Despite challenges in supply, soaring prices, and global economic uncertainty, the allure of emeralds, rubies, and sapphires remains unshakable. These stunning gemstones are still the epitome of luxury, and demand is on the rise—especially among young buyers looking for something beyond diamonds.
Emeralds: The Green Gem on the Rise
Emeralds are hot right now, and prices are skyrocketing! Demand for Colombian emeralds is soaring, with prices increasing by 10-15% annually. Buyers see emeralds as a solid investment, and they’re snapping them up as fast as they hit the market. Gems Trading Co. notes that the demand for emeralds is so high that supply can barely keep up. Chinese buyers are loving smaller, high-quality emeralds, while Indian buyers are going for big, bold stones—recently, a 700-carat emerald was sold to a buyer in India!
But the emerald boom isn’t just in China or India. Across Asia, Europe, and the U.S., people are falling back in love with this rich green gem. With emeralds seen as a safe investment, collectors are buying them up for their long-term value.
Rubies: The Fiery Red Favorite
Rubies are hotter than ever, with prices jumping at least 30% since 2023. Mozambican and Burmese rubies are in high demand, especially in Western markets where buyers are willing to pay top dollar for the very best stones. The continued demand for Burmese rubies, despite political turmoil, shows just how sought after these blood-red gems are.
Gemstones & Jewels sees the Chinese market shifting to smaller rubies of 1 to 2 carats due to weakened purchasing power, but interest in these vibrant stones is still very much alive. Red carpet events and celebrity endorsements are driving the trend, making rubies a trendy choice for engagement rings and everyday jewelry.
Sapphires: Classic Blue, But Trendier Than Ever
Sapphires are seeing a massive resurgence, with demand spiking for high-quality 2 to 10-carat stones, especially those that are untreated. Prices have been steadily climbing over the last two years, driven by the growing desire for sapphire engagement rings. Blue sapphires are classic, but pink, green, and purple sapphires are also becoming wildly popular, adding a colorful twist to traditional jewelry.
Ijadi Gem’s Sam Haghighat says, "Sapphires are the hottest gem in the bridal market right now." From Sri Lankan to Madagascar sapphires, these stones are a hit, with many buyers turning away from diamonds to embrace colorful engagement rings.
The Big Three—The Future of Gemstone Luxury
The Big Three gemstones—emeralds, rubies, and sapphires—are back in the spotlight, and they’re taking the luxury jewelry market by storm. Unlike diamonds, each gemstone has its own unique story and symbolism, making them perfect for those looking for a more personalized touch. According to Sara Gem Corp's Ron Rahmanan, "These gemstones are even rarer than diamonds, making them the ultimate symbols of lifelong commitment."
Despite challenges like fluctuating supply and economic uncertainties, high-quality gemstones under 10 carats remain incredibly popular, while larger investment-grade stones are also selling well. Jewelers and gem traders believe that embracing the color, history, and meaning behind these stones could redefine the luxury jewelry market for the next generation.
So, why are emeralds, rubies, and sapphires suddenly so in demand? It's simple: they’re rare, beautiful, and meaningful. The Big Three are no longer just classics—they’re now at the forefront of luxury fashion, proving that gemstones are here to stay.