Pearls, diamonds and other white gemstone jewellery has a pure and elegant appearance, that has captivated the hearts of jewellery enthusiasts for centuries. From the classic diamond to the less-known but equally beautiful options like opals and cubic zirconia, white gemstone jewellery has an undeniable charm. In this article, we'll delve into the world of white gemstone jewellery, exploring the various gemstone options, their history, significance, and how to style them.
When to wear White Gemstone Jewellery?
The versatility of white or clear gemstone jewellery is one of its most attractive features. Whether you prefer classic or contemporary styles, white gemstones can effortlessly complement almost everything in your wardrobe. White gemstone jewellery is known for its minimalist elegance. A small diamond gemstone pendant or a pair of pearl stud earrings can add a touch of elegance to your everyday look. The colour white also creates statement pieces that can elevate your evening attire or formal wear. Their colourless or near-colourless appearance allows them to effortlessly complement any outfit or occasion. Another great opportunity to wear white gemstone jewellery is at Christmas. With your stunning jewellery complimenting the festive season, it will add a touch of elegance to both casual and formal festive outfits as well as being perfect for Christmas gift-giving.
Diamonds and Pearls for Bridal Jewellery
White gemstone jewellery is very common in bridal jewellery, creating a timeless and classic bridal look. The main stones that are used in bridal jewellery are pearls and diamonds. These create a clean and sophisticated look which is often linked to purity and innocence, making them popular choices for bridal jewellery and other ceremonial occasions. The pristine white colour symbolises a fresh start and a clean slate. The glow of pearls also complements the white of a wedding gown, adding a touch of timeless sophistication. Diamonds, with their unique brilliance and durability, are symbolic of eternal love and commitment, making them the perfect accessory on this special day. The combination of pearls and diamonds in bridal jewellery creates a harmonious blend of softness and sparkle.
What Are The White Gemstones Used In Jewellery?
White gemstones are prized for their purity and elegance, making them popular choices in jewellery design each with various meanings. White gemstones are often associated with peace and serenity and are thought to bring a sense of calm into one's life but they also indicate fresh beginnings and new starts. They are used to mark significant life transitions, such as a new job, a new relationship, or the birth of a child. There are several white gemstones used in jewellery, such as diamonds, pearls, and white sapphires, each their own unique characteristics. Here are the most common white gemstones used in jewellery:
Pearl:
Pearls display a beautiful shimmer of colour and are one of very few fully organic gemstones. They are produced by oysters and molluscs and come in various shades, including white, pink and blue. Although pure white pearls are the rarest colour to find, this makes them extremely valuable and will be further cherished as it is a rare and unique piece of jewellery. White pearls are classic and are used in a wide range of jewellery, from necklaces to earrings and bracelets. Pearl is also the birthstone for the month of June which makes pearl jewellery a meaningful birthday gift for your loved ones.
Read our pearl buying guide to learn more.
Diamonds:
Renowned for their brilliance, diamonds are the most well-known and sought-after white gemstones. Their remarkable hardness and sparkle make them a symbol of eternal love and luxury. Due to diamonds having a Mohs hardness rating of 10, diamond jewellery, including engagement rings, necklaces, and earrings, continues to be symbolic of everlasting commitment. As the birthstone for April, diamond jewellery makes a special present for those born in this month.
Read our Diamond buying guide to learn more.
Cubic Zirconia:
If you're looking for an everyday alternative to diamonds, cubic zirconia is a fantastic option. Cubic zirconia is often referred to as the "diamond simulant," and possesses a unique and captivating elegance. Its striking resemblance to natural diamonds makes it a popular choice for those seeking the allure and brilliance of a high-quality gemstone without the price tag. The flawless transparency and clarity of cubic zirconia jewellery creates a dazzling play of light that rivals the sparkle of diamonds. Whether adorning an engagement ring, pendant, or a pair of earrings, cubic zirconia's pristine beauty and affordability make it a timeless choice for your next jewellery piece.
Opal:
White opal is a variant of opal, with a captivating tone that has flashes of colour throughout the gemstone. Opal jewellery is renowned for its dynamic play of colours, which dance and shimmer in the light. It is often used in combination with other gemstones to enhance its beauty. This distinctive gemstone makes the perfect addition to any wardrobe, adding a simple yet subtly colourful flare to your outfits. This phenomenal gem is the birthstone for October and makes an exquisite gift for your family or friends.
These white gemstones offer a range of options for jewellery designers and enthusiasts, allowing for a variety of styles and price points. Whether you're looking for the timeless elegance of diamond jewellery or the classic look of pearl jewellery, white gemstone jewellery offers something for everyone.
White Sapphires:
Often considered a more affordable alternative to diamonds, white sapphires possess a similar clarity and shine. They have gained popularity in recent years for engagement rings and other statement pieces. White sapphires are colourless or near-colourless sapphires known for their clarity and brilliance. They are a more affordable alternative to diamonds, making them popular for engagement rings, earrings, and pendants.
Read our sapphire buying guide to learn more.
White Topaz:
White topaz is another great option for white gemstone jewellery that closely resembles diamonds. It is an affordable option compared to other gemstones while still emitting a bright sparkle, making it a practical choice for various jewellery designs such as rings, earrings, and necklaces.
Read our topaz buying guide to learn more.
Celebrities And Diamonds, Pearls & other White Gemstone Jewellery
Many celebrities have been seen wearing white gemstone jewellery at various events and occasions as well as in their everyday lives. White gemstones are versatile and can complement a wide range of fashion styles and outfits with celebrities' favourites including diamonds, pearls, and white sapphires. Here are a few examples of celebrities who have been associated with or spotted wearing white gemstone jewellery:
- Countless celebrities wear diamond jewellery on the red carpet, including stars like Elizabeth Taylor, Angelina Jolie, and Jennifer Lopez.
- Audrey Hepburn was known for her elegant style and often wore pearl jewellery.
- Marilyn Monroe famously sang "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend".
- Michelle Obama is often seen wearing pearl necklaces and earrings.
- Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, has been seen commonly wearing white sapphire jewellery.
Historical Significance Of White Gemstones
White gemstones have held cultural and historical significance throughout the ages. Diamonds, in particular, have been revered for their beauty and strength. They were believed to have divine and healing powers in various ancient civilisations. White sapphires, on the other hand, have symbolised wisdom and nobility, making them a popular choice for royal jewellery. In modern times, white gemstone jewellery has become an enduring symbol of love and commitment with the diamond engagement ring becoming a staple in Western culture to signify a lifelong bond between partners.
Final Thoughts
White gemstone jewellery holds a special place in the world of fashion with its clean and timeless look. Whether you choose the classic brilliance of diamond jewellery, opal jewellery or pearl jewellery; white gemstones offer an enduring elegance that transcends time. From their rich history to their individual uniqueness, these gemstones continue to be celebrated for their beauty and symbolism and offer a stunning accessory for all occasions.
Looking for something more colourful? Check out Sonny's coloured gemstone guide to learn more about coloured gemstone jewellery, or visit us in-store to see our collection. Alternatively, if you can't make it in-store, view our jewellery online or ask us a question on our Contact Us page.