No products in the cart.
Your Gemstone Guide
Every engagement ring by A Star Diamonds has a story—and the gemstone is a big part of it. From rare and colourful stones to timeless classics, each gem has its own meaning, beauty, and care needs. Whether you’re drawn to bold colours or soft sparkle, this guide helps you learn a little more about what makes each stone special, so you can choose the one that feels right for you.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a rare and fascinating gemstone, best known for its unique colour-changing ability. It was named after Russian Tsar Alexander II, as it was discovered in 1830 near the Tokovaya River in Russia, reportedly on the day of his birthday.
By daylight, an alexandrite engagement ring appears an emerald green, but under incandescent or artificial light, it shifts to a deep purplish-red — often described as ruby-like. This dramatic colour change makes it one of the most intriguing gemstones available. Due to its rarity, especially in larger sizes, alexandrite can be quite valuable.
Alexandrite is a durable stone, making it suitable for everyday jewellery like rings or pendants. Most stones are brilliant-cut to enhance their sparkle and showcase the stunning colour shift. While originally found in Russia, deposits have also been discovered in Sri Lanka, Brazil, and East Africa.
Alexandrite Care
Alexandrite is tough, but it still needs gentle care to keep it looking its best. Store it in a soft pouch or a jewellery box so it doesn’t scratch other pieces. Avoid using soap, bleach, or strong cleaning products, as they can dull the stone. The best way to clean it is with lukewarm water and a soft cloth.
Amethyst
Amethyst has been a treasured gemstone for centuries. Its name comes from the ancient Greek word amethustos, meaning “not intoxicated,” as it was believed to prevent drunkenness when worn. This beautiful purple gem is found in countries like Brazil, Russia, and Madagascar, often within igneous and metamorphic rocks. Interestingly, experts can often tell where a particular stone is from based on its unique appearance.
Historically, amethyst was exchanged between lovers as a symbol of commitment. In Feng Shui, it’s believed to enhance personal power and bring wealth to its owner. Today, it’s also popular in natural healing, said to offer physical and emotional cleansing.
It’s loved for its range of rich purple shades — from soft lilac to deep mauve — and the deeper the colour, the more valuable the gem. Amethyst engagement ring by A Star Diamonds is the birthstone for February and the traditional gift for a 6th wedding anniversary.
Amethyst Care
Amethyst is durable but needs a little care to stay at its best. Store it in a soft pouch or jewellery box to avoid scratches. Avoid soap, bleach, or strong cleaners, as they can dull the stone over time. To clean it, rinse gently with lukewarm water and dry with a soft cloth.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine, named after the Latin word for seawater, mirrors the clear blue hues of the ocean. Found in countries like Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States, aquamarine can range in color from pale blue to deeper blue-green shades. The more intense the blue, the more valuable the stone, with heat treatment often used to enhance its color and clarity. In ancient times, it was known as the “sailor’s gem,” believed to protect sailors and prevent seasickness.
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and a traditional gem for 16th and 19th wedding anniversaries. Its most popular cuts are emerald, oval, and pear shapes, which highlight its stunning clarity. If you’re looking for a stunning engagement ring by A Star Diamonds, aquamarine is a unique and timeless option.
Aquamarine Care
While aquamarine is durable, it requires some care to maintain its beauty. Store it in a soft pouch to avoid scratches. Avoid using soap, bleach, or harsh chemicals — simply rinse with lukewarm water and dry with a soft cloth to keep it looking like new.
Citrine
Citrine, named after the French word for lemon (“citron”), is a radiant yellow gemstone. Most citrine is heat-treated to enhance its natural color, ranging from bright yellow to deep orange-brown hues. It’s a member of the quartz family, with the presence of iron giving it its vibrant color. Darker shades are typically more valuable. Citrine is popular for its affordability, durability, and range of shapes, making it one of the top-selling yellow to orange gems.
