After a long winter of white wonders, spring bursts forth with new life, warm breezes and wonderful colors. The skies are bluer, the grass buds green and flowers of all sorts stand vigil in gardens everywhere.
As color pervades our surroundings, it also - thankfully - plays a grand role in our fashions and jewelry. Pink is perhaps the strongest color this spring, followed by multi-shades of blue, yellow and orange. These colors are translated into jewelry with the help of such luscious stones as pink sapphire, pink tourmaline, aquamarine, blue sapphire, tanzanite, orange sapphire, citrine and even mandarin garnet.
Pink sapphires, and orange sapphires, as well, are fancier friends of the classic blue sapphire and offer pastel perfection thanks to their pale, yet vibrant, hue. Similarly, pink tourmaline is enticing with its clarity and bright pink color.
Blue topaz and aquamarine are classic favorites due to the subtle pale blue shades that emulate the sky or the azure sea. In bright contrast, citrine and mandarin garnet reflect the sun with brilliant hues of yellow and orange. Another favorite this season, and an affordable alternative, is the moonstone, which comes in a host of pastel hues with a milky, hazy allure.
Interestingly, sapphires are believed to have protective powers, while aquamarine is believed to offer a soothing and intuitive sense to its wearers. Citrine is believed to have magical powers and the moonstone is thought to be endowed with mystical, heavenly graces.
These springtime gems can be found set in the most magnificently stunning rings, earrings and necklaces that are, coincidentally, just in time for Mother's Day.
Rings are a particular favorite this season with larger center stones of bright hues. Cuts range from multi-faceted fancies, squares and rounds, to bold cabochons that subtly entice with their smooth roundness. Other very feminine motifs in rings this season include florals, where often the gold of the petal design is set with gemstones to act as the flower. These are frequently more surreal in design, offering a flowing, curvaceous appeal.
Necklaces with floral motifs, center-stone designs and even lariat-like gold and gemstone styles steal the limelight. They don't have to be large, just colorful and enticing. Earrings are stiletto-style this season, with drops of color dangling from long leads of gold and making for an alluring look. Indeed, the colors of the season make the jewelry of the season. So, for a breath of fresh air, stop by and witness spring's bounty.
Graduate Gemologist, GIA
Certified Appraiser