White gemstones, referred to as transparent or colorless gemstones, possess a multitude of significances that extend beyond their visual allure.
Primarily…
These gemstones are closely linked to the notions of healing, purification, and rejuvenation, embodying the essence of pristine crystals.
Within the context of this piece, you shall discover:
- The true nature of white gemstones
- Prominent sources for purchasing them
- And a comprehensive exploration of the diverse variations of transparent and colorless gemstones within the realm of exquisite jewelry pieces!
What Is a White Gemstone?
The phrase “white gemstones” encompasses both opaque white and transparent colorless gemstones. Certain gemstones possess a creamy white hue, while others display transparency or lack of color. Essentially, clear, colorless, and white gemstones can be used interchangeably. However, it is incorrect to label opaque white gemstones as colorless or transparent.
The allure of white colorless gemstones lies in their widespread popularity as substitutes for diamonds. Diamond simulants, which are alternatives to colorless diamonds, are frequently sought after. These simulants encompass both manmade creations and naturally occurring gemstones that bear resemblance to diamonds.
Best Metal for White Gemstones
In the world of fashion, there exists a belief that certain colored gemstones are enhanced by specific metals. It is claimed that certain colors complement certain skin tones more effectively than others.
A prevailing principle suggests that cooler colors harmonize exquisitely with silver and white metals. Among the favored choices in the realm of jewelry are white gold, sterling silver, and platinum. Conversely, warmer colors are purported to shine brilliantly when set in a ring of yellow gold. Additionally, they can radiate captivating beauty when paired with the allure of rose gold.
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White gemstones possess the versatility to exhibit elegance in either setting. The nature of white is devoid of warm or cool undertones. From my own perspective, I find white gemstones to exude their utmost charm when paired with the radiance of yellow gold. However, when it comes to colorless gemstones, my preference lies in their union with the refined allure of white gold and platinum.
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In spite of this concept of “chromatic principles,” I personally choose based on my preferences. That’s the beauty of acquiring gemstone adornments. It’s crucial to select pieces that resonate with your self-assurance and individual style. However, it’s beneficial to have some guidance if you find yourself uncertain about where to begin.
Popular Colorless or White Gemstones
Natural Colorless Diamonds
Transparent diamonds, devoid of any color, hold the top spot as the most sought-after crystal-clear gemstones. It’s highly likely that this fact doesn’t come as a surprise to you. Nonetheless, it remains essential to include them in the roster. These colorless diamonds are often recognized as either white or colorless diamonds.
Mined from the depths of the earth, natural colorless diamonds originate from various locations across the globe. The caliber of a natural diamond is contingent upon four key factors referred to as the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. These elements also play a significant role in determining the diamond’s price.
Selecting a colorless diamond for an engagement ring is a complex endeavor that demands meticulous consideration. Differentiating between superior and inferior diamonds, as well as identifying instances where excellent diamonds are unjustifiably priced, is crucial.
The durability of diamonds against everyday grime and particulates is exceptional, surpassing that of most minerals. They stand as the epitome of scratch resistance in the entire world. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that their crystal structure, while resilient, possesses a brittleness factor. In the event of a forceful impact, a diamond runs the risk of developing cracks, splits, or chips.
Lab-Grown Colorless Diamonds
Various terms are associated with lab-grown diamonds. These dazzling creations have been dubbed as human-engineered diamonds, artificial diamonds, crafted diamonds, and laboratory-cultivated diamonds.
Furthermore, they have occasionally been erroneously labeled as diamond alternatives or imitated diamonds. When it comes to colorless lab-grown diamonds, they boast identical chemical, optical, and physical attributes as their natural colorless counterparts. Simulated diamonds and diamond substitutes, on the other hand, encompass alternative colorless gemstones that possess distinct properties.
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The primary contrast lies in their origins. Scientists adeptly recreate the precise conditions required for the formation of mined diamonds. This meticulous control over the growth process leads to the production of superior quality gemstones that are surprisingly affordable.
