16 Best Gemstone Rings - Everything You Need To Know About Gemstones (2024)

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by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS --

You've heard the term precious and semiprecious gemstones, but what does it really mean? Understanding the origin of this gemstone classification can help you determine which types of gemstone rings may, or may not, be more valuable than others.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About Precious Gemstones
• About Semi-Precious Gemstones?
• Crystal and Chemical Structure
• Cut and Clarity
• 16 Best Gemstone Rings
• Diamond
• Ruby
• Sapphire
• Emerald
• Opal
• Amethyst
• Pearl
• Aquamarine
• Peridot
• Garnet
• Citrine
• Moonstone
• Turquoise
• Topaz
• Tourmaline
• Spinel
• Every Gemstone is Precious

About Precious Gemstones

A gemstone is considered more precious when it is rare and not as widely mined as other stones. The general beauty of a stone, the brilliance of its coloration, how its distribution has historically been controlled and how it can be cut for special shapes are all factors that have contributed to some stones being considered more precious than others.

The four classic gemstones classified as precious are diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. These are also called the cardinal gemstones, and historically they have been regularly used for royal or religious adornments. These gems have been used for jewelry for millennia, and they have all been found in ancient Greece, Egypt, Rome and Mesopotamia, as well as other parts of the world.

In years past other gems have been classified as precious, including pearls, opals and amethysts. Each of these stones was eventually redesignated as semiprecious, however, when new deposits were discovered that made the stones much more widely available and therefore more easily attainable and less expensive.

About Semi-Precious Gemstones

The definition of the term "semi" means half, less than others or incomplete. When applied to jewels and gems, this seems to indicate that any semiprecious stones are less valuable than precious gems, or are lacking in some regard. That is just not true, however, and in fact, many so-called semiprecious gemstones can be even more valuable and sought after than traditional precious gems.

In general, semiprecious gemstones have historically been more widespread and available for more uses than just by a select group. The greater abundance of these stones can make them less expensive, but in reality, the term "semiprecious" is a marketing tactic first introduced in the mid-1800s as a way to encourage consumers to opt for more expensive stones.

Crystal and Chemical Structure

As more studies have been done on the crystal structure and chemical composition of both types of stones, gemologists have discovered that there really is no difference between stones that have been traditionally classified as precious versus those that are classified as semiprecious. In fact, as more in-depth analysis of gems has become available, some semiprecious stones such as red beryl, ammolite, tanzanite and alexandrite have been found to be much rarer than any traditional precious gem.

Cut and Clarity

At the same time, it is important to remember that there is great variation among all gemstones. A low-quality, poorly cut diamond with visible inclusions and poor color, for example, is far less valuable or desirable than a more common stone that is flawlessly cut with spectacular color and clarity. Personal opinion also plays a great part in stone valuation—some flaws and inclusions can have beautiful effects, or an individual may prefer a stone that shows a flaw or color variation for its uniqueness.

16 Best Gemstone Rings

• Diamond

Renowned for its unrivaled hardness and brilliance, the diamond is a symbol of eternal love and commitment. Typically colorless, diamonds can also come in a range of hues, including blue, pink, and yellow.

 

• Ruby 

Rubies are cherished for their vibrant red color, which ranges from pinkish to deep blood-red. They are also part of the corundum family and are nearly as hard as diamonds. Rubies have been symbols of passion and power throughout history, often associated with love and vitality.

“I've purchased two vintage rings from Suzanne over the past decade and my wife has loved both. Great service, communication and speedy delivery.”

— Lee S verified buyer

• Sapphire 

Sapphires, best known for their deep blue variety, are also found in colors like pink, yellow, and green. They belong to the corundum family and are prized for their durability and beauty. Historically, sapphires symbolize wisdom and royalty.

• Emerald

Emeralds, with their lush green hue, are among the most coveted gemstones. They belong to the beryl family and often contain inclusions, which are considered part of their charm. Emeralds are symbols of rebirth and fertility and are associated with the heart chakra, promoting love and compassion. High-quality emeralds from the Muzo mine in Colombia are especially prized.

