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Orange gemstones have a unique appeal that can add warmth and vibrancy to any piece of jewelry. From the classic beauty of citrine to the exotic allure of spessartite garnet, there are a variety of orange gemstones to choose from.
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular orange gemstones used in jewelry, including their characteristics, symbolism, and the best ways to showcase their beauty. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a subtle accent, there’s an orange gemstone for every style and occasion.
Orange Gemstone list
1. Orange Diamond
Nicknamed ‘fire diamonds’ for their intense color, orange diamonds are stunning and desirable gemstones. Pure orange diamonds are extremely rare and highly valuable, receiving their color from the presence of nitrogen. Most orange diamonds on the market are found with secondary hues of brown, yellow, and pink and range from Faint Orange to Fancy Deep Orange shades.
Orange diamonds are also known as ‘pumpkins’ partly due to their color and partly because of the famous orange diamond known as the Pumpkin Diamond. Due to their rarity and high price point, synthetic orange diamonds offer a more accessible option for most people.
2. Orange Sapphire
Like pure orange diamonds, orange sapphires are also very rare in nature. These gemstones generally have traces of yellow or pink in them and the border between these three colors can sometimes overlap.
Almost all orange sapphires on the market are enhanced to reach the desired orange color but in nature, orange sapphires receive their color from traces of vanadium. Sapphires have excellent durability, second only to diamonds, and are ideal for all types of jewelry.
The highly valuable and stunning variety of salmon-colored sapphires known as Padparadscha is also called orange sapphires. These are rare and highly coveted varieties of sapphire.
3. Citrine
Citrine is a transparent variety of quartz that occurs in yellow to dark orange shades. Called citrine after the French word citron for lemon, this gemstone is famous for its golden hues. Citrine is relatively durable (Mohs 7) and holds up to wear and tear quite well. It has very good clarity and is highly transparent.
It is also a brilliant gemstone and is often faceted to enhance this feature. Due to its bright color, citrine has come to symbolize positivity, happiness, and contentment and is popular among crystal healers.
4. Orange Zircon
Zircon is often confused with cubic zirconia, the cheap diamond simulant, due to the similarities in their names. However, zircon is a rare natural gemstone, with a brilliance comparable to that of diamonds. Orange zircon is almost always faceted to maximize the stone’s brilliance. It has a vitreous luster and typically has excellent transparency.
Orange zircon ranks at 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, which is durable enough for use in jewelry but can easily be scratched and damaged. It is also not very tough due to its brittleness and is not resistant to chipping and breaking. Orange zircon is a relatively affordable gemstone.
5. Imperial Topaz
The word ‘topaz’ is considered to have originated from the Sanskrit word for fire – tapas. Little wonder, considering the fiery colors that imperial topaz displays. Although topaz is commonly found and fairly affordable, imperial topaz, also known as precious topaz, is the most valuable and also rarest variety of topaz. Its colors are compared to those of the sun and sky during sunset and range from light peach to dark shades of orange.
Topaz is a hard gemstone, ranking 8 on the Mohs scale, and often has excellent clarity with little to no visible inclusions. It is vitreous in luster and is almost always faceted, but may sometimes be cut en cabochon to highlight its color and beauty.
6. Oregon Sunstone
Not many people have heard of sunstone as it is quite rare and not a mainstream gemstone. Oregon sunstone, named after Oregon, USA, where it is primarily found, is a unique stone that contains tiny copper impurities. When touched by light, and viewed from the correct angle, these inclusions give of metallic flashes that result in a stunning glittering appearance.
High-quality sunstone is dynamic and appears to be glowing, like a source of the fire. Sunstone is not very durable (6 Mohs) and should be placed in protective settings if used in rings. When paired with yellow or rose gold, sunstone looks stunning as the gold accentuates the fiery look of the stone.
7. Spessartite Garnet
The most famous of all orange gemstones, spessartite garnet is a variety of the large and complicated garnet family. It receives its color from traces of manganese and displays shades of faint orange to orange-red. Large, eye-clean spessartite garnets are quite rare and valuable.
Spessartite has a hardness ranking of 7 and contains no cleavage. This makes it durable enough for use in all types of jewelry. It is a brilliant gemstone and is often transparent. Spessartite garnet can be faceted or shaped into cabochons.
