GEMSTONE BLOG

Rubies are among the world’s most precious gemstones, along with diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. Like all valuable gemstones, some varieties of rubies are more valuable than others. Since color is the most important of the 4 Cs (Color, Cut, Clarity, and Carat) for rubies, it follows that stones with a vivid crimson hue are deemed the most desirable. The deepest and most sought-after shade of red is known as "Pigeon Blood Ruby." Thus, Pigeon Blood Rubies are those that exhibit this highly coveted color. The allure of Pigeon Blood Ruby lies not only in their striking hue but also in their rarity. These exceptional stones are primarily sourced from Myanmar, where the ideal conditions for their formation exist. Collectors and gem enthusiasts highly prize Pigeon Blood Rubies for their rich, saturated color and the brilliance they display under light. As demand continues to rise, the value of these rubies has surged, making them a coveted addition to any jewelry collection. LEIBISH Natural Pigeon Blood Ruby Earrings and Ring Primary and Secondary Colors As mentioned earlier, color is the most important factor in regards to rubies. However, “color” has multiple parts including hue, saturation, and tone. The hue refers to the actual color as we know it. With rubies, it is pretty simple since only stones with a primary red color are considered rubies. Other colors are known as sapphires. A ruby that is not deemed red enough is actually considered a pink sapphire and not a ruby. A ruby can contain secondary colors, including orange, purple, violet, and pink. While prominently red stones are preferred, they are also hard to come by. That is why Pigeon Blood Rubies are considered so valuable. However, those with some secondary colors, such as purple, can be worth quite a bit as well. LEIBISH exceptional 4.12 carat Pinkish Red brilliant step cut oval shape, natural unheated Burma-Myanmar-Ruby with a great color face up Enhanced Rubies Since high-quality rubies, especially those with deep color like Pigeon Blood Rubies, are hard to come by, some rubies are treated or enhanced in order to improve their appearance, be it their color, inclusions, or fractures. Heat treatments are the most common treatments used to improve color and eliminate purple tinge, silk, and blue patches. Glass filling is another form of enhancement that has been seen more over the years. This treatment fills fractures within the ruby, which results in increased transparency of the stone. However, all of these treatments must be clearly stated when sending a stone in for a gemstone grading report and must be noted on the report as well. Attempting to sell an enhanced ruby as if no treatments were done is highly frowned upon and downright wrong! Natural Vs. Synthetic Rubies The answer to the question, “ Natural or synthetic?” is an obvious one. However, discerning between natural and synthetic ruby is far less obvious. The first synthetic ruby ever to be produced was created in 1837. Since then, the industry of synthetic rubies has evolved, and though the product has improved, there still is and always will be a difference between genuine rubies and their synthetic impostors. This difference is for the most part only detectable through a microscope. Professionals will detect a different structure. Furthermore, while natural rubies often contain flaws, synthetic stones are almost always perfect save for some bubbles that can appear from time to time.   Pigeon Blood Rubies are among the finest rubies on the planet. Many of these stones can be found in Myanmar (formerly Burma), which is already known for producing the top rubies. Even though this color is considered the most prestigious hue, it really boils down to a matter of taste. Some people prefer a more subtle shade of red and are not blown away by Pigeon Blood Rubies. In any case, if this is indeed what you are after, make certain the stone has all the necessary certifications and that you have shopped around a bit before deciding on a certain ruby. Loving the amazing red colors of the ruby? Have a look at our collection of ruby jewelry.

Every single industry has its top-level items. Some are designed that way and are catered toward the elite. Other items are created in this form by nature, quite literally. Rubies are beautiful gemstones, and we therefore hold a very nice ruby collection, but some are simply more beautiful than others. The most coveted rubies of all come primarily from Burma, now known as Myanmar, and are called Burmese Rubies. These rubies are of much higher quality than rubies from other locations and also generally display a richer and more appealing red color. Pigeon Blood Rubies, the most desirable color for rubies, are often Burmese Rubies.   A beautifully pure specimen, a LEIBISH heart shaped loose ruby   About Burmese Rubies Burmese Rubies are known for their unique coloring as well as for being the finest of all rubies. Like diamonds, rubies can range greatly in price from lesser quality and highly affordable stones to rare and desirable gems that can run into the millions. It is important to point out that while Burmese Rubies are synonymous with Burma Rubies, they can also refer to a ruby with a very fine red coloring that is not necessarily from Burma. It is for this reason that one should be wary when searching for genuine Burmese Rubies and should ask for the necessary documentation before making a purchase.   Most Famous Burmese Ruby The most famous Burmese Ruby is housed in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C. Set in a platinum ring with diamonds; the 23.1-carat ruby displays a rich, saturated red color as well as phenomenal transparency. The stone dates back to the 1930s when it was mined in Burma, now called Myanmar. It is one of the world’s largest and finest rubies.   The Value of a Burmese Ruby Just because a ruby comes from a mine or a location that is famous for producing high-quality stones does not mean that every ruby to come forth is in fact a valuable stone. It is most likely though, that if you are after a top value ruby it will have originated from Burma. In short, high-quality rubies from Burma will probably cost more than high-quality rubies from other origins, but in general, a Burmese Ruby does not necessarily equal a hefty value. 2.49Ct TW Pear Ruby and Diamond Halo Ring   Burmese Rubies can be compared in some ways to Argyle Diamonds and Colombian Emeralds in that the name of the stone’s origin has a huge effect on the item’s marketing. Gemstones with such prestigious brands attached to them draw lots of interest because brands sell. If you are after titles or have a solid budget, the wonderful world of Burmese Rubies can have a lot to offer you. Have a look through our collection of ruby jewelry!

Pink sapphires are a bit of a confusing term since, technically, pink sapphires are stones that are not red enough to be considered a ruby. To clarify, both sapphires and rubies are varieties of the mineral corundum. The only difference between the two gemstones is the color. Browse through our ruby jewelry. LEIBISH Ruby Pendant   While sapphires refer to the blue variety, as well as the array of other colors including pink, rubies refer to the deep crimson type of corundum. In order to be considered a ruby and not a sapphire in the United States, red corundum must display a certain color intensity level. Chromium is what gives rubies their red color. Stones with high traces of chromium are rubies, and stones with low traces fall into the pink sapphire category. Browse through our sapphire jewelry. Different styles of LEIBISH Sapphire rings   Value Determining Properties  Although pink sapphires are not considered rubies, they can still cost quite the pretty penny. Especially if they showcase an intense pink hue. That is why the color is the most important factor in determining the worth of a pink sapphire. The second most important factor is the carat sizes. In fact, since pink sapphires are quite rare, any stone over half a carat in size is kept that size in order to preserve the few large pink sapphires that exist. Stones with high clarity are also very much prized, and do exist, although one should take precautions since many of the “flawless” pink sapphires out there have been artificially treated.   Pink Sapphire Sources Pink sapphires are considered quite rare, but they were once considered far rarer. That is because they were only found in select locations around the globe including Sri Lanka and Myanmar. In the late1990s that all changed with the discovery of pink sapphires in Madagascar.   Famous Pink Sapphires One of the largest pink sapphires found to date is an oval-shaped 5.81-carat stone that was set in a ring with marquise diamonds. The value of the entire piece was estimated in 2012 at approximately $27,455. Sapphire lovers and pink gemstone enthusiasts will be pleased to hear about these stunning and unusual stones that have their own unique gleam and serve as an intriguing alternative to pink diamonds and pink emeralds. They also make terrific investment opportunities.  

