2020 has been a very different year for all of us, but we’re still making Christmas time special. It’s a time for giving and showing others how much they mean to you, and what better way to show your love than with a beautiful gemstone that will last a lifetime. We believe there is a gemstone for everyone and every occasion, as well as “just because…”.
As the saying goes, diamonds are girl’s best friend. Aside from the most popular reason to purchase a diamond, a proposal, diamonds are also traditionally given as a 10th anniversary gift. Also, many women buy diamonds for themselves as they are a symbol of inner strength, reliability and sparkle. Diamonds are also traditionally known as the birthstone of April.
Emeralds have a long history of being highly sought after (and loved by many) due to their unique, rich green colour. Traditionally gifts given for a 55th wedding anniversary feature emeralds. Like a marriage that lasts 55 years, an emerald is a rare find and this gift symbolises value and rarity. Lucky people born in May also have a beautiful enchanting emerald as their birthstone.
The most valuable sapphires are natural stones, with a much deeper blue tone and are amongst the most durable elements in the world. Sapphires are so special they symbolise 3 wedding anniversary milestones: 5 years, 45 years and 75 years of marriage, with 45 years being the most popular for gifting a sapphire. Royalty give sapphires as engagement rings as they are far rarer than diamonds. Sapphires are also the beautiful birthstone of September.
Rubies are believed to be associated with the Sun. Through the ages, the ruby has represented nobility, purity, and passion. From ancient times through the modern-day, rubies have been valued by cultures around the world. Rubies are traditionally gifted as 40th wedding anniversary presents as well as being the birthstone for July.
Amethysts, with a gorgeous purple colour, are said to be natural stress relievers that bring calming energy to wearers. Their vivid purple colour was popular amongst ancient royalty, with Catherine the Great being a fan as far back as the 1700’s! Luckily for February babies, amethysts are their birthstones and are often purchased as a 6th wedding anniversary gift.
Finally, pearls are traditionally purchased for 30th wedding anniversaries, representing something special that takes time to grow, just like the pearls themselves. They are also the birthstone for June. Pearls are unique amongst gemstones as they don’t come from the earth, they develop in the sea. The more flawless the surface of the pearl is, the higher the quality of the pearl. They don’t require any extra polishing or cutting after extraction, pearls are naturally beautiful just the way they are.
Are you looking for a unique piece of jewellery for a loved one? You can shop our online selection here or visit us in store at 4 and 41 Argyll Arcade. Book your free of charge VIP appointment by emailing bookings@mcgowansjewellers.com or calling 0141 221 0101.