8. Mexican Fire Opal
Fire opal is a variety of opal gemstones known for their wide range of colors. The most desirable fire opal color is vivid orange and red-orange with intense saturation. These can command very high prices and are quite rare.
Unlike most other opal varieties, fire opals are often translucent to transparent. Transparent fire opal is typically faceted and cut into popular gemstone shapes. Opals are rather soft gemstones (5.5 to 6.5 Mohs) and are not very suitable for rings that you plan to wear every day.
9. Orange Spinel
While spinel can be found in a variety of colors, orange is one of its most highly sought-after and rare varieties. Stones that have vivid and intense orange saturation are considered the most desirable.
They are especially popular among collectors. Most orange spinel is free of inclusions, although some may contain needle-like rutile inclusions that can give the stone the gemstone phenomenon known as asterism.
Orange spinel has a high refractive index and dispersion, which results in good brilliance. It’s durable (Mohs 8) but it does not handle heat well and the color can fade from prolonged exposure to heat. Orange spinel is not commonly enhanced or treated, however, there are synthetic versions are quite common on the market.
10. Orange Tourmaline
Tourmaline is known for its wide range of colors, which has earned it the nickname ‘the rainbow gemstone’. Some orange tourmaline stones can have a brownish undertone, but there are also vivid pure orange tourmaline gemstones that are more desirable.
Most tourmalines exhibit pleochroism, where the stone displays two colors when viewed from different angles. With orange tourmalines, the two colors that are displayed are brown and orange.
Orange tourmaline is commonly faceted due to its brilliance and high transparency. Tourmaline has good durability (7 to 7.5 Mohs) and with reasonable care can last a long time. While synthetic tourmaline is not commonly used in jewelry, heat treatment is generally carried out on tourmaline to enhance its color.
11. Orange Amber
An ancient material used for jewelry, the use of amber dates back over 13,000 years. Amber belongs to the small group known as organic gemstones and is made of fossilized tree resin. This gives it unique properties. For example, amber often has a smell of pine and is warm to the touch. Amber is often found in hues of yellow, gold, and orange.
One of the amber’s desirable traits is the many inclusions often present in the stone, which includes insects and plant matter. Generally, in the gemstone world, inclusions tend to lower the price of a stone. However, where amber is concerned, the value of the stone can increase due to the unusual and intriguing inclusions within the stone.
On the downside, amber is a very soft stone (2 Mohs) and not suitable for most types of jewelry. Amber is also sensitive to chemicals, alcohol, and perfumes and needs extra care.
12. Orange Aventurine
Aventurine is a variety of the common quartz family. While green is the most common aventurine color, orange is a beautiful and earthy color in aventurine gemstones. Aventurine displays what is known as aventurescence, a glitter effect across its surface that comes from the small flaky impurities present in the stone. The higher the level of aventurescence, the more desirable the stone. This quality makes the stone shiny and vivid.
Although of medium hardness (6.5 to 7 Mohs) aventurine is a tough gemstone, like all gemstones made of quartz, due to its compact structure. It has a vitreous to waxy luster and is often translucent to opaque. Aventurine is mostly cut into cabochons, but it can be faceted for an added effect.
13. Orange Sphalerite
Orange sphalerite is a gemstone that is composed of zinc, iron, and sulfur. It is one of the rarer forms of sphalerite, and it gets its orange color from traces of iron impurities. This gemstone is known for its bright and intense color that ranges from a deep orange to a vivid reddish-orange hue, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Orange sphalerite is relatively hard and has a Mohs hardness rating of 3.5 to 4, which means it is not as hard as other popular gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. However, it is still a durable stone that can be used for everyday wear, as long as it is cared for properly. Because of its unique color and rarity, orange sphalerite is a great choice for those who are looking for something different and eye-catching in their jewelry collection.
14. Orange Fluorite
This mineral is composed of calcium and fluorine, with traces of other elements giving it its distinctive orange hue. It is a relatively uncommon form of fluorite, and its orange color can range from a pale peach to a bright orange-red. Orange fluorite is known for its soothing energy and is often used in spiritual practices to promote emotional balance and creativity.