When people think of rich sapphires, the beautiful blue tone is what comes to mind. However, there are actually many different colored sapphires available in the market. What is a Padparadscha Sapphire? This unique stone is a fantastic specimen of color. The stone promotes a fantastic orangy pink color. What is a Padparadscha Sapphire: The Colorful Inspiration Behind the Name In fact, the color of the stone is where the name Padparadscha came from. The Sinhalese people used it to describe an aquatic lotus blossom with a similar salmon-like color. If you ask me, it is more of a mixture of the Lotus flower and the color of a gorgeous sunset. Others have also been known to relate the color to an Indian spice called Saffron. A Record-Breaking Padparadscha Sale The finest Padparadscha sapphire I have seen was sold at Christies back in 2005 for USD 374,400. This exquisite gemstone exemplifies the beauty and rarity of what is a Padparadscha Sapphire. It was a 20.84 carat Padparadscha sapphire which fetched US$18,000 per carat at Christie’s auction house. Padparadscha vs. Diamond: A Colorful Perspective Obviously, a diamond has much higher value and luster, but doesn’t compare in terms of color face up. Diamond value is determined according to the rarity of the stone, but the colors are the essence of the stone. Most would prefer the elegant appearance of diamond, but the Padparadscha sapphire promotes an interesting approach to a fine jewelry piece. In diamond terms, the color combination matches that of a pinkish orange to an orange pink. These stones show fantastic colors and are surprisingly priced almost 40% lower than straight pink diamonds.    A 0.50 carat, Fancy Intense Orangy Pink Diamond which retails for roughly $25k compared to a 0.71 carat, Fancy Intense Pink Diamond which retails for roughly $227k   Varied Prices for Unique Stones Needless to say, the prices will vary quite dramatically depending on the different characteristics of the stone. For example, we had a gorgeous 5.31 carat, fancy orangy pink cushion-shaped diamond which retails for over $1.5 million! Sapphire’s still demand high prices as these stones are cherished for their captivating colors. For example, we had an 8.20 carat, rich pink sapphire, pear shaped stone, graded by GRS which retails for $33,000. Although the pink sapphire above has a wonderful sparkle, if it is the color you are after the options available are endless. Our company has always connected to the pink colored stones. Not too long ago our jewelry department created a beautiful pair of earrings promoting different tones of pink gemstones. LEIBISH Pink Kunzite, Coral & Diamond Drop Earrings (23.06Ct TW)   The earrings were set with two pink kunzite oval shaped stones weight in at 4.79 carats and two coral, pear shaped stones weighing in at 17.30 carats, mounted in white and rose gold. Browse through LEIBISH’s pink colored jewelry to find a wide range of pastel pink and orange mixtures at a wide price range. In conclusion, the world of gemstones offers a kaleidoscope of colors beyond the traditional blue of sapphires. Exploring the diversity, one can stumble upon the mesmerizing beauty of Padparadscha Sapphires. With their unique orangy pink hue reminiscent of a sunset or the delicate petals of a Lotus flower, these gems captivate the imagination and evoke a sense of wonder. So, the next time you encounter someone intrigued by the world of gemstones, enlighten them on what is a Padparadscha Sapphire.

The term zircon may seem familiar to many, but what most people actually think about a zircon, is something else entirely. So, what is zircon? Well, the diamond look-alike, which most people know of and have a love/hate relationship with, is not a zircon, but rather, a cubic zirconia; a cheap synthetic stone.A natural zircon, on the other hand, is also in fact similar to diamonds and comes in several colors, but it is much softer than a diamond and a cubic zirconia for that matter, and of course demands much lower prices than the real deal. Needless to say, there are plenty of questions regarding zircons, so here are the most frequently asked questions to help you understand them a bit more. What is zircon   What is zircon? A zircon is a type of mineral. It belongs to a group of minerals known as nesosilicates and has a tetragonal crystal system. The name zircon comes from Persia and means golden-colored. However, Zircons are actually found in several colors.   Is a cubic zirconia a mineral? A cubic zirconia is not a mineral. It is a form of zirconia dioxide and due to its similar appearance to diamonds; it is the main competitor for diamond substitutes. Recently, synthetic moissanite, an artificial version of a natural gemstone very similar in appearance to diamonds, has become yet another competing alternative to pricey diamonds.   What is the difference between white zirconia VS diamond? White zirconia is the white form of cubic zirconia, a synthetic stone. A diamond is a natural gemstone, found in deposits. Rough diamonds are cut and polished into the stunning faceted stones that we know and love.Asking what is the difference between white zirconia and diamonds is like asking the difference between genuine leather and faux leather. Despite the apparent visual similarities between the two, nothing about the very different items' compositions is alike, and this is seen clearly throughout time, a closer look, and through knowledgeable eyes. What is white zircon? A white zircon is a natural, white zircon. Natural zircons are found in several colors, including white. White zircons are among the more desirable types of zircons. Zircons of other colors can be treated with heat to become white, or blue, another popular zircon color. What is white zircon (Credit: Rudra Centre)   What is the color of zircon? Zircons can appear in a number of colors such as red, golden yellow, colorless, green, brown, and blue.   What is blue zircon? In addition to colorless zircons, blue zircons are one of the most desirable types of zircons. Various treatments can be applied to natural colored zircons to achieve this unique color, but zircons found naturally with a blue coloring are the most sought after.So, is blue zircon valuable? Absolutely. Zircons are confused with cubic zirconia so often that I answered frequently asked questions about both of these stones in this article. However, it is of utmost importance to differentiate between the two. The only similarity the two stones share is in their names. Everything else is pretty much day and night. LEIBISH 25.14 carat, Blue, Brazilian Zircon, Oval Shape Though zircons have a name of being a cheaper gemstone, some zircons can be quite costly. It is therefore imperative to find out everything possible about natural zircons before going out and buying one, lest you end up with what you thought was a really great-priced zircon but turned out to be a worthless cubic zirconia.Understanding what is zircon and its unique characteristics can help you make informed decisions when purchasing gemstones.

The Trapiche Emerald, recognized as the rarest type of emerald, remains a captivating enigma in the realm of precious gemstones. While a wealth of information exists about emeralds, encompassing their diverse hues, places of origin, and potential inclusions, this extraordinary variation of emerald is not as widely explored. The term 'Trapiche,' derived from the word 'sugar,' refers to the grinding wheel used in sugarcane processing due to its striking resemblance to this equipment.Unlike Star Rubies and Star Sapphires, renowned for their star-like asterism, the Trapiche Emerald distinguishes itself through a unique design emerging during a beryl crystal's growth. Impurities entering the emerald crystal junction form a pattern reminiscent of a star, known as the Trapiche Phenomenon.   The Phenomenon Understanding the Trapiche Phenomenon While a Trapiche Emerald is not your typical emerald, nor does it have many of the attributes that many people love about emeralds, it has its own individual charm. This charm, combined with its rarity, renders the Trapiche Emerald highly sought after and valuable.  The Intricate Patterns Formed in Trapiche Emeralds The intricate patterns formed within Trapiche Emeralds, a result of various impurities and inclusions becoming trapped within the stone, create a distinct and easily detectable form. Trapiche Emerald Sources Traditionally believed to be exclusive to Colombian mines, particularly the Muzo and Penas Blancas mines, Trapiche Emeralds have surprised gem enthusiasts by appearing in unexpected locations. Notably, Madagascar has revealed beryl with a grayish-green hue and the unique Trapiche indicator. A specific discovery includes a 13.74 carat Trapiche beryl, showcasing the global occurrence of these rare gemstones. Emerald production worldwide in 2005 (Credit: ResearchGate)   Enhanced and Treated Trapiche Emeralds Emeralds, in general, rank 7 on the Moh's scale of hardness, making them susceptible to chipping and cracking. The widespread inclusions further contribute to their fragility. Consequently, finding flawless emeralds, including Trapiche Emeralds, is challenging. Many high-quality emeralds, including Trapiche Emeralds, may undergo treatment for enhanced appearance or durability.Those seeking completely natural Trapiche Emeralds should conduct thorough research, as emeralds with minimal treatments are sometimes marketed as 'natural.' Emeralds, with their vibrant green allure, are excellent additions to gem and jewelry collections. For those seeking something especially unique, a Trapiche Emerald presents itself as an ideal choice. Exploring the world of emerald jewelry reveals a spectrum of options, and our collection invites you to discover and select pieces that resonate with your preferences.

