30 Most Popular Brown Gemstones to Use in Jewelry

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Brown gemstones have been increasing in popularity in recent years, thanks to their versatility and natural beauty. From warm and earthy tones to rich chocolatey hues, brown gemstones offer a wide range of options for jewelry designers and enthusiasts.

In this article, we’ll explore the 30 most popular brown gemstones used in jewelry, including their unique characteristics, meanings, and how to incorporate them into your jewelry collection.

Whether you’re a fan of classic gemstones or looking for something more unique, there’s sure to be a brown gemstone that catches your eye. So, let’s dive in and discover the beauty of brown gemstones.

Brown Gemstones List

1. Brown Diamond

Brown Diamond Stud
Brown diamond stud earrings by Diamond Wish. See it here.

The most prestigious of brown gemstones, brown diamonds are known by a range of intriguing nicknames – champagne, chocolate, and cognac. These terms refer to different hues of the brown spectrum but they have one thing in common – they’re all beautiful varieties of diamonds.

Brown diamonds are among the most affordable of all colored gemstones and the most common. Dark brown diamonds are more popular among consumers, so these are the more expensive sort. Choose a stone that has vivid saturation and a medium to dark body tone.

One benefit of brown diamonds is that they hide impurities well and generally appear very clear. Just look for a stone that is eye-clean and has no visible impurities.

Brown diamonds make beautiful center stones for engagement rings and are a welcome change to the traditional colorless diamond.  Due to its rising popularity, there are many places where you can now buy high-quality beautiful brown diamonds. If you find a natural brown diamond beyond your budget, you can consider a synthetic or treated brown diamond.

2. Chocolate Opal

chocolate opal brown gemstones
Chocolate opal gemstone by Thai Generation. See it here.

The chocolate opal has a distinct brown color that distinguishes it from other opal varieties. It has a dark body tone and sometimes contains interesting snakeskin-like patterns. Chocolate opal often has a clear and intense flash of color, and unlike other opal varieties, it can display all the colors of the spectrum.

Chocolate opals are generally translucent to opaque and have a waxy, glossy luster. While most chocolate opals have small impurities and flaws, these generally don’t affect the overall value of the stone. However, the most expensive chocolate opals are those that have no visible flaws or cracks.

Although they are quite soft and delicate gemstones (Mohs 5.5 to 6.5), they are commonly used for all types of jewelry. You can always opt to buy a loose chocolate opal and have it set into a jewelry setting of your choosing. Bezel settings and heavier mountings are a better option as they protect the opal.

3. Brown Tourmaline

Brown tourmaline earrings
Brown tourmaline earrings by Boutique Baltique. See them here.

Tourmaline, known as the rainbow gemstone, comes in every color imaginable including brown. Brown tourmaline is not a mainstream gemstone and can be difficult to find in jewelry stores. Brown tourmalines often have secondary shades, such as pink or purple that can enhance their appearance.

The most expensive varieties are dark, vivid, and intensely saturated stones with excellent clarity and brilliance.

Most brown tourmalines are faceted to enhance their brilliance. They are fiery, a transparent stone that is quite durable for all types of jewelry (Mohs 7 to 7.5). Just check whether any heat treatment has been conducted on your stone, as this is a common procedure done on tourmalines. Brown tourmaline is perfect in earrings, pendants, and rings as they catch the light beautifully and have an eye-catching sparkle.

4. Fire Agate

Fire agate pendant necklace
Fire agate pendant necklace by Crystal Cave Co. See it here.

Fire agate is a brown variety of agate that is known for its smooth sheen and iridescence. It is only found in a few locations in the world, with most deposits located in Mexico and the USA. A high-quality fire agate has a stunning play of color, a waxy luster, and is generally translucent.

It is a hard stone (Mohs 7) and because it is a variety of quartz, fire agate is very tough. It is beautiful when crafted into unique designs, highlighting the shape and sheen of the stone. Fire agate jewelry is usually found in handmade artisan stores and is not common in mainstream jewelry stores.

