[Complete Guide] What Are the World's Five Great Jewels? The Appeal of Diamonds, Rubies, Sapphires, and Emeralds, and How to Choose Wisely

Have you ever wanted to choose a gemstone that will shine forever, as a special gift or a reward for yourself? Among the many gemstones, there are the "Big Five Gemstones," which are particularly valuable and continue to captivate people. You've probably heard of them: diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds... but do you know the differences between them, their true allure, and how to choose the right gemstone for you? In this article, we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner what exactly the "Big Five Gemstones" refer to, the unique brilliance, history, and value of each gemstone, along with expert knowledge. Furthermore, we've compiled everything you need to know about the "Big Five Gemstones" in this one article, from how to distinguish quality to avoid making mistakes when choosing a gemstone, to the basics of purchasing and care. By reading this article, you'll be able to wisely choose the gemstone you've always dreamed of and enjoy its sparkle for a long time.

What are the Big Five Gemstones? Definition and Representative Gemstones

Gemstones have a special sparkle and have captivated people since ancient times. Among them, the "Big Five Gemstones" stand out particularly for their rarity, beauty, and historical value. Generally, diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds are considered the four main Big Five Gemstones, but there are various theories about the remaining "fifth gemstone." Here, we will introduce the unique charm of each gemstone and explain in detail why they are considered special.

Diamond: The King of Gemstones

Diamonds are known for their unparalleled hardness and their "brilliance" that refracts light into a rainbow of colors, earning them the title "King of Gemstones." They are the hardest natural substance on Earth, and due to their durability, they are often used for engagement rings to symbolize eternal love, making them one of the most popular gemstones worldwide. While colorless and transparent diamonds are common, rare fancy color diamonds in yellow, pink, and blue also exist and are traded at very high prices.

Ruby: The Passionate Red Gemstone

Rubies, characterized by their fiery, vivid red color, have been treasured since ancient times as gemstones symbolizing "passion" and "love." Their name originates from the Latin word "rubeus" (red), and they have a history of being cherished by royalty, nobility, and powerful figures throughout history. Especially "pigeon's blood" rubies, which are a deep, vivid red like a pigeon's blood, are considered the finest quality and hold very high value. Due to their hardness second only to diamonds, they are also popular for everyday jewelry.

Sapphire: The Blue Gemstone of Wisdom and Integrity

Sapphires are characterized by their deep, clear blue color and are known as gemstones symbolizing "wisdom" and "integrity." Their name comes from the Latin "sapphirus" (blue), and they have been cherished by clergy and royalty since ancient times. While sapphires are generally blue, there is a wide range of shades, from the soft blue of cornflower blue to the deep, rich blue of royal blue. In addition to blue, sapphires also come in various other colors such as pink, yellow, and green, which are called "fancy color sapphires."

Emerald: The Healing Green Gemstone

Emeralds, characterized by their vivid and deep green color, have been loved by people since ancient times as gemstones symbolizing "healing" and "regeneration." Their name comes from the Greek word "smaragdos" (green stone), and they are famously known as the gemstone loved by Cleopatra. Emeralds tend to have more inclusions compared to other gemstones, but these are seen as a testament to their natural origin, sometimes referred to as a "garden," creating a unique charm. Those with high transparency and vivid green color are considered extremely rare and valuable.

Overview Comparison of the Big Five Gemstones (Main 4 Types)

The Fifth Gemstone: Various Theories such as Alexandrite, Pearl, Opal, etc.

