The Blue Gemstones: Aquamarine, Sapphire & Tanzanite
It was 18 years ago that Miranda Priestley (aka Meryl Streep) gave her iconic “that sweater is not just blue, it’s not turquoise, it’s not lapis, it’s actually Cerulean” monologue in The Devil Wears Prada.
Cut to Autumn/Winter 2024 and the colour blue, just like Crocs, low-rise jeans and matching tracksuits, is back. The difference? This time it’s paired with diamonds.
What are blue gemstones?
Aquamarine, blue sapphire, tanzanite, blue topaz, blue tourmaline, apatite, blue diamonds… the list goes on.
While sapphire is arguably the most renowned, there’s no shortage of blue gemstone alternatives in 2024.
Aquamarine
The birthstone of March has seen a surge in popularity over recent years, most notably in the last 12 months. Aquamarine’s understated blue hue blends seamlessly with a range of gemstones, notably pearls, white diamonds, and white gold.
What’s trending?
“An aquamarine cocktail ring will elevate any jewellery collection. I often gravitate to an emerald cut aqua, flanked between white diamonds, with some unique detailing in the band. It’s classic yet iconic, without overtaking the outfit,” says Matthew.
“Think of the ring Meghan Markle wore as 'something blue' to her 2018 wedding reception. Of course, that same gemstone famously once belonged to Princess Diana.”
Pictured: 18ct White Gold, Aquamarine & White Diamond Cocktail Ring
Blue Sapphire
When we think ‘blue jewellery’, the mind often goes to sapphire; a gemstone renowned for both its royal shades and its royal connections. Most notably, Princess Diana’s iconic sapphire and diamond engagement ring, now worn by Catherine, the Princess of Wales.
“Classic diamond and blue sapphire stud earrings, or even an elegant eternity ring, would be my picks for anyone with a September birthday,” says Matthew Ely.
What’s trending?
“Unique shapes and intricate, often Art Deco inspired, designs really highlight this striking gemstone. Many of the sapphire pieces I create are one-off custom concepts, often incorporating a loose gemstone or remake of a ‘family heirloom’ ring,” says Matthew.
“Sapphire bracelets, offset by emeralds and diamonds, can transform a simple ensemble. The more eye catching, the better! This isn’t a gemstone that blends into the crowd.”
Tanzanite
First discovered by a Masai tribesman in 1967, and found exclusively in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite is considered one of the rarest gemstones on earth.
“Tanzanite is a trichroic gemstone, meaning it has the ability to display three different colours when viewed from different angles – blue, violet, and burgundy,” says Matthew.
“For its remarkable colour, its romantic backstory, and its rarity, tanzanite is a gemstone with unique appeal. Not everyone will have heard of it, let alone have a tanzanite cocktail ring in their jewellery box.”
What’s trending?
“While sapphire ranks higher on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it the preferred choice for engagement rings, tanzanite is a remarkable alternative for statement earrings or cocktail rings,” says Matthew.
“I love to custom design pieces that can be transformed – like these 18ct White Gold, Tanzanite & Diamond Huggie Drop Earrings that can be worn as classic diamond hoops, or with their tanzanite attachment.”
Pictured: 18ct White Gold, Tanzanite & Diamond Cocktail Ring
Blue Gemstone Trend Recap
So, when it comes to blue gemstones, what can expect in 2024? Here are Matthew Ely’s top 3 predictions:
Aquamarine cocktail rings: “Keep an eye out for emerald cut central stones, flanked by white diamonds. These aren’t necessarily ‘new’ but are certainly gaining prominence in day-to-day wear, and even as engagement ring alternatives.”
Tanzanite: A bright and incredibly rare alternative to sapphire, incorporated into statement earrings and cocktail rings.
Bold Blue Bracelets: These could be individual pieces, often set with multiple rows of blue sapphires, or elegant sapphire tennis bracelets that are layered with diamonds.
