A mix of colored gemstones in long sterling dangle earrings

Why Choose Colored Gemstones?

Why choose jewelry with colored gemstones? 

The answer that comes to mind first?

Colored gemstones make us happy.

But why is that? And what other reasons are there for choosing jewelry designed with colored gemstones?

  • Consciously or not, the psychology of color is a powerful influence on our responses to the world around us — the colors we wear as well as the colors we live with.
  • Aesthetically and energetically, individuals are drawn to specific colors, and put off or disturbed by others.
  • Personal style and a sense of identity are often expressed by our color selections in fashion and interiors.
  • For some, the spiritual and healing properties of crystals and gemstones are a significant draw in the jewelry they choose to wear.
  • The fact that Mother Nature could create so much beauty is irresistible to some of us! And the rarity of certain colored gemstones adds to the magic.

The psychology of color

When you're hoping to lift your mood on a challenging day, doesn't color give you a boost?

The psychology of color is both personal and biological; while human beings are drawn to bright color as well as to sparkle, individual responses to colors vary. From an early age, associations are formed that connect our five senses to people, places and experiences. Color (of course) is key.

Moreover, studies have shown physiological changes when subjects were exposed to specific colors — reds can elevate the heart rate whereas blues may lower blood pressure.

Seeing red...

Most of us have a favorite color, or possibly two. And some of us – like myself – appreciate and embrace a wide array of colors. Still, I must admit... red tops my list!  

We may love red for its energy, its vitality, or the way the heart seems to beat just a little bit faster when exposed to its richness. And of course, there is red's symbolic association with passion — not to mention a good glass of wine!

Pretty in pink!

I confess to a challenging relationship with pink, and only certain shades appeal to me. But those shades? I’m drawn to them for their traditional nod to femininity, for tenderness that doesn’t sacrifice strength, and of course for their association with love.

Feeling blue?

Most of us feel comfortable and positive when faced with nearly every shade of blue, its broad spectrum of tones known for the ability to instill strength, confidence, contentment and calm.

Perhaps it’s due to the associations with sky and sea.

Mellow yellow...

Yellow tones can be difficult to wear for some of us depending on our complexion, yet a wide range of hues from lemon yellow to golden mustard communicate a sunny disposition, optimism, and individuality.

Citrine is another favorite gemstone from its palest variants to Madeira and brandy tones.

"Orange you glad..."

Bring on the controversy! Poor orange! Some people adore it. Others can't stand it. For some reason it garners both intense positive and intense negative reactions.

For those of us who love orange, we sense openness, a spirit of adventure, and yes, maybe a bit of in-your-face attitude. Gemstones showing off a range of orange tones from fiery to delicate include carnelian, spessartite garnet, sunstone, peach moonstone, and others.

Green with envy

I have always envied my BFF for her hair and complexion that are stunning when she's wearing green. It's a color that can be problematic, even if we love our green gemstones for the sense of tranquility, optimism and harmony we experience.

And the options! Emerald, malachite, jade, chrome diopside... 

Peridot and chrysoprase are among my favorites. Peridot reminds me of a summer day, and chrysoprase makes me want to munch on Granny Smith apples. 

Close up, free form faceted nugget Peridot and Amethyst long dangle earrings, sterling silver

Born to the purple?

Lavenders, lilacs, violets... these encourage some of us to feel flirty and lighthearted. In deep tones, we conjure wealth, power or maybe the Crown Jewels.

Even if we weren't born to privilege (much less royalty), bring on February’s amethyst at any time of year!

Get it in black and white!

Always on point (and not to be forgotten) are the traditional neutrals. From whites and creams to browns, charcoals and blacks, don't they always fit in? Don't they inspire elegance? 

Close-up of a station necklace with pearls, black tourmaline, and larvikite in 14 K gold-fill staple chain.

Your personal style? Your go-to colors? 

If you're anything like me, your style might best be described as eclectic.

You love color. You love its elements of fancy and fantasy.

And you prefer designs that show you (and your gemstone love!) to best advantage.

Spiritual properties

Many believe in the spiritual and healing properties inherent in specific crystals and gemstones. These beliefs have a long history across cultures, and jewelry designers certainly enjoy exploring these elements.

For example:

  • Citrine is thought to boost life force, much like the sun.
  • Garnet is thought to inspire love, passion and regeneration.
  • Labradorite is considered a stone of transformation and intuition.
  • Amethyst is considered to be calming.
  • Apatite is thought to enhance communication, focus, and creativity.
  • Black tourmaline is thought to be grounding.

Whether you choose to wear a pendant on a chain or incorporate your choices in a beaded necklace, bracelet or earrings, say thank you to colored gemstones. They're what make this range of options possible!

Mother Nature is remarkable

Personally, I'm drawn to colored gemstones in part for their rarity, and, simply put, I'm dazzled by Mother Nature’s ability to create so much beauty. 

And beauty, wherever we find it, is an essential gift to the senses and the spirit.  

Jewelry shown above:


Have a question? Feel free to inquire about any jewelry shown in this post.

 

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