Embedded Files
What is a Gemstone?
What is a Gemstone?
A gemstone is a mineral crystal that has been cut and polished to reveal its natural beauty—often to be set in fine jewelry. But not all gemstones are minerals. Some, like lapis lazuli (a rock) or pearl (organic), are treasured just as much for their luster, rarity, or symbolism.
While hardness is commonly associated with gemstones, it’s not the only quality that matters. A gem’s color, brilliance, transparency, scarcity, and even cultural meaning all contribute to its appeal. Gemstones can be classified in many ways—by composition, hardness, rarity, or value—but at Golden Eiffel, we group them simply: by the stories they tell.
Our Signature Gemstones
Our Signature Gemstones
At Golden Eiffel, we specialize in a curated selection of timeless, high-value gemstones that have captured hearts for centuries. From the eternal brilliance of diamonds to the fiery depth of rubies, these are the stones we know best—and carry with pride. Each one is chosen not only for its beauty, but also for its craftsmanship potential, heritage, and enduring value.
Diamond
Diamond
Formed from pure carbon, diamond is the hardest known natural material. Its brilliance and durability make it the ultimate symbol of endurance, clarity, and value. Its name comes from the Greek adamas, meaning “unconquerable.” At Golden Eiffel, we explore diamonds in-depth—especially their cut, clarity, and fire—so you can make an informed and personal choice.
Sapphire
Sapphire
Sapphire is part of the corundum family and most known for its deep, royal blue hues. But it comes in almost every color—pink, yellow, green, even orange—known as fancy sapphires. Its hardness, vibrant saturation, and timeless prestige make it one of the most versatile and loved colored gemstones today.
Ruby
Ruby
Ruby is the red variety of corundum, prized for its intense crimson glow. Known as the “King of Gemstones,” ruby symbolizes passion, power, and protection. Fine rubies—especially those with natural, unheated color—are among the most valuable gems in the world.
Emerald
Emerald
Emerald belongs to the beryl family and is adored for its vivid green color and signature inclusions known as jardin (French for garden). With a long royal lineage and a soulful, organic appearance, emeralds are beloved for their elegance, rarity, and symbolic connection to growth and prosperity.
Pearl
Pearls are organic gems formed inside mollusks. Whether classic white, golden, or silvery blue, pearls offer a timeless elegance and gentle glow. They’re also deeply symbolic—linked to wisdom, femininity, and grace. Unlike most gems, pearls are worn as-is, without cutting or faceting.
More Colored Gemstones
From the neon allure of Paraíba tourmaline to the shifting magic of alexandrite, other colored gemstones bring personality, vibrance, and rarity to jewelry in unexpected ways. Learn about jade, cat’s eye, topaz, tanzanite, amethyst, aquamarine, and more in our dedicated More Colored Gemstones page.
Colored Gemstone Certification
Colored Gemstone Certification
Most colored gemstones do not follow a universal grading system the way diamonds do. However, trusted gemological labs—such as Gubelin, GRS, SSEF, or GIA—can certify authenticity, origin, treatments, and other factors. For higher-value gemstones, Golden Eiffel provides or offers certified stones upon request so that you always feel confident about your investment.
Are colored gemstones less valuable than diamonds?
Not necessarily. Some colored gemstones can be rarer and even more expensive than diamonds depending on their quality, size, origin, and demand. Rarity, beauty, and uniqueness all influence a gem’s worth—not just its category.
What's the difference between precious and semi-precious stones?
Traditionally, diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are called “precious” stones due to their historical rarity and high value. All others fall under “semi-precious.” But today, many so-called semi-precious stones—like Paraiba tourmaline or alexandrite—can be just as rare and valuable. The terms are outdated, but still widely used.
Are semi-precious stones less valuable than precious stones?
Not always. While “precious stones” usually refer to diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, some so-called “semi-precious” gems can be just as rare and valuable — even more. Paraiba tourmalines, for instance, are known for their vivid neon glow and can cost more than diamonds. Fine orange garnets, like spessartites, are also highly sought-after by collectors. At Golden Eiffel, we value gemstones based on their quality, rarity, and beauty — not just their label.
Google Sites
Report abuse