The most precious gemstone, the diamond, is graded based on the 4 Cs: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat. With colorless diamonds, every one of these specifications equally matters. When it comes to color diamonds, and colored gemstones for that matter, color takes precedence. After all, a gemstone’s color is truly what sets it apart from other stones. Gemstone color can be broken down into three categories: hue, tone, and saturation.The first factor, hue, refers to the specific color of the stone. It is preferable for a stone to have the purest hue possible. This means that any secondary color should either be nonexistent or minimal.The second factor, tone, describes the level at which the color is seen in the stone. A gemstone can be green, but it can be a very light shade of green or display an extremely deep green color.Lastly, the saturation of a stone is how strongly the stone’s color shows versus any possible gray or brown hues that may be present in the stone. There are some gemstones that can be found in completely different colors, so it is important to ensure that both the gemstone and the color are correct. For example, sapphires can be found in either pink, white, yellow, or the most familiar – blue. Ruby, aquamarine, and emerald can only be found in red, blue and green, respectively, but stones like tanzanite and tourmaline can be found in more than one color as well. LEIBISH 1.29 carat, Pink Sapphire, Emerald Shape   Vivid Hue: Exploring the Spectrum of Gemstone Colors Before the color of any gemstone, can be assessed, its color must first be established. A gemstone appraiser makes sure, for example, that the blue stone that he is looking at is a tourmaline and not a sapphire, or a tanzanite and not an aquamarine. A stone’s hue can be a pure primary color (red, blue, or yellow) or a secondary color, which is the result of primary colors mixing (orange, green, and purple.)A stone’s color can also be mixed with gray, white, or black, which results in the need for yet another grade. When there is gray in a stone, it is the saturation that needs to be graded. When there is white in a stone, it is the tint that needs to be defined. The presence of black in a stone can affect the tone.Most stones are more valuable when there is little tint, though there are some exceptions. LEIBISH Aquamarine and Sapphire stones It is the most desirable for a gemstone to possess a pure color, but more often than not, a stone also has secondary colors. For example, a very valuable ruby may display a pure blood red color, or otherwise they can range from pink to the darkest purple. A pure color can be one of the primary colors, red, blue, and yellow, while secondary colors are those created as a result of primary colors mixing, such as purple, green, and orange. LEIBISH Pinkish Red Marquise shaped Ruby and trilliant cut diamond 3 stone Ring   Tone and Tint: Understanding the Shades of Gemstones The amount of black or white color mixed into the primary color is what determines the tone of a gemstone. A stone will have a dark tone if there is a high percentage of black mixed in. A stone will be very light if there is white mixed in. A stone should not be too dark that you cannot tell what color it is, nor should it be too faint. 2 Sapphires in different tones of blue   That is why on the tone grading scale, the middle grades of medium-dark, medium, and light medium fetch the highest prices. Dark, Light, and Very Light tone gemstones are far less valuable. However, a stone is never graded based on its tone alone. It is the tone combined with the stone’s color that determines its worth. It is not ideal for a gemstone to be too dark or too light, although that may change the price of the stone in your favor. Enhancing Saturation: Maximizing Color Intensity in Gemstones While color is very much desirable in a colored gemstone, and it is preferred for stones to have some traces of black or white, it is very much not desirable for a stone to contain gray or brown color. The less gray and brown in a stone, the higher the saturation level. A stone containing zero gray or brown has yet to be discovered, but if were to be, it would be considered a stone with a 100% saturation. Gemstones with high color saturation are referred to as stones with vivid or strong saturation. The presence of gray in a stone contributes to the saturation level. It is less desirable for a stone to contain gray in it, therefore the less there is of the gray the higher the saturation. A stone with zero gray presence, which would in theory receive a 100% saturation grade, has never been found. A pure red ruby with no gray or brown coloring  A stone can potentially be pure, and free of other hues but it is never free of grey, white or black, and can therefore never receive the highest color grade. But the stone is not based on color alone, but rather, also on its tone. Color grades run 1 through 10. 1-2 is excellent, 3-4 is very good, 4-5 is good, 6-7 is fair, 8-9 is poor, and 9-10 is very poor. Gemstones must be in the 1-4 range with a Medium-Dark to Light –Medium tone to be considered high quality gemstones in terms of color.   Crystal Clear: Navigating Clarity in Gemstones The clarity in gemstones refers to the amount of inclusions in the stone.A gemstone that is Free of Inclusions is a stone that has inclusions that even under 10x magnification cannot be seen.Very Lightly Included stones may or may not have inclusions that can be detected by a professional with a lens.Lightly Included gems have inclusions that are detectable under 10x magnification, but not often with the unaided eye.Moderately Included stones possess inclusions that the naked eye can see but they do not dominate the gem. Heavily Included and Excessively Included stones have clear and visible inclusions that affect the stone’s appearance and in the case of the latter, the stones may not be durable. Part of a stone’s clarity is the brilliance it displays. This is related mostly to the way in which the stone was cut. LEIBISH Tanzanite Ring, Aquamarine Ring and Emerald Ring The depth of a stone is another aspect of gemstones and is related to clarity as well. The height of the stone divided by its minimum width is a stone’s depth. Ideally this should be between 60% and 80%, however this depends greatly on the rough shape of the gem. Stones that are under 50% are considered shallow and may find it hard to maintain saturation. On the other hand, stones over 90% might blackout if it has a dark tone. Precision Cuts: Evaluating Cutting Grades for Multicolored Gemstones The cutting grade for gemstones is just part of the overall grade it receives. The cutting grade is comprised of both the diamond’s brilliance and the diamond’s depth.The grade also includes the general quality and precision of the diamond’s cut and finish. If the cut has any flaws or weaknesses it will be mentioned in this grade. Though it is possible to look at the individual great for each and every aspect, you can keep it simple and look at the overall grade, which summarizes all of the diamond cut’s elements. This grade consists of five levels. These are Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor. Statistics show that 900 out of 1000 diamonds mined will fall into the Fair or Poor categories, while only 1 will receive the Excellent grade. LEIBISH Rosie's Bloom Collection   Weighty Matters: Unveiling the Significance of Gemstone Carat Weight People would generally assume that the bigger the better, and therefore more expensive. However, with gemstones, it is not so black and white.Though many times larger stones are more sought after and therefore far pricier than smaller stones, this isn’t always the case. There are some gemstones such as the ruby, which are often found in large sizes. However, it is extremely difficult to come across a ruby with high clarity. Therefore, a much smaller ruby with few inclusions will cost a pretty penny.Additionally, a stone’s weight does not necessarily reflect its visual appearance. What this means is that a rather heavy stone may be very deep, and much of its weight will not be seen when set in a jewelry setting. On the other hand, a much lighter stone could appear much larger simply because it is shallow but wide. Someone with a tight budget could benefit greatly from such a stone. Red Ruby, Blue Sapphire and Diamond 2 Stone Crossover Ring Nature has left us with many different types of gemstones, each with its own unique features. There are many aspects of a gemstone that need to be examined in order to assess its true worth.However, there are many different laboratories that produce these stones, and some have different grading systems.Additionally, each and every person has different taste. If it is a matter of selecting a gemstone for a jewelry piece, then one should go with the stone that speaks out to him or her. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Some gemstones are so closely associated with their top place of origin that the mere mention of their source conjures up visions of breathtaking beauty. Say Golconda diamonds for instance, and a vision of impossibly clear, colorless diamonds come to mind. Colombian emeralds evoke images of exciting vivid green crystals. Kashmir sapphires — specifically the kingdom of Kashmir and Jammu symbolizes the epitome of intense velvety blue stones unlike sapphire found anywhere else. And you can’t think of pink diamonds without the Argyle mine coming to mind. So, when you say ruby, you are probably thinking of Burmese ruby—especially from Mogok valley. Mogok, Myanmar. (Federico Barlocher)   Quality notwithstanding, there’s an understory woven throughout the history of Burmese ruby that elevates it to mythical status. It is irrefutably the world’s most valuable colored gem. Ancient Burmese warriors believed ruby safeguarded them in battle. Primeval folklore attributed mythical qualities like luck and protection to the shimmering stone. Ratnaraj, Sanskrit for ruby translates to ‘king of precious stones.’ They have been linked to royalty for eons, turning up in some of the most splendid crown jewels in the world.  In modern times, ruby’s blazing color captivated the imagination of Hollywood royalty and American socialites too.   What is a Ruby? Ruby is the red variety of the mineral corundum. Pure corundum is colorless. And trace amounts of other elements lend color to corundum. Titanium and iron produce blue, so it becomes a sapphire. We can thank chromium for that lipstick red hue we love in ruby. But this impurity in ruby can also create fluorescence which intensifies its red tint. Corundum is the 2nd hardest natural substance known—only thing harder is diamond. Hardness is not just a curious trait when it comes to gemstones. Hardness allows a stone to take a high polish that ramp up its light handling capabilities. We know the harder the stone, the more durable it is too. LEIBISH 5 carats, Pigeon Blood, Burma Ruby View our Ruby Collection.   Why Mogok? For those in the know, simply saying the word Mogok brings to mind the intense pigeon blood hue found only in rubies originating in a small slip of land high in the mountains of Myanmar (formerly Burma). The ancient town of Mogok may be just four miles long, but it boasts a reputation the world over for luscious red rubies that connoisseurs crave. These Burmese rubies are celebrated for their pure red hue, with just enough translucency in them to allow light to bounce around inside until it returns to the eye producing the magnificent color we adore. Top quality Mogok ruby is distinguished by a slightly purple hue to its vividly saturated red. Called pigeon blood red, the indescribable softness they display is the result of microscopic light-scattering ‘silk’ inclusions which diffuse light with velvety results. These traits make Mogok ruby the standard by which all other rubies are judged. We can thank Mogok mines for giving us over 90% of the best Burmese ruby ever produced. The King of Freedom, the largest Ruby Crystal ever found in Burma. (Federico Barlocher)   Color Dominates When it comes to ruby, color is the dominant driver. While it’s rare to find ruby that’s free of inclusions, their value is greatly impacted by the level of visibility produced by the inclusions. While these details are fine descriptors of Mogok ruby, most Myanmar mines are no longer producing gemmy stones. Nearly all Burmese ruby in the market today was extracted decades back, even 100 years ago. Though difficult to acquire, the little Burmese ruby coming out from Myanmar has not always been met with open arms. Some jewelers refuse to do business with Myanmar because its political leaders have made life difficult for its citizens, especially ethnic minorities living there.  Gem dealers insist that while Mogok rubies have that mythical mystique surrounding them, there’s simply no product to be had. With Mogok supplies nearly non-existent and consumer demand high, serious collectors head to auctions for authentic Mogok stones. But there’s another source for fine ruby today that is available to collectors. Mozambique ruby is nearly on par with Mogok ruby, some believe. Without Mogok’s romantic provenance, Mozambican ruby sells far below Burmese per carat prices. Mozambique ruby is a true 21st century stone offering the consumer a similar color and transparency to Mogok ruby. Their color is sometimes expressed as ‘pigeon blood’ to explain their closeness in hue to Mogok ruby. Still, sizes above 1 carat are rare. Connoisseurs may claim however, that only Mogok ruby will do. For that collector, the auction block is their most reliable source for stones.  Shop Ruby Jewelry here!

