If you're on the hunt for a breathtaking gemstone—whether for an engagement ring or a special piece of jewelry—you've probably come across the "Big Four": diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. 

These stones have captivated hearts for centuries, and each one carries its own unique charm and story. So, let’s dive into what makes these precious gems so special.

Diamond – The Sheer Stunner

Diamonds are often hailed as the ultimate gemstone, and for good reason. With unmatched brilliance and toughness (it’s literally the hardest substance on Earth), a diamond is the go-to choice for those who want a classic, sparkling centerpiece.

Why are diamonds so special?

• Their name comes from the Greek word adámas, meaning “unbreakable.”

• They reflect light like no other stone, creating that iconic sparkle we all love.

What to look for in a diamond?
The 4Cs—Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color—are the golden rules when choosing a diamond. These determine its beauty, quality, and value.

Which metal pairs best?
Diamonds shine beautifully in all metal settings, from classic yellow gold to sleek platinum.

Fun Fact:
Diamond is the birthstone for April and the symbol of both the tenth and sixtieth wedding anniversaries!

If diamonds are all about brilliance, rubies are about passion. With their deep red hue, rubies are often linked to love, courage, and energy. It’s no surprise they’re considered one of the most romantic gemstones.

What makes rubies stand out?

• They belong to the corundum family, just like sapphires.

• High-quality rubies can be more expensive per carat than diamonds!

How to spot a great ruby?
Fine rubies have a rich red hue and contain thin inclusions called “silk,” which scatter light beautifully across the stone.

Best metal pairings?
Rubies pop against white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and even platinum.

Fun Fact:
Ruby is the birthstone for July and is associated with the fifteenth and fortieth wedding anniversaries.

If you love the color green, emeralds are your best bet. Symbolizing renewal and hope, emeralds have been a favorite among royalty for centuries—Cleopatra was a known emerald enthusiast!

What makes emeralds unique?

• They have a deep, rich green shade that no other stone can replicate.

• Emeralds often contain intricate inclusions known as “jardin” (French for “garden”), which add to their natural beauty.

Why are emeralds tricky to cut?
Due to their inclusions, emeralds are delicate and require a special rectangular or square cut—hence the name "emerald cut."

Which metal complements emeralds?
Emeralds pair beautifully with yellow gold, but they also shine in white gold and platinum.

Fun Fact:
Emerald is the birthstone for May and represents the twentieth and thirty-fifth wedding anniversaries.

Sapphires are best known for their deep blue color, but did you know they come in almost every shade except red? (Fun fact: a red sapphire is actually a ruby!)

Why do people love sapphires?

• They symbolize wisdom, truth, and justice.

• The most famous sapphire engagement ring? The one worn by Princess Diana, now owned by Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.

Not all sapphires are blue!
Fancy sapphires come in pink, yellow, green, and even black!

Best metal choices?
Sapphires look stunning in white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum.

Fun Fact:
Sapphire is the birthstone for September and is associated with the fifth and forty-fifth wedding anniversaries.

Whether you’re drawn to the timeless sparkle of a diamond, the fiery passion of a ruby, the rich green allure of an emerald, or the royal elegance of a sapphire, each of these precious stones tells a story.

When choosing your perfect gem, go with what speaks to you—it’s all about personal style and meaning!