They are notoriously difficult to cut and shape and require a high level of expertise to craft into jewelry items. Although fire agate is an affordable stone, the workmanship, and settings used often raises the price of the final item.

5. Brown Topaz

Brown topaz dangle earrings
Brown topaz dangle earrings by Jaipur Shop Co. See them here.

The word topaz is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit word tapas, which means fire. Brown topaz is not the most sought-after topaz variety (blue is the most popular), however, it does have its own charms. Topaz is a brilliant stone and is usually faceted to accentuate this feature. When faceted into shapes such as ovals, trilliants, marquis, rounds, baguettes, and squares, brown topaz catches the light well and appears fiery and sparkly.

Brown topaz is a very hard stone (Mohs 8) and is suitable for all types of jewelry, even rings. Most topaz on the market is free of inclusions. While most brown topaz is irradiated to enhance the color, this is standard procedure.

6. Tiger’s Eye

Tiger's eye raw crystal necklace
Tiger’s eye raw crystal necklace by Delezhen. See it here.

Tiger’s Eye is a type of quartz that is very affordable and easy to find. It is known for its beautiful golden-brown color and intriguing patterns across the surface. Most Tiger’s Eye are translucent to opaque, and often exhibit chatoyancy which is the cat’s eye effect. When cut into cabochons, the stone may display an interesting pattern that looks like a cat’s eye.

Tiger’s Eye may sometimes display iridescence and has a smooth, silky luster. It is good for regular use and is durable enough to be used in most types of jewelry (Mohs 6.5 to 7).

Tiger’s Eye is often used to make beautiful and unique jewelry pieces and comes at affordable prices. 

7. Mahogany Obsidian

Mahogany obsidian bracelet
Mahogany obsidian bracelet by Komal Crystals. See it here.

Obsidian is created from rapidly cooling lava and comes in a variety of colors and textures. Mahogany obsidian is a dark-brown variety of obsidian, that contains beautiful black, red, and brown patterns. It can sometimes be found in banded varieties.

Because of its waxy, opaque luster, mahogany is often cut en cabochon, tumbled or carved, and is rarely faceted. Obsidian is a fairly soft gemstone (5.5 Mohs) and is prone to scratches and breakage. It is not recommended in use for rings unless in protective settings. Mahogany obsidian has a very earthy vibe and is often used in bohemian or hippie designs.

8. Brown Citrine

Brown citrine hook earrings
Brown citrine earrings by Namata Design. See them here.

Citrine is a popular brown gemstone and is known for its golden hues. It is highly transparent and has a vitreous (glassy) luster. Brown citrine gemstones are often faceted to maximize their brilliance. Citrines generally have very good clarity and very few visible impurities, making them perfect as center gemstones, especially in rings.

Citrine is a popular gemstone and it is quite easy to find high-quality citrine jewelry. The stone is relatively durable (Mohs 7) and can be worn for a long time with reasonable care. It is also more affordable than most similar gemstones.

9. Andalusite

Andalusite brown gemstones necklace
Andalusite necklace by Boutique Baltique. See it here.

Most people haven’t heard of andalusite, a beautiful gemstone found in a range of brown hues, but it is slowly increasing in popularity. Andalusite gets its name from Andalusia, the Spanish region where it was initially discovered.

One of the desirable characteristics of this gemstone is that it often displays pleochroism, which means that it exhibits two colors at the same time, depending on the angle at which the stone is viewed. Most brown andalusite will have secondary tones of yellow, green, or orange. When cut expertly and set in jewelry, andalusite often shows a beautiful mix of colors.

Andalusite is typically translucent to opaque, while transparent varieties are rare and expensive. It is generally faceted to enhance its pleochroism as well as its brilliance. It is a durable gemstone (7.5 Mohs) and is suitable for any type of jewelry. Andalusite is perfect for rings, earrings, and pendants, where light can interact with the stone and display pleochroism.

