Coloured Gemstones Take Centre Stage in 2025

The gemstone market is off to a sparkling start in 2025, with coloured stones dominating both headlines and high-end jewellery sales. From auction block records to a rising demand for traceable gems, this year is shaping up to be all about colour, rarity, and origin stories.

Strong Demand, Stronger Prices

Rare gemstones like alexandrite, Paraiba tourmaline, and ruby continue to outperform expectations. A standout example? A 16.5-carat Brazilian alexandrite recently sold for nearly $2 million at auction.

Dealers report that coloured gems are holding value better than diamonds, especially in the wake of disruptions in the diamond market. With the shift towards individuality and investment-grade jewellery, consumers are increasingly looking to emeralds, sapphires, and spinels as alternatives to more traditional stones.

Gemstones Trends to Watch

Among the most in-demand gems for 2025:

• Colombian emeralds – prized for their colour and traceable sourcing

• Montana & Australian sapphires – especially in teal and green hues

• Spinels – neon-pink from Tanzania and cobalt-blue from Vietnam

• Spessartite garnets and Fanta garnets – bold, bright oranges are hot

• Zircons, chrysoberyls & imperial topaz – niche but gaining popularity

Dealers say coloured gems are more like fine art than commodities, with minor differences in quality greatly impacting price.

Supply, Sustainability & Storytelling

Despite strong demand, the industry faces challenges:

• Rising mining costs and reduced labour in artisanal operations

• Limited availability of untreated or extra-fine stones

• More regulations and shipping costs affecting global trade

However, the rise of responsibly sourced and traceable gems is helping offset concerns. Consumers and designers alike are drawn to gemstones that come with a story—especially those that support ethical mining communities.

Looking Ahead

Experts agree: if you're looking to invest in fine coloured stones, now is the time. Prices for high-quality material are not expected to drop, and interest in rare gems is only growing.

As gem dealer Jeremy Chalchinsky puts it, “If you see something truly exceptional—buy it. Waiting often means missing out or paying more later.”

Ready to invest in rare and radiant gemstones?

Contact us to explore our collection of emeralds, sapphires, spinels, and more—ethically sourced and expertly selected for brilliance, beauty, and long-term value.