In terms of hardness, orange fluorite is a relatively soft stone with a Mohs hardness rating of 4, making it susceptible to scratches and chipping. However, with proper care, it can be used in jewelry designs for occasional wear. Due to its unique color and metaphysical properties, this gemstone is a great choice for those looking for a gemstone that combines both aesthetic appeal and spiritual significance.
15. Carnelian
Carnelian is a type of chalcedony that is composed of silicon dioxide and gets its distinct orange to reddish-brown color from the presence of iron oxide. This gemstone has been used in jewelry making for centuries and has a rich history of being associated with power and protection in many cultures.
Carnelian is a relatively durable stone with a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5 to 7, making it suitable for everyday wear. It is also a popular choice for carving and engraving due to its relative softness compared to other gemstones like diamonds or sapphires.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, carnelian is believed to have healing properties that can help with boosting confidence, promoting creativity, and improving physical health. Its unique color and spiritual significance make carnelian a great choice for anyone looking for a gemstone that combines both beauty and meaning.
16. Orange Agate
Orange agate is a variety of chalcedony that is known for its beautiful orange and white banding patterns. It is formed from microscopic crystals of quartz that have grown together to create a solid and durable stone. In terms of hardness, orange agate has a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5 to 7, making it a relatively hard stone that can withstand daily wear and tear.
This gemstone has been used in jewelry making for centuries and is popular for its unique color and pattern variations. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, orange agate is also believed to have healing properties that can promote emotional balance, improve self-confidence, and aid in digestion.
Due to its durability and spiritual significance, orange agate is a great choice for anyone looking for a gemstone that combines both beauty and holistic benefits.
17. Coral
Coral is not technically a stone, but rather a marine organism that grows in warm, shallow waters. It is composed of calcium carbonate and is known for its distinctive orange or pinkish-orange color. Coral has been used in jewelry making for thousands of years and has a rich history of being associated with protection, fertility, and good luck.
This stone is a relatively soft material with a Mohs hardness rating of 3.5 to 4, making it susceptible to scratches and chipping. Due to its organic nature, coral is also sensitive to changes in temperature and acidity and requires special care to maintain its luster and integrity.
18. Peach Moonstone
Peach moonstone is a type of feldspar that is known for its soft, peachy color and iridescent glow, which is caused by the reflection of light on its internal structure. It is considered a type of adularescence, which is a phenomenon that causes a soft, hazy glow to emanate from the gemstone’s surface.
Peach moonstone is a hard stone with a Mohs hardness rating of 6 to 6.5, making it suitable for use in jewelry designs. It is also a popular choice for meditation and spiritual practices due to its calming energy and ability to promote emotional healing.
In addition to its aesthetic and spiritual properties, peach moonstone is believed to have a variety of physical benefits, including improving digestion, reducing stress, and balancing hormones.
The stone’s unique color and metaphysical properties make peach moonstone a great choice for anyone looking for a gemstone that combines both beauty and holistic benefits.
19. Orange Calcite
This is a type of calcium carbonate mineral that gets its distinctive orange color from the presence of iron oxide. It is a soft stone ranking at 3 on Mohs scale of hardness, which makes it susceptible to scratches and chipping. Despite its softness, orange calcite is still a popular choice for jewelry making due to its vibrant color and affordability.
Orange calcite is also believed to have a variety of healing properties, including boosting creativity, enhancing mental clarity, and promoting emotional balance. It is often used in meditation and energy healing practices to promote feelings of joy and happiness.
20. Hessonite Garnet
Hessonite garnet is a variety of garnet gemstone that is primarily composed of calcium aluminum silicate. It is also known as the “cinnamon stone” due to its distinct reddish-brown color. This gemstone is highly valued for its unique hue, as well as its durability and hardness.
Hessonite garnet is rated 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making it a relatively hard stone that is suitable for use in jewelry. Aside from its aesthetic and physical properties, hessonite garnet is also believed to possess metaphysical and healing properties.
It is said to promote self-esteem, enhance creativity, and aid in spiritual development. Some people also use hessonite garnet to treat various physical ailments, such as asthma, allergies, and skin disorders.