10. Smoky Quartz

Smoky quartz necklace
Smoky quartz necklace by Yuton Jewelry. See it here.

Smoky quartz is one of the most popular brown gemstones used in jewelry. It is relatively inexpensive and very common. Smoky quartz is the brown variety of quartz and ranges in color from faint, smoky brown to solid black. Medium to vivid brown hues are considered the best but this depends on your preferences.

Most smoky quartz is translucent to transparent, with a vitreous luster, and contains little to no visible flaws. Because it can be found in large sizes, it is perfect for fashion and costume jewelry at an affordable price.

Most smoky quartz is faceted and displays a good amount of brilliance. When cut en cabochon, the gemstone looks waxy and smooth. With a good hardness rating of 7, smoky quartz is used in all types of jewelry.

11. Cat’s Eye Apatite

Cats eye apatite gemstone
Cats eye apatite gemstone by Gemspeak. See it here.

Cat’s eye apatite, like tiger’s eye, is known for exhibiting chatoyancy. If you look at this gemstone under direct light, you’ll see the cat’s eye effect running down the center of the stone, which occurs due to the type of impurities in the stone. To highlight this cat’s eye effect, cat’s eye apatite is always cut en cabochon.

Always look for the strength and quality of the chatoyancy before you buy cat’s eye apatite, as that is what the gemstone is known for.

Cat’s eye apatite occurs in a variety of shades, with brown being one of the most common. These gemstones often have inclusions, and eye-clean varieties are rare. Because cat’s eye apatite is quite soft (Mohs 5) it is not suitable for most types of jewelry. Choose a protective setting, such as a bezel or halo, if you wish to have your cat’s eye apatite in a ring.

12. Axinite

axinite in 14k gold pendant
Axinite pendant necklace by Crystal Anatomy. See it here.

Axinite is a rare, complex mineral often found in metamorphic rocks and was first discovered in the French Alps in 1797. Axinite’s crystal structure features unique cleavage planes and twinning, making it a popular choice for collectors and jewelry designers alike.

Axinite’s unique coloring and luster make it an attractive gemstone for use in jewelry. It is often used as a secondary stone, meaning it is used to complement other gemstones in a piece of jewelry. Axinite is typically cut into cabochons or faceted gems, and its brown or reddish-brown color is often highlighted by warm gold or copper settings.

Axinite has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively durable but should still be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage. With proper care, an axinite jewelry piece can be enjoyed for years to come.

13. Boulder Opal

boulder opal beaded bracelet
Boulder opal beaded bracelet by Krystal Bracelet. See it here.

Boulder Opal is a type of precious opal that is found attached to ironstone boulders in Queensland, Australia. This unique type of opal is highly valued for its vivid colors and natural patterns that are created by the veins of ironstone.

It’s formed when silica gel seeps into the cavities of the ironstone and then hardens over time. Boulder opals are popular for their striking beauty and uniqueness. The ironstone matrix surrounding the opal is often left on the stone to create a natural, earthy feel.

This type of opal is cut in a way that maximizes the play of colors and can be used in a variety of jewelry designs, such as pendants, earrings, and rings. Boulder opals are usually set in gold or silver to highlight their natural beauty.

14. Mali Garnet

natural mali garnet stud earrings
Mali garnet stud earrings by Sevenwheel. See them here.

This is a rare and valuable variety of garnets that was first discovered in 1994 in the West African country of Mali. It is a hybrid of two other types of garnet, and its unique blend of colors includes green, yellow, and brown, making it a versatile and beautiful gemstone.

Mali garnet is often used in jewelry, particularly as a centerpiece in rings, pendants, and earrings. Its brilliant and sparkling appearance makes it a popular choice for those who want a gemstone that is both unique and eye-catching. It is also relatively hard and durable, making it suitable for everyday wear.

As with other gemstones, the value of Mali garnet can vary depending on factors such as size, color, and clarity. However, it is generally considered to be a highly valuable and desirable gemstone.

