Semi-Precious Stones

Valued for their healing properties, rarity or mere beauty, gemstones have been treasured since the dawn of time. Different stones were endowed with different and sometimes overlapping attributes such as strength, valour and spiritual healing. This is how they came to be used in jewellery and have been used ever since to fabulous effect. In this new category, we are pleased to present an amazing selection of semi-precious gemstones that we have carefully selected from suppliers around the world.

These are just a few of the many popular semi-precious stones...

Amazonite

Amazonite is a variety of feldspar, the most common mineral within the Earth's crust. Feldspar is a complex family of related minerals that includes many colourful and useful stones. Amazonite is one of the most easily identified members of its characeristic blue-green colour.

The mineral name for Amazonite is microcline. Amazonite crystals are easy to identify, forming flat, columnar prisms that are clearly bounded, substantial-looking and often intergrown.

A popular semi precious gemstone, amazonite is commonly used for cabochons and beads.

Amethyst

Amethyst is a common variety of quartz. It grows in geodes - crystal-filled spherical cavities that are found within volcanic rock. Despite its popularity, amethyst is classed as semi-precious because of its rarity of gem-quality stones.Carnelian

Carnelian is a variety of quartz known as Chalcedony. It ranges in colour from a clear light orange red to a dark orange brown. Carnelian appears in many ancient mythologies and has been used extensively in jewellery making. This semi-precious stone was most prominent in Egyptian culture where the Egyptian goddess Isis is said to have protected the dead with a Carnelian Amulet named Thet. Carnelian is linked with warmth, sociability, memory, self-esteem and creativity.

Coral

If you love bright colours, then coral is the perfect gem for you. Available in colours from pinkish red to a deep blood red, coral beads are sure to catch the eye. Coral is a mysterious gem that has been attributed magical powers to it by many civilisations. The Greeks and Romans were particularly fascinated by corals which they used to adorn rings, caskets and tiaras.

Unlike other gemstone beads, coral is obtained from organic material: coral reefs. Only living coral is naturally red and because coral is protected by environmental law, it is no longer harvested while living. This is why almost all coral beads on the market today, including ours, get their colour from being dyed. 

Coral gemstones are given to celebrate the 35th wedding anniversary. Corals are known to have an effect on the lungs and digestion system as well as the blood circulation. As for spiritual healing it is said to build a strong emotional foundation and give wisdom.

Hematite

Hematite is a common mineral forming in igneous rock from iron-rich water. Crystals are uncommon: more often, hematite forms kidney-shaped masses.

Jade

Jade is the stone of fidelity. This gemstone is known to bring long life and wealth as well as an emotional and physical well-being.
In Ancient China, it was known for its healing properties on lungs, the immune system, kidneys and blood detoxification.

Lapis Lazuli

Coming from the Spanish "lapis" meaning pencil, it is the gemstone for the 9th wedding anniversary. This gemstone is said to help eliminate negative feelings and increase inner vision.

Onyx

Onyx is a precious-looking, affordable gemstone. It is often mixed with mother of pearl beads to create elegant and sophisticated pieces of jewellery. It comes from the Greek "onyx" meaning "veined gem".

Black Onyx is the gemstone given to celebrate the 10th wedding anniversary.  

Should one suffer from a weak heart, kidneys, hair, eyes and nails, Onyx gemstones are known to strengthen them. This gemstone is also said to help eliminate apathy, stress and neurological disorders. On a spiritual level, onyx is said to bring inspiration and help one to hold emotions and passions under control as well as to change habits.

Turquoise

Turquoise was traded in Europe via Turkey and that is believed to be the origin of its name derived from the word 'Turkish' in French. The most sought after Turquoise is the sky-blue turquoise mined in Persia (now Iran). The distinctive blue colour comes from copper and iron traces. However Turquoise can also be green or yellow.

Turquoise is given to celebrate the 5th wedding anniversary and is the birthstone of the astrological sign Aquarius.

It is known to protect against all diseases and life hazards. As a spiritual stone, it brings good fortune and happiness.