Individuals in the market for a gemstone often ask themselves, ‘What gemstone best represents me?’ Gemstones, whether precious or semi-precious, are hard not to love; but what makes a person choose one stone over another? From shiny to matte; colorless and bold-colored; durable and more delicate. However, there’s more to a gemstone than meets the eye. Each gem possesses attributes that can reflect one’s qualities. So, what is your gemstone? By taking a look at the following gemstone-meaning chart, you will be able to answer this pressing question.   Amethyst (February Birthstone): Amethysts are semi-precious gemstones with a noteworthy purple coloring. They are a variety of quartz, and rank 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Because these stones are found in abundance, primarily in South America and Africa, they are more affordable than other gemstones. Those attracted to this royal color are often people in search of calmness and serenity, which amethysts provide.  Explore Amethyst LEIBISH Amethyst & Diamond Oval Drop Earrings (17.87Ct TW) LEIBISH Amethyst briolette, Iolite and Diamond Pendant (16.83Ct TW)   Diamond (April Birthstone): The diamond is the most popular and loved gemstone among all precious and semi-precious stones. This is not only because the diamond is the sturdiest substance known to man and exudes the highest level of brilliance, but also because it represents some of the most coveted qualities in human beings. These include strength, fortitude, creativity, courage, power, abundance, among others. Are you a traditional and quality type of person? Do you like to stand out, even just a little bit? Is only the best good enough for you? Are you strong and determined? If you answered yes to just one of these questions, there’s a good chance a diamond will make it into your life. There’s a reason why a diamond is a girl’s best friend: it has so much to offer and can relate to many different types of people. Explore Diamond   LEIBISH Natural Fancy Black Diamond Filigree Halo Drop Earrings (4.89Ct TW)   Emerald (May Birthstone): The much-adored green precious gemstone, the emerald, stands for security, kindness, love, beauty, and wisdom. It ranks 7-8 on the Mohs scale of hardness. There are different gemstone personality meanings, but those specific to emeralds translates into people who may or may not hide behind a mask and in the end are truly kind-hearted individuals.  Explore Emerald LEIBISH Oval Emerald & Pave Diamond Bombe Ring (3.78Ct TW)   LEIBISH Extraordinary Emerald and Diamond Drop Necklace (96.91Ct TW)   Ruby (July Birthstone): Rubies and sapphires are essentially the same stone, just different colors. Only the red variety received its very own category because its properties are so strong and important. Rubies represent boldness, confidence, and the ability to absorb attention. They rank 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness and exude a rich red color. If you have a ruby personality, you are most likely passionate, intense, and full of life.  Explore Ruby LEIBISH Pigeon Blood Ruby & Diamond Floral Halo Earrings (2.72Ct TW)      Sapphire (September Birthstone): The sapphire, another precious gemstone, is mainly known for its blue variety, although it appears in many other colors as well including pink, green, yellow, orange, purple, and black. Sapphires are fairly durable stones, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, and are therefore sought after for their sturdiness as well as their distinct royal color. If you are attracted to this rich stone, you are probably serene and a seeker of truth. Sapphires represent faith, hope, and blessings.  Explore Sapphire LEIBISH Pear Sapphire and Diamond Couture Necklace (46.15Ct TW) LEIBISH Heated Oval Sapphire and Diamond "Diana" Halo Ring (1.97Ct TW)   Citrine (November Birthstone) The citrine is a semi-precious gemstone, also from the quartz family. You can take the gems personality test for the citrine by deciding whether  you are square and traditional or are a free spirit and out-of-the-box. If you lean more toward the latter, there is a chance that the citrine gemstone could be your gemstone personality.  This is because those with bubbly, creative personalities and a craving for life often seek after citrine stones. An alternative to citrine, at least in terms of color, can be the yellow diamond, which (depending on the color intensity)  can be fairly affordable compared to colorless diamonds. Explore Citrine LEIBISH Oval Orange Citrine Solitaire Ring (3.41Ct)   So What Does Your Gemstone Say About You? After having read through the various gemstone personality meanings, there is surely at least one stone you can connect with on some level. This gemstone personality test is by no means the only indicator of which stone is for you or what the gemstones that you have to say about you, but it is still a window into a world of mystery, otherwise known as the worlds of gemstones. The gemstone market has been around since the dawn of time, but before they were used as ornaments, they were recognized as the sources of healing powers, protection, and other abilities. For this reason alone one should come to see his or her choice of the gemstone as not just personal taste, but rather, a true reflection of the stone’s innate qualities and how they can bring out the best into your life.  

Aquamarine gemstones are semi-precious gemstones, a blue-green variety of the mineral beryl. While aquamarine stones are mined in locations all around the globe including Sri Lanka, the United States, Madagascar, Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya, some of the finest gemstones are found in Brazil. In fact, it was in the Santa Maria de Itabira mine in Menas Gerais, Brazil, where the original aquamarine gemstone possessing a unique deeply saturated blue hue was discovered. Thus, stones with such a color are now dubbed ‘Santa Maria,’ regardless of their origin. LEIBISH 1.23 carat, Santa Maria, Aquamarine, Oval Shape, Heat treatment   Aquamarine Attributes Although aquamarine stones are semi-precious gemstones, they rank between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Just to compare, diamonds rank 10 and sapphires and rubies rank 9. An aquamarine stone’s hardness can be compared to that of an emerald, which isn’t surprising because emeralds are also a variety of beryl. The Fe2+ ion is responsible for the blue color. Some aquamarine stones display a very blue color, referred to as Maxixe. This color is achieved due to the combinations of ions. When Fe2+, and Fe3+, which causes a deep yellow color, are both present in a stone, a darker blue is created.   The 4 Cs of the Santa Maria Aquamarine Gemstone Most gemstones are assessed using the 4 Cs: color, clarity, cut, and carat. Color is of utmost importance for colored gemstones like aquamarine stones. Therefore, they are first categorized by the quality and type of color that they display, such as a Santa Maria blue. Clarity refers to the imperfections or the lack thereof, within a stone. For colorless stones it is ideal to be as clear and void of inclusions as possible. While it is still of great significance to showcase impressive clarity, color gemstones, particularly beryl, generally possess some sort of imperfection. Having said that, Santa Maria aquamarine gemstones are known for being ‘eye clean,’ meaning, inclusions cannot be detected by the unaided eye. In terms of cut, aquamarine stones need to be cut with sharp angles and symmetric patterns because of their reflective nature. This is why stones with a high clarity can still appear dull if they have a poor cut. Lastly, it is difficult to find a Santa Maria aquamarine in large carat sizes. Half a carat is about the largest size for an average stone. However, LEIBISH is fortunate enough to possess a 1.23-carat Santa Maria oval-shaped aquamarine gemstone. LEIBISH Multi-color Sapphire & Aquamarine Earrings TW 4.95cts   Sources for Aquamarine Gemstones Aquamarine can be found in most locations where regular beryl is unearthed. The original mine that gave birth to the Santa Maria aquamarine has been nearly exhausted of its aquamarine findings, which is why many of today’s Santa Maria aquamarine stones come from various African countries. Mining aquamarine is a lengthy and tiring process, which is part of what makes these gemstones so special. In addition to being a beautiful gemstone with a stunning color, the aquamarine gemstone is also the modern birthstone for March.  Some also have a custom to give this gem as a 19th wedding anniversary gift. There are even those who believe that aquamarine stones have the ability to cure ailments such as thyroid problems and swollen glands. Whether you are in the market for a Santa Maria aquamarine gemstone in order to introduce something unique into your collection, you are looking for a meaningful birthday or wedding anniversary gift, or you would like to try your hand at an unconventional method of healing chronic pain, you will be pleased with the many benefits of the aquamarine stone and its unparalleled beauty.

