Diamonds may be forever, but colored gemstones have a magic all their own. Among the most iconic are the “Big Three” gemstones — sapphire, emerald, and ruby. Coveted for their vivid colors, rich histories, and timeless symbolism, these gems have adorned royalty, inspired legends, and captured hearts for centuries.
If you’re considering a gemstone ring, pendant, or anniversary band, understanding what makes these three stones so special can help you choose the right piece for your story.
Sapphire: The Stone of Wisdom and Loyalty
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History & Legacy: Sapphires have been treasured since ancient times for their association with wisdom and divine protection. They’ve graced royal jewelry, from medieval kings to Princess Diana’s famous sapphire engagement ring (now worn by Kate Middleton).
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Colors: While most famous in deep royal blue, sapphires also occur in pink, yellow, green, and even rare “Padparadscha” orange-pink hues.
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Symbolism: Represents wisdom, loyalty, and truth — making it a meaningful choice for engagements and anniversaries.
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Buying Tips:
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Look for rich, saturated color — not too dark or too light.
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Clarity matters less than vibrancy; inclusions are common in natural sapphires.
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Popular in engagement rings, stackable bands, and station necklaces.
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👉 Featured Style: Sapphire Station Necklace — a modern way to wear the September birthstone.
Emerald: The Gem of Renewal and Love
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History & Legacy: Beloved by Cleopatra and revered by ancient civilizations, emeralds have long symbolized fertility, rebirth, and eternal youth. They remain one of the most prized gems in fine jewelry today.
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Colors: The finest emeralds have a lush green hue with vivid saturation. Slight bluish-green undertones are common and highly valued.
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Symbolism: Represents growth, renewal, and everlasting love — perfect for anniversaries and milestone celebrations.
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Buying Tips:
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Emeralds often have “jardin” inclusions (natural internal features). Eye-clean stones are rare and valuable.
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Because emeralds are softer than sapphires or rubies, choose protective settings (bezel or halo).
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Popular in cocktail rings, eternity bands, and statement pendants.
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👉 Featured Style: Stack an emerald 9-stone band with your engagement ring for a bold, colorful statement.
Ruby: The Stone of Passion and Power
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History & Legacy: Known as the “king of gemstones,” rubies have symbolized passion, power, and prosperity for centuries. In many cultures, rubies were believed to protect warriors and bring success in love.
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Colors: Rubies range from pinkish-red to deep crimson, with the rare “pigeon blood” red considered the most valuable.
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Symbolism: Represents passion, courage, and enduring love — a favorite for milestone anniversaries.
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Buying Tips:
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Look for vivid, even red color without being too dark.
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Fine rubies above one carat are rare and command premium value.
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Ideal in three-stone rings, halo pendants, and anniversary bands.
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👉 Featured Style: A ruby and diamond cocktail ring makes a striking anniversary gift.
Ruby vs. Sapphire: What’s the Difference?
Though both belong to the corundum family of minerals:
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Sapphires come in a spectrum of colors (blue being most prized).
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Rubies are exclusively red — if the color isn’t red enough, the gem is classified as a sapphire instead.
👉 If you’re drawn to bold red, choose ruby. If you prefer versatility, sapphire offers endless options.
Buying Colored Gemstone Jewelry: Milano’s Tips
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Prioritize Color: Vibrancy and saturation matter most.
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Expect Inclusions: Especially in emeralds, they’re natural and part of the stone’s character.
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Choose the Right Setting: Protect softer gems (emeralds) with halos or bezels.
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Work with Experts: Trust jewelers who source responsibly and provide full transparency.
Explore Colored Gemstone Jewelry with Milano
From sapphire station necklaces to emerald stackable rings and ruby statement pieces, Milano offers a curated collection of gemstone jewelry designed to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.
