COLORED PRECIOUS STONES
The SAPPHIRE
Like the ruby, the sapphire – whose name comes from the Hebrew sappir meaning “the most beautiful thing” – is a variety of the corundum mineral and is made of aluminum oxide. Although the most frequent and sought after color is a vivid blue, intense and fascinating, there are also pink, yellow, orange, violet, green, and colorless sapphires.
Sapphire mines vary greatly in location; most are situated in South East Asia (Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Thailand) or in Australia, but also in Brazil or in Africa (Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania…).
The sapphire was considered to be a talisman by many civilizations, capable of bringing peace to its owner. For the Persians, the sapphire was such an exact replica of the blue of the sky that is was thought to be the base on which rested the universe, magnificently reflecting its splendid color on the world.
The RUBY
Like the sapphire, the ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum. It has a distinctive vivid red color. While rubies vary in shades of red, the most prized is the “pigeon blood” red; a rare deep red with a hint of blue. It is, moreover, a ruby’s color that defines its value, above its size or weight. A very rare gem, the ruby is the most valuable of all the precious stones, when comparable in carat weight.
Some rubies display a wonderful silky shine, the so-called ‘silk’ of the ruby. This phenomenon is caused by very fine needles of rutile and is sought after by connoisseurs.
Rubies are found in Myanmar (ex-Burma) – those of the Mogok valley are famously beautiful – Sri Lanka and Thailand. There are also smaller mines in Africa, Australia or in some North American states such as Montana or South Carolina.
The ruby is considered to be such a rare and exquisite stone that it is called “ratnaraj” in Sanskrit, which means “the king of precious stones”. It is a symbol of courage and victory, love and passion. The stone has lmong been for the adornment of monarchs only, and was linked to power and strength. Throughout the world it it considered to have protective powers.
When worn, the ruby’s sparkle comes alive with an inner fire that is enhanced by evening lighting. Its uniquely intense color is remarkable.
House of DIV takes pride in selecting the most beautiful rubies. House of DIV is happy to advise clients in their search for an engagement ring that is original and has character and offers a wide selection of rubies of all cuts, shapes and carat weights.
The EMERALD
A member of the beryl mineral family, the emerald is defined by its incomparable green color with a hint of blue at its heart. The ideal color, which is both intense and even, not too light but not too dark, is very rare.
An emerald’s transparency is also extremely rare and highly valued. Indeed, most of the time, the emerald contains a certain number of inclusions, that can be solids, liquids or gaz. A group of inclusions form what is referred to as the emerald’s “garden”. Far from being a fault, an emerald’s garden gives it distinctive character and accentuates its authenticity.
Most emeralds originate from Brazil today, but they can also be found in North America, Africa or Australia. Dating back 30 to 65 million years, Colombian emeralds are legendary for their unique beauty.
Because of its inclusions, an emerald is more difficult to cut and needs expert skill. It is in fact a science; the cut is determined by the shape of the crystal. All types of cuts are possible but the “emerald” cut enhances the unique qualities of the stone while the oval cut is the best to hide inclusions, thanks to its multiple facets. By playing with the number and positioning of facets, the stone-cutter can even change the color of the stone. The polishing and setting steps are also complex when it comes to the emerald and require real savoir-faire.
The emerald was once reputed to possess mystical powers. Today, its green color makes it a symbol of hope and renewal.
Mysterious and deep, the emerald is a captivating stone that draws you down into its garden. Wearing an emerald is a sign of refinement and discretion: the emerald’s beauty is not glaring. No two emeralds are alike.
House of DIV provides the greatest care in selecting the most precious emeralds. It is none the less a fragile and delicate stone and we encourage you to consult our advice on how to care for your emerald and preserve its radiance. For those looking for an engagement ring that is full of character and distinctive style, the DIV is happy to suggest a selection of emeralds of varying cuts, shapes and sizes.