Found mostly in Brazil, citrine can also be sourced from Spain, Madagascar, and France. When combined with amethyst or smoky quartz, it forms a bi-colored gem called Ametrine. Citrine is tough enough for daily wear, making it perfect for rings or pendants.
Citrine is the birthstone for November and the traditional gem for the 13th wedding anniversary. It’s said to bring energy, good fortune, and positivity.
Citrine Care
Citrine is durable but should be treated with care. Store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to avoid scratches. Avoid harsh chemicals or soaps that could dull the stone. Clean it with lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Citrine is sensitive to light and heat, so avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, as it may cause the color to fade.
Cubic Zirconia
Cubic Zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic gemstone that closely resembles the brilliance of diamonds. First discovered in 1892, it was later produced synthetically in 1977. Known for its flawless clarity, CZ is an affordable alternative to diamonds and is often used in various jewelry pieces, including engagement rings by A Star Diamonds.
Although CZ is durable for everyday wear, it is softer than diamonds and may scratch over time. CZ is heavier than diamonds, and while it looks similar to a diamond, it can be identified due to its different thermal properties. CZ is available in a wide range of colors, such as pink, blue, green, and red, making it a versatile option for fashionable jewelry.
Cubic Zirconia Care
Cubic Zirconia is durable, but it still requires proper care to maintain its shine. Store CZ jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches and damage. To clean it, simply rinse with water and dry using a soft cloth. For the best care, avoid harsh chemicals and ensure that it’s kept away from rough surfaces to prevent scratches.
Diamond
Diamonds have been treasured for centuries, first discovered in India in the 4th century BC. Today, they are mined in countries like Ghana, Australia, and the USA. Formed deep beneath the earth’s surface, diamonds are brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Known for their unmatched sparkle and strength, diamonds are a symbol of love, often used in engagement rings by A Star Diamonds.
Diamonds are typically clear with a slight yellow tint, caused by nitrogen during formation. Rare diamonds, known as “fancies,” come in colors such as yellow, brown, pink, and blue. Each diamond is unique, with natural inclusions that distinguish it, much like fingerprints.
Diamonds are certified by gemological institutes, which provide an identification report detailing the diamond’s characteristics, including the 4Cs (Colour, Carat, Cut, and Clarity). These certifications ensure the diamond’s authenticity and quality.
Diamond Care
To maintain your diamond’s brilliance, remove it when applying skin oils, soaps, or cosmetics. Clean your diamond with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid wearing diamond jewelry during strenuous activities to prevent chipping. Store your diamonds separately to prevent scratches. Never let your diamond come into contact with chlorine bleach, as it can damage the setting. Annual checkups at a local jeweler are recommended to ensure your diamond remains secure.
Emerald
The name “emerald” comes from the Greek word smaragdus, meaning “green.” First mined in Egypt around 1500 BC, emeralds are now most commonly sourced from Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil, with nearly 50% of the world’s supply coming from Colombia. Jaipur is one of the largest emerald cutting centers in the world. The deep, rich green color is what makes emeralds highly valued, and it is often associated with Venus, the Roman goddess of love.
Emeralds are naturally included, which makes them unique but also more challenging to cut and set. To improve clarity and color, emeralds are typically oiled. The rarer, higher-quality emeralds can be more expensive than diamonds. Emeralds symbolize loyalty, faithfulness, and friendship, making them a popular choice for both classic and contemporary jewelry, including engagement rings by A Star Diamonds. As the birthstone for May, emeralds are also traditionally given for 55th wedding anniversaries.
Emerald Care
Emeralds are delicate gemstones and are prone to scratching, damage, and erosion. To keep them looking their best, store emerald jewelry in a soft pouch or box to prevent damage. Clean it with water and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh cleaning solutions, ultrasonic cleaners, and exposure to chemicals like bleach or chlorine, as they can damage the stone.
Garnet
The name “garnet” comes from the Latin word granatus, meaning “seed-like,” as its color resembles pomegranate seeds. Found worldwide, garnets are most commonly deep red but come in a variety of colors including brown, orange, yellow, purple, green, and black. This durable gem has a glassy luster and can be cut into any shape, with no artificial treatments.
