The beauty of candy-colored gemstones. From radiant rubies to striking emeralds, these modern icons elevate their timeless style with bold, vibrant accessories.
When it comes to luxury gifts, nothing quite captures the magic of the season like candy-colored jewels. These vibrant, vivid-hued gemstones are not only a dazzling accessory but steeped in rich history, elegance, and power. As we dive into the spectacular world of gems, let’s explore their origins, the evolution of the gem industry, and how candy-colored jewels have become a must-have for 2024.
A Glittering History: The Birth of Gemstones
Gemstones have captivated humankind for thousands of years, dating back as early as 4,000 BC when ancient Egyptians were known to mine gems in the deserts of Egypt and Sinai Peninsula. The most prized stones were worn by pharaohs and queens, believed to have spiritual significance, offering protection and power. Cleopatra famously adorned herself in emeralds, which symbolized fertility and immortality, elevating her status as one of the most opulent women in history.
The discovery of gems extended through the ages, with early records of gemstones like sapphires and rubies being worn by royalty in India and Rome. By 1075 AD, diamonds had become an essential accessory for Europe’s elite, symbolizing wealth and indestructibility. Through centuries, gemstones were not only a luxury but a statement of power and grace.
The First Gemstone Business: Turning Luxury into Commerce
The modern gemstone business began to flourish in the 19th century, spearheaded by Charles Lewis Tiffany, who opened Tiffany & Co. in New York in 1837. Known as the “King of Diamonds,” Tiffany’s revolutionary approach to jewelry brought high-quality gemstones to the public, setting standards for gem quality and design. The company famously introduced the Tiffany Diamond, one of the largest and finest yellow diamonds ever found, setting a benchmark in luxury jewels.
The gemstones were primarily sourced from Brazil, India, and Sri Lanka, leading to the growth of the international gemstone market. Today, the global gemstone market brings in an estimated $23 billion annually, fueled by rising demand, innovation in design, and a shift towards bold, colorful jewels like candy-colored gems.
The Candy-Colored Gem Trend
Candy-colored gems are taking the jewelry world by storm in 2024, offering a playful yet luxurious approach to accessories. But what exactly defines a candy-colored gemstone? These vibrant stones—think pastel sapphires, pink tourmalines, neon-colored topazes, and tangerine citrines—are cherished for their rich hues and versatility. Inspired by bright, sugary candy, these gems have become a fashion staple for those looking to make a bold statement with elegance.
Famous Women Wearing Candy-Colored Gems
- Queen Máxima of the Netherlands – Known for her regal style and bold fashion choices, Queen Máxima frequently wears vibrant, candy-colored gemstones such as aquamarines, rubies, and sapphires. Her jewelry collection includes stunning pieces from Dutch royalty, and she often pairs these radiant jewels with modern outfits, reflecting her blend of tradition and contemporary elegance.
- Amal Clooney – Internationally renowned for her sophisticated style and career as a human rights lawyer, Amal Clooney frequently accessorizes with candy-colored gemstones, including statement earrings and rings featuring vibrant rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. She balances her striking jewelry choices with her elegant and polished wardrobe, representing refined yet modern luxury.
- Queen Letizia of Spain – The Queen often chooses candy-colored gems for public appearances, favoring brands like Bulgari, where she pairs vibrant stones with understated, elegant outfits.
How to Buy High-Ticket Candy-Colored Gems
When purchasing a special gift for the woman in your life, a candy-colored gem can be a thoughtful, high-ticket item that brings joy and luxury. Here are the top five things to consider when buying gemstone jewelry:
- Color – The most important factor for candy-colored gems is the vibrancy of the color. Look for gems with intense, evenly distributed hues.
- Clarity – Check for any visible inclusions, which can affect the gem’s beauty and value. The clearer the gemstone, the higher its quality.
- Cut – A well-cut gemstone reflects light beautifully and enhances the stone’s brilliance. An expert cut can also maximize the intensity of its color.
- Carat Weight – Larger gems are rare and often more expensive, but balancing size with color and clarity will provide the best value for money.
- Certification – Always ensure that the gemstone is certified by a reputable gemological institute, such as GIA, to guarantee authenticity and quality.
Varied Product Offerings
Candy-colored gemstones can be found in rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, making them perfect for any occasion. Many designers now offer made-to-order pieces that allow for customization, from the stone’s color to the cut and setting. Whether you’re looking for a dazzling sapphire pendant or a bold statement ring featuring multicolored gems, the options are endless for making a timeless addition to any jewelry collection.
Warm Wishes from StyleLujo.com
As we wrap up this guide to candy-colored gems, our editorial team at StyleLujo.com wishes you a joyous and prosperous holiday season. May 2025 be filled with beauty, love, and all the sparkle you deserve!
