone unique. We often source fine emeralds from Colombia, where some of the most sought-after examples are found.
Ruby
Rubies are all about intensity. That deep red colour has made them one of the most prized gemstones in the world. The finest rubies are rare, especially those with strong colour and good transparency. We source rubies from trusted regions including East Africa, where beautiful natural stones are found.
Other coloured gemstones
There’s a whole world of coloured gemstones beyond the classics. Some of our favourites include aquamarine, morganite, spinel, tourmaline, and garnet.
Aquamarine has a calm, sea-blue tone. Morganite is soft and romantic. Spinel is one of the most underrated gemstones, offering incredible brilliance in reds, pinks, and purples. Tourmaline is incredibly varied, and garnet brings depth and richness in darker tones.
Each one is chosen for its natural character rather than perfection, which is what makes them so interesting.
Coloured Diamonds
We also work with coloured diamonds, which are naturally rare and occur in shades such as yellow, pink, and champagne.
To understand more about how diamonds are graded, explore our guide to the 4 Cs of diamonds.
Our Approach to Coloured Diamonds & Gemstones
With over 60 years and three generations of experience, our approach to coloured diamonds and gemstones remains simple: select stones that feel exceptional the moment you see them. From vivid sapphires and rich emeralds to rare coloured diamonds, each stone is chosen for its natural beauty, character, and individuality.
Every coloured diamond and gemstone is hand selected, with careful attention paid to colour, clarity, cut, and overall presence. Whether it’s for an engagement ring or a bespoke jewellery piece, we focus on sourcing stones that feel personal, meaningful, and timeless, ensuring each design reflects both the rarity of the gemstone and the story behind it.
Coloured diamonds and gemstones FAQs
Coloured Diamonds
Coloured diamonds are still diamonds, but they occur in natural shades such as yellow, pink, and champagne. Coloured gemstones, on the other hand, are entirely different minerals like sapphire or emerald. Both offer colour, but they differ in composition, rarity, and the way they are valued.
Yes, coloured diamonds can occur naturally, although they are rare. They form when trace elements or structural changes affect the colour of the diamond during formation. Lab grown coloured diamonds are also available and offer the same visual result with a more accessible price point.
Some coloured diamonds are rarer than white diamonds, which can make them more valuable, particularly in shades like pink or vivid yellow. Pricing depends on colour intensity, rarity, and overall quality.
Colour is the most important factor. The stronger and more vivid the colour, the more valuable the diamond tends to be. Cut, clarity, and carat weight also play a role, similar to white diamonds.
No, coloured diamonds do not fade. Their colour is natural and stable, meaning it will not change with wear.
Coloured Gemstones
Coloured gemstones are natural stones valued for their colour rather than brilliance alone. Popular examples include sapphires, emeralds, and rubies, along with stones like aquamarine, spinel, and tourmaline. Each gemstone forms under different conditions, which is why no two are ever exactly the same.
Yes, many coloured gemstones are well suited to engagement rings. Sapphires and rubies are particularly durable for everyday wear, while emeralds require a little more care. Choosing the right gemstone often comes down to lifestyle as well as personal preference.
Sapphires are available in a wide range of colours, not just blue. You’ll find pink, yellow, green, teal, peach, and the rare padparadscha sapphire. This variety makes sapphires one of the most versatile choices for engagement rings and bespoke jewellery.
It depends on the quality and rarity of the stone. Fine emeralds and rubies can be just as valuable, or even more so, than diamonds of a similar size. Factors like colour, origin, and clarity all play a role in determining value.
The most important factor is colour. A well saturated, vibrant stone will always stand out. Clarity, cut, and origin are also important, but ultimately it comes down to choosing a stone that feels right to you.
Many coloured gemstones can be certified by independent laboratories, especially higher value stones. Certification can confirm details such as origin and whether a stone has been treated, offering additional reassurance.
Sapphires and rubies are among the best choices for everyday wear due to their durability. Diamonds, including coloured diamonds, are also highly durable. Softer gemstones like emeralds can still be worn daily but may require more care.
Yes, coloured gemstones are ideal for bespoke jewellery. They allow for more individuality in both colour and design, whether you’re creating an engagement ring or a one-of-a-kind piece. Each gemstone brings something unique to the final design.