In terms of pricing, lab-grown diamonds can be up to 20-60% less expensive than naturally mined diamonds of equivalent quality. Additionally, they hold an ethical advantage. The ethical implications surrounding diamond sourcing and the issue of conflict diamonds have long been a cause for concern and controversy. However, lab-grown diamonds effectively eliminate such suspicions and provide a morally neutral alternative.
Fancy White Diamonds
Many people don’t know of exquisite white fancy diamonds. The majority of naturally occurring fancy colored diamonds are exceptionally scarce and come with price tags ranging from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. In contrast, lab-grown fancy colored diamonds offer a more budget-friendly alternative. However, it is worth noting that lab-grown fancy white diamonds are not readily available.
White diamonds, often referred to as colorless diamonds, typically exhibit a crystalline white hue that permeates the entire gemstone. Meanwhile, fancy white diamonds possess a captivating cloudy white coloration throughout their structure.
Cubic Zirconia
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Cubic zirconia stands as the prevailing choice among diamond alternatives in today’s market. Its popularity stems from its versatility, as it exists in a diverse spectrum of qualities contingent upon the company’s processing techniques. This stone, however, is entirely man-made, crafted by human ingenuity.
Numerous companies gravitate towards cubic zirconia when creating simulated diamond jewelry that caters to cost-conscious consumers. With a price point of approximately $5 per carat, or perhaps even less, this stone remains highly affordable. Interestingly, in many instances, the value of the metal used in the ring surpasses that of the cubic zirconia itself.
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Cubic zirconia gemstones possess a colorless appearance akin to diamonds, yet their brilliance exhibits distinct characteristics. The remarkable trait responsible for their mesmerizing display of rainbow-like flashes is their high dispersion.
In terms of hardness, cubic zirconia boasts a rating of 8.5. Despite this considerable hardness, the stone remains susceptible to scratching and clouding over time due to exposure to oxygen in the air, contact with other minerals, and similar factors. These effects may not be immediately noticeable but gradually become evident, especially if the stone is worn regularly.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that cubic zirconia is prone to chipping. While lacking gem cleavage, it retains a brittle nature and can potentially fracture under certain circumstances.
Moissanite
In tandem with the growing popularity of lab-grown diamonds, there has been a notable surge in the demand for moissanite. While moissanite is not the most inexpensive alternative to diamonds, it does offer a more affordable option compared to diamonds in any shape or form.
Similar to cubic zirconia, moissanite exhibits a remarkable dispersion that gives rise to captivating rainbow flashes. The brilliance of moissanite has often been likened to that of a disco ball, which, for some individuals, can be described as an overwhelming effect.
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Moissanite falls under the category of colorless gemstones, although it’s important to note that they may not always appear completely colorless. Depending on the lighting conditions, even the most superior quality moissanite stones can exhibit a subtle tint.
Engagement rings featuring moissanite have gained significant popularity. One of the key factors contributing to their appeal is the ability to acquire larger carat weights at a more affordable price compared to premium grade 1-carat diamonds.
White Sapphire
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Most of the white sapphires available at brick-and-mortar stores are manufactured in laboratories rather than occurring naturally. On the other hand, genuine white sapphires are less common but can be conveniently obtained through online sources.
The genesis of a white sapphire transpires when impurities abstain from mingling with corundum, a mineral that gives rise to sapphires of all hues except red, which we commonly recognize as ruby. Distinct impurities within the corundum crystal yield diverse shades in sapphires.
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In the absence of impurities infiltrating the crystal structure, the gemstone is designated as white sapphire. Widely embraced as a captivating alternative to diamonds, white sapphire serves as a favored choice for both central and accent stones in various jewelry creations.
White Opal
Opals have gained significant popularity as a sought-after substitute for traditional gemstones in the realm of engagement rings. This remarkable group of gemstones encompasses various types, with white opals reigning as the most prevalent among them. It is not uncommon to encounter them referred to as milk opals or light opals.
White opals possess a captivatingly ethereal foundation, which when viewed from diverse perspectives, unveils a mesmerizing spectacle of colors gracefully dancing across the surface. This captivating phenomenon, aptly known as the play of light, lends an enchanting allure to these opulent gemstones.
