There are over 200 varieties of coloured gemstones available in the world and have captivated us for centuries, treasured for their vibrant hues, rich symbolism, and rarity. Gemstones include a variety of minerals, as well as a few non-crystalline materials of organic origin, such as pearls, red coral, and amber, which are also classified as gemstones.
Coloured gemstones are deeply personal. For some, it's about birthstones - a ruby for July, a sapphire for September. For others, it's a favourite colour, a cherished memory, or simply a stone that speaks to them.
Their individuality is what makes them so enchanting. No two are exactly alike, each has its own personality, quirks, and glow. Whether chosen for their symbolic meanings or their sheer beauty, coloured gemstones allow you to wear your story.
“Gems are rarely perfect, their beauty comes in depth of colour and the value we place on them.”
When it comes to coloured stones, value isn’t only about size or clarity, it’s about character. Key factors that influence desirability and price include:
Colour: The most prized gemstones have rich, vivid saturation, whether it’s a cornflower blue sapphire or an intense green emerald.
Rarity: Some colours and types are naturally rarer than others. Fine unheated rubies, for instance, are incredibly scarce and therefore highly valuable.
Origin: A gemstone’s source can enhance its appeal. Sri Lankan sapphires, Zambian emeralds, and Burmese rubies are known for distinct characteristics.
Treatment: Many gemstones are heat-treated to enhance colour or clarity. Untreated stones, especially in exceptional hues, are far rarer and command premium prices.
The coloured gemstone industry is highly complex, differing greatly from the diamond or gold sectors as it is less regulated. At present there is no Kimberley Process for coloured stones and no established bodies that trace the gemstone supply chain from mine to market.
With no established accreditation bodies to vouch for this traceability, we rely heavily on longstanding relationships with our suppliers. Our founder, Annoushka Ducas, has enjoyed 30 years in the industry and the Annoushka stone supply chain is well established.
“When I’m working with a gem, it’s important to me to see the stone in its place of origin. I have worked with suppliers and producers all over the world, from opal miners in Ethiopia to pearl farmers in a single artisanal farm in the Ilo Ilo province in the Philippines. By purchasing direct from the farm, we exclude numerous middlemen and secure a fairer market value for the farmers.”
As part of our continued commitment to sustainability, we are working to further refine our supply chain by partnering with trusted suppliers who share our commitment and ethical values. As a global industry, there is clearly some distance to cover in finding solutions to the problems of sustainability and transparency, but we are determined to chase down every possible improvement.