Akaila Reid:
Akaila Reid’s Stoned Gloria Bangle is a stunning piece, exquisitely crafted from luxurious 18K yellow gold. This elegant bangle features a vibrant array of multicolored tourmaline stones, each meticulously set to create a captivating display of color. The harmonious blend of rich hues adds a unique charm, making this piece a true statement accessory that effortlessly enhances any ensemble
Guita M:
The Three-Tiered Colombian Trapiche Emerald Earrings by Guita M are a breathtaking statement piece that demands attention. Crafted in luxurious 18K yellow gold, these earrings showcase a stunning array of pink faceted tourmalines, elegantly surrounded by exquisite faceted emeralds. Renowned as some of the rarest emeralds in the world, the Trapiche emeralds feature a unique star-like pattern that sets them apart, creating an eye-catching contrast against the vibrant pink stones. With their striking design and rich colors, these earrings are not just accessories—they are a true celebration of elegance and artistry that will elevate any look.
Lionheart:
Lionheart’s Multi Tourmaline Serenity Amulet is a stunning celebration of color and energy, symbolizing balance, healing, and joy in every facet of life. Each shade of tourmaline within the amulet carries its own unique significance—from the calming greens that promote peace and growth to the passionate pinks and reds that spark love and creativity. This vibrant rainbow blend beautifully reflects the richness of life’s experiences and the power of diversity, making it a truly uplifting accessory.
Heili Rocks:
This oversized Wildflower Pendant is the epitome of a showstopper. Its striking hue and bold design are elevated by a mesmerizing honey citrine, radiating warm amber tones that beautifully contrast the cool, soothing backdrop of cornflower blue. This pendant is a stunning blend of sunshine and sophistication, guaranteed to turn heads and spark conversation.
LÖF:
The Marionette Earrings are a highlight of LÖF’s debut collection, inspired by the timeless elegance of the Art Deco era. These exquisite drop earrings showcase a mesmerizing stained glass effect, adorned with lab-grown diamonds, vibrant rubies, and ethically sourced turquoise. Handcrafted from 18K recycled gold, the Marionette Earrings beautifully blend artistry and sustainability, making them the perfect accessory to tap into your colorful side.
Modern Moghul:
Modern Moghul’s Dalpati Bracelet is a striking
piece that features an array of bright, faceted tourmaline stones, each one radiating with vibrant hues.
Accented by shimmering pavé diamonds, this statement bracelet captures the light beautifully, adding an
extra layer of elegance and sparkle. Perfectly designed to brighten your fall wardrobe, the Dalpati
Bracelet effortlessly combines color and sophistication, making it a must-have accessory for any
occasion. Whether worn alone or stacked with other favorites, it’s
Terzihan:
18 karat rose gold Molina Earrings with natural rubies, all natural pink sapphires, and F color white diamonds. Perfect for adding a holiday sparkle!
This beautiful piece is what candy colored gem dreams are made of! With brightly colored pink and red stones encasing bright white diamonds, these earrings bring holiday cheer to any outfit. Holiday candy, sugared fruits, and precious stones, what is more festive than that!
Avi and Co.
Avi and Co. Diamond and Yellow Diamond Necklace
The Yellow Diamond Necklace by Avi and Co. is the epitome of a candy-colored gem, thanks to its vibrant yellow gem. This exquisite piece features a large, radiant yellow diamond surrounded by glistening white diamonds. The butter yellow hue is both eye-catching and trendy, perfectly aligning with the 2024 fashion forecast that emphasizes bold, cheerful colors. The striking yellow diamond adds a pop of color that complements a wide range of outfits, from elegant evening wear to casual daytime looks.
JJR:
The beauty of candy-colored gemstones. From radiant rubies to striking emeralds, these modern icons elevate their timeless style with bold, vibrant accessories.
Sapphire Medusa Ring–9.09ct (no heat) Ceylon Purple-Pink Sapphire Ring, Fancy Intense Pink Diamonds .5ct, 1ct Emeralds
The Sapphire Medusa Ring by JJR captures the essence of the candy-colored gem trend for 2024 with its vibrant pink and green hues. Showcasing a 9.09-carat natural Ceylon Purple-Pink Sapphire, 0.5 carats of Fancy Intense Pink Diamonds, and 1 carat of Emeralds, this ring is at the forefront of the candy-colored gem movement. JJR is known for creating fashion-forward pieces that endure generations. The bold hues of the Sapphire Medusa Ring set the stage for the 2024 fashion scene, highlighting the bright and lively tones that will dominate.