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In your average shopping haven, such as a mall jewelry store, you’ll discover a plethora of lab-created opals. However, stumbling upon naturally occurring opals within your local vicinity proves to be a more arduous task. The disparity in visual characteristics between a lab-grown opal and a genuine white opal is stark and discernible. While natural opals exhibit a captivating opalescence, this mesmerizing trait cannot be replicated within the confines of a laboratory setting.
White Moonstone
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Over the past decade, moonstone has risen to remarkable prominence and emerged as one of the most coveted gemstones in contemporary times. Despite its widespread popularity, a significant knowledge gap persists among individuals regarding this captivating gem. Moonstone exhibits a diverse range of hues, although white moonstone and blue moonstone tend to be the most recognizable varieties.
When it comes to white moonstone, the preferred method of shaping is through the creation of polished cabochons, although faceted versions are also available. However, the true allure of this gemstone is best showcased when it is meticulously carved into smooth, spherical forms. This particular cutting technique effectively accentuates the mesmerizing adularescence inherent in genuine moonstones, ultimately enhancing their intrinsic value.
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Adularescence, a mystical radiance inherent in genuine moonstone, imparts a delicate and enchanting glow to the stone. The intensity of this captivating luminescence directly influences the value of the gem, with a more pronounced glow commanding a higher price. Among the various moonstone varieties, white moonstone stands out as a remarkably affordable option, with an average cost of approximately $60 per carat.
On the other hand, cat’s eye moonstone, owing to its scarcity, tends to fetch higher prices in the market. The presence of cat’s eye or star formations further elevates the worth of semi-precious gemstones, enhancing their overall value and desirability.
Regrettably, moonstone is not an ideal choice for everyday wear due to its susceptibility to scratches and its delicate nature. Subjected to sufficient force, it runs the risk of splintering or cleaving, making it imperative to handle the stone with utmost care.
White Labradorite
Labradorite, a type of feldspar mineral, bears a striking resemblance to its counterpart, moonstone. This captivating mineral captivates the eyes with various hues, primarily blue and purple. The hallmark of labradorite lies in its mesmerizing optical phenomenon known as labradorescence, where it unveils a stunning display of vibrant colors when observed from different angles.
Moreover, labradorite can also exhibit a white base, often mistaken as rainbow moonstone within the gem industry. While numerous individuals are familiar with this enchanting white gemstone, they are unaware that it is, in fact, labradorite rather than moonstone.
In recent times, faceted rainbow moonstone has gained popularity as a fashionable choice. However, when fashioned into a cabochon cut, it may bear resemblance to moonstone but lacks the distinctive display of effects found in the latter. Similar to moonstones, white labradorite is not an ideal stone for everyday wear.
With a relatively low hardness rating of 6-6.5 and susceptibility to splitting due to its gemstone cleavage, rainbow moonstone offers an affordable and convenient option for those seeking to incorporate it into their daily jewelry rotation.
Cultured Freshwater Pearls
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Nature’s treasures, pearls emerge as the exquisite gemstones bestowed upon us. Remarkably, they stand among the rare few gems birthed by living organisms. Delicately crafted by freshwater mussels, the freshwater pearls hold a special place.
In our modern era, the scarcity of natural pearls becomes apparent, prompting a prudent assumption that most freshwater pearls we encounter are meticulously cultured. Fear not, for a cultured pearl remains an authentic jewel in every aspect, attesting to its true nature.
To evoke the lustrous pearl’s formation, a mollusk must endure an irritant’s arrival within its sheltered abode—a minuscule fragment of sand, an enigmatic mineral, or perchance a fragment of coral. Envision this akin to an unwelcome pebble disrupting the tranquil journey of a shoe-wearer.
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When faced with an unwelcome intruder, a mollusk lacks the means to simply discard it, and thus, a frantic dance commences. It diligently enrobes the irritant with successive layers of nacre—a resplendent, gleaming substance that bestows pearls their captivating radiance. Behold, the wondrous birth of a natural pearl.
