by: Pam Huizenga, Jewelry Designer
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and for many women, jewelry is on the top of their wish list.
Although diamonds are considered a Valentine’s standard, I prefer stones with the passionate colors of reds and pinks. For me they conjure up feelings of heat and mystery.
Team up a passionate red or pink stone with a unique piece of jewelry and you have a very special gift for that special person.
Stones of Passion
The first stone that comes to mind when I think of passion is Ruby. Rubies are found in Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Madagascar, Cambodia, North Carolina and Montana. Known throughout history as the King of Precious Stones, blood red rubies are prized and can be very expensive.
There are rough rubies and cut stones that come in a variety of reds, qualities and values. Many designers have embraced the less expensive rubies, celebrating their incredible color.
Of all the passionate stones, I think my favorite is Hot Pink Tourmaline, also know as Rubellite. It has been said that the color of this stone is “pure seduction” and I agree! Although tourmaline comes in many colors, hot pink is my favorite. Rubellite is found in Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan and the USA.
Passionate reds and pinks are hard to come by in nature and there are only a handful of stones that are used in jewelry. In addition to Ruby and Tourmaline, there are Rhodochrosite, Garnet, Rhodanite and Pink Sapphire (which is in the same family as Ruby).
With all stones there are different qualities, colors and values available. You do not have to spend a fortune to find a truly unique and meaningful gift. As long as the color is passionate, it is a good choice for Valentine’s day! So go out and find something unique, beautiful and passionate!