Although there are many gemstones with a rich red color, including garnets, spinel, opals, and diamonds; rubies are what come to mind when you think of a red gemstone. It is, though, one of the only red precious gemstones, as only diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds are considered to be precious gemstones. Diamonds can be red, but red sapphires are actually rubies. They are the only color that received its very own name. Both sapphires and rubies are varieties of the mineral corundum. They rank 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness right after diamonds, which rank 10. In order to be considered a ruby and not a pink sapphire, a stone must boast a certain level of redness. In addition to a ruby’s hue, saturation, and tone, rubies can be categorized based on where they are from. Burmese, Thai, Tanzanian, Madagascar, and African rubies can differ significantly from one another. Let us take a look at some of the sources for rubies, the specific attributes of each type of ruby, and their possible shapes.   Origins of Rubies Rubies that originate from Africa, particularly Mozambique and Kenya, generally give off a purplish or dark red color. Although the stones range in quality and size, it is important to emphasize that the dark red African rubies are preferred. Burma is another noteworthy source for rubies. ‘Burmese rubies’ is a term often heard in the world of gemstones. Burma, now Myanmar, produces rubies that are known for their deep red color. Thai rubies are considered second to Burmese rubies. These gemstones have a darker hue due to the presence of iron and chromium. Rubies that hail from Tanzania are said to have a color similar to the red coloring of a hessonite stone. Madagascar is yet another, and rather recent, contender in the ruby market. Depending on the mining region, Madagascar rubies can have a red, or red-orange hue. Lastly, rubies have been mined in Afghanistan for centuries. These stones range from light to deep red, and can be like no others on the planet. An exceptional 4.12 carat Pinkish Red brilliant step cut oval shape, natural unheated Burma-Myanmar-Ruby with a great color face up   Shapes of Rubies A gemstone receives its shape based on the formation of the stone, and not according to one’s taste alone. While the round shape is ideal for colorless diamonds, cushion and radiant shapes are preferable for most fancy color diamonds. Although rubies are color gemstones, their structure differs from that of a diamond. For instance, a ruby holds much of its color at the base of the stone. Rubies can be cut into all shapes including asscher, princess, emerald, cushion, and radiant although round rubies, oval rubies, pear rubies, and marquise rubies are the most prevalent.   Examples of Ruby Stones Fine rubies can be purchased already set in jewelry pieces or as loose stones. If you are in the market for a loose stone you may come across rubies described as a ‘Pigeon Blood Madagascar Round Ruby.’ This term refers to the type of color the ruby displays, which is a very vivid shade of red, and very desirable. Madagascar marks the origin of the stone and ‘round’ of course describes its shape. Similarly, you may find a Thailand oval ruby, a Mozambique pear ruby, or a Burmese marquise ruby. The different varieties of rubies appeal to a mix of preferences and budgets. What is ideal for one is too bland for someone else and what is a great buy for a certain individual is out of bounds for many other consumers. Seeking out the right ruby takes time and patience; so make sure you do the work before making your decision.   Burmese Rubies Gemstones  The rubies coming from Burma, or Myanmar, are some of the most beautiful gemstones and are considered of higher quality especially due to their pigeon blood shade.  For more information about Burmese Rubies click here. LEIBISH 2.49Ct TW Pear Ruby and Diamond Halo Ring   Pigeon Blood Ruby Apart from the primary red color of rubies their secondary color can be purple, violet, and pink. But those with distinctive red color are rare and therefore most wanted. Pigeon Blood Rubies are unique.  For more information about Pigeon Blood Rubies click here. Star Ruby  A ruby stone is considered a Star Ruby if  a star, meaning a three-point or six-point asterism, appears within the stone. It’s extremely rare and occurs due to an immense pressure and drastic temperatures. For more information about Star Ruby click here.   Pink Rubies  Value, Meaning & Rarity Pink rubies are a term that can only be used in certain areas of the world, at least in this day and age. This is because in the United States, in order to be considered a ruby, red corundum must display a certain color intensity level. Stones with low levels of chromium, which is what gives the gemstone its red hue, are called pink sapphires and not rubies. This is something that was decided sometime in the 20th century and is not applicable worldwide. Sapphires account for the different colored stones of the corundum variety, besides red, which is called a ruby. Outside of the United States, any form of corundum that has a pink to red color is nothing other than a ruby, which would make it a pink ruby, and not a pink sapphire or a red ruby. Value Determining Properties of Pink Rubies  The introduction of what a pink ruby is and what it is not is enough to have one understand the importance the color has, not only in terms of determining what kind of stone it is, but in determining its value as well. Even pink rubies or pink sapphires have various intensity levels. Those that appear vivid pink will go for much higher prices. Larger stones will also demand higher sums, and good clarity grades can add to the price tag as well. Pink Ruby Sources Once considered the main source for rubies, Myanmar (formerly Burma) is now one of several sources for both the pink and red ruby varieties. Pink rubies in particular are found in Sri Lanka more than any other country. Famous Pink Rubies There are many famous and noteworthy red rubies, but there are far fewer famous pink rubies. A famous red ruby that originated from Sri Lanka, the source of many pink rubies, is the Rosser Reeves Ruby, which is also a star ruby. It weighs 138.7 carats and is well known for its color and size, despite the large scratch it had before it was re-polished. Whether you call it a pink ruby or a pink sapphire, pink corundum is absolutely breathtaking and is a wonderful alternative to pink diamonds. It can also help complete a color gemstones collection by adding this romantic hue and delightful luster to the bunch. LEIBISH Ruby Rings Yellow Rubies Avid ruby fans will get the shock of their lives when they hear that there are rubies in other colors, including yellow! The same goes for those who appreciate yellow gemstones and are looking for something a bit different. Yellow diamonds are among the more popular types of yellow gemstones, as well as one of the more commonly purchased types of color diamonds. That's because in addition to the beautiful hue, yellow diamonds are found in more abundance than most of the other colors thereby making them a more affordable color diamond option. As far as other yellow gemstones go, there are actually many alternatives, and the yellow ruby is just one of them. Let us take a closer look at this unusual yellow stone, which is different and yet the same as its famous red counterpart. Value-Determining Properties of Yellow Rubies Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, the very same mineral that constitutes a sapphire. That's because rubies are the red version of a sapphire. Having said that, the chromium element, which is found in red rubies, is responsible for the red coloring and has other chemical implications as well. In order to be considered a ruby, the primary color is supposed to be red. The secondary colors however, can be orange, pink, purple, or violet. Color is the main factor in terms of value determining properties. The hue, the actual color of the stone, is one aspect. Another is the saturation, which is how intensely the color is displayed. Lastly, the tone depicts how dark or how light the stone appears.  Aside from color, rubies are graded based on their cut, clarity, and carat size. Since quality rubies are hard to come by, the larger the stone, the higher the price. Sources of Yellow Rubies Historically mined in Thailand, rubies are also found in deposits around the globe including India, Australia, Cambodia, Japan, Brazil, Scotland, as well as many other countries and regions. Explore our Ruby rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces or all ruby gemstone jewelry here. 

As much as diamonds truly are a spectacular specimen, they are a perfect example of how supply and demand works, as well as marketing in general. Diamonds are certainly hard to come by, and are marketed as such. However, there are plenty of other commodities, and gemstones in particular that are just as rare as diamonds if not rarer.  Tanzanite happens to be a semi-precious gemstone that is far rarer than diamonds and yet is valued far less than the hardest substance known to man. While other factors play a part when determining the overall worth of a stone such as appearance and durability, one would think that the element of rarity would have more of an effect on the price of the stone. This reality has an upside as well as a downside, depending on how you look at it. Diamonds may be easier to come across, but they come at a steep price. Tanzanite on the other hand, although not quite diamonds, are far cheaper yet more difficult to hunt down. Here is a short comparison between these two intriguing gemstones. LEIBISH Tanzanite Cushion & Marquise Diamond Ring (3.37Ct TW)   Diamonds in a Nutshell Found in many parts of the world, diamonds consist of a perfect internal structure that results in an extremely durable stone that is also capable of giving off an incredible and unparalleled shine. Their unusual sparkle and hardness is what has dubbed them as a girl’s best friend and is the stone of choice for brides-to-be all across the globe. There are four main factors to consider when looking for a diamond: color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. These are known as the 4 Cs. In colorless diamonds, all four elements are of equal importance whereas color takes precedence when it comes to color diamonds.   Tanzanite in a Nutshell Unlike most gemstones, tanzanite was only discovered some forty or so years ago in Tanzania. The name tanzanite was given to the mineral zoisite, which is found in a number of hues, in order to market it. It was Tiffany’s that had this brilliant idea and now it is the name used to refer to the blue, bluish purple, and bluish violet varieties. Much like rubies, which are actually red sapphires, the name tanzanite is reserved for these colors alone although some will refer to some of the other colors as colorless tanzanite, gray tanzanite, yellow tanzanite, and so on and so forth. The rough stone often has more of a brownish red color, and only after heat treatment do many tanzanite stones transform into the blue gemstones many of us would recognize. Stones’ colors are often affected by elements found within the mineral. In the case of tanzanite, it is small traces of vanadium in the zoisite’s structure that causes the blue coloring. When such stone are heated to 600 degrees Celsius for thirty minutes, the blue coloring can come forth more. For this reason, almost all blue tanzanite on the market has been heat-treated. Those that are found with such a color naturally demand extremely high prices. In terms of durability, tanzanite ranks 6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, as opposed to diamonds, which rank 10. LEIBISH Tanzanite Pear Side Stone Ring (2.74Ct TW)   Why Diamonds? Diamonds should be sought after first and foremost for their durability. The second reason, which is equally important, is its one-of-a-kind shine. While this is less relevant in color diamond it is still important because of the structure of the stone. It will not exude the radiance that colorless diamonds, particularly brilliant-cut stones, are known for, but it will still display an overall dazzle that is incomparable to any other stone.   Why Tanzanite? One of the arguments made in favor of diamonds is that they are special specimen for having been on our planet for so long and having had to endure such conditions to become what they are. In all fairness, many minerals have been formed in similar fashions overtime, albeit with different chemical makeups. Tanzanite is a rather recent player in the gemstone industry and yet it has so much to offer. Known mainly for the blue variety, which is a strong contender with blue sapphires and maybe even blue diamonds, its colorless variety has a place in the competition with colorless diamonds and other colorless gemstones as well. The most attractive feature of a tanzanite stone is its color. Needless to say, the presentation of a piece of tanzanite jewelry is phenomenal. Pair that with the low price of approximately $425 for a 1-carat stone and you’ve got yourself a great deal. LEIBISH 2.58 carat, Violet, Tanzanite, Heart Shape   The Bottom Line When it comes down to comparing a diamond with a tanzanite stone, it is hard to come away with a winner. The reason for this is that despite the common ground between the two stones, they are truly worlds apart. Diamonds are on top of the gemstone hierarchy whereas tanzanite is somewhere down below. It’s not just that it is so much less durable than a diamond and that it does not offer the brilliance, sparkle, or clarity of a diamond; it’s everything combined. Having said that, if you are looking for a stone with an awesome color that won’t break the bank, tanzanite definitely has one on diamonds, which will have a much harder time filling these specific needs.

