Discover Our Selection Of Rough Gemstone Jewellery
Rough gemstones are beautiful creations of nature. Precious rough gemstones were formed on the Earth billions of years ago, with the exception of organic pearls, which are formed naturally. Experts currently estimate that diamonds formed deep within the Earth's core more than 3 billion years ago; however, sapphires are a lot younger at about 150 million years old.
Archaeological evidence demonstrates that lapis lazuli was mined in the Hindu Kush region (modern Afghanistan) during the Neolithic period. Ancient Egyptians also used rough gemstone jewellery using amethysts and lapis lazuli. Ancient Chinese culture records how jade was an important and significant material and was a special part of the culture since 3600 BC.
Ancient Indian people were the first to mine and use diamonds around 300 BC. The ancient Greeks and Romans were also pioneers of the rough gemstone trade - uncut amethysts and sapphires were often used in amulets and ancient rings.
Rough gemstones were very important to cultures all over the world. In Ancient China, jade was considered a royal gem reserved for the Chinese imperial families. Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs were buried in precious rough gemstones to signify their importance. The Aztec empire produced breathtaking items from rough gemstones, such as sculptures, instruments and masks. From the 5th Century to the 16th Century AD, Europe became one of the biggest collectors of rough gemstones. They were a powerful display of wealth, and many people believed in their healing powers. Many Europeans wore these gemstones as talismans to ward against spirits and disease.
In the 14th Century, initial diamond cutting was invented, creating what we now know as stone cuts. This technique would only develop over the years into today's diamond cutting industry.
Rough gemstones were also incredibly popular throughout many periods since the 14th Century, especially in Victorian rings. The Victorians loved stylistic influences from the past, such as Byzantine, Romanesque, and Renaissance design.
Rough gemstone jewellery has been loved and worn since they were first discovered thousands of years ago. If any of our rough gemstone jewellery pieces catch your eye, please get in touch with us here online, or meet with us in person at our showroom in Hatton Garden.
