Top Gemstone Trends to Watch

Gemstone trends have been influenced by the growing demand for ethically sourced, unique, and investment-worthy gems. It’s clear some trends will evolve while new ones are emerging. Here’s a look at what to expect ahead.

1. Sapphires Equal Engagements

Sapphires dominated the engagement ring market in 2024. Their popularity isn’t rooted in tradition. Buyers leaned toward green and teal hues, giving a fresh spin to the classic stone. Australian green and teal sapphires were a hit with the younger demographic with their oceanic hue and traceable origins.

The marquise shape reigned supreme, with many seeking this elegant cut for its elongated beauty. Interestingly, alongside the usual blue sapphires, opalescent and brilliant-cut varieties also garnered attention, reflecting a growing trend toward individuality in gemstone selection.

Morganite had its fair share of the spotlight with its soft pink hues providing a romantic alternative and appealing to those seeking something unique but understated.

2. Mozambique Rubies

Rubies, especially those hailing from Mozambique, have seen a resurgence in popularity. Their deep, fiery red hue and high-quality characteristics have made them a coveted gem once again. Mozambique rubies, revered for their brilliance, have taken center stage in high-end jewelry collections. In 2025, this trend is expected to continue, with Mozambique rubies becoming a top investment choice because of their rarity and increasing value in the global market.

Mozambique rubies have historically commanded high prices in the gemstone market, particularly after major discoveries in the Montepuez region increased their availability. Prices have generally risen, with certain stones fetching premiums, especially those with the characteristic Mozambique pink-red hue. As red rubies have reached record-high prices, there has been a growing demand for pinkish-red rubies which offer a more attractive investment-to-return ratio with a lower cost.

Commercially, Mozambique rubies are available in both heated and unheated forms, depending on the quality of the rough material. In our experience, we have observed similar pricing trends for both heated and unheated Mozambique rubies.

3. Mainstream Jewelry

Beyond engagement rings, sapphires continue to shine in traditional jewelry pieces like necklaces, bracelets and earrings. The classic Ceylon sapphires, with their vivid blue hues, have become increasingly popular among seasoned collectors and younger buyers. This surge in colored gemstone interest can be traced to the trend of moving from diamonds to colored stones signifying a growing appreciation for individuality and personalization in jewelry.

Many retailers in the U.S. have expanded their offerings to include vibrant gemstones, and as a result, colors like teal have become a staple in casual, everyday jewelry.

4. Orange Gemstones

With Apricot Crush being the Pantone Color of the Year in 2024, it isn’t a surprise to see gemstone trends with a soaring demand for the rare and elusive Padparadscha sapphires. These peachy-pink sapphires have enjoyed a reputation of exclusivity and elegance and will continue to do so because they rarely occur in nature. The name “Padparadscha” comes from the Sinhalese or Sri Lankan word for “lotus flower” which is the precise color of this gemstone.

Other gemstones in this category are quartz, garnets, tourmalines and topaz. Citrine quartz is a transparent stone that is great for faceting, while more opaque materials are cut into cabochons, beads, eggs and spheres.

Orange represents energy, warmth, creativity, and positivity, all of which have resonated with modern buyers looking for vibrant, uplifting jewelry pieces. Fashion cycles have embraced earth tones and warm hues and orange gemstones, such as spessartite garnet, fire opal, and orange sapphire, have seen increased demand to match these trends. Orange gemstones like carnelian and fire opal are often associated with vitality, strength, and emotional balance in metaphysical circles. In 2024, a growing interest in mindfulness and wellness has driven more people to explore gemstones with spiritual significance.

5. Classic Cuts

Several classic cuts are making a significant comeback in gemstone trends, driven by a renewed appreciation for vintage aesthetics and unique designs. Here are a few notable examples.

• Cushion Cut: Known for its soft, pillow-like shape with rounded corners, the cushion cut was a favorite in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its ability to enhance the sapphire’s brilliance and deep color has made it a popular choice once again, especially for engagement rings and high-end jewelry.
• Oval Cut: The oval cut offers a blend of elegance and sparkle, elongating the stone while retaining brilliance. It’s a classic cut that enhances the color of gemstones, making it particularly desirable for those seeking a sophisticated look with a vintage charm.
• Emerald Cut: Characterized by its step-cut facets, the emerald cut creates a mirror-like effect, showcasing the clarity and deep color of any gemstone, especially sapphires. This geometric, clean-cut style from the Art Deco period is experiencing renewed interest for its understated elegance.
• Asscher Cut: A vintage cut with a square shape and stepped facets, the Asscher cut is admired for its unique faceting that draws the eye into the center of the stone. Though less common, it’s being rediscovered for its bold, retro appeal.
• Old Mine Cut: Popular in antique jewelry, this cut is making a quiet comeback. Its rounded shape and larger facets give it a distinct, nostalgic look that appeals to those who value history and charm in their gemstone pieces.

There is ample space for modern designs as well, with cuts like the princess cut, trillion cut and a modified brilliant cut offering a contemporary twist.

6. Gemstone Trends: Honorable Mentions

• White and Midnight Buffalo: A relative newcomer, this stunning dolomite was mistaken for turquoise for the longest time. Originally found in White Buffalo, hence the name, this stone features an eye-catching contrast of black and white. The cobweb design comes interspersed with golden webs occasionally, when iron is incorporated in it.
• Repurposing Jewelry: The trend of repurposing old jewelry has gained significant momentum, driven by emotional connection, sustainability, personalization, cost-effectiveness, nostalgia, and creative expression. Customers are breathing new life into inherited or sentimental pieces while reducing waste and aligning with eco-friendly values. Design trends include upcycling vintage components, resetting diamonds or gemstones, transforming heirloom pieces, mixing metals and textures and modernizing classic designs. Kate Middleton is the poster girl of this trend, starting off with making delicate changes to Princess Diana’s iconic sapphire ring and she continues to embrace this trend.
• Oversized Gemstone Pieces: Oversized gemstone jewelry is the perfect statement-making accessory, transforming ordinary outfits into extraordinary fashion moments. The revival of 70s boho-chic fashion has also played a role. Additionally, the unique artisanal and handcrafted nature of these designs aligns with sustainable fashion.
• Gemstone Chokers: In 2024, gemstone chokers made a strong comeback, blending 90s nostalgia with modern elegance. These short, vibrant necklaces often showcase rainbow palettes. Unlike the layered looks of past seasons, gemstone chokers are being worn solo as bold statement pieces.

Gemstone Trends Into the Future

While gemstone trends and preferences change every year, a few trends remain consistent. These include sustainability, ethical mining and a transparent supply chain. More and more customers are asking for certifications that verify a gemstone’s origins. In 2025, we can expect this trend to solidify further, with traceability becoming a major selling point.

In 2025, the world of gemstones promises even more excitement and innovation. The gemstone trends we saw in 2024—ranging from the rise of ethically sourced sapphires to the resurgence of bold, oversized gemstone pieces—are just the beginning of what will continue to shape the jewelry landscape. With a deepening focus on sustainability, individuality, and vibrant designs, 2025 is poised to bring new color palettes, cutting techniques, and unique gemstone choices to the forefront. Whether you’re a collector, designer, or a gemstone enthusiast, this year will offer fresh opportunities to embrace the beauty and allure of natural treasures.

This story about gemstone trends previously appeared in Rock & Gem magazine. Click here to subscribe. Story by Navneet Agarwal.