Popular Gems and Stones
Finding the perfect gift can feel like a daunting task, especially when you're looking for something truly unique. Vintage jewelry offers a chance at gifting rare or one-of-a-kind pieces. But beyond the beauty of antique designs, gemstones add another layer of meaning.
Throughout history, different stones have been sought out and transformed into jewelry or other relics for the symbolic meanings they carry. Here is a breakdown of the meanings often attributed to different gems and precious stones.
Amazonite
Amazonite is a green to blue-green variety of microcline feldspar, known for its striking color and resemblance to jade. The gemstone often features white streaks or mottled patterns, giving it a distinctive appearance. Named after the Amazon River, although it is not found there, Amazonite has been used since ancient times for jewelry and amulets.
Amazonite is often associated with harmony, balance, and truth. It is believed to soothe anxiety, enhance communication, and promote clarity of thought. Known as the “Stone of Courage” and the “Stone of Truth,” Amazonite encourages the expression of personal truths and aids in overcoming fears.
Ametrine
Ametrine is a bicolored gemstone that combines the purple of amethyst and the golden yellow of citrine within a single crystal. This natural blend of colors is caused by temperature variations during the stone’s formation. The only significant source of natural ametrine is the Anahi Mine in Bolivia.
Ametrine is associated with balance, harmony, and mental clarity. It is believed to combine the calming properties of amethyst with the energizing, creative qualities of citrine, making it a powerful stone for enhancing focus, creativity, and decision-making. Ametrine is thought to help its wearer release negativity, embrace positive change, and achieve inner harmony.
Blue Lace Agate
Blue Lace Agate is a light blue variety of agate known for its delicate, lace-like banding patterns of white, soft blue, and occasional hints of grey or brown. This soothing and calming gemstone is primarily sourced from Namibia, though it can also be found in other parts of Africa and the United States. Its delicate appearance and subtle colors make it a favorite in jewelry and healing practices.
Blue Lace Agate is associated with tranquility, communication, and emotional healing. It is known as the "Stone of Articulation" and is believed to help its wearer express thoughts and feelings calmly and clearly.
Carnelian
Carnelian is a vibrant, reddish-orange variety of chalcedony, often found with a warm, translucent glow. It has been used in jewelry and carvings since ancient times, particularly by the Egyptians, who believed it to be a stone of protection and vitality. Carnelian is primarily sourced from India, Brazil, and Uruguay, and its fiery hues make it a popular choice in both decorative and healing contexts.
Carnelian is associated with motivation, courage, and creativity. Known as the "Stone of Action," it is believed to inspire confidence and boost physical energy. Carnelian is thought to help overcome fear, enhance self-esteem, and promote a positive outlook.
Chrysocolla
Chrysocolla is a vibrant blue-green mineral often characterized by its intricate patterns and varying shades, due to the copper silicate in its makeup. It is primarily found in copper-rich regions, including Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the southwestern United States.
Chrysocolla is associated with tranquility, empowerment, and emotional healing. Known as the "Stone of Communication," it is believed to enhance expression, heal emotional wounds, and inspire creativity. Chrysocolla is thought to promote inner strength and encourage compassion.
Chrysoprase
Chrysoprase is a bright, apple-green variety of chalcedony, prized for its vibrant color and translucency. It is one of the most valuable members of the chalcedony family, often used in jewelry and decorative items. Chrysoprase is primarily sourced from Australia, Poland, and Brazil, and its distinctive green hue is caused by traces of nickel.
Chrysoprase is associated with joy, abundance, and emotional balance. Known as the "Stone of Optimism," it is believed to promote hope, compassion, and personal growth. Chrysoprase is thought to help heal heart wounds and attract prosperity.
Danburite
Danburite is a clear to pale pink, yellow, or colorless gemstone known for its brilliant sparkle and high clarity. Discovered in Danbury, Connecticut, in the 19th century, it is now primarily sourced from Mexico, Madagascar, and Japan.
Danburite is associated with spiritual healing, clarity, and emotional peace. Known as the “Stone of Enlightenment,” it is believed to promote a connection to higher consciousness, alleviate stress, and encourage deep emotional healing.
Fluorite
Fluorite is a colorful mineral available in a range of hues, including purple, green, blue, yellow, and clear. Known for its striking fluorescence under ultraviolet light, fluorite is found in large deposits in China, Mexico, and the United States.
Fluorite is associated with clarity, focus, and mental organization. Known as the “Genius Stone,” it is believed to enhance concentration, boost decision-making, and help clear the mind of negativity. Fluorite is often used to promote harmony, balance, and protection.
Heliodor
Heliodor is a yellow to greenish-yellow variety of beryl, known for its sunny and bright appearance. Its name, derived from Greek words meaning “gift from the sun,” reflects its vibrant golden color. Heliodor is primarily found in Brazil, Namibia, and Ukraine and is often used in jewelry and decorative pieces.
Heliodor is associated with vitality, confidence, and clarity. Known as the “Stone of the Sun,” it is believed to bring joy, enhance intuition, and encourage positive thinking. Heliodor’s warm energy is thought to help its wearer connect with inner strength, boost creativity, and inspire a sense of optimism and courage.
