WHAT ARE GEMSTONES
Gemstones are naturally formed minerals prized for their beauty, rarity, and colour. From timeless diamonds to vibrant sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and tanzanite, each gemstone is unique and carries its own character.
At Mason Carter, we carefully assess the cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight of every gemstone to help guide you toward the right choice for your design and budget. Every detail — from the gemstone itself to the setting style and precious metal selected — is thoughtfully considered to create a piece that feels balanced, refined, and beautifully individual.
Whether chosen for sentiment, symbolism, or simply their striking appearance, gemstones offer endless possibilities for bespoke jewellery design. Explore our world of gemstones below or speak with our team about creating something truly personal.
GEMSTONE VARIETIES
SAPPHIRES
Celebrated for their rich colour and remarkable durability, sapphires are among the most sought-after gemstones in fine jewellery.
While deep royal blue sapphires are the most iconic, sapphires naturally occur in a wide spectrum of colours — including soft pinks, vivid yellows, greens, oranges, and delicate pastel tones.
A variety of the mineral corundum, sapphires are valued for their strength, brilliance, and timeless appeal.
Birthstone: September
EMERALDS
Emeralds are treasured for their rich green colour and distinctive natural character.
A variety of the mineral beryl, the finest emeralds display vivid, balanced green tones with remarkable depth and life within the stone.
Favoured for centuries by royalty and collectors alike, emeralds are admired for their individuality and timeless elegance.
Traditionally cut in the iconic emerald cut — designed to showcase the stone’s colour and minimise pressure during setting — emeralds bring sophistication, colour, and refined character to bespoke jewellery designs.
Birthstone: May
RUBIES
Bold, vibrant, and timeless, rubies are prized for their rich red colour and striking intensity.
A variety of the mineral corundum, rubies gain their signature red hue from traces of chromium within the stone.
Long associated with passion, strength, and prestige, fine rubies have been treasured for centuries for their depth of colour and natural beauty.
When featured in a bespoke engagement ring or an heirloom-inspired design, rubies bring warmth, character, and enduring elegance to fine jewellery.
Birthstone: July
TANZANITE
Found exclusively in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, tanzanite is admired for its striking blue-violet colour and distinctive character.
Depending on the light and angle, the gemstone can reveal subtle flashes of indigo, lavender, and violet, giving it remarkable depth and movement.
Highly regarded for its vivid colour and elegant appearance, tanzanite offers a sophisticated alternative to more traditional gemstones.
Whether selected for a bespoke engagement ring or a statement piece, its unique tones create jewellery that feels both contemporary and timeless.
Birthstone: December
