Explore the timeless elegance, symbolism, and natural beauty of the world’s most cherished precious and semi-precious gemstones. From fiery rubies to calming aquamarines, each gemstone has a unique story, spiritual meaning, and visual appeal. At Nastua, we celebrate the artistry of fine jewelry by showcasing ethically sourced gems chosen for their rarity, radiance, and charm.
Ruby – The Gemstone of Passion and Power
Ruby gemstones are treasured for their intense red hue and their historical symbolism of love, courage, and prosperity. The color comes from chromium, with the finest examples being the deep red Burmese Rubies from Myanmar.
- Mohs Hardness: 9 – Ideal for engagement rings and heirloom jewelry
- Symbolism: Protection, success, heart energy
- Origin: Myanmar, Mozambique, Thailand
- Best use: Ruby rings, vintage-inspired jewelry, statement pieces
Emerald – The Green Gem of Renewal and Love
Emeralds, part of the beryl family, are famed for their rich green color and natural inclusions known as jardin, which add character. Historically adored by Cleopatra, emeralds symbolize rebirth, love, and wisdom.
- Mohs Hardness: 7.5–8 (delicate due to inclusions)
- Symbolism: Growth, fertility, eternal youth
- Origin: Colombia, Zambia, Brazil
- Best use: Emerald pendants, engagement rings, antique-inspired jewelry
Sapphire – The Gem of Wisdom and Loyalty
Sapphire gemstones are most commonly blue but occur in nearly every color except red. Blue sapphires, especially those from Kashmir, are prized for their velvet-like depth.
- Mohs Hardness: 9 – Durable for daily wear
- Symbolism: Wisdom, purity, divine favor
- Origin: Sri Lanka, Kashmir, Madagascar
- Best use: Sapphire engagement rings, wedding bands, halo jewelry
Amethyst – The Stone of Serenity and Clarity
With shades ranging from light lavender to deep violet, amethyst is a type of quartz known for its calming energy and spiritual significance. It was believed to prevent intoxication in ancient Greece.
- Mohs Hardness: 7
- Symbolism: Peace, clarity, spiritual awakening
- Origin: Brazil, Sri Lanka, Siberia
- Best use: Amethyst bracelets, chakra jewelry, meditation rings
Aquamarine – The Sea’s Tranquil Treasure
Aquamarine, a blue-green member of the beryl family, evokes the calming essence of the sea. Once believed to be the treasure of mermaids, it was used for protection by sailors.
- Mohs Hardness: 7.5–8
- Symbolism: Peace, harmony, safe travels
- Origin: Brazil, Nigeria, Madagascar
- Best use: Aquamarine earrings, birthstone jewelry, modern engagement rings
Topaz – The Gem of Energy and Brilliance
Topaz gemstones come in many colors, including golden yellow, blue, and pink. Blue topaz, in particular, symbolizes calmness and communication.
- Mohs Hardness: 8
- Symbolism: Abundance, clarity, healing
- Origin: Brazil, Pakistan, Russia
- Best use: Cocktail rings, fashion-forward pendants, birthstone jewelry
Garnet – The Stone of Vitality and Devotion
Often seen in deep red, garnet is available in a rainbow of colors, including green, orange, and pink. It represents love, life force, and emotional balance.
- Mohs Hardness: 6.5–7.5
- Symbolism: Passion, faith, regeneration
- Origin: Africa, India, Sri Lanka
- Best use: Garnet necklaces, January birthstone jewelry, vintage designs
Peridot – The Gem of Light and Luck
Peridot’s bright green hue is associated with warmth, positivity, and growth. This gemstone is formed deep within the Earth’s mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity.
- Mohs Hardness: 6.5–7
- Symbolism: Renewal, prosperity, protection
- Origin: Egypt, Myanmar, Arizona (USA)
- Best use: Summer jewelry, celestial designs, statement rings
Tourmaline – The Colorful Gem of Healing and Expression
Tourmaline is known for its vast spectrum of colors—ranging from vivid pink (rubellite) to green (verdelite) and blue (indicolite). Watermelon tourmaline even blends pink and green in a single gem.
- Mohs Hardness: 7–7.5
- Symbolism: Protection, energy balance, joy
- Origin: Brazil, Afghanistan, Africa
- Best use: Multicolor gemstone jewelry, artistic pieces, healing accessories
Moonstone – The Gem of Intuition and Feminine Energy
Moonstone glows with adularescence—a luminous shimmer reminiscent of moonlight. It’s a stone of mystery and inner guidance, ideal for those seeking spiritual connection.
- Mohs Hardness: 6–6.5
- Symbolism: Intuition, new beginnings, emotional harmony
- Origin: India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar
- Best use: Moonstone rings, bohemian jewelry, moon-themed designs
Spinel – The Underappreciated Royal Gem
Spinel is often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its brilliance and range of colors, including red, blue, pink, and purple. It’s now gaining recognition for its natural beauty and durability.
- Mohs Hardness: 8
- Symbolism: Renewal, strength, hidden wisdom
- Origin: Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania
- Best use: Alternative engagement rings, collectible gemstone jewelry
Chrysoberyl – The Resilient Gem of Light
Chrysoberyl includes rare varieties like cat’s eye and alexandrite, which can change color from green to red depending on the light. These gems are prized for their rarity and optical effects.
- Mohs Hardness: 8.5
- Symbolism: Insight, resilience, transformation
- Origin: Brazil, Russia, Sri Lanka
- Best use: Statement rings, collector pieces, luxury jewelry
Lapis Lazuli – The Ancient Gem of Royalty and Wisdom
Lapis Lazuli is a deep blue stone flecked with gold pyrite. Once used by ancient civilizations and Renaissance artists, it represents truth, intellect, and divine power.
- Mohs Hardness: 5–5.5
- Symbolism: Inner truth, enlightenment, creativity
- Origin: Afghanistan, Chile, Russia
- Best use: Beaded necklaces, talismans, symbolic pendants
Zircon – The Brilliant and Timeless Alternative
Not to be confused with synthetic cubic zirconia, natural zircon is a high-fire gemstone known for its brilliance and dispersion. Blue zircon is especially sought-after for its sparkle.
- Mohs Hardness: 6–7.5
- Symbolism: Protection, purity, grounding energy
- Origin: Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania
- Best use: Diamond alternatives, vibrant rings, vintage settings
Discover Gemstones at Nastua
At Nastua, we handpick each gemstone for its energy, rarity, and beauty—offering both ready-to-wear pieces and bespoke creations. Whether you’re searching for a statement gemstone ring, a symbolic gift, or a personal talisman, we’re here to guide your journey through the rich world of natural gems.
✨ Explore our gemstone collection or book a private consultation to find your perfect stone.