When you hear the term "Big Five Gemstones," many people probably think of diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. However, there is actually no clear definition for the remaining "fifth gemstone," and several theories exist. This is because values change depending on the era, culture, and even trends in the jewelry industry. The most prominent candidates are the following gemstones:

• Alexandrite: Its most significant characteristic is a dramatic color change effect, described as "emerald by day, ruby by night." It possesses a mysterious property of appearing green under natural light and changing to reddish-purple under incandescent light. Due to its unique properties and rarity, it is traded at very high prices. Its high recognition as the "fifth gemstone" is growing due to this unique characteristic and rarity.
• Pearl: An organic gemstone that has been loved worldwide since ancient times. Its mysterious luster, nurtured within shellfish, is said to symbolize purity, health, and wealth, and has been highly valued for formal occasions such as weddings and funerals. The rarity of natural pearls and the historical background of widespread adoption due to technological innovations in cultured pearls also support its position as the fifth gemstone.
• Opal: A very unique gemstone that exhibits an iridescent play-of-color effect depending on the viewing angle. No two patterns are alike, and its mysterious sparkle is said to symbolize "hope" and "good fortune." Rare opals, such as black opals, are popular as collector's items due to their beauty.

Each of these gemstones possesses different charms and values, establishing its own position as the "fifth gemstone." In modern times, alexandrite, with its color-change effect, is particularly attracting attention, and there is a growing movement to include it in the Big Five Gemstones as a "phantom gemstone" due to its rarity.

Deep Dive into the Allure and Characteristics of Each Gemstone

Here, we will delve into the specific characteristics and quality assessment points of the Big Five Gemstones: diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, and the popular alexandrite as the fifth gemstone.

Diamond's "4Cs" and How to Identify Quality

The value of a diamond is assessed by the internationally established "4Cs." Understanding these 4Cs is crucial for identifying high-quality diamonds.

• Carat: A unit of weight for gemstones, where 1 carat equals 0.2 grams. The higher the carat weight, the rarer and more valuable the diamond. However, the price can vary significantly even for the same carat weight depending on the other three Cs.
• Color: The closer to colorless, the rarer and more valuable the diamond. It is graded from D (completely colorless) to Z (strong yellow tint). Even a slight tint can affect the brilliance.
• Clarity: Evaluates the presence, size, position, and nature of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws) within or on the surface of the diamond. It is graded on an 11-point scale from FL (Flawless) to I3, with values closer to FL being more valuable.
• Cut: Refers to the quality of the artificial polishing and is a crucial factor in maximizing the diamond's brilliance. It is graded on a 5-point scale from Excellent to Poor. Diamonds with an Excellent cut efficiently reflect and refract light, emitting a dazzling sparkle.

The combination of these 4Cs determines the value of a diamond. When purchasing, it is important to check the appraisal report from a reputable grading institute and compare the brilliance by looking at the actual stone.

Factors Determining Ruby "Quality"

The most important factor influencing the quality of "the passionate red gemstone," ruby, is its "color." The highest quality is a deep red with a slight purplish hue, known as "pigeon's blood" ruby, typically from Myanmar (Burma). This color emits a fiery glow from within due to its fluorescence. In addition to color, the following factors determine the value of a ruby:

• Transparency: The fewer inclusions and the higher the transparency, the higher the value. However, inclusions in rubies are also evidence of their natural origin, and needle-like crystals called "silk inclusions" can sometimes reflect light to create a unique beauty (star effect).
• Cut: Whether the ruby is cut to maximize its color and enhance its brilliance is also important.
• Origin: While Myanmar is the most famous origin, rubies are also found in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Mozambique, among others. Each origin has characteristic colors and qualities, with Myanmar rubies receiving particularly high evaluations.

While heat treatment is common, rubies that are beautiful without any heat treatment are extremely rare and can fetch astonishing prices.

The Importance of "Color" and "Origin" in Sapphires

The value of "sapphire, the blue gemstone of intellect and integrity," varies greatly depending on its diverse "color" and "origin." While sapphires are generally known for their deep blue color, sapphires of all colors except colorless, such as pink, yellow, green, and purple, also exist and are called "fancy sapphires." The highest quality blue sapphire is the "Cornflower Blue" from Kashmir (India). This is a soft blue, reminiscent of a cornflower petal and velvet, and is extremely rare.

