Gemstones for the 4th of July Part 2: White Gemstones
What could be more versatile than a white gemstone? Today, in the second blog in a series on patriotic gemstones, we’ll look at four gems that, while lacking in color, are anything but short on class.
Diamond
You can’t talk about white gemstones without mentioning the most timeless and dazzling of stones: the diamond. No gem is more lasting or has greater sparkle, nor has any stone captured the eyes and imaginations of cultures the world over quite like this one.
Vintage styles are an excellent way to celebrate the timelessness of a diamond, and the 0.35-carat Antique-Style Diamond Ring in 14K White Gold is a lovely example. A round, glittering diamond, approximately a third carat in weight, is the centerpiece of this feminine style, and it’s surrounded by a detailed design of openwork and swirls that captures the romance of a bygone era.
White Sapphire
If you think that sapphire is always blue, think again! In addition to the traditional indigo variety, sapphire can also be white, and this unique gem provides an unexpected but glamorous twist on a classic precious gemstone. Like its blue counterpart, white sapphire is quite durable, measuring just below the diamond in hardness.
The Asscher-Cut White Sapphire Ring in 14K White Gold showcases this unique gemstone simply and beautifully as it places a 6.5mm Asscher-cut white sapphire on a smooth, shining band of 14K white gold. The striking square shape of this gem uses small step-like facets, a flat top and blunted corners to draw the eye to its center and emphasize its dazzle.
White Topaz
As a semiprecious gem, white topaz is one of the most wallet-friendly white stones. Apples of Gold’s collection of white topaz rings contains a wide range of styles, including many rings that utilize the same settings as their diamond rings. For instance, the Engraved Hearts White Topaz Ring features a 6.5mm round white topaz that rises elegantly in a four-prong setting, overlooking a band that’s been carved with graceful little hearts. These designs are offset by petite milgrain edges for an extra touch of elegance.
Moissanite rings feature a white gemstone that’s fairly new in the jewelry world, but that’s making a name for itself for its high refractive index (which allows it to emit bright flashes of light), as well as its high luster. Although this gem was discovered in 1893, it took approximately a century before moissanite jewelry started popping up; however, this gem is poised to grow in popularity. Not only is moissanite dazzling, it’s also nearly as durable and scratch resistant as a diamond.
The Antique Square Moissanite and Sapphire Ring in 14K White Gold pairs this newcomer with a timeless classic gemstone to create a look that’s sure to turn heads. A single 5mm cushion-cut moissanite rises from this ring in a four-prong setting, while 36 small round sapphires accent all visible sides of the band.
White gems are versatile picks for the 4th of July or any day! Check back tomorrow to read the final post in this series and learn about several stunning blue stones.