The natural world is full of surprises, from incredible landscapes to amazing creatures. Nature also provides one of the earth’s most intriguing creations – the coloured gemstone.

When you are looking to create a completely unique piece of jewellery, whether it be an engagement ring, or a special piece to celebrate a milestone occasion in your life, you should consider these amazing stones direct from the natural world to you.

If you think about it, for a crystallized chemical compound to display such fantastic brilliance and gorgeous colour it is beyond amazing. So many fabulous gems will provide years of enjoyable wear and can often become heirloom pieces for future generations.

Gem hardness plays a genuine part in the type of gemstone that is right for you. The type of wear a jewellery item receives is also worth considering. For example, an engagement ring gemstone would best be chosen form either Blue or coloured Sapphire and Ruby. These have a hardness of 9 and will resist scratching over many years. Stones with a hardness of 8, such as Emerald, Aquamarine, Morganite, Topaz, Alexandrite and any colour of Spinel, are also a great stone choice for everyday pieces. Other coloured gems with a lower hardness, will work well for Dress Rings and items which are not worn day in and day out.