• Color: The intensity, saturation, and transparency of the blue color are evaluation points. An ideal color is neither too dark nor too light, but vivid and uniform. "Royal Blue" from Sri Lanka is also very popular.
• Origin: In addition to Kashmir, sapphires are found in Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon), Madagascar, Myanmar, and Australia. The color tendency varies by origin, and Kashmir sapphires, in particular, are traded at high prices as phantom sapphires.
• Transparency and Inclusions: Similar to rubies, high transparency and few visible inclusions are preferred.

Heat treatment is common for sapphires, but those that are beautiful without heat treatment are extremely rare and valuable.

Emerald's "Inclusions" and "Oil Treatment"

Emeralds, the "healing green gemstone," possess a unique and beautiful green color, but they are characterized by having more "inclusions" compared to other gemstones. These inclusions are natural occurrences during the emerald's growth process, and are affectionately referred to as "jardin," meaning "garden," as a testament to their natural origin. The key points for assessing emerald quality are as follows:

• Color: A vivid and deep green is considered the best. An ideal color is neither too dark nor too light, with a uniform hue. Colombian emeralds are particularly known for their high quality.
• Inclusions: Inclusions are almost an inherent characteristic of emeralds, but their quantity and type affect transparency and durability. While too many inclusions will lower the value, a moderate amount is accepted as a natural beauty.
• Oil Treatment: Due to the abundance of inclusions in emeralds, "oil treatment" is commonly performed, where colorless oil or resin is infused to fill microscopic cracks and gaps, thereby improving transparency and durability. This is a widely accepted industry practice, and most emeralds undergo this treatment. The degree of treatment is assessed from "None" to "Significant," with less treatment resulting in higher value. When purchasing, it is important to check the appraisal report which specifies the presence and extent of the treatment.

The Mystery of Alexandrite's "Color Change Effect"

Alexandrite, which has recently gained attention as the "fifth gemstone," emits a mysterious glow due to its greatest charm, the "color change effect." This color change effect refers to the phenomenon where the gemstone's color dramatically changes depending on the type of light source.

• Color Change Effect: Under natural light (sunlight or fluorescent light), it appears bluish-green or emerald green, and under incandescent light or candlelight, it changes to reddish-purple or raspberry red. The more distinct and contrasting this color change, the higher the value of alexandrite.
• Rarity: Alexandrite is an extremely rare gemstone because it is only found where a special composition of elements that produces its color change effect and very limited geological conditions coincide. Large, high-quality alexandrites with a clear color change effect can sometimes fetch prices comparable to diamonds.
• Origin: It was famously first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia, but it is now also found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar, among other places. Russian alexandrite is particularly known for its vivid and high-quality color change effect.

Alexandrite continues to fascinate many people as a gemstone with two faces, often described as "emerald by day, ruby by night."

Smart Tips for Choosing Gemstones

When choosing a gemstone, there are several important points to consider in order to correctly judge its beauty and value. Here, we introduce knowledge for wisely selecting gemstones, from common quality standards to factors affecting price, and how to choose according to purpose.

Brilliance, Color, Clarity, Cut: Common Quality Standards

The beauty and value of a gemstone are primarily assessed by the following four factors. These standards apply not only to diamonds but also to colored stones such as rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.