Garnets have been valued since ancient Egypt, where they symbolized life and eternity. Today, they are known for representing healing, faith, and trust, making them an ideal choice for an engagement ring by A Star Diamonds or an eternity ring. Garnet is the birthstone for January and is also associated with the 2nd wedding anniversary.
Garnet Care
Though garnets are hard, they can be brittle. To maintain their beauty, remove garnet jewelry before engaging in physical activities to avoid hard knocks. Store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches. Avoid soap, liquid cleaners, and harsh chemicals like bleach or chlorine. To clean, rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth.
Morganite
Morganite is a stunning pink gemstone that belongs to the beryl family, alongside emerald and aquamarine. Though it has existed for over 4 billion years, it was only discovered in 1911 and is named after the American banker J.P. Morgan. Found in Thailand, Madagascar, the USA, and Brazil (which produces the purest form), its color ranges from soft pinks and peaches to vibrant rose and violet hues, with darker shades being rarer and more valuable. The gem’s appealing color is created by traces of manganese, and it often displays a clean, shiny surface with few inclusions. Some morganites, however, may contain gas bubbles. Due to its dichroic nature, morganite can reveal different colors when viewed from various angles, further enhancing its charm.
A perfect choice for an engagement ring by A Star Diamonds, morganite’s soft, feminine tones beautifully complement rose gold and white gold settings. Spiritually, it’s believed to balance health and life while promoting universal love, revealing one’s inner strength and beauty.
Morganite Care
While morganite is relatively durable, it requires special care to maintain its brilliance. Store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to avoid scratches. Avoid soap, liquid cleaners, or harsh chemicals like bleach and chlorine, as these can dull the stone. To clean morganite, rinse it gently with water and dry with a soft cloth. Ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided, and morganite is sensitive to high temperatures, so sudden temperature changes should be kept to a minimum. When having morganite jewelry repaired, take extra care, as the gemstone is sensitive to excessive heat. It’s best to remove the gem before any metal work is done.
Opal
Opals, first discovered around 250 BC and later in Australian mines in the 1880s, are known for their captivating play of colors. Derived from the Latin “opalus,” meaning “gemstone of many colors,” opals are primarily mined in Australia, which produces 95% of the world’s supply.
With their milky base and rainbow-like colors, opals are often likened to volcanoes and galaxies. Formed when rain seeps through rocks, leaving behind hardened silica, opals have been cherished for centuries, even being favored by Queen Victoria. Though beautiful, opals are delicate and should be handled with care, especially in rings, as they are prone to damage from everyday knocks. However, they pair beautifully with yellow gold, enhancing their natural elegance.
Opals are believed to foster imagination, wisdom, hope, and confidence, making them a perfect choice for meaningful jewelry like engagement rings by A Star Diamonds. Opals are also the birthstone for October.
Opal Care
As a soft gemstone, opals require special care. Store them in a soft pouch to prevent scratching. Clean gently with water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners, chemicals, or environments with low humidity, as these can damage the stone. When not wearing opals, store them in a humid environment like a bathroom to prevent cracking.
Onyx
Onyx, a member of the quartz family, is primarily mined in Brazil, India, California, and Uruguay. While naturally rare in black, onyx is often treated to enhance its vibrant color, typically through a process involving sugar solutions and sulfuric acid. The name “onyx” comes from the Greek word for “fingernail,” reflecting its smooth, sleek appearance. This gemstone is mostly free from inclusions and often features striking black hues with white stripes.
Onyx is popular for its minimalist, contemporary look and is commonly used in rings, pendants, brooches, and beads. Its bold appearance contrasts beautifully with yellow gold, while its sleek finish pairs well with silver for an art deco style. Perfect for engagement rings by A Star Diamonds, onyx can symbolize strength, alleviate worries, and promote stamina. It is also the birthstone for December and is a popular choice for the 7th wedding anniversary.
