Gemstones
Every bespoke piece starts somewhere, and often that journey begins with the gemstone. Browse the diamonds and coloured gemstones currently available, and let their natural beauty inspire a piece designed especially for you
How do I choose the right gemstone?
Choosing a gemstone is a deeply personal decision. The right choice comes down to a balance of durability, colour, budget and personal style.
Consider your lifestyle, how often you'll wear the piece and the type of jewellery you're creating.
A gemstone for an everyday engagement ring may have different requirements to one for a pendant or special occasion piece.
Most importantly, choose a stone with a colour and character speak to you; after all, it's the heart of your design.
Durability
Aesthetics aside, durability is possibly the most important consideration when choosing a gemstone.
Harder gemstones, such as diamonds, sapphires and rubies, are highly resistant to scratching, making them excellent choices for jewellery that will be worn every day, particularly engagement rings and wedding bands.
Softer gemstones aren't necessarily unsuitable—they're simply better suited to different types of jewellery and lifestyles. Stones such as opal, pearl or emerald can make stunning pieces for earrings, pendants or dress rings that are worn for special occasions rather than daily.
That said, hardness is only one part of the equation. Every gemstone has unique characteristics, and factors such as toughness, inclusions and the style of the setting also play a significant role in how well it will wear over time. With thoughtful design, appropriate care and realistic expectations, almost any gemstone can be enjoyed for many years to come.
Clarity
Clarity refers to the natural characteristics found within a gemstone, known as inclusions. These are formed as the gemstone grows deep within the earth and are a natural part of its story.
Some gemstones, such as diamonds, are typically valued for having fewer visible inclusions, while others, such as emeralds, almost always contain natural inclusions and are appreciated for their unique character.
In many cases, these features can even help identify a gemstone as natural.
While inclusions can sometimes affect a gemstone's durability or appearance, many have little impact on its beauty. The key is finding the right balance between clarity, colour, size and budget to choose a gemstone you'll love.
Colour
Colour is often the first thing that draws us to a gemstone.
Some people are naturally drawn to rich, vibrant colours, while others prefer soft, subtle tones.
Consider the colours you wear most often, your skin tone, and whether you want your jewellery to make a bold statement or complement your everyday style.
It's also worth remembering that many gemstones occur in a wide range of colours.
Sapphires, for example, are available in almost every colour of the rainbow, while gemstones such as tourmaline and spinel offer an incredible variety of natural hues.
Taking the time to explore different options can help you discover a gemstone that feels uniquely yours.
Stone Shape/Cut
The shape of a gemstone has a significant impact on the overall look and feel of a piece of jewellery.
From round and oval cuts to emeralds, pears, kites or hexagons, each shape has its own unique character.
Some shapes maximise brilliance, while others showcase a gemstone's colour or create a distinctive silhouette. The right choice often comes down to personal style, as well as the design of the piece itself.
There's no right or wrong shape—only the one that feels right to you. Whether you're drawn to classic cuts or something a little more unconventional, choosing a shape you love is one of the best ways to create a piece that you'll treasure for years to come.
Frequently asked questions
Can you source a gemstone if I don't see one I like?
Yes. The stones shown on the website are only a selection. If you have a particular colour, shape, size or gemstone type in mind, I can source options specifically for your piece.
What gemstone is best for an engagement ring?
Diamonds, sapphires and rubies are generally the best choices for jewellery worn every day because of their durability. Other gemstones can still be used, but may require a little more care depending on their hardness and toughness.
Can I use my own gemstone?
In many cases, yes. Existing or heirloom gemstones can sometimes be incorporated into a new design, although the stone will need to be assessed first to make sure it is suitable for resetting
Why do some gemstones cost more than others?
Price can be influenced by rarity, colour, clarity, cut, size, origin and demand. Two stones of the same type and size can still vary significantly in value.
What is the difference between a natural and lab-grown gemstone?
Natural gemstones form in the earth, while lab-grown stones are created in controlled environments. They can have the same chemical and physical properties, but differ in origin and often in price - different stones may vary.