One of the questions I am often asked in the shop and by customers I am designing pieces for, is where in the world the stones in their jewellery pieces come from. And my answer is of course, all around the world. But there are some very special places that some of these gems are found, so we have included some of them in this post.
If you happen to be travelling in these parts of the world, you might want to find out more or even purchase some gems from their country of origin to have them made into unique pieces of jewellery.
In this journey, we'll explore the countries that yield some of the most popular and sought-after gemstones, each bearing a story of its own.
1. Emeralds from Colombia: The Green Gem of the Andes
Colombia, nestled in the heart of South America, is renowned for producing some of the world's finest emeralds. The lush green hues of these gems evoke the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes Mountains. The Muzo and Chivor mines are legendary for yielding emeralds with unparalleled colour saturation and clarity, making Colombian emeralds a favourite among jewellery connoisseurs.
2. Rubies from Myanmar: The Burmese Fire
Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a land steeped in history and culture, and it's also the source of some of the most exquisite rubies. The Mogok Valley in Myanmar is famous for producing the "pigeon's blood" ruby, a vivid and highly prized hue. These fiery red gemstones have adorned royal jewellery and continue to symbolise passion and vitality.
3. Sapphires from Sri Lanka: The Island of Jewels
Sri Lanka, known as the "Island of Jewels," is celebrated for its vibrant sapphires. The Ceylon sapphires from this tropical paradise exhibit a range of colours, from delicate pastels to deep blues. The Ratnapura region is a treasure trove of these precious gems, reflecting the natural beauty of the island itself.
4. Diamonds from Botswana: Sparkling Brilliance from Africa
Botswana, nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, has emerged as a major source of high-quality diamonds. The Orapa and Jwaneng mines are renowned for producing diamonds that are not only visually stunning but also adhere to ethical and sustainable mining practices. These sparkling gems from the African soil continue to symbolise love and endurance.
5. Opals from Australia: Nature's Kaleidoscope
Australia is home to some of the most captivating opals, often referred to as "nature's kaleidoscope." The Lightning Ridge region is particularly famous for its black opals, which showcase a play of colours that seem to dance within the gemstone. Opals are a testament to the Earth's artistic prowess, as they display an array of colours that shift and change when viewed from different angles.
6. Tanzanite from Tanzania: The Gem of the African Plains