Onyx Care
Though onyx is durable, it requires special care to maintain its beauty. Store your onyx jewelry in a soft pouch to avoid scratches and damage. Avoid soap, liquid cleaners, and harsh chemicals like bleach or chlorine, as these can dull the stone. Clean with water and a soft cloth, and never use ultrasonic cleaners on onyx.
Pearl
Found in seas and rivers worldwide, pearls are the only gems created by living animals. Formed inside oysters and mussels, a shiny substance called nacre forms around an irritant, eventually creating a pearl over 8–9 years. Pearls come in hues like white, pink, and black, with larger, perfectly symmetrical ones being the most valuable. Cultured pearls, introduced in 1893, are manmade, with shells intentionally seeded in factories.
Pearls are used in engagement rings by A Star Diamonds and other jewelry, from necklaces to earrings. The most notable types include Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea, and freshwater pearls. Pearls are the birthstone for June and symbolize peace and nobility.
Pearl Care
Pearls are delicate and should be stored in a soft pouch to avoid scratches. Clean with water and a soft cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals. When dressing, wear pearls last to protect them from cosmetics like perfume. Periodic restringing may be necessary.
Peridot
Peridot, derived from the Arabic word “faridat,” meaning “gem,” is a striking green gemstone that has been cherished for over 4,000 years, with its first use dating back to ancient Egypt. Formed by the presence of iron, it is typically found in volcanic rocks, and its unique green color can sometimes have yellow or brownish tints. Unlike other gemstones, peridot is never artificially treated to enhance its color, but some glass imitations exist.
Historically, the Romans referred to peridot as the “evening emerald” for its vivid green hue that sparkles even in low light. Known for its symbolism of peace, good luck, and success, peridot is believed to have healing properties. It is the birthstone for August and is a popular choice for the 15th wedding anniversary.
In engagement rings by A Star Diamonds, peridot offers a vibrant, affordable alternative to traditional gemstones, especially when you want something unique and striking. Its soft nature means that special care is needed when setting it in jewelry.
Peridot Care
Due to its relative softness, peridot should be stored in a soft pouch or separate jewelry box to avoid scratches. Clean gently with warm water and a soft cloth, and avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam. Peridot jewelry should be removed before engaging in physical activities to prevent unnecessary damage.
Quartz
Quartz, derived from the German word “quartz” meaning “hard,” is one of the most common and important minerals on Earth. It makes up a variety of well-known gemstones, including amethyst, citrine, rose quartz, agate, and onyx. Composed of silicon and oxygen, quartz is found in many countries, with Brazil, Madagascar, India, and the U.S. being the top producers. Quartz can range from transparent to opaque, and the more vibrant the color, the more valuable the gemstone becomes.
In quartz engagement rings by A Star Diamonds, quartz gems are appreciated for their durability, stunning appearance, and affordability. Transparent quartz, which allows light to pass through beautifully, is especially prized for its glow and brilliance. While opaque quartz varieties are often used in cabochon cuts for necklaces and bracelets, transparent quartz is often cut into brilliant rounds to maximize its vibrant colors.
Quartz is also known for its spiritual properties, believed to attract positive energy and offer healing. It is the perfect gemstone for those seeking both beauty and meaning in their engagement ring.
Quartz Care
Quartz is durable but should still be treated with care. Store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches and damage. Avoid using soap or liquid cleaners as they can dull the stone’s shine. Harsh chemicals like bleach or chlorine should also be avoided, as they may erode the stone. Clean quartz with water and a soft cloth for the best results.
Ruby
Ruby, historically from Burma (now Myanmar), has been valued since the 6th century. The Mogok mines, known for producing the highest quality rubies, are now part of Myanmar’s heritage. Today, Sri Lanka and Thailand are key sources. Part of the corundum family, rubies come in various shades of red, pink, and purplish tones, with heat treatments enhancing their color.