The concept of birthstones is familiar to many, including those who do not necessarily consider themselves particularly knowledgeable in the realm of gemstones. However, even those who know each month’s birthstones backwards and forwards may not be fully aware of the meaning behind birthstones, where they come from, how they were selected for each month, and which birthstones are the rarest. Check out our collection of gemstones. Here is a compilation of the various birthstones that will direct you to your assigned stone and help you learn a bit about it.   The Meaning Behind Birthstones It is widely believed that each month, or every specific time of each year, has an effect on the people born during that period. Additionally, many cultures have felt that certain gemstones held various powers, and were therefore used for healing purposes, protection, and for renewing energy. That is why the meaning of each and every birthstone can be particularly significant. From January’s garnet, which symbolizes friendship and trust to April’s diamonds, which are associated with love, to September’s sapphires, which are all about trust and loyalty, each birthstone has its own significance as well as energy. LEIBISH Emerald Rings   Birthstone Calendar January February March April Garnet Amethyst Aquamarine Diamond May June July August Emerald Pearl Ruby Peridot September October November December Sapphire Opal Topaz Turquoise   Where Birthstones Come From The idea behind birthstones can be traced all the way back to biblical times when the High Priest wore a breastplate displaying twelve gemstones across four rows. Each stone represented one of the twelve tribes. Later on, twelve gemstones were associated with the twelve apostles. It was since then that gemstones were connected to zodiac signs and birth months, but it was much later on, however, in 15th or 16th century Poland, when birthstones were first worn. Finally, in 1912, the Jewelers of America put together an official list of birthstones, mainly selecting stones that were commercially available as opposed to most suitable from a sign perspective. Each of these stones, which include garnet, amethyst, aquamarine, diamond, emerald, alexandrite, ruby, peridot, sapphire, opal, topaz, and zircon, are mined in different parts of the world in varying quantities. Garnets are discovered all across the globe, but especially in Africa, Asia, South America, and in the United States. Most amethysts are mined in Zambia but are also found in several locations in South America including Bolivia, Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina as well as in Asia, the United States, and Canada. The majority of aquamarine stones come from Brazil, while the biggest producer for diamonds is Russia but is closely followed by Africa, India, and Australia. Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia are the main contributors for emeralds, whereas alexandrite has been found in Russia, Sri Lanka, and Brazil. Rubies are mined all across the planet, as are peridots. Sapphires on the other hand are only mined in a few locations worldwide. These include Kashmir, Burma, and Sri Lanka. Australia puts itself on the map for being the main source for opals while topaz is mined in many countries spanning six continents. Zircon comes from Sri Lanka, Burma (Myanmar) and can sometimes be found in Canada.   How Gemstones are Selected as Birthstones The modern birthstone list, as we know it, was influenced by a couple of factors. Zodiac signs impacted the development of the concept of birthstones and the practical realities related to the trade of gemstones are basically what finalized the designated birthstones. Therefore, birthstones were somewhat arbitrarily chosen for each month based on the overall availability, accessibility, and cost of the stones at the start of the 20th century. However, the initial representation of the stones based on the zodiac stones had a strong impact as well, and can be seen in months like January, which has the element of air, symbolized by the garnet. Similarly, February with its water element has the suitable amethyst as its birthstone. Of course the zodiac signs overlap months whereas birth months do not. That is why this aspect of the inspiration for birthstone selection is only just partial.   The Rarest Birthstones While some birthstones are easier to come by than others, all gemstones, especially precious gemstones, are considered quite rare. However, the price tags can be misleading in terms of rarity as some really expensive stones are not so rare and vice versa. For example, April’s diamond, though pricey, is less rare than rubies, emeralds, and alexandrite. While on the topic of alexandrite, this is currently the rarest gemstone on the birthstone list and can come at quite a cost. Black opals are also incredibly rare. Birthstones offer an interesting way of choosing jewelry. They allow individuals to explore gemstones they may otherwise steer clear of. At the same time, birthstones are not necessarily what people think they are, so when choosing birthstone jewelry, ensure you are purchasing it for the correct reasons.   Birthstones By Color Every month of the year has a birthstone. But what are those stones and in which colors do they appear? From Garnet, January’s birthstone to Zircon, December’s birthstone, let us take a look at the year’s stunning stones and their beautiful hues. LEIBISH Gemstones and Diamond Halo Drop Earrings (8.27Ct TW) In order to make sense of birthstones, color-wise, we will divide them by color. We will focus on the primary color of the months’ main birthstones.   Red/Pink Luckily, the first month of the year, January, has a birthstone that fits into this category so we can start with some sort of order. The garnet is a dark red gemstone that is often mistaken for a ruby. Though they are both pleasant to look at, are both red, and can appear similar, garnets are far less expensive than rubies but are also less durable and are overall not as red. July’s birthstone is the ruby. Rubies belong to the mineral family of corundum and rank 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness right after diamonds. They are one of the four precious gemstones along with diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. Rubies are essentially the red variety of a sapphire. Sapphires that are not considered red enough are known as pink sapphires. Spinel is the additional birthstone for August. The main birthstone is peridot. Red spinel is the most desired color for spinel and is a cheaper alternative to rubies. It can also be pink. Tourmaline is the second birthstone for October and is found in a range of colors including a breathtaking pink. LEIBISH 2.49 carat unheated pear shaped ruby and diamond halo ring   Yellow/Orange November’s main birthstone is topaz, which is yellow. Its other stone is citrine, which is also yellow.   LEIBISH oval citrine set, including a gorgeous ring, pendant and earrings   Green You don’t get much greener than the green of an emerald, which is May’s delightful birthstone. Emeralds are one of the four precious gemstones and rank 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Other green stones include peridot, which is August’s main birthstone. Peridot actually only appears in green, and it’s more of an olive green. LEIBISH Vivid Blue Sapphire Pendant and Green Tourmaline and Diamond Drop Earrings   Blue Blue is the most common color for birthstones. Three main birthstones are known for their blue colors, while one additional main birthstone known for another color can also be found in blue, and additional birthstones are blue as well. Let’s begin with aquamarine, the birthstone for March. This calming stone displays a very refreshing shade of blue. It sometimes can have a combination of green and blue. September’s birthstone is the sapphire. Sapphires are mainly known for their deep blue variety but sapphires actually appear in a rainbow of colors. For our intents and purposes we will focus on the blue sapphire. Sapphires are another one of the four precious gemstones and are priced accordingly. As mentioned earlier, they are the sister stone to the ruby and also rank 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness right after the diamond. Zircon is the main birthstone for December in the United States. It is known for its colorless variety but it also appears in blue as well as other colors. Tanzanite and turquoise, also blue stones, are the secondary birthstones for this month and are the only birthstones for December in the UK. Alexandrite is one of June’s two gemstones and can be found with a blue hue but is mostly known for its color-changing abilities. The other stone for this month is the pearl. LEIBISH 1.21 carat Blue Sapphire Men's Ring   Purple The gemstone known for its purple color is the amethyst of course. This stone belongs to February. Other gemstones that may display a purple color are fancy color diamonds, sapphires, spinel, and tourmaline. Amethysts are part of the quartz family. They rank 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. LEIBISH Sapphire & Diamond Halo Earrings   Colorless/White April’s birthstone is the most popular colorless/white stone on the planet, the diamond. Many people are unaware that diamonds are actually found in other colors as well. These are known as fancy color diamonds. Diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness and are the hardest substance known to man. One of June’s birthstones is the pearl, which has a creamy opaque white color. Lastly, October’s famous birthstone, the opal, has a whitish appearance but often has a blue overtone and can contain a variety of colors as well. Additional birthstones have colorless varieties such as sapphires and emeralds. Just to review, here is a list of all the birthstones and their colors: January: Garnet - Red February: Amethyst – Purple March: Aquamarine – Blue April: Diamond – Colorless May: Emerald – Green June: Pearl – Cream July: Ruby – Red August: Peridot – Green September: Sapphire – Blue October: Opal – Whitish base, exhibits different colors November: Topaz – Yellow, Citrine – Yellow December: Zircon – Colorless/Blue, Turquoise – Blue, Tanzanite – Blue (and other colors) Take a look at our collection gemstone jewelry and let us know which ones you like best!