Iolite
Iolite is a violet-blue gemstone, often compared to sapphire due to its rich, deep color. Known as the “Water Sapphire” in ancient times, Iolite was historically used by Viking navigators as a polarizing lens to find the sun on cloudy days. The gemstone is primarily sourced from India, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
Iolite is associated with vision, intuition, and inner strength. Known as the “Stone of the Muses,” it is believed to enhance creativity, boost self-expression, and help its wearer overcome challenges. Iolite’s calming energy is thought to aid in spiritual growth, reduce anxiety, and encourage clear thinking.
Jade
Jade is a highly valued gemstone available in shades of green, white, lavender, and other colors, with two main types: jadeite and nephrite. Revered in Chinese, Mesoamerican, and Maori cultures, jade has been used for jewelry, carvings, and sacred objects for thousands of years. Major sources include Myanmar, China, and Guatemala.
Jade is associated with purity, harmony, and protection. Known as the “Stone of Heaven,” it is believed to bring good luck, foster wisdom, and promote healing. Jade is thought to balance emotions, encourage compassion, and attract prosperity.
Kyanite
Kyanite is a striking blue, green, or gray gemstone known for its unique bladed crystal structure and varying hues. It is primarily sourced from Brazil, Nepal, and the United States.
Kyanite is associated with communication, tranquility, and self-discovery. Known as the “Stone of Alignment,” it is believed to balance energies, enhance clarity, and foster a calming, meditative state. Kyanite’s soothing properties are thought to help clear mental blockages, improve communication, and support spiritual awakening.
Labradorite
Labradorite is a captivating gemstone known for its iridescent play of colors, often showing flashes of blue, green, gold, and purple, a phenomenon known as labradorescence. Discovered in Labrador, Canada, in the 18th century, it is also found in Madagascar, Finland, and Russia.
Labradorite is associated with transformation, protection, and intuition. Known as the “Stone of Magic,” it is believed to enhance spiritual awareness, strengthen intuition, and protect against negative energies. Labradorite is thought to inspire creativity, encourage self-discovery, and bring about positive change.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli is a deep blue semi-precious stone often flecked with gold pyrite. Mined as early as 7,000 BC in Afghanistan, it was highly prized by Egyptian pharaohs and Renaissance artists alike. Major sources include Afghanistan, Chile, and Russia.
Lapis Lazuli is associated with wisdom, truth, and self-expression. Known as the “Stone of Royalty,” it is believed to enhance intellectual ability, foster honest communication, and promote inner peace. Lapis Lazuli is thought to bring clarity of thought, strengthen bonds, and provide spiritual insight.
Lepidolite
Lepidolite is a lilac to pinkish-purple mica mineral known for its calming and soothing energy. It is rich in lithium, which contributes to its tranquilizing properties and shimmering appearance. Lepidolite is primarily sourced from Brazil, the United States, and Madagascar.
Lepidolite is associated with emotional balance, stress relief, and spiritual growth. Known as the “Stone of Peace,” it is believed to reduce anxiety, aid in overcoming depression, and promote a sense of calm.
Malachite
Malachite is a vibrant green gemstone with distinctive banding patterns. It has been valued since ancient times, particularly by the Egyptians, who used it in jewelry and as a protective talisman. Malachite is primarily sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Russia.
Malachite is associated with transformation, protection, and emotional balance. Known as the “Stone of Transformation,” it is believed to absorb negative energies, promote personal growth, and shield against environmental pollutants.
Morganite
Morganite is a pink to peach-colored gemstone known for its soft and soothing energy. Discovered in Madagascar and named after financier J.P. Morgan, it is often used in fine jewelry. Major sources include Brazil, Madagascar, and Mozambique.
Morganite is associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing. Known as the “Stone of Divine Love,” it is believed to promote harmony in relationships, encourage empathy, and foster deep connections.
Obsidian
Obsidian is a black volcanic glass formed from rapidly cooled lava. Used since ancient times for tools and ornaments, it was highly prized by the Aztecs and Native American tribes. Obsidian is primarily sourced from Mexico, the United States, and Italy.
Obsidian is associated with protection, clarity, and grounding. Known as the “Stone of Truth,” it is believed to shield against negativity, reveal hidden truths, and aid in self-reflection.
Onyx
Onyx is a smooth, black gemstone often used for its grounding and protective properties. It has been utilized in carvings and jewelry since ancient times, especially in Greek and Roman cultures. Onyx is primarily sourced from Brazil, India, and the United States.
Onyx is associated with strength, focus, and willpower. Known as the “Stone of Self-Mastery,” it is believed to absorb negative energy, provide stability, and enhance confidence.
Summary
Branch out and look for jewelry with less commonly used stones to stand out. Some stones and gems are more common on vintage pieces and have since fallen out of vogue. There’s no reason you can’t renew their use today and lead the way for a new seasonal jewelry trend.
If you’re looking for information about birthstones, check out this blog.
Explore louisetreesjewels.com for beautifully curated vintage jewelry. Subscribe to our blog for more guides and style inspiration.
If you’re looking for a specific stone mentioned here, reach out and we will work to offer you a curated selection to choose from.