When you think of gemstones, what comes to mind? A perfectly white diamond, or a deep blue sapphire? While we understand and uphold the admiration for traditional gemstones, we’d also like to put a spotlight on the less common gems with characteristics that are just as fascinating as the main three.
Below, we'll be taking a closer look at some of the most unusual and rare gemstones on the planet, from the shimmering iridescence of opals to the mystical glow of moonstones. These captivating gems offer a glimpse into the wonder and beauty of the natural world, making them must-have additions to any jewelry collection.
Black Diamonds
You’ve likely heard of colored diamonds in bright hues like yellow and pink, but black diamonds remain a rare and intriguing shade on this highly treasured gemstone’s spectrum.
Unlike traditional diamonds, these dark and alluring gems are derived from carbon-rich materials that are not commonly found in nature. Once discovered, black diamonds are notoriously difficult to cut and polish, which means that jewelry made with them can only come from highly skilled gem cutters.
Their distinctive dark gleam and inky hue sets them apart from all other diamonds. They exude an avant-garde feel, ideal for those seeking unconventional jewelry.
Moonstone
Named after the enchanting glow of the moon, this gem is treasured for its signature adularescence, an optical effect that creates a shimmering, ethereal glow.
While other gemstones simply sparkle, moonstone has a captivating gleam that makes its color continuously change under different light sources. This iridescent phenomenon occurs when light is scattered as it passes through the layers of minerals within the stone, giving moonstone its dreamy translucent appearance. The mystical beauty of moonstone is ideal for those who want a gemstone that is more than meets the eye.
Tsavorite
The deep green hue of this gem is often mistaken for emerald, but tsavorite is actually an uncommon member of the garnet family. This type of gemstone is typically available in shades of red, pink, and orange, making tsavorite a very distinctive variety of garnet. In addition to its unusual color, tsavorite is a rare find that can only be derived from a few locations around Africa, with Tanzania being its primary source.
Opal
If you’re seeking a gem that is truly one-of-a-kind, an opal will be perfect for you. These stunning gems are prized for their vibrant play of color, a natural marvel that creates rainbow flashes of light within each stone.
Formed from a mineraloid gel that contains varying amounts of water, the kaleidoscopic colors of opal occur as light passes through the microstructure of the gemstone, reflecting a full spectrum of colors. This special formation process ensures no two stones are alike.
As well as their inner rainbow of colors, the external shades of opals also vary from creamy whites to bold blues, fiery reds, and alluring blacks. It’s a dynamic gemstone for lovers of lively colors and optical illusions.
Pink Sapphires
Not to be confused with rubies, pink sapphires are one of the rarest colors these treasured gems naturally occur in. The intense pink color comes from the presence of minerals such as chromium, iron, and titanium; the deeper the hue, the more minerals present within the stone. Pink sapphires can only be found in a few specific regions in South East Asia and Africa, which only adds to their exclusivity and rarity.
Pearls
These lustrous gems are extremely popular, but they have a well-deserved spot on our list as the only gems to be born of the ocean. While all other gemstones come from the earth, pearls are derived from certain species of mollusks, such as oysters and mussels. This is why they can’t technically be called stones, though they are considered gems.
The formation process of pearls only adds to their one-of-a-kind nature, as each pearl is instantly ready for jewelry as soon as it leaves its source. While earthly gemstones must be mined, cut, and polished, pearls are perfected within the shells of their host mollusks. As a result, pearls come in a diverse and naturally beautiful assortment of shapes, sizes, and colors, from perfectly spherical round pearls to richly textured baroque pearls.
From exceptionally colored sapphires to boldly shaped pearls, discover a world of unique gems within our collections!
Writer: Maria Polansky