15. Brown Enstatite

vintage enstatite ring
Brown enstatite ring by Love Vintage Statement. See it here.

Brown enstatite is a rare and lesser-known gemstone that belongs to the pyroxene mineral family. It is also known as hypersthene, and its name comes from the Greek words “enstatos,” which means opponent or adversary, and “lithos,” which means stone.

Brown enstatite has a brown-to-black color with a vitreous luster, and it is sometimes found with a metallic sheen. It is a relatively hard and durable gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6.5, making it suitable for use in jewelry.

However, brown enstatite is not commonly used in jewelry due to its low availability and limited demand. It is mostly used in the manufacturing of refractory materials and in the aerospace industry due to its high-temperature resistance and durability.

Despite its limited use in jewelry, brown enstatite is still a unique and interesting gemstone that collectors and enthusiasts may appreciate for its rarity and distinct appearance.

16. Brown Zircon

natural brown zircon and diamond ring
Brown zircon and diamond ring by Master Jeweler. See it here.

Brown zircon is a natural gemstone that belongs to the zircon mineral family. It is known for its warm and earthy tone and is highly valued in the jewelry industry for its beauty and durability. Brown zircon is often used as a less expensive alternative to brown diamonds.

In jewelry making, brown zircon is typically used as a center stone in rings, pendants, and earrings. It is often cut into faceted shapes to showcase its natural beauty and luster. It can also be found in combination with other gemstones to create unique and stunning jewelry pieces.

One important thing to note is that brown zircon should not be confused with cubic zirconia, which is a synthetic material often used as a diamond alternative. Brown zircon is a natural gemstone and has its own unique properties and characteristics.

17. Brown Agate

brown agate necklace and earrings
Brown agate necklace and earrings by MaggiesGem Jewelry. See them here.

Brown agate is a type of chalcedony that is known for its beautiful brown color and wavy banding patterns. It is a popular semi-precious gemstone that is often used in jewelry making due to its affordability and durability.

Brown agate is commonly used to make statement pieces such as necklaces, pendants, and bracelets. It is also often cut and polished into cabochons or beads to be used in a variety of jewelry designs. The stone’s warm, earthy tones make it a popular choice for bohemian and nature-inspired jewelry styles.

Aside from its use in jewelry, brown agate is also believed to have healing properties. It is said to help balance emotions, promote inner stability, and provide strength and support during difficult times. Brown agate is also thought to have grounding properties and can help promote feelings of security and stability.

18. Brown Jasper

brown jasper hoop earrings
Brown jasper hoop earrings by Laurastark. See them here.

Brown jasper is a type of chalcedony mineral that is opaque and typically brown, with streaks or spots of other colors such as red, yellow, or green. It is a popular gemstone for jewelry making due to its unique and attractive appearance.

This gemstone is commonly used in beaded jewelry, as well as in pendants, earrings, and bracelets. It is a versatile gemstone that can be cut and shaped into a variety of sizes and styles, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, brown jasper is also believed to have healing properties. It is said to promote grounding and stability, provide protection against negativity, and enhance one’s sense of security and inner strength.

19. Opaque Chalcedony

brown carnelian drop earrings
Brown opaque chalcedony earrings by Silvertolia. See them here.

Opaque chalcedony, also known as carnelian, is a type of microcrystalline quartz that’s commonly found in shades of red, orange, and brown. It can also be found in other colors such as pink and white.

When used in jewelry, opaque chalcedony is typically cut into cabochons or beads, which are then used in necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. It is a popular choice for beaded jewelry due to its wide range of colors and the ability to mix and match with other stones.

Aside from its use in jewelry, opaque chalcedony has been used for centuries for its believed healing properties. It is thought to help with issues related to the lower body, including fertility and menstrual issues.

20. Brown Hessonite Garnet

Brown hessonite garnet is a variety of the mineral grossular garnet, which is a member of the garnet group of minerals. It is characterized by its brown to orange-brown color, which is caused by the presence of iron and manganese in the crystal structure. It’s mainly found in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Brazil.

