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.

Sparkling Citrine Rings

Whether you’ve already embraced sunny hues or want to carefully dip a toe into the world of color, you will love the versatility of boldly colored jewelry. It’s the perfect compliment to an outfit already packed with color, and it also gives neutral dressers an easy way to add a pretty pop to their ensemble. But what color to choose? This spring, our vote goes to yellow.

By now it’s no secret that bright, bold hues are dominating the Spring and Summer fashion scene. And the most shining star in this year’s knockout colors is a bold, cheery shade of yellow. Yellow is the perfect color to dress yourself in this season thanks to its happy connotations and range of hues that flatter any skin tone.

If our bubbling enthusiasm for the virtues of yellow haven’t convinced you, consider that the beautiful citrine gemstone mimics the season-defining color. Citrine is a lovely yellow stone that ranges in shade from pale yellow to rich ochre, and is also the November birthstone. The boldly colored gemstone makes a stunning center stone for rings, which is precisely how we plan to flaunt our yellow through Fall. Check out some of our favorite picks for the perfect citrine ring:

Vintage Style White Gold and Citrine Ring

For diehard romantics who appreciate vintage elegance, the white gold and citrine ‘Enchanted’ ring is just right. The citrine center stone is dainty enough that it doesn’t overwhelm the vintage style filigree ring design.

2.75 Carat Citrine and Diamond Cocktail Ring

If you’re looking for a gorgeous cocktail ring in this summer’s hottest hue, look no further. The whopping 2.75 carat citrine gemstone (shown at top) is surrounded by a demure halo of sparkling diamonds that also encircle the white gold band. This cocktail ring is guaranteed to add a little drama to your wardrobe, and is special enough to pass down as an heirloom piece.

White Gold Citrine and Diamond Dazzle Heart Ring

Women with a love of all things girly and sweet will gravitate towards this saccharine citrine ring. A heart-shaped center gemstone is surrounded by a halo of diamonds and set in 14K solid white gold for dazzling effect.

Spring Jewelry Trends

As the frost melts and the chill in the winter air mellows, Spring begins to peek its head tentatively around the corner. Though we may still be bundling up in dark turtlenecks and thick jackets, in less than a month Spring will officially arrive with an influx of dainty dresses, bright cardigans and open toe shoes.

You might be ready to welcome the lighter, brighter clothing, but is your jewelry box ready? Here are our top picks for jewelry to compliment Spring 2009 fashions:

Dainty, Delicate Jewelry

Feminine styles, colors and cuts are again a huge priority in many designer’s spring collections. Ruffled blouses, rose-covered necklines and bow embellishments make a ladylike statement that looks lovely – but makes accessorizing a pain; especially since many jewelry trends are so loud and bold.

Our Advice:

Avoid overpowering a delicate ladylike style with a big necklace or dangle earrings. Instead, embrace the subtle elegance of the 40s and 50s by choosing quiet, understated jewelry for your outfit. A bold cobalt ruffled top would look stunning accented with emerald cut smoky quartz stud earrings and a delicate ring, like our blue and white diamond flower ring set in white gold.

Bold Gold Bracelets & Necklaces

Along with the feminine, flowing fashions are the clean, geometric looks. Color-block shift dresses and simple patio dresses require completely different accessories than the ladylike trend. Instead of dainty ladylike jewels, simple geometric looks call for big, bold gold jewelry pieces.

Our Advice:

The hottest bold jewelry for Spring 2009 are bold yellow gold necklaces and bracelets. On-trend bracelet options include a thick gold mesh bracelet or a substantial, statement-making gold bangle (see top). Yellow gold compliments bright spring colors beautifully, especially blues and purples, and big statement pieces like our Byzantine necklace and Polished & Textured Circle Necklace will look hot throughout the summer and into Fall.

Regardless of the season’s latest trends, jewelry is a personal style statement – if the above pieces don’t speak to you, check out our other beautiful gemstone earrings and yellow gold jewelry for something that suits your taste.