Unique Gemstone Rings

We’ve mentioned the popular cocktail ring trend already, but these cocktail rings come with a twist. In lieu of the usual gemstones such as citrine, sapphire, garnet or rubies, these unique rings are set with some pretty spectacular, lesser-known gemstones including morganite, smokey quartz, green amethyst and pink topaz. The result? A standout cocktail ring that trumps the rest thanks to their unique beauty.  If you haven’t seen many of these gemstones in person, let us preface this article by mentioning that the pictures truly do not do the rings justice. The ethereal, watery hue of green amethyst, the shocking pop of pink topaz and the hazel sparkle of smokey quartz make these unique gemstones something special.

Here are some of our favorite unique gemstone rings for your viewing pleasure. If you ever have the chance, check them out in person – you will not be disappointed.

Green Amethyst Ring

Green amethyst, like purple amethyst, is a member of the quartz family. One reason we love this gemstone so much is that its whispery green hue goes beautifully with Spring and Summer’s muted pastel color palette. If you love the shade too, consider the whopping 3.1 carat green amethyst ring. Set in white gold and accented with two little rows of diamonds, it’s a sparkling stunner that can be worn day and night.

Pink Topaz Ring

Though topaz is usually thought of as a blue gemstone, it actually comes in a rainbow of colors. Bright pink topaz is created by heat treating natural yellow or orange colored topaz. The resulting hue is a bright, cheery pink that would make Barbie herself proud. We love the emerald cut pink topaz ring (shown at top) set in in solid 14K white gold. The pink topaz is surrounded by a halo of brilliant diamonds that nicely compliment the stone.

Smokey Quartz Ring

Smokey quartz ranges in color from light brown to nearly black. Our favorite hue is the medium to light brown, since the color really reflects light for maximum sparkle. The lighter hued smokey quartz shines in our 1.75 carat oval cut ring set in an etched white gold band.  Diamonds line either side of the smokey quartz center stone to add a little extra pop to the piece.

Morganite Ring

Morganite is so sought-after thanks to its lovely pink hue. Like green amethyst, its quiet tones go well with the muted pastel fashions of Spring and Summer. Vintage lovers will enjoy the design of our morganite and white gold ring, which has intricate floral and filigree patterns on the band.  Read more about morganite and this lovely ring under our jewelry review section.

February Birthstone: The Gift of Amethyst

Next to the holiday season, February may be the second most exciting month in the calendar because of the worldwide celebration of Valentine’s Day. Couples especially look forward to celebrate the day with romantic dinner dates and meaningful gifts. February is also the perfect time to give the gift of Amethyst.

Amethyst is the birthstone for people born in February.  Like most semi-precious stones, the name Amethyst is of greek origin: a- (”not) and methustos (”intoxicated”)”.  The name is derived from Greek mythology but one that has spawned many versions. The most popular though is the one  which involved  the god of wine Dionysus/Bacchus and the goddess Artemis. According to the legend, Dionysus, being the appointed god of wine, merriment and intoxication wanted the mortals to do as they are told: to be merry, jovial and drunken.  However, when one man refused to do so, Dionysus took the refusal as a great  insult and vowed to punish any mortal that would cross his path at that moment.

The young Amethyst at that time was just on her way to the temple to give her offering to the goddess Artemis. Blinded by his wrath, Dionysus set forth two tigers to attack the young maiden. To protect her, she was turned into a pure crystalline quartz by the  goddess Artemis and when the god Dionysus realized his mistake, he poured a cup of wine over the quartz  and turned it into what is now known as the Amethyst gemstone.   From that time on, the Amethyst stone is worn to protect the wearer from drunkenness. On a deeper level, it is believed to repel negative energy, enables calmness of spirit, and peace of mind.

The Amethyst is the most desirable of the quartz family with its varying hues and shades of purple but has rare variety in shades of orange, yellow, pink, and green Amethyst.  The most popular hue is the deep-purplish color- usually worn by cardinals & popes because it is supposed to encourage celibacy and sobriety; and was highly-preferred as well by the ancient royalty from Egypt to Europe. The color of this gemstone inspired so many kings and queens to include this gem in their royal jewelry possessions. Since then, purple has been associated with the nobility.  The earliest use of Amethyst  was found during the Neolithic era but it was only became widely abundant in 3000 B.C. with the discovery of jewelry  in Egypt and Asia that can be traced back to that time.

The Amethyst gemstone  is widely available at Apples of Gold Jewelry with many selections  of Amethyst rings, Amethyst pendants, and Amethyst earrings.  This February, nothing is more perfect than giving the gift of Amethyst.