Gemstones: Values ​​for eternity

Welcome to the Valoterna blog in Vienna! Today, we delve into the fascinating world of gemstones. Their colors, diversity, and uniqueness make them true treasures of nature – enduring values that last for generations.

The Classification of Gemstones

Gemstones can be divided into two main groups: diamonds and colored gemstones. While diamonds, whether white or colored, are coveted worldwide due to their rarity and incomparable hardness, colored gemstones like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds captivate with their vibrant colors and individual character.

Out of over 3,000 known minerals, only about 100 are prized as gemstones. The most sought-after among them are:

  • Diamond (white and colored)
  • Corundum (Ruby, Sapphire)
  • Beryl (Emerald)
  • Spinel
  • Alexandrite
  • Tourmaline (especially Paraiba Tourmaline)
  • Garnet (e.g., Tsavorite, Mandarin Garnet, Demantoid)

Diamonds: The Unconquerable Classic

Diamonds are a symbol of permanence. With their exceptional hardness and iconic brilliance, they stand at the pinnacle of the gemstone hierarchy. The name "diamond" is derived from the Greek word "adamas," meaning "unconquerable." Today, diamonds are an indispensable part of engagement rings and symbolize eternal love.

White Diamonds

White diamonds are graded based on the 4Cs (Carat, Color, Clarity, Cut). Their color scale ranges from D (flawless) to Z (slightly yellowish). High-quality specimens in color grades D to H radiate with incomparable intensity.

Colored Diamonds

Colored diamonds are exceptionally rare and therefore extremely valuable. Their colors arise from special trace elements or crystal lattice defects. Famous examples like the Hope Diamond, valued at over 200 million US dollars, are legends in the gemstone world.

Corundum: Ruby and Sapphire

Corundum, chemically aluminum oxide, is the second hardest mineral on Earth. Colorless in its pure form, it gains its characteristic colors through trace elements.

Ruby

Rubies are highly sought after due to their intense red color. Chromium gives them their distinctive hue, and the legendary "pigeon's blood red" is considered particularly valuable. Rubies from Burma fetch prices of over 1 million US dollars per carat.

Sapphire

Sapphires are available in many colors, from blue to pink to the rare, lotus-colored Padparadscha. Particularly desirable is the "Royal Blue" of Kashmiri sapphires, whose deposits are almost exhausted.

Beryl: The Emerald as a Green Star

Beryl, chemically an aluminum-beryllium silicate, includes gemstones such as emerald and aquamarine. The green emerald, colored by chromium and vanadium, is known for its characteristic inclusions, affectionately called "Jardin." Colombian emeralds with rich color and no oiling are among the most coveted worldwide.

Spinel: Sparkle in All Colors

Spinel, often confused with ruby or sapphire, impresses with its brilliant luster and a color palette ranging from red to blue to color-changing varieties. With a hardness of 8, spinel is ideal for jewelry and is steadily gaining popularity.

Tourmaline: Nature's Diversity of Colors

Tourmaline, known as the "stone of mixed colors," comes in every conceivable shade. The Paraiba Tourmaline, with its intense neon turquoise, commands top prices. Its color intensity is due to trace elements such as copper and manganese.

Garnet: From Tsavorite to Mandarin Garnet

Garnets are multifaceted and colorful. Tsavorite, a green garnet variety, captivates with its purity and brilliance. Mandarin garnet, known for its vibrant orange, is a highlight of any gemstone collection.

Valoterna – Your Gemstone Specialist in Vienna

Gemstones are not just pieces of jewelry but also investments in values that last forever. At Valoterna in Vienna, you will find an exclusive selection of gemstones in all colors and varieties. Visit us and let yourself be captivated by the fascinating world of gemstones – whether you want to buy a gemstone or learn more about their history.

Discover gemstones that make dreams come true!

Back to blog