In a world chasing perfection, natural gemstones remind us of the joy of imperfection. Imperfections in gemstones make them non-fungible: no two stones are exactly alike. These natural variations come from inclusions, color-zoning, or unique growth patterns. Whether mined from the Earth, like rubies or sapphires, or born from the ocean, like pearls and corals, each stone is a nod to nature’s infinite genius.
Whether adorning a ring, necklace, or earrings, these unique gems make every piece of jewelry not just a possession but a personal statement.
Take our naturally-mined diamonds, for example. While they can be matched in hardness and brilliance by lab-grown diamonds, natural ones carry inclusions that entered them over the thousands of years of formation. Rather than detracting from their value, these inclusions serve as ‘birthmarks’ that make each diamond one-of-a-kind.
Similarly, pearls, that are created by oysters, have subtle ridges and valleys on their surfaces, just like fingerprints. These give them their differing patterns of luster. Another factor is their range of colors, from the common creamy white ones to the rare blacks. A string of pearls is like a family – similar, but each shining in its own way. Corals too, come from the sea, created by living marine organisms. Ranging from soft pink to fiery red, the organic structure consists of intricate patterns and textures. This makes each coral piece distinct.
Emeralds coming in various shades of green, each stone reflecting its natural ‘jardin’. This French term (meaning garden) refers to the microscopic inclusions, resembling tiny feathers or liquid droplets, that lends each stone an unrepeatable charm.
Sapphires and rubies, both from the corundum family, also showcase the charm of individuality. No two blue sapphires have the exact same hue, saturation, and tone – indeed, no two natural gemstones of any kind will have the same. Thus, depending on their iron and titanium content, blues range from soft sky tones to the deep purplish ones. Similarly yellow sapphires and rubies too show subtle variations in tone and inclusions make every stone an original masterpiece. The level of chromium inclusions in rubies leads to colors ranging from pink to orange to deep red; while it is iron mineral inclusions in yellow sapphires that gives them their personality.
For jewelers, these imperfections are not flaws but hallmarks of authenticity and individuality to be celebrated. They tell the story of a gemstone's natural formation over millions of years. This uniqueness enhances a stone's value, as clients often seek pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind, resulting in pieces that resonate with personal meaning and unmatched exclusivity.
At AUWL Assembly, we believe that jewelry goes beyond mere adornment. Each piece of ours, is hand-crafted by us, based on your choices, to tell a story only you can wear. The natural gemstones that crown them – unique and irreplaceable – are a testament to our creative philosophy that imperfection is the essence of beauty.