In jewelry, brown hessonite garnet is used due to its unique color and high durability, which makes it suitable for use in various types of jewelry such as rings, pendants, and earrings. It is often cut into a variety of shapes such as round, oval, and cushion, and can be used as a centerpiece or as an accent stone. Brown hessonite garnet is also believed to have healing properties and is thought to provide protection, strength, and vitality to the wearer.

Overall, brown hessonite garnet is a popular gemstone that is highly valued for its unique color and durability, making it a great choice for jewelry lovers who want something that is both beautiful and long-lasting.

21. Golden Beryl

Golden beryl, also known as heliodor, is a mineral from the beryl family that is valued for its golden to yellowish-green color. It is often found in pegmatite and granite formations and is found in countries like Brazil, Namibia, and Madagascar.

Golden beryl has been used in jewelry for centuries and is a popular gemstone for rings, necklaces, and earrings. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for everyday wear. Its warm and vibrant color makes it an excellent choice for statement pieces, especially when set in yellow gold.

Aside from its use in jewelry, golden beryl has also been used for industrial purposes, such as in the production of glasses and ceramics. In some cultures, it is believed to have healing properties and is used in alternative medicine.

When purchasing golden beryl jewelry, it is important to consider its color and clarity. Golden beryl with a bright and even color and minimal inclusions is highly prized.

22. Rutile Quartz

rutile quartz dangle earrings
Rutile quartz dangle earrings by Nurit Design Jewelry. See them here.

Rutile quartz is a type of quartz crystal that contains inclusions of rutile, a mineral that appears as golden or silver needles within the crystal. This unique combination of materials gives the stone an attractive appearance and makes it a popular choice for jewelry. Rutile quartz is found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States.

In jewelry, rutile quartz is often used as a centerpiece for necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. It is also sometimes used as an accent stone in combination with other gems. Rutile quartz is prized for its unique and eye-catching appearance, as well as its spiritual properties. Some believe that rutile quartz can help to promote clarity and focus, making it a popular choice for meditation and spiritual practices.

Rutile quartz has a Mohs hardness of 7, making it a relatively durable gemstone that can withstand daily wear and tear. However, it should still be treated with care to avoid scratches or other damage.

23. Sillimanite

sillimanite faceted beads
Sillimanite faceted beads by Prismaticgems. See it here.

Sillimanite is a mineral that is named after the American chemist, Benjamin Silliman. It is an alumino-silicate mineral and belongs to the group of minerals called nesosilicates. Sillimanite is commonly found in metamorphic rocks and is used as a raw material for various industrial purposes, such as ceramic production, refractory products, and metallurgy.

Sillimanite is also used in jewelry-making due to its unique characteristics, such as its pleochroism, which means that the gemstone displays different colors when viewed from different angles. It is commonly cut into faceted gems and used as a decorative stone in jewelry pieces such as rings, pendants, and earrings. The gemstone is relatively rare and is typically found in colors ranging from transparent to yellow, green, brown, and blue-gray.

Due to its durability and resistance to wear and tear, sillimanite is a popular choice for use in jewelry. However, it is important to note that it is a relatively hard mineral with a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7.5, so it may require special care during handling and cutting to prevent damage.

24. Brown Sphalerite

In jewelry, brown sphalerite is often used as a gemstone for its attractive color and high refractive index. The gemstone is known for its intense, fiery brilliance and is often faceted to enhance its sparkle.

It is a relatively soft gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 3.5 to 4, making it more susceptible to scratches and chips compared to other popular gemstones. One important thing to note is that brown sphalerite can contain significant amounts of cadmium, which is toxic. As a result, it is important to handle the gemstone with care and not to ingest it.

Proper ventilation and safety equipment should be used when cutting or polishing brown sphalerite gemstones. Despite this, brown sphalerite remains a popular and affordable gemstone choice for those looking for unique and colorful jewelry.