21. Orange Apatite
This is a rare variety of the mineral apatite, which is a group of phosphate minerals that are commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. This gemstone is prized for its vibrant orange color, which can range from a bright tangerine hue to a deep reddish-orange shade. Unlike many other gemstones, orange apatite is relatively unknown to the general public, but it is highly sought after by collectors and gem enthusiasts.
Orange apatite is a relatively hard stone, with a rating of 5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes it a durable and resilient gemstone that is suitable for use in jewelry. However, due to its rarity and unique color, orange apatite is typically more expensive than other types of apatite.
22. Madeira Citrine
This type of citrine is named after the Madeira Islands, a Portuguese archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa, where it was first discovered. Madeira citrine is known for its deep, reddish-orange color, which is created by the presence of iron in the mineral.
Madeira citrine is a hard stone, with a rating of 7 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes it a durable and long-lasting gemstone that is suitable for use in a variety of jewelry settings, including rings, earrings, and necklaces.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal and physical properties, Madeira citrine is believed to have metaphysical and healing properties. It is said to promote vitality, creativity, and self-confidence, as well as aid in spiritual development and emotional balance.
23. Orange Danburite
Orange danburite is a rare variety of danburite, a calcium boron silicate mineral that is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. This type of danburite is known for its vibrant orange color, which is caused by the presence of manganese in the mineral.
Orange danburite is a relatively hard stone, with a rating of 7 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes it a durable and long-lasting gemstone that is suitable for use in jewelry.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal and physical properties, orange danburite is believed to have metaphysical and healing properties. It is said to promote emotional healing, spiritual growth, and physical well-being. It is also believed to help alleviate stress and anxiety, and to promote feelings of peace and tranquility.
24. Orange Topaz
Prized for its beauty and durability, this type of topaz is known for its rich, warm orange color, which is created by the presence of iron and chromium in the mineral.
Orange topaz is a relatively hard stone, with a rating of 8 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes it a durable and long-lasting gemstone that is suitable for use in jewelry, including rings and bracelets.
Orange topaz is believed to have metaphysical and healing properties. It is said to promote joy, confidence, and emotional well-being, as well as aid in spiritual growth and awareness.
25. Orange Beryl
Orange beryl is a rare variety of beryl, a mineral that is also known as aquamarine, emerald, and morganite, depending on its color. This type of beryl is prized for its beautiful orange color, which is created by the presence of iron in the mineral.
Orange beryl is a relatively hard stone, with a rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes it a durable and long-lasting gemstone that is suitable for use in jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and earrings.
Overall, orange beryl is a rare and beautiful gemstone that is highly valued by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts for its unique color and potential benefits. Its hardness and durability make it a great choice for use in jewelry, while its metaphysical properties add to its appeal.
Shopping for Orange Gemstones – What to Consider
1. Symbolism:
Orange is a mixture of red and yellow, combining the energy and heat of red with the brightness and positivity of yellow. Orange symbolizes joy, sunshine, warmth, creativity, happiness, and a touch of the exotic. Because of this symbolism, some purchase orange gemstones as a way of inviting these qualities into their lives.
2. White Metals:
If you’re wondering whether to choose a silver-hued metal, rose or yellow gold with your orange gemstone, the good news is that orange gemstones go well with all metal colors. White metals such as silver, platinum, and white gold are perfect for contemporary, modern designs. They also highlight the color of the gemstone, making it the focal point of the jewelry.
3. Yellow Gold:
Yellow gold complements orange gemstones and offers less contrast. The transition from metal to stone is smoother and both work in harmony. A rose gold and orange gemstone pairing is quite unique and has a vintage look to it.
4. Skin Tone:
Orange suits most skin tones, but especially flatters those with warm tones. As it’s an earthy color, it brings out the warm undertones of those with dark or tan complexions.
Where to Shop for Orange Gemstones
Orange is not a common color for jewelry so you may not find many options at a brick-and-mortar store. If you prefer shopping online, you will have a lot more options available to you.
- Etsy: From orange calcite to rare options like orange kyanite, Etsy offers a diverse selection of high-quality orange gemstones from independent artisans and small businesses.
- Amazon: Amazon is an online store that offers a wide variety of orange gemstones for sale. From popular options like orange citrine and orange sapphire to rarer stones like orange danburite and orange beryl, Amazon provides a convenient and accessible platform for purchasing high-quality gemstones from around the world.