• Brilliance (Scintillation): Indicates the extent to which a gemstone reflects and sparkles light. Especially in diamonds, the quality of the cut directly affects the brilliance, and maximum reflection and refraction of light within the gemstone create a strong sparkle. For colored stones, transparency and fewer inclusions affect brilliance.
• Color: The color of a gemstone is one of the most important elements characterizing its type. For colored stones, high saturation, uniform, and vivid colors are considered the most valuable. For example, in rubies, there is the highest quality color called "pigeon's blood," and in sapphires, "royal blue." For diamonds, the closer to colorless, the higher the value.
• Clarity: Refers to the absence of inclusions and impurities within the gemstone. Fewer inclusions allow light to pass through unobstructed, enhancing the gemstone's inherent brilliance and color. Emeralds, in particular, are known for having many inclusions, and their evaluation must be based on an understanding of this characteristic.
• Cut (Proportion, Symmetry, Polish): This is the technique of shaping the gemstone and polishing its facets (multiple faces). The cut is extremely important for maximizing the gemstone's brilliance, and especially in the "4Cs" of diamonds, it is emphasized as the only element involving human skill. For colored stones, it is also important whether the cut is designed to bring out the stone's characteristics.

Understanding Factors Affecting Price

The price of a gemstone fluctuates not only due to the quality standards mentioned above but also due to various other factors. Understanding these factors will allow you to choose a gemstone at a more satisfactory price.

• Quality: The biggest influence is, of course, quality standards such as "brilliance, color, clarity, and cut." The higher the evaluation of these factors, the higher the price.
• Rarity: Gemstones that are scarce or found only in specific regions have higher rarity value and therefore command higher prices. For example, Kashmir sapphires and Mogok rubies are traded at very high prices due to their rarity.
• Origin: Even for the same type of gemstone, those from specific origins are considered to be of better quality, and a brand value may be added, leading to higher prices.
• Carat (Weight): The unit of weight for gemstones; generally, the higher the carat weight, the higher the price. However, prices can vary significantly even for the same carat weight depending on the quality.
• Brand: Gemstones from famous jewelers or brands may have a brand premium added to the value of the stone itself due to their design and reliability.
• Market Supply and Demand: Depending on trends and economic conditions, if the demand for a particular gemstone increases, the price may rise, and conversely, if demand decreases, the price may fall.

By Purpose: How to Find the Perfect Gemstone for You

The points to emphasize when choosing a gemstone vary depending on your purpose. Here are smart ways to choose gemstones for each purpose.

• Engagement Rings / Wedding Bands: Diamonds are a classic choice for engagement rings, symbolizing eternal love with their universal brilliance and durability. When choosing a diamond, it's important to decide on your budget and priorities based on the "4Cs." For wedding bands for daily wear, it's recommended to choose something simple that is scratch-resistant and has a timeless design.
• Birthday Presents / Anniversaries: Choosing the recipient's birthstone, their favorite color, or a gemstone that matches their usual fashion style will be appreciated. It's also lovely to consider the recipient's personality and gift a gemstone with a symbolic meaning (e.g., ruby for passion, sapphire for sincerity). Consider the balance between carat weight and quality according to your budget.
• Self-Investment / Asset Building: If you prioritize future value, choose high-quality and rare gemstones. In particular, beautiful untreated rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and large, high-quality diamonds tend to have stable asset value. When purchasing, it's crucial to ensure that a reliable appraisal certificate is included.
• Fashion / Everyday Wear: For daily wear, durable and scratch-resistant gemstones are suitable. While choosing based on design and color is good, considering coordination with your outfits will allow you to enjoy your jewelry for longer. Even with smaller carat weights, choosing a gemstone with a beautiful cut and color can create a significant presence.

Why are the "Big Five Gemstones" Special? History and Culture

The Big Five Gemstones—diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and alexandrites—are not merely rare and beautiful; they are deeply intertwined with human history and culture, treated as special entities. These gemstones have been cherished and passed down through generations as symbols of power, items with sacred meaning, and tokens of love and wealth.

The History and Anecdotes of Gemstones that Continue to Captivate Humanity

The brilliance and color of gemstones were revered as possessing mystical powers by ancient peoples. Each gemstone has numerous legends and anecdotes born from its beauty, which further enhance its allure.

For example, the diamond, derived from the Greek word "adamas" meaning "unconquerable," has been a symbol of eternal love and an unyielding vow due to its hardness. In ancient India, it was believed that diamonds resided where lightning struck, treating them as sacred objects. Marilyn Monroe's song, "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend," still attests to their universal value today.