In the realm of cultured pearls, a vigilant pear farmer assumes the role of a shepherd, tending to a flock of pearls. They meticulously orchestrate the introduction of an irritant to the mollusk’s shell, leaving no room for serendipity. It is through careful human intervention that these pearls are brought forth, rendering them more economically accessible than their counterparts.
Cultured South Sea Pearl
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The grandest of pearls ever crafted is the South Sea pearl, stemming from the magnificent saltwater oyster known as pinctada maxima. These awe-inspiring pearls are meticulously nurtured in diverse regions like Indonesia, the Philippines, Myanmar, and Australia.
Within this realm of South Sea pearls, nature unveils its treasures, albeit at an exorbitant price when seeking perfectly round forms. Curiously-shaped baroque pearls, though more reasonably priced, fail to ignite the same allure. Even a simple string of cultured white South Sea pearls can effortlessly command a staggering sum exceeding $10,000.
Cultured Akoya Pearl
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Originating predominantly from Japan, although also discovered in Vietnam, China, Australia, and Thailand, cultured Akoya pearls reign supreme. These remarkable gems emerge from freshwater depths and hold the mantle of being the most widespread and beloved saltwater pearls.
The opulent allure of a pristine white Akoya pearl lies in its inherent spherical shape, complemented by a radiant vitreous sheen. Distinguished by a robust layer of nacre, these pearls surpass their counterparts in luminosity, rendering them more resilient. Nonetheless, akin to all pearls, they remain susceptible to the common vulnerabilities that accompany their exquisite nature.
White Topaz
White topaz is frequently employed as a stand-in for diamonds, albeit typically as supplementary embellishments rather than the focal point. The genesis of white topaz occurs in the absence of any impurities infiltrating the crystalline structure.
Furthermore, it stands as one of the comparatively economical white gemstones. Topaz gemstones are frequently prized for their hues, such as blue topaz or Imperial topaz. Conversely, the demand for white topaz gemstones remains subdued, translating into a price range of around $40 per carat, subject to variations. The majority of white topaz gemstones are sourced naturally.
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Despite its Mohs scale rating of 8, topaz is not impervious to scratches when worn daily and will eventually show signs of wear. Additionally, the presence of cleavage renders it susceptible to splitting, further accentuating its fragility as a suitable choice for a centerpiece gemstone.
White Zircon
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Zircon, an ancient gemstone with a tarnished reputation, suffers from misconceptions, primarily due to its frequent misidentification as cubic zirconia. Despite their shared colorlessness, these two stones diverge in nature entirely. Zircon, boasting a 7.5 rating on the Mohs scale, lacks the durability necessary to serve as a captivating centerpiece.
Anticipate a challenging search when seeking this elusive gem. The quest for white zircon engagement rings will likely lead you to online platforms like Etsy and Amazon. The most daunting aspect of acquiring this ethereal jewel lies in procuring a precisely cut white zircon. Exercise caution by examining video footage of the stone before committing to a purchase.
White Quartz
White quartz, a seldom-utilized substitute for diamonds among colorless gemstones, is prone to scratching. However, within the realm of healing crystals, white quartz holds an esteemed position and is commonly referred to as clear quartz.
Clear quartz serves as a foundational crystal for individuals embarking on a journey to explore the healing properties of crystals. It harmonizes exceptionally well with all the chakras and possesses the remarkable ability to amplify energy. Due to this attribute, it is frequently combined with various other crystals.
Clear quartz exhibits transparency but may contain internal inclusions. As the most abundant mineral on Earth, quartz does not command exorbitant prices. Nevertheless, larger pieces of quartz, such as pristine towers with minimal inclusions, may come at a higher cost.
White Spinel
Spinel, an ancient gemstone, possesses greater worth when adorning vibrant hues rather than retaining its colorless state. Despite its status as one of the oldest gemstones known to humankind, white spinel has been overshadowed and neglected. In its colorless form, white spinel was initially employed as a substitute or imitation of diamonds.