- Blue Nile: An online jewelry retailer that offers a selection of orange gemstones, Blue Nile offers various options like orange citrine and orange garnet. With a focus on quality and customer service, Blue Nile provides a range of settings and styles for its gemstone jewelry, allowing customers to create a unique and personalized piece.Â
- James Allen: Check out James Allen for a good range of diamonds as well as yellow sapphires some of which are borderline orange. With a focus on transparency and high-quality craftsmanship, James Allen provides a variety of settings and styles for its gemstone jewelry, ensuring that customers can create a unique and personalized piece.
- Angara Jewelers: With a focus on quality and craftsmanship, Angara offers a variety of orange gemstones, such as orange sapphire, orange citrine, and orange garnet, in various styles, cuts, and settings.
Which Orange Gemstone Should I Choose?
For Engagement Rings
Orange gemstones are a unique and beautiful choice for an engagement ring, and there are several options to consider. One popular choice is the Padparadscha Sapphire, a rare and precious gemstone featuring a blend of pink and orange hues. With excellent durability and the ability to bring good fortune, happiness, and prosperity, it is an ideal choice for an engagement ring. Another popular choice is the Spessartite Garnet, known for its brilliant orange color and high durability, ranking at 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale.
The Fire Opal is another option with a vibrant orange hue that symbolizes passion and energy. It is important to consider the durability, beauty, and meaning of the gemstone before making a final choice for an orange engagement ring.
For Costume and Fashion Jewelry
When it comes to costume and fashion jewelry, orange gemstones can add a unique and vibrant touch. Here are three orange gemstones that are ideal for costume and fashion jewelry:
- Carnelian – Carnelian is a translucent orange gemstone that has been used in jewelry for centuries. It has a smooth surface and is relatively inexpensive, making it a popular choice for costume and fashion jewelry.
- Citrine – Citrine is a yellow-orange gemstone that can range in color from light to dark orange. It is a durable and affordable gemstone that is popular in costume and fashion jewelry.
- Amber – Amber is a fossilized resin that ranges in color from pale yellow to deep orange. It is a popular gemstone for costume and fashion jewelry due to its unique and warm color, and is often used in beaded designs.
Soft Orange Gemstones
Soft gemstones have a lower ranking on the Mohs hardness scale, which measures a gemstone’s resistance to scratching and durability. These gemstones can be a great option for certain types of jewelry and occasions due to their unique properties.
Soft orange gemstones such as peach moonstone and sunstone are great for jewelry designs that require a smooth and polished surface as they can be easily carved and shaped. They can also be used for stacking rings, beaded bracelets or necklaces, and earrings due to their relatively light weight.
Soft orange gemstones can also be good for healing purposes as they are believed to have metaphysical properties that can soothe and calm the wearer. For example, rose quartz and carnelian are said to promote love, harmony, and confidence.
However, it is important to note that soft gemstones require extra care to prevent scratches, chips, or damage. It is recommended to store them separately from harder gemstones and avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.
FAQs about Orange Gemstones
What is the most expensive orange gemstone?
The most expensive orange gemstone is the Padparadscha Sapphire, valued for its rarity and unique blend of pink and orange hues.
What Geode is orange?Â
Orange geodes are commonly formed from agate, calcite, or quartz crystals and can be found in various locations worldwide.
Is there an orange Jasper?Â
Yes, there are various types of jasper that come in shades of orange, such as red jasper, fire jasper, and picture jasper.
Is there an orange birthstone?Â
No, there is no specific birthstone that is universally recognized as being orange. However, some months have alternate or modern birthstones that are orange.
Are there orange garnets?Â
Yes, there are orange garnets, such as the spessartite garnet and the hessonite garnet, which have varying shades of orange or reddish-orange.
Wrapping Up
Orange gemstones can add a unique and vibrant touch to any piece of jewelry. From the deep reddish-orange of spessartite garnet to the sunny warmth of citrine, there are a variety of options to choose from when it comes to incorporating orange gemstones into jewelry designs.
Whether it is for an engagement ring, a statement necklace, or a pair of earrings, orange gemstones can offer an eye-catching and unique look that is sure to turn heads. With proper care and attention, your orange gemstone jewelry can be treasured for years to come.