Annette Welander:
The Ondulation ring by Swedish design house Annette Welander is crafted in Sweden from 18K rose gold and features one of the rarest gemstones in the world, pink diamonds from the famous, now closed, Argyle Mine in Western Australia. The Ondulation Ring has a curvilinear shape that feels like a natural occurrence. The ring features a flourish of responsibly sourced natural pink diamonds pavéd along one side and set in 18K rose gold. The diamonds are responsibly-sourced and polished through a verified chain of custody process. The colour of the diamonds is natural Fancy Pink 5P–5PP, Clarity VS-VVS. Each piece, according to the house signature, also has a hidden diamond.
JJR:
Pink and Blue Diamond Three Stone Ring.
JJR’s Pink and Blue Diamond Three Stone Ring is cotton candy perfection that features a 1.11ct Fancy Intense Purplish Pink Cushion Cut Diamond, .61ct Fancy Blue Cushion Cut Diamond, .14ct White Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds, 14kt Rose Gold, and Platinum. It blends vibrant, playful hues with the sophistication of luxury jewelry. The soft, pastel pink and striking blue of the diamonds mimic the cheerful, eye-catching colors of candy, creating a fun yet elegant aesthetic. These rare and exquisite gemstones transform the ring into a statement piece that exudes both whimsy and high-end allure and is a must have for 2024.
Jared:
Jared Multi-Color Lab-Created Sapphire Tennis Necklace Sterling Silver 16″, $1,399.99
Magnificent oval-cut lab-created sapphires in rainbow shades of, pink, orange, yellow, blue, green and white are framed above and below by sparkling round natural white sapphire in this luxurious women’s multi-color sapphire tennis necklace. Fashioned in sterling silver, the 16-inch chain secures in place with a box clasp.
Martin Katz:
Fancy Colored Emerald Cut Diamond earrings. As daylight turns to evening these stones are as magical as Martin’s designs.Fancy Colored Emerald Cut.
Martin Katz:
Imagine a Martin Katz box under your tree with our 15ct Pink Tourmaline ring. A Perfectly candy colored gem for the holidays.
Martin Katz:
Candy colored dreams for the holidays. These perfectly matched emeralds are perfect for the holidays and an example of Martin’s ability to design timeless elegance and beauty in an earring.
Make a sparkling statement with our Vivid Red Spinel & Diamond Ring
STATE PROPERTY:
Candy-colored gems are a standout trend for 2024 as they bring a sense of optimism, vibrancy, and individuality to fine jewelry. Reflecting the broader fashion trend of dopamine dressing, these gems—featuring soft pastel tones like cotton-candy pinks, mint greens\resonate with the desire for joy and self-expression. They pair seamlessly with both maximalist and minimalist styles, making them versatile and seasonless.
STATE PROPERTY
Edessa Mist Sapphire Tennis Necklace
18K Yellow Gold, Ombré Pink, Purple and Blue Sapphires – from 9.55ct total weight
$13,540
STATE PROPERTY:
Darro Enchantress Traverse Ring
18K Yellow Gold, Main Stones: Emerald – 0.60ct & Two White Diamonds – 0.17ct each, White Diamonds – 0.98ct total weight, Emerald – 0.90t total weight with Jet Black Enamel
$12,500
STATE PROPERTY:
Edessa Mist Minor Drop Earrings
18K Yellow Gold, Ombré Pink, Purple and Blue Sapphires – 1.92ct total weight
$3,100
About the Author:
Joseph DeAcetis is a visionary force in the world of fashion, celebrated as one of the finest wardrobe stylists and art directors of his generation. His expertise and creativity have earned him accolades throughout the industry, placing him at the forefront of fashion’s evolution. Joseph’s work seamlessly weaves together style, culture, art, and fashion, with a special focus on the shifting landscape of menswear.
Over the course of his distinguished career, Joseph has had the privilege of styling and even interviewing global icons such as Elon Musk, Justin Bieber, Richard Branson, Katy Perry, Tom Brady, and A$AP Rocky, to name just a few. His influence extends beyond styling, as he has also been a prolific writer, contributing award-winning columns to esteemed publications like Esquire, People Magazine, Robb Report, and Playboy. His deep insights and captivating storytelling have established him as a leading voice in fashion journalism.
Joseph most recently served as Creative Fashion Director at Forbes Media, where his dual role as critic and reporter allowed him to explore the intersection of technology and fashion, always championing the transformative power of style. As the founder and president of POTRO, the premier Latinx menswear brand, Joseph is redefining modern menswear with a commitment to celebrating Latinx heritage and craftsmanship.
With an authoritative yet relatable voice, Joseph DeAcetis continues to inspire and influence the world of fashion, setting new standards for success and innovation.
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