History, Healing & Folklore of Gemstones

According to folklore and stories throughout history, many well-known gemstones are thought to offer mystic healing to its wearer. Sarah loves some of the fun and whimsy associated with these stories, she has explored some of her favorite gemstones and these beliefs, passed down through generations.

Amber – A gemstone my mother loved and wore often, is thought to aid memory loss, purify the body, alleviate headaches, bone and heart problems. Amber is also known for its stress relieving and calming properties.

Amethyst – According to folklore this gemstone aids in the reduction of insomnia, pain relief, arthritis, and circulatory issues. Amethyst is considered the gemstone of balance, meditation, peace, courage, and inner strength.

Pomellato Amethyst Ritratto Ring

Aquamarine – Aids the liver, throat, stomach, jaw, teeth, eyes, and ears. Aquamarine is also known for releasing fear, calming nerves, and bringing mental clarity to the wearer.

Orsini 'One of a kind' Aquamarine Ring

Citrine – This beautiful golden gemstone is considered to provide greater or increased hearing to the wearer. Citrine also promotes success, abundance, and clear thinking.

Diamond – Diamonds have a long history as beautiful objects of desire. In the first century AD, the Roman naturalist Pliny quoted: “Diamond is the most valuable, not only of precious stones, but of all things in this world.”

A selection of Orsini Diamond Engagement Rings

Emerald – According to legend, wearing an emerald was believed to grant a person the ability to reveal the truth or falseness of a lover's oath.

Garnet – Ancient belief associates garnet with blood flow, heart, and lung function and is known to promote romantic love, passion, sensuality, and intimacy. Who wouldn’t love to wear this gemstone!

Pomellato Mama Non Mama Garnet Ring

Lapis – Lapis was among the first gemstones ever to be worn for adornment. It was valued by the ancient cultures of Greece, Rome, Egypt and Persia, where it was believed to have magical healing powers, and it symbolizes creativity, openness, friendship and truth. It is also thought to aid in the alleviation of insomnia and depression.

Pomellato Nudo Deep Blue Ring 18k Gold with London Blue Topaz, Lapis and Diffused Topaz

Moonstone – Throughout time, moonstone has been connected to the Earth’s moon. This gemstone looks like a moonlit night and has been the object of many folklore associated with the moon. According to Hindu mythology, moonstone is made of solidified moonbeams.

Onyx – Associated with the root chakra. Onyx brings spiritual inspiration, and control over emotions.

Pearl – Known for its calming properties, the Pearl is said to aid purity, clarity, integrity, truth, and loyalty in its wearer.

Above is one of our bestselling pearl drop earrings, stunning South Sea pearls by the well known Marco Bicego Africa Collection. The perfect gift.

Peridot – Healing stress in relationships, lessening anger and jealousy, and slowing aging, the Peridot promotes abundance and prosperity.

Ruby – Rubies can command the highest per-carat price of any colored stone. This makes ruby one of the most important gems in the colored stone market. Aiding the emotions is the Ruby’s calling card. Also known to increase integrity, devotion, and happiness.

Sapphire – The gemstone of creative expression and inner peace and meditation, the Sapphire also aids in personal expression and the alleviation of pain.

For a bit of fun and whimsy a Dodo charm in rose gold and blue sapphires

Topaz – One of the most powerful gemstones, Topaz facilitates the balance of emotions and provides protection from greed.

Turquoise – A gemstone steeped in lore and tradition, Turquoise is a healing and balancing stone.

Gucci Ouroboros Ring in 18k Yellow Gold and Turquoise

At Orsini, we have an extensive collection of jewellery from our own workshop and many famous European and Italian jewellery houses. We can source many excellent quality gemstones with a wealth of folklore & history. This whimsical knowledge can add extra thought and romance to a gift for yourself or a loved one. Unfortunately there is no scientific proof about any of these healing claims. However the stories are enchanting.

(Ref American Gem Society, International Coloured Gemstone Association, Vogue Magazine 2017)