The thing that most people find the most shocking about rubies and sapphires when learning about them for the first time is that they are both from the same mineral. In fact, aside from their coloring, they are essentially the same stone. Both rubies and sapphires are varieties of the mineral corundum. This mineral is found in an array of colors but is mostly known for its blue hue. Pink, orange, yellow, green, and purple sapphires exist as well.   Red Sapphires Red sapphires would exist too except they were given their very own category, rubies. The color is what sets each of these stones apart, caused by the particular internal structure of the mineral. Let us take a closer look at these two gemstones and at what sets them apart from one another. LEIBISH ruby and a white diamond   Sapphires and Rubies - Lets Talk Science The Al2O3 Crystal Crystals of pure Al2O3 are known as corundum. When in gem form, they are called colorless sapphires. The structure of this mineral consists of six oxygen atoms that surround every aluminum atom, creating a somewhat distorted octahedron. Though there are three oxygen atoms above the aluminum atom and three below, they are placed a little differently. The bottom atoms are set slightly further apart from one another than the atoms above. This is how half of the aluminum atoms are arranged. The other half is exactly the opposite. The aluminum atom is a positive ion surrounded by six negative ions. At the same time, the surrounding negative oxygen atoms receive two electrons thus ensuring there are no unoccupied energy levels. This arrangement means that every two aluminum atoms give six electrons and every three oxygen atoms get six electrons altogether in order to produce Al2O3. This allows for a crystal field to be created. This is the case for pure corundum; when the electrons are paired differently and when atoms are replaced, the makeup of the crystal changes. Click Through for more information on Sapphires LEIBISH 3.69 carat, Blue, Sapphire, Cushion Shape   Sapphires vs Rubies With pure corundum, there is no absorption of light, thus no color. When one in every hundred aluminum atoms is replaced by a chromium atom, it must donate three electrons like the oxygen atoms in order to become Cr3+ and replace Al3+. This is so that the charge stays the same. There are no partially filled orbitals or energy levels in Al3+ but there are in Cr3+. These are the very electrons that can be triggered and can lead to the absorption of light, which essentially creates the color in rubies. Traces of iron, titanium, chromium, copper, and magnesium are what upset the otherwise “perfect” makeup of pure corundum and lead to the blue color of sapphires. The cause for the different colors of corundum, thus creating sapphires and rubies, is extremely scientific yet unbeknownst to the average gemstone customer. Interestingly enough, color diamonds work similarly with various elements leading to different color diamonds. The presence of nitrogen in diamonds, for instance, is what causes yellow diamonds, and boron leads to blue diamonds. Science is fascinating and confusing, but who knew it could be so beautiful?   Shop Our Collection of Gemstones and Gemstone Jewelry Today!

Every so often, certain processes occur within nature that coincide with one another resulting in a coincidental and magnificent creation. All gemstones are the products of similar processes with additional conditions leading to very rare versions of the stones. Within the various different types of ruby, every once in a while, one might  be lucky enough to see a star ruby! This stone is a perfect example of a precious gemstone that only came to be after being subjected to immense pressure and drastic temperatures over millions of years along with a set of inclusions that miraculously construct a star-shaped design. This occurrence is so unique and rare that it makes these stones extremely desirable and sought after. Although admiring a defect in the stone might sound strange, consider that fact that the almost unbelievable array of colors diamonds are found with are actually the result of imperfections in the compound element.   Star Ruby Properties Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, which also constitutes sapphires since they are one and the same save for the red coloring. A ruby is considered a Star Ruby when a three-point or six-point asterism, or star if you will, appears within the stone. This star is created when tiny fibers of rutile, also known as “silk,” have light reflected off of them in such a way that a star shape is formed. Star rubies are cut into cabochons in order to display the rare star design as effectively as possible.   Price of a Star Ruby Only one in every hundred rough corundum that are mined will have a star-like shape present that is as apparent as the color of the stone. Two in every hundred corundum mined will also have a star, but will either have a poor star shape or a poor stone color. The primary source of rubies in the world, Myanmar (Burma), no longer produces such rubies and so the worldwide supply for quality star rubies is now extremely limited, especially for stones over 5 carats in size. Needless to say, these rare stones are priced accordingly, particularly since most rough rubies are faceted after they are heated instead of being cut into cabochons to showcase their star shapes.   Characteristics of a Star Ruby A Star Ruby, like all rubies and sapphires, rank 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness right after diamonds, which rank 10. In order to be considered a ruby and not a sapphire, the stone must possess a certain level of redness. However, this is not the case with Star Rubies as they are found in stones that display a variety of hues including purple, brown, and pink. In fact, Pink Star Rubies are known to have the best stars. All rubies have inclusions; it’s part of what makes a ruby a ruby. Therefore, Star Rubies and all rubies vary from semi-transparent to opaque. The star should appear vividly and with a silver or white color. In order to analyze the star, one should hold it up to sunlight and see if all the prongs are straight and equivalent. Generally, rubies weigh between 1 and 15 carats with the heavier stones costing quite a bundle. Rubies are mined from Myanmar (Burma), Africa, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Pakistan, Australia, United States, Cambodia, with Star Rubies mined mainly in Africa and India. Nature has provided us with a wide range of specimen that speaks to people of varying tastes and interests. Even a specific mineral such as corundum has many faces that manifest themselves in beautiful hues, such as red rubies, and in extraordinary compositions of inclusions, such as the star phenomenon. A Star Ruby has a very distinct look, and if it’s something that you can appreciate, it could be the perfect addition to your gemstone collection. Have a look at LEIBISH’s Ruby Jewelry collection, and let us know what you like best!

While sapphires are mainly known for their blue variety, many other colors exist as well, including white. This transparent stone has been compared to a diamond due to its similarity, but there are vast differences. Still, white sapphires have a unique charm; something that sets them apart from other colorless stones and from their colored sapphire counterparts. Here is a look at this interesting stone, its benefits, and how it compares with other stones, particularly diamonds.   About the Stone The white sapphire is the colorless version of a sapphire. Sapphires are mostly recognized for their deep blue hue, but there are other colors too such as pink, yellow, green, and of course, white. At first glance the stone may look identical to some other popular colorless stones such as a diamond, a moissanite, and a topaz. However, upon further investigation one can notice the cloudier appearance of the stone; especially when held up next to another stone. White sapphires tend to display a cloudy white look. Like all sapphires, blue sapphires included, white sapphires are a form of the mineral corundum, which ranks 9 on the Moh’s scale of hardness right after diamonds. It is a rather durable stone that was created under the earth’s surface over millions of years.   White Sapphires Vs. Diamonds With its similar appearance to diamonds and substantially lower prices, the white sapphire seems like the perfect alternative to the beautiful yet pricey diamond. Putting the prestige factor aside for a moment, since one can’t help but acknowledge that diamonds are inseparable from prestige and status, there are still plenty of differences between a white sapphire and a diamond. For starters, a white sapphire does not exude brilliance, the fiery element that only a girl’s best friend is capable of showcasing. This shouldn’t really come as a surprise; since this is truly what diamonds are known for and what makes them so expensive. Still, when looking at the two stones side by side, it may come as a quite a shock what a difference the brilliance and scintillation of a diamond can make. All of a sudden the shiny transparent white sapphire looks dull next to the gleaming diamond. Aside from the brilliance though, diamonds and sapphires can look quite remarkably similar to the untrained eye. If you care less about the shine and more about the size and price of the stone, a white sapphire might be for you. Having an untraditional stone, whether it’s for an engagement ring or any other piece of jewelry, has its own special charm and appeal.   Advantages of a White Sapphire Though we have already touched upon the main characteristics of a white sapphire and how it differs from a diamond, we have yet to really focus on this remarkable stone’s many advantages. The cost factor is a standout element here. The prices for white sapphires are far lower than diamonds. This means you can get a much larger stone. Another advantage of these transparent stones is that they can be used as side stones instead of splurging on more diamonds for your piece of jewelry. They can also be used to replace diamonds that have fallen out instead of buying the real thing again or settling for cubic zirconia. Lastly, never forget that sapphires, even white sapphires, are one of the four precious gemstones, which include diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. This means that while they may not be diamonds, they are certainly rare and special. Like all gemstones, white sapphires should be selected carefully. Only go to a trusted dealer who can ensure that the stone you are buying is genuine and high quality. Serious flaws can be hiding in a stone unbeknownst to you, or it can be a complete knockoff altogether. Do your research and shop carefully. Though we don’t hold any white Sapphires, at least at the moment this was written, browse through our Sapphire jewelry collection and let us know what you like best!  