 

• Opal

Opals are unique for their play-of-color, displaying a mesmerizing spectrum of hues. Each opal is distinct, with flashes of blue, green, red, and yellow, making them highly prized by collectors. Opals are associated with creativity and inspiration.

 

“My experience with Vintage Diamond Ring was so excellent I really had to think about it for a while. First their selection of jewelry is profound. The quality is superior.”

— Claude P verified buyer

• Amethyst 

Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz, admired for its rich, regal color. Ranging from pale lilac to deep violet, amethysts are associated with peace, balance, and inner strength. Historically, they were as valuable as rubies and emeralds.

 

• Pearl 

Pearls are unique among gemstones because they are created by living organisms, primarily oysters and mussels. Known for their lustrous, iridescent surface, pearls come in a variety of colors, including white, black, pink, and gold. They are prized for their natural beauty and elegance, often associated with purity and sophistication.

• Aquamarine 

Aquamarine, another member of the beryl family, is valued for its serene blue to blue-green color. Named after the sea, it symbolizes tranquility and clarity. Aquamarines are often cut into large, flawless gemstones and are popular in jewelry.

• Peridot

Peridot, with its distinctive lime-green color, is one of the few gemstones that come in a single color. It is formed deep within the Earth’s mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Peridot is associated with strength and prosperity and is believed to ward off negativity.

 

“Suzanne was amazing! I utilized the layaway service and it was a breeze. Ring made its way to Texas and was even more gorgeous in person."
— Chloe G verified buyer

• Garnet 

Garnets are most commonly known for their deep red and purple color but can be found in almost every hue. They are valued for their excellent hardness and brilliance.

• Citrine 

Citrine, a yellow to golden-brown variety of quartz, is known for its warm, sunny hue. It is associated with abundance and prosperity and is believed to bring joy and energy to its wearer. Citrine is often used in jewelry for its affordability and vibrant color, making it a popular choice for various designs.

 

• Moonstone

Moonstone is renowned for its ethereal glow, known as adularescence, which gives it a captivating play of light that seems to float beneath the surface. This phenomenon is due to the unique structure of the feldspar layers within the stone. Moonstone typically comes in shades of milky white, gray, and peach, often with a blue sheen.

 

• Turquoise  

Turquoise is a vibrant blue-green gemstone known for its captivating color and unique veining, often referred to as its "matrix." This semi-precious stone has been prized for thousands of years by various cultures, from ancient Egyptians to Native Americans, who valued it for its beauty and protective properties.

 

• Topaz  

Topaz comes in a variety of colors, including blue, yellow, pink, and the rare imperial topaz, which is a golden-orange hue. It is known for its brilliance and clarity. Topaz is associated with strength and healing and is often given as a gift to symbolize love and affection.

• Tourmaline 

Tourmaline is a gemstone of incredible diversity, found in a wide array of colors, from vibrant pinks and greens to rich blues and yellows. It is prized for its versatility and is often bi-colored or tri-colored. Tourmaline is believed to promote emotional healing and balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking harmony.

• Spinel

Spinel is a captivating gemstone that comes in a wide range of vibrant colors, including red, pink, blue, purple, and black. Historically, it was often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its brilliant hues and excellent clarity. Red spinel, in particular, is highly valued and can rival the finest rubies. Spinel is known for its exceptional hardness and durability, making it suitable for all types of jewelry.

Every Gemstone is Precious

Today, the terms precious and semiprecious are considered misleading and obsolete when classifying gemstones. Instead, the generic term gemstones is applied to all jewelry-quality stones, no matter what type of stones they are, where they originated or how rare they may be. After all, every gemstone has its own unique beauty, and all have limited quantities and different degrees of rarity. Ultimately, every stone is precious if you find it beautiful and desirable.

Discover the beauty in all our gemstone rings and other gemstone jewelry, as well as our collection of loose gemstones and you'll soon agree that every type of stone has precious qualities that make it unique and stunning.

Gemstone Rings For Everyone:

No matter which era is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.

Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:

Vintage rings are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and faceting. If you’re looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of gemstone engagement rings today!

Suzanne Sachs

Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you – your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.