In ruby engagement rings by A Star Diamonds, ruby symbolizes passion and love, making it a perfect romantic choice. Known as the “king of precious stones,” rubies are rare, especially those over 1 carat, which increases their value significantly. Traditionally set in yellow gold, rubies now pair beautifully with white gold and platinum for a modern look.
Ruby is the birthstone for July and marks the 40th and 80th wedding anniversaries.
Ruby Care
Although tough and durable, rubies require care to maintain their brilliance. Store in a soft pouch or box to avoid scratching, and avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or chlorine. Clean rubies with water and a soft cloth to preserve their shine.
Sapphire
Sapphires, first discovered in the U.S. in 1865, are now mined in Cambodia, Thailand, and India, with the most famous regions being Kashmir, Burma, and Sri Lanka. Known for their rich blue hue, sapphires can also come in other colors, including pink, yellow, and green. The deeper the blue, the more valuable the sapphire becomes.
In sapphire engagement rings by A Star Diamonds, sapphires are treasured for their durability, making them ideal for daily wear. As one of the hardest gemstones, sapphire is perfect for an active lifestyle. Most sapphires undergo heat treatment to enhance their color and clarity, which is a standard practice.
Sapphire is the birthstone for September and symbolizes serenity and loyalty, making it a perfect “something blue” for brides. It also marks the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries.
Sapphire Care
Though durable, sapphire requires care to maintain its brilliance. Store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches. Avoid harsh chemicals, detergents, or ultrasonic cleaners. Clean sapphires with water and a soft cloth.
Tanzanite
Discovered in 1967 and found only in Tanzania, tanzanite is a rare and captivating gem from the zoisite family. Its vibrant blue with violet undertones makes it the second most popular blue gemstone after sapphire. Tanzanite’s colour can shift depending on the angle viewed (pleochroism), and heat treatment is often used to enhance its blue tone.
Though softer than many gemstones, tanzanite can be worn daily with care. It’s most commonly cut into ovals or cushion shapes to preserve carat weight. High-grade stones are typically set in gold or platinum, giving them a luxurious finish.
Tanzanite is a birthstone for December and marks the 24th wedding anniversary—ideal for meaningful gifts and standout engagement rings.
Tanzanite Care
Store in a soft pouch or box, and avoid exposure to sunlight, harsh chemicals, and temperature changes. Clean gently with water and a soft cloth—no ultrasonic cleaners or strong detergents.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline was first mistaken for emerald when found in Brazil in the 1500s, but by the 1800s it was recognised as its own gem. Its name comes from the Sri Lankan word for “mixed gems” – fitting for a stone available in vibrant greens, reds, pinks, and even two-tone styles like the rare watermelon tourmaline.
Tourmaline’s versatility makes it perfect for standout engagement rings. It’s often heat-treated to enhance colour—especially green and blue shades—so always buy from a trusted jeweller. It’s also dichroic, meaning it can show different colours from different angles.
As the birthstone for October and a symbol of the 8th wedding anniversary, tourmaline represents strength of mind and spirit.
Tourmaline Care
Store in a soft pouch or box, away from other jewellery. Avoid harsh cleaners and chemicals. Clean gently with water and a soft cloth, and protect it from sudden temperature changes to prevent damage.
Topaz
Derived from the Sanskrit word “tapas” meaning fire, Topaz is known for its strength and radiant beauty. Found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Australia, it’s a durable gemstone perfect for everyday wear, often cut into various stylish shapes.
Topaz comes in light blues, yellows, and clear tones—with yellowish-brown hues being the rarest and most valuable. It symbolises loyalty, strength, and friendship, making it a meaningful choice for unique and expressive engagement rings.
Topaz is the birthstone for November and was once believed to have healing powers in the Middle Ages.
Topaz Care
Store in a soft pouch or box to avoid scratches. Avoid soaps, chemicals, and harsh cleaners. Gently rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth to maintain its shine.