Every gemstone, or any kind of product for that matter, always has that unique version, which is rare, more beautiful or special than its counterparts in some way or another, and valuable. When talking about sapphires, the ‘star sapphire’ fits into this category, as it is unusual and highly sought after. Sapphires are well known for their blue variety, though many other colors such as pink, yellow, and green sapphires exist as well. Those familiar with this term will know that the name ‘star’ refers to the star-like phenomenon that is present in some stones. It can also appear in rubies, which are known as ‘star rubies’. The reason this phenomenon occurs in both gemstones is because for all intents and purposes, sapphires and rubies are the same gemstone. They are just different colors. To be fair, the fiery red color is a major differentiator and those stones that merely display a pale red or pink hue are known as pink sapphires and not rubies. The star shape is actually formed by intersecting needle inclusions. In general, inclusions are not something one wants in a stone, but in this case, these flaws work in the gem’s favor.   What is a Star Sapphire? About the Inclusions In order to understand the uniqueness of this stone, one must understand the complex nature of the inclusions that give it its distinct feature. A mineral called rutile, which is comprised of titanium dioxide, usually causes the inclusions. The needle-like inclusions form a star shape in a miraculous way. Star Sapphire, Courtesy of By Mitchell Gore Star Sapphire Colors Twelve Ray Stars Though six-ray star sapphires are rare enough, there is even a more unusual stone. This one displays a twelve-ray star. The phenomenon occurs when two types of inclusions are present in the stone: the rutile mineral and platelets of hematite. Rutile inclusions create a whitish star whereas hematite results in a golden star. The two stars become superimposed upon each other during the crystallization process, thus forming a twelve-ray star.   Largest Star Sapphires Large sapphires are hard to come by, but large star sapphires are nearly impossible to find. That’s why the 1404.49-carat blue star sapphire is so famous. Called ‘The Star of Adam,’ the stone was mined in the south of Sri Lanka and is the largest blue star sapphire. The second largest is the Star of India, a 563.4-carat blue star sapphire, while the ‘Star of Bombay’ is yet another example of a large blue star sapphire. ‘Black Star of Queensland’ is the largest black star sapphire. At 733 carats it is the largest gem quality black star sapphire. While sapphires are mainly assessed based on their color and weight, star sapphires are also graded according to the intensity, visibility, and color, of the asterism. If you are interested in such a stone, make certain to have this feature assessed carefully by a professional along with the other important elements of a sapphire. Browse our collection of Sapphire jewelry. 

Anyone who thought a sapphire was simply a blue gemstone could not be more wrong. While stunning blue sapphires certainly do exist and are quite popular, many other colors and forms of sapphires do as well. For instance, there are yellow sapphires, white sapphires, purple sapphires, star sapphires, and there are even color change sapphires. This last type of sapphire is comparable to a chameleon diamond, which is a natural color diamond that changes colors, hence the name. This variety displays various colors in different lighting. From blue to purple, green to gray-green, and pink to reddish-violet, these stones are rare and hard to come by thus making them valuable and prestigious. LEIBISH Royal Blue Sapphire and White diamonds Extraordinary Double Halo Ring   Color Change Sapphire Sources Sapphires are found all around the globe including Eastern Australia, China, Madagascar, and Montana in the United States. Color change sapphires in particular can be discovered in Thailand and Tanzania. Other types of sapphires can be found in Thailand as well.   Color Change Sapphire Vs. Alexandrite The color changes that can be seen in these rare sapphires are similar to color combinations that we see in some other gemstones, like alexandrite. In fact, when talking about synthetic color change sapphires, the color change is remarkably similar to that of natural alexandrite, so much so that these synthetic versions are sometimes marketed with the name ‘alexandrium’ and ‘synthetic alexandrite.’ Although these nicknames might seem harmless, they are quite misleading. Synthetic color change sapphires may look like alexandrite stones, but in terms of their structure, they are nothing alike. That’s because alexandrite is a variety of the chrysoberyl mineral and is not a sapphire, which is a completely different mineral. Therefore, this sapphire replica is more like an alexandrite simulant. LEIBISH Oval Alexandrite and Diamond Double Halo Pendant   Each and every type of sapphire is special in its own way but if you are after something truly different, a color change sapphire might be just the thing. Star sapphires are another variety that is extremely unique. These stones display a star-like shape that is breathtaking. Regardless of whichever sapphire speaks to you the most, it is imperative to do the necessary research prior to making a purchase and asking all the right questions beforehand. Take a look at our Sapphire Jewelry collection and let us know which pieces you like most!

There are just some words that you don't imagine seeing being paired together, such as “yellow” and “emeralds,” and yet we will never really know of all the remarkable gifts the world has to offer. Green emerald fans and enthusiast who were somehow under the impression that emeralds are only found in one hue, green, will be disappointed (or delighted) to learn that emeralds actually exist in a number of colors including yellow. The following will provide you with a bit of information regarding this unusual gem and what is important to know before purchasing yellow emeralds. Emerald and Diamond Jewelry   Value-Determining Properties Yellow emeralds, like all emeralds, and all gemstones for that matter, are assessed based on the 4 Cs (color, cut, clarity, and carat). While diamonds are widely known for being graded in this manner, it is a lesser-known fact that colored gemstones are also classified by these categories, though it does work a bit differently. Let us begin with the color of an emerald. Similar to fancy color diamonds, an emerald's color is assessed based on its hue, saturation, and tone. The saturation of the emerald, what one might call the color intensity of a fancy colored diamond, is especially important because it can determine whether or not it is considered an emerald. Only stones that are medium to dark are classified as emeralds. Light stones are simply known as green beryl, or in this case, yellow beryl. Emeralds range in color from yellow-green to blue-green thereby making yellow and blue the most common secondary colors found in emeralds. Like fancy color diamonds, color is the most important factor, unlike colorless diamonds for example where all 4 Cs are of equal importance. The purer the color the better and the more expensive it is, which is why a pure yellow emerald would cost quite the pretty penny. As far as clarity, emeralds, including yellow emeralds, are much softer stones than diamonds and therefore will generally have some kind of inclusion. That is why they are inspected by eye instead of with a loupe, which is standard for grading a diamond's clarity. Therefore, emeralds that appear clean according to a professional eye are considered flawless, which is the highest clarity grade and the reason they demand the highest value. The cut and carat size of a yellow emerald are significant as well, but they depend greatly on the other 2 Cs. This is because the rarer the color, i.e. a pure yellow emerald, the harder it is to come across a large stone, thereby making smaller carat sizes worth large sums. The same goes for the cut. Certain cuts are sometimes used to abolish the flaws, which may take away from a stone's carat size and ideal cut, but at the same time, will provide a better quality stone. If this gem also happens to have superb color, it can end up being a valuable emerald. That is why aside from color as the main element, the other Cs are very much dependent on one another and the stone as a whole.   Yellow Emerald Sources As far as we know, emeralds have been mined for centuries upon centuries. We know about emerald mining in Egypt as far back as 1500 BCE. Other notable emerald sources in antiquity include India, and Austria since the 14th century CE. In modern times, Colombia is the primary producer of emeralds, with the past decade seeing a serious increase in production numbers. Zambia is another major contributor, but emeralds are found worldwide from Afghanistan to Brazil to Russia, Zimbabwe, and many other countries.   Famous Yellow Emeralds While there are several famous green emeralds, yellow emeralds are far rarer and have therefore surfaced less. There are no especially famous yellow emeralds to date. Many emerald consumers are after the gemstone because of its unique color. Though green emeralds have an undeniable beauty, yellow emeralds have something completely different to offer. They differ from their yellow gemstone counterparts such as yellow diamonds and citrine, and they have their own individual beauty that too cannot be denied.  

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