The Fascinating History of Gemstones

The​‍​‌‍​‍‌ history of gemstones from ancient civilization to the modern glamour and luxurious gemstone culture is really fascinating. These radiant stones still stand as a symbol of allure, power, and love. It’s fascinating past, culture, and artistry still dominate the jewellery market. However, what has made it stay as a constant attraction in the realm of luxury jewelleries? We trace its history and its voyage to the present world.

The Rise of Gemstone Lore

In the period of Ancient Egypt a thousand years ago, pharaohs were covered in precious stones and looked upon them as amulets because they believed the stones gave them strength and safety not only in the present life but also in the afterlife. Along with this, carnelian, lapis lazuli, and turquoise were mostly chosen for their vibrant colors and their symbolism to spiritual nature. Later on, gemstones became one of the ways to show pride, power, and even the favor of the gods. The Greeks and the Romans considered it as a present from the gods. For example, emeralds stood for rebirth and eternal youth while amethyst was thought to protect intoxication.

Gemstones in India were highly significant in the spiritual and cultural ‍​‌‍​‍‌traditions. The ancient texts of Ayurveda pointed out the energetic influence of the stars on different gemstones and linked them to prosperity, healing, and protection among other things. The association of gems with spirituality became a worldwide phenomenon due to the trade and conquest in different regions. Even now, the relation is still there, a reason why we continue to see gems as a sign of prestige, artistry, and divine ‍​‌‍​‍‌favor.

Emerald ring

The Medieval Era

As trade routes expanded, gemstones continued to spread in other areas and became a commodity to sell and get profit. Silk​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Road and Arabian trade networks were the main routes through which gemstones symbolism spread to Africa, Asia, and Europe. Different cultures adopted these symbols and valued them greatly.

Sapphire was believed to bring calmness and wisdom to the wearer whereas ruby was the indication of passion and power. In Europe, the crowns and robes of the royal families were decorated with ‍​‌‍​‍‌gemstones. This conveyed divine right and protection against evil spirits.

Gemstones trade provided not only profit but also skills and knowledge of gem cutting, polishing, and metalwork – a foundation that built modern jewellery craftsmanship.

Sapphire ring

Africa’s gemstone renaissance

While ancient civilization crafted gemstone legends, Africa’s gemstone story was still being unearthed. A continent rich in natural resources became one of the world’s significant sources of precious stones. The continent boasts of the emeralds of Zambia, the rubies of Mozambique, and the diamonds of South Africa. Its role in the global gemstone trade has grown exponentially and Kenya takes pride in this.

Different​‍​‌‍​‍‌ regions like Taita Taveta, Baringo, and Turkana of Kenya, have been identified as areas rich in the deposit of gemstones. Tsavorite is a rare vibrant green stone of the grossularite garnet family, which was discovered in the 1960s near Tsavo National Park. The gemstone represent the natural beauty of Kenya and the mineral wealth that provides the local miners and artisans with income.

Modern Era

The gemstone industry is still changing with time – a period when the old artistic skills blend with the new luxurious style. Every gemstone is a record of its source, the miners who extracted it, and the jewellers who make it a forever precious ‍​‌‍​‍‌stone. This makes gemstone authentic, elegant, and unique. They represent more than adornment; they reflect a unique character and wearer’s individuality whether it’s a serene sapphire or a radiant emerald. 

At Silver Oak, our gemstone collections from emeralds, rubies and sapphires celebrate a journey from earth to elegance – where ancient civilization meets contemporary sophistication.

Conclusion: The enduring allure of gemstones

Whether it’s their connection to nature – the way they form within earth’s mantle or emerge as symbols of elegance, these precious stones remain one of wonder, craftsmanship and meaning. The history of gemstones from the Romans to the Pharaohs of Egypt holds value and uniqueness. It’s also the cultural meaning to it; love, protection, success, and faith – all captured in color and brilliance.

Each gemstone at Silver Oak is a part of history carrying both a story and a sparkle worth celebrating.

Visit Silver Oak Jewellers today to explore our exclusive gemstone collection designed for timeless elegance.