However, the tides have shifted with the emergence of alternative white crystals. White spinel has gradually taken a subordinate role, yielding the spotlight to other white gemstones like white topaz and white sapphires.
White Jade
You might be familiar with jade as a verdant precious stone, but it also manifests in an assortment of other hues. Jade is one of the most famous green gemstones. Apart from its signature green shade, jade can be found in variations such as white, brown, tan, yellow, and even the extraordinary rarity of blue.
Jade is categorized into two distinct types: jadeite and nephrite. Jadeite is renowned for yielding Imperial jade, which stands as the epitome of excellence within the gemstone trade. On the other hand, nephrite jade, while less renowned, is more readily available. Both jadeite jade and nephrite jade possess the capacity to produce the exquisite beauty of white jade.
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The utilization of white jade in gemstone jewelry is a rarity, as its true potential lies in the realm of ornate and artistic creations. Rather than adorning oneself with it, jade is skillfully fashioned into exquisite decorative pieces. The finest specimens of white jade possess a remarkable translucence, almost appearing colorless. When subjected to meticulous craftsmanship, these meticulously carved artifacts emanate a luminous allure, casting a captivating glow.
White Howlite
White howlite is not widely sought after as a gemstone for cutting and shaping. Instead, its main appeal lies in its reputed therapeutic properties. The majority of howlite jewelry comprises beaded bracelets, which are believed to harness its potential to enhance mental clarity and instill a sense of tranquility. Its alleged capacity to promote patience, stability, temperance during fits of anger, and the fortification of inner serenity further contribute to its allure.
Upon initial observation, one might mistake it for marble due to its appearance. Howlite belongs to the borate mineral family, and white howlite specifically manifests as a solid, opaque white hue. Occasionally, it may exhibit intricate black patterns interwoven within its structure.
However, despite these distinctive characteristics, it fails to capture significant attention from enthusiasts. This is primarily due to its widespread availability and comparatively low price point.
White Agate
Agate represents a distinct form of chalcedony, a crystalline quartz variation. It is worth noting that white agate does not hold the highest rank in terms of popularity. The distinguishing feature of agates lies in their distinctive banding pattern. The desirability of agate bands increases when they exhibit a diverse array of colors.
White agate fails to captivate the hearts of avid agate enthusiasts. Its predominantly white hue is accompanied by subtle bands. While other agate variations may exhibit white bands, they cannot be classified as white agate unless the primary gemstone possesses a white coloration.
White Coral
Many individuals tend to overlook the inherent gemstone qualities of natural coral, failing to recognize its true worth. Nonetheless, coral holds its own significance within the realm of precious stones. Numerous individuals have devoted themselves to amassing collections of fossilized coral, recognizing its unique allure. Furthermore, coral has been utilized in the creation of jewelry since ancient eras, serving as a testament to its enduring popularity throughout history.
White Scolecite
The metaphysical realm recognizes this ethereal white gemstone for its profound psychic capabilities and its ability to establish a profound connection with the spiritual plane. Notably, it harmonizes exceptionally well with the heart chakra, crown chakra, throat chakra, and third eye chakra, facilitating an enhanced energetic alignment. Many attribute its exceptional nature to its elevated vibrations and frequency.
Beyond its mystical properties, this particular white scolecite finds itself in a rather unconventional position within the realm of gemstone jewelry, struggling to establish its presence. It is also referred to as natrolite and mesolite, representing alternative names for this gem. On the Mohs scale, it registers a modest rating of 5, highlighting its inherent brittleness.
Best Places to Buy White Gemstones
If your intention is to purchase opaquely white gemstones, you’ll discover that the majority of such stones are not commonly stocked by upscale jewelry vendors. Instead, your best bet would be to explore crystal emporiums and similar establishments.
On the other hand, locating clear gemstones is relatively more convenient. When it comes to acquiring natural white sapphires, moissanite, and white topaz, we suggest turning to the reliable source of Brilliant Earth.
For those seeking the extraordinary rarity of fancy white diamonds, it would be wise to consider perusing the offerings available at Leibish & Co.
