The color red radiates strength, energy, and elegance. In jewelry, it immediately attracts attention and adds sparkle and confidence to any outfit. It’s therefore no surprise that red gemstones are some of the most popular ones in jewelry. Their colors range from light and almost pink to deep burgundy or even purple and each has its own unique character. Among the most popular red stones are rubies, garnets, spinels, and rhodolites so let's take a look at them one by one.
The ruby: The king of all red stones
Rubies are one of the oldest gemstones known to mankind. They have been mined in Burma (today’s Myanmar) since the 6th century and their name comes from the Latin word rubeus which means red. Since ancient times, this color has been associated with passion, desire, and a fiery temperament but also with energy and love.
Like its blue cousin, the sapphire, the ruby belongs to the corundum family of stones and ranks just behind diamonds on the scale of hardness. One of its biggest advantages is its long-lasting luster which it retains even after many years of wear. But despite this, it’s advisable to handle rubies with care—they may contain small cracks and inclusions which can make them more vulnerable to pressure or sudden temperature changes.
Rubies have an exceptionally warm feel to them, especially when set in yellow gold. In white gold, on the other hand, their color takes on a striking contrast and depth. And an exceptional combination that adds an extra touch of nobility to jewelry is a ruby surrounded by clear diamonds. Ruby jewelry comes in many forms, from playful hearts to dazzling pieces, but it always radiates an elegance that only the “big three” of gemstones (that is, sapphires, rubies and emeralds) can achieve.
The garnet: A stone with a Czech tradition
Garnets have a very unique place in Czech jewelry making. Their long history of mining and use dates back to the Middle Ages when they gained popularity due to their supposed magical and healing properties. Czech garnet mining has traditionally been concentrated in northern Bohemia, especially around the towns of Turnov and Česká Lípa. In the 19th century, the stone became a symbol of Czech jewelry art and its popularity continues until today.
Rhodolites: The raspberry-colored version of garnets
Rhodolites are some of the rarest and most noble varieties of red garnets. They stand out for their intense luster and beautiful range of colors—from dark purple-red to light pink, but the most sought-after variety is raspberry colored rhodolites.
Rhodolite jewelry has a very fine yet sophisticated look to it. A ring with a rhodolite in rose gold has a beautiful harmony to it and highlights the warm tones of the stone.
Almandines: The most common type of garnet
This dark red garnet with soft purple undertones is one of the most common types of garnet. It was named in 1546 by Georgius Agricola, the German scholar and father of mineralogy, who named it after the ancient city of Alabanda in present-day Turkey, which was a center of gem cutting at the time. Generally speaking, the darker this stone, the higher its value.
The color of almandines makes them most suited to vintage-style jewelry, especially when paired with yellow gold which enhances their warm tones.
Spinels: A rare red treasure
Red spinels are often referred to as the hidden treasure of gemstones. For centuries, their intense color and brilliant luster were so similar to rubies that people often confused them. In fact, even the famous "Black Prince's Ruby" stone in the British Imperial State Crown is actually a spinel.
Nowadays, spinels are appreciated for their modern, vibrant appearance and excellent optical properties. In KLENOTA jewelry, they mainly appear in their black variety. Red spinels are a rare and exceptionally elegant choice and when they are paired with gold or diamonds, their depth and natural luster really stand out.
Spinels are the ideal choice for those looking for an exceptional stone with history, nobility, and a contemporary look.
The power and passion hidden in red stones
In the world of jewelry, red gemstones are some of the most impressive. From iconic rubies to classic garnets and rare spinels, each reveals a different form and character of red.
Whether you’re looking for a striking piece of jewelry for a special occasion or want to add a timeless piece to your collection, jewelry with red gemstones is the perfect choice. It stands out for its precision craftsmanship, the quality of its stones, and sophisticated visual appeal. Explore our selection of ruby and garnet jewelry and let yourself be enchanted by the elegance and passion of the various shades of red.
What are the most famous red stones?
Some of the most famous red stones include rubies, garnets, rhodolites, almandines, and spinels. Each is a different shade of red, ranging from deep crimson through burgundy to pinkish red.
How are red stones significant?
Red stones symbolize passion, love, courage, and life energy. Since ancient times, they have been associated with fire and the heart—they represent the power of emotions and determination. The ruby is often called the "king of gemstones" and is said to bring vitality and protection, while garnets are associated with loyalty and warmth.
How do I spot a genuine ruby?
You can tell a genuine ruby from its intense red color and exceptional luster. Unlike imitations, rubies retain their richness of color even under different lighting conditions. Due to their hardness (9 on the Mohs scale), they are durable and the hardest stone after diamonds. However, experts will also examine the stones under a microscope for inclusions and they do laboratory tests to determine whether a stone is genuine or whether it is a man-made synthetic.
What is the difference between rubies and garnets?
Both rubies and garnets are red gemstones, but they differ in chemical composition, hardness, and color. Rubies are a variety of corundum and have a distinctive, rich red color with a hint of pink. Garnets, on the other hand, belong to a separate group of minerals and the Czech pyrope, a type of garnet, has a dark red color with warm undertones. Rubies are harder and rarer, while garnets are valued for their links to tradition and more affordable price.
What red stone is best suited to jewelry?
The choice depends on the style and purpose of the jewelry. Rubies, garnets, rhodolites, and spinels are all very durable stones, ideal for engagement rings and luxury necklaces. They are all suitable so choose based on color and price.
How do I take care of jewelry with red stones?
Jewelry with red stones should be protected from impact and sudden changes in temperature. After you take it off, gently wipe it with a soft cloth and store it in a separate jewelry box with soft padding to stop the stones from getting scratched. Avoid contact with chemicals, perfume, or salt water. Regular professional cleaning at a jewelry studio will ensure that your gemstone jewelry retains its luster for years to come.
