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 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
Tanzania, nestled in East Africa, is the exclusive source of tanzanite, a gemstone prized for its mesmerising blue-violet hues and first discovered in 1967.
Mined near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite's unique colour variations make it a cherished gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its rarity and distinctive allure have elevated it to the status of a modern classic.
7. Pearls from Japan: Ocean's Luminous Treasures
Japan's rich marine culture extends to its prized pearls, cultivated with meticulous care in coastal waters. Akoya pearls, known for their luminous lustre, have long been a symbol of elegance and refinement. These natural gems are a testament to the harmony between human ingenuity and nature's timeless beauty.
The attraction of gemstones lies not only in their beauty but also in the stories of the countries they are sourced from. Each gemstone carries a piece of its homeland's character and history, making it a unique treasure.
From the lush emerald mines of Colombia to the sparkling diamond fields of Botswana, these gemstones are a testament to the natural wonders that our planet produces.
At Susan Forde we love sharing the stories of the gemstones we work with, and creating unique pieces for our customers to truly reflect and enhance who they are.
Talk to us to find out more, to find what you are looking for amongst our collection or to have a bespoke piece made for you.