Rubies, with their fiery red color, have symbolized "passion" and "victory" and were worn as talismans by warriors in ancient times. The finest quality rubies, known as "pigeon's blood" from the Mogok region of Myanmar, are a deep red like a pigeon's blood, and their beauty has captivated many kings and nobles.

Sapphires, characterized by their deep blue color reminiscent of the sky, are gemstones symbolizing "wisdom" and "integrity." In medieval Europe, clergy wore them as symbols of heaven, and many royals loved and used them, believing in their power. The engagement ring inherited by Princess Diana and then by Princess Catherine of the British royal family sparkles with a massive sapphire.

Emeralds, characterized by their rich green color, signify "regeneration" and "prosperity" and are known as the gemstone particularly loved by Cleopatra, the queen of ancient Egypt. There is an anecdote that she owned emerald mines and called herself the goddess of emeralds.

And alexandrite, with its mysterious color-change effect, is a relatively new gemstone discovered in Russia in the 19th century, but its rarity and beauty quickly captivated people. Its dramatic color change, described as "emerald by day, ruby by night," truly makes it a miraculous gemstone. Thus, the Big Five Gemstones are not just beautiful stones; they are special entities with stories passed down through generations, deeply connected to human history, culture, and emotions.

Purchasing and Daily Care of Gemstones

Once you acquire your longed-for Big Five gemstone, you'll naturally want to preserve its sparkle for as long as possible. Here, we'll explain key points for choosing a trustworthy store to purchase your gemstone with confidence, and simple daily care methods.

Tips for Choosing a Reputable Store

When purchasing a precious gemstone, choosing a reputable store is extremely important. Refer to the following points to make a satisfying purchase.

• Quality Guarantee and Presence of Appraisal Certificate: Confirm whether an appraisal certificate is issued to certify the quality of the gemstone. For expensive gemstones, an appraisal certificate issued by a trusted appraisal institution is essential. It is also important that the store's regulations regarding post-purchase quality guarantees, returns, and exchanges are clear.
• Presence of Knowledgeable Staff: Choose a store with staff who have expert knowledge about gemstones. You can judge reliability by their willingness to answer questions courteously and their ability to explain gemstone characteristics and care methods in detail.
• Comprehensive After-Sales Service: Check if the after-sales service, such as resizing, cleaning, and repairs, is comprehensive. Post-purchase support is a crucial factor for long-term enjoyment of your jewelry.
• Physical Store Presence and History: A store with a physical location and a long history is inherently more reliable. You can actually hold and inspect the products, and it's easier to consult them in case of any issues.

Simple Daily Care Methods

To maintain the brilliance of your gemstones, daily care is indispensable. Here are some simple daily care methods.

• Wiping with a Soft Cloth: After wearing, sweat, sebum, and cosmetics may adhere to the gemstone. Always gently wipe it with a soft, clean cloth (such as a eyeglass cleaning cloth). This prevents dirt accumulation and helps maintain its shine.
• Cleaning with Mild Detergent: Periodically, gently wash the gemstone in lukewarm water with a small amount of mild detergent. This is suitable for hard gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. After washing, rinse thoroughly under running water to remove all detergent, then wipe dry with a soft cloth and air dry.
• Special Considerations for Emeralds and Pearls: Emeralds are fragile and sensitive to impact, acids, and heat. Since they are often oil-treated, avoid using ultrasonic cleaners and limit cleaning to gentle wiping with a soft cloth or very brief washing with mild detergent. Pearls are sensitive to acids and alkalis, so wipe them immediately if you sweat and avoid washing them with water.
• Storage Method: Store gemstones in individual cases or pouches to prevent them from scratching each other. Avoid direct sunlight and high humidity.

By making these care routines a habit, you can preserve the beauty of your precious gemstones for a long time.