Gemstones: Values for eternity
Colored gemstones vs diamonds
Welcome to the blog of Valoterna in Vienna! Today we're delving into the fascinating world of gemstones. Their colors, diversity, and uniqueness make them true treasures of nature – eternal treasures that will last for generations.
The classification of gemstones
Gemstones can be divided into two major groups: diamonds and colored gemstones. While diamonds, whether white or colored, are sought after worldwide due to their rarity and unparalleled hardness, colored gemstones such as rubies, sapphires, and emeralds captivate with their vibrant colors and individual character.
Of the more than 3,000 known minerals, only about 100 are valued 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 indomitable classic
Diamonds are a symbol of permanence. With their exceptional hardness and iconic brilliance, they are at the top of the gemstone hierarchy. The name "diamond" is derived from the Greek word "adamas," meaning "invincible." Today, diamonds are an indispensable part of engagement rings and represent eternal love.
White diamonds
White diamonds are graded according to the 4Cs (carat, color, clarity, and cut). Their color scale ranges from D (flawless) to Z (slightly yellowish). High-quality specimens in color grades D to H radiate with unparalleled intensity.
Colored diamonds
Colored diamonds are exceptionally rare and therefore extremely valuable. Their colors are created by specific trace elements or crystal lattice defects. Famous examples like the Hope Diamond, estimated at over $200 million, are legends in the gemstone world.
Corundum: Ruby and Sapphire
Corundum, chemically known as aluminum oxide, is the second-hardest mineral on Earth. Colorless in its pure form, it acquires its characteristic colors from trace elements.
ruby
Rubies are highly sought after for their intense red color. Chromium gives them their distinctive color, and the legendary "pigeon blood red" is considered particularly valuable. Rubies from Burma fetch prices of over $1 million per carat.
sapphire
Sapphires are available in many colors, from blue to pink to the rare, lotus-colored padparadscha. Particularly sought-after is the "royal blue" of Kashmiri sapphires, whose deposits are almost exhausted.
Beryl: The emerald as glaucoma
Beryl, chemically an aluminum beryllium silicate, is found in 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 their rich color and unoiled finish, are among the most sought-after in the world.
Spinel: Sparkling 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 gaining increasing popularity.
Tourmaline: The diversity of colors in nature
Tourmaline, known as the "stone of mixed colors," comes in every imaginable shade. Paraiba tourmaline, with its intense neon turquoise, commands particularly high prices. It owes its color intensity to trace elements such as copper and manganese.
Garnet: From Tsavorite to Mandarin Garnet
Garnets are multifaceted and colorful. Tsavorite, a green variety of garnet, impresses with its purity and brilliance. Mandarin garnet, known for its vibrant orange color, is a highlight of any gemstone collection.
Valoterna – Your specialist for gemstones in Vienna
Gemstones are not just pieces of jewelry, but also investments in precious stones for eternity. At Valoterna in Vienna, you'll find an exclusive selection of gemstones in all colors and varieties. Visit us and be inspired by the fascinating world of gemstones—whether you're looking to purchase a gemstone or learn more about its history.
Discover gemstones that make dreams come true!