Coloured Gemstone Guide

Coloured gemstones can be an excellent alternative to diamonds as they add vibrancy and character to your jewellery. Many factors will determine the value of a gemstone, so it is essential to be informed before making a purchase.

Jump to:
  • What type of gemstones can I find at Dazzle Diamonds?
  • What should I look for when purchasing gemstones?
  • Our Promises

What type of gemstones can I find at Dazzle Diamonds?

Sapphires

A symbol of wisdom, sincerity and trust, sapphires have been a prized and beloved gift among royals. Today, this stunning blue coloured gem is extremely sought-after and represents a stable long-term investment.

Blue sapphire gemstone

Sapphires are almost as hard as diamonds – an ideal option if you intend to wear your jewellery on a daily basis. They are the second most chosen gemstone after diamonds for engagement rings… Birthstone: September.

Rubies

Considered the “gem of gems”, the ruby is the most prized gemstone of all. Its extreme rarity makes it a jewel of unparalleled value.

Ruby gemstone

With its intense, fiery red colour, ruby has symbolised passion and love for centuries. Durable for everyday wear. Birthstone: July.

Emeralds

Celebrated for their intense green colour, emeralds symbolise peace, hope and new beginnings.

Emerald gemstone

Often cut rectangular for durability. Birthstone: May.

What should I look for when purchasing gemstones?

Intensity of colour
The main driver of value. The most sought-after intensity is Vivid for optimal tone/saturation balance.

Ruby colour intensity scale

Unlike diamonds, there is no single global colour grading for gems. We use ICL’s levels:

  • Dark, Deep, Vivid, Intense, Medium Intense

Sapphires also use Light and Very Light.

Sapphire colour intensity scale

Carat
1 ct = 0.2 g. Larger stones are rarer and can price exponentially (e.g., 10 ct ruby vs 1 ct).

Clarity
ICL is based on what’s visible to the naked eye.

Gemstone clarity scale
  • EC1–EC2: Eye Clean
  • VI1–VI2: Visible inclusions (slight)
  • I1–I2: Included (obvious)

Origin
Inclusions can indicate origin (e.g., Kashmir sapphire, Burmese ruby) which impacts value.

Treatment
Most gems are routinely heated to enhance colour/clarity. We avoid abrasive methods that weaken stones (e.g., lead glass, cobalt/beryllium/titanium diffusion).

Gemstone treatment overview

Shape
Personal preference (Round, Oval, Cushion, Pear). We also offer Rectangle (Octagon, Fancy Octagon, Baguette), Square (Princess, Asscher), and Other (Kite, Trilliant, Shield, Tapered Baguette). Emeralds are often rectangular for durability.

Cost
Colour, clarity, origin, treatment, and carat weight determine price. Decide your priorities and align with budget.

Our Promises

Responsible Gemstone Sourcing

The majority of gems come from artisanal mining. We’re mapping our supply chain and collaborating with suppliers to improve practices and traceability.

Individual Certification

We work with the ICL and respected labs (GIA, AGL, Lotus, PGL, GRS, Thai Lab, LGL). Certificates include colour/clarity (as graded), carat, and origin.

High-quality Photographs and Visuals

We provide high-quality photos and 360° views for each stone to support confident decisions.