25. Brown Moonstone

brown moonstone earrings
Brown moonstone earrings by Yania Jewelry NYC. See them here.

Brown moonstone, also known as peach moonstone, is a variety of moonstone that is known for its warm, earthy hues ranging from pale pink to deep orange-brown. It is a semi-precious gemstone that belongs to the feldspar mineral group and is typically found in Sri Lanka, India, and Madagascar.

Brown moonstone is used in jewelry-making due to its unique and beautiful appearance. It is often cut into cabochons or shaped into beads for necklaces and bracelets. It’s also used in rings and earrings, often paired with other gemstones like garnet or citrine to create a striking contrast.

In addition to its aesthetic value, brown moonstone is also believed to possess metaphysical properties. It is said to promote emotional healing and provide a sense of calm and tranquility. Brown moonstone is also associated with the root chakra, which is said to help one feel grounded and connected to the earth.

26. Sang-e-Maryam

sang-e-maryam ear plugs gauges
Sang-e-maryam ear gauges by Naga Body Jewelry. See them here.

Sang-e-Maryam, also known as “mariam stone” or “marble stone,” is a type of fossilized limestone that is considered a semi-precious gemstone. It is found in different parts of the world, including Iran, where it is known to have been used in jewelry and other decorative objects since ancient times.

Sang-e-Maryam has a unique appearance with a white or cream-colored background that is covered with brown or black dendritic patterns. The patterns are created by iron or manganese oxide inclusions that form as the limestone fossilizes over time.

This gemstone is believed to have healing properties and is associated with emotional balance and protection. Some cultures also believe that wearing Sang-e-Maryam can attract wealth and success. Due to its unique appearance and cultural significance, it is a popular choice for both contemporary and traditional jewelry designs.

27. Jeremejevite

Jeremejevite is a rare mineral that was first discovered in the late 19th century in Siberia, Russia. It was named after Pavel Vladimirovich Eremeev (Jeremejev), who was a Russian mineralogist. Jeremejevite is a complex aluminum borate mineral that is usually found in crystal form. The crystals are often colorless, blue, or pale yellow-brown, but can also occur in green, pink, or brown colors.

Jeremejevite is extremely rare and is found in only a few locations around the world, including Namibia, Afghanistan, and Russia. Due to its rarity, jeremejevite is highly valued by collectors and can be very expensive.

Although not commonly used in jewelry due to its rarity, jeremejevite can be cut and polished into gemstones. Jeremejevite has a high refractive index, making it a desirable gemstone. Jeremejevite is also sometimes used in scientific research as a marker of high-pressure conditions in the earth’s crust.

28. Hackmanite

Hackmanite is a rare and unique gemstone that belongs to the Sodalite group of minerals. It was first discovered in Greenland in 1896 and is named after a Norwegian mineralogist named Victor Hackman. The gemstone is typically a translucent to opaque mineral, with a pale violet or pink color that can fade when exposed to light. This color-changing property, known as tenebrescence, is a special characteristic of hackmanite.

Hackmanite is used in jewelry for its unique and interesting color-changing property. The gemstone is cut into cabochons, beads, and other fancy shapes to make beautiful jewelry pieces. It is also used in lapidary work and as a decorative stone. Due to its rarity, hackmanite is highly valued among collectors and enthusiasts of gemstones.

29. Staurolite

staurolite gemstone ring
Staurolite gemstone ring by Shininggems. See it here.

Staurolite is a brown to black mineral that is primarily used for ornamental purposes. It is commonly found in metamorphic rocks, especially those that have undergone regional metamorphism. The mineral is often characterized by its unique crystal habit, which forms into a cross or X-shape, making it a popular gemstone for jewelry.

Staurolite is often referred to as the “fairy stone” or “fairy cross” due to its cross-like crystal structure, which has been associated with magical and spiritual properties by many cultures. It has been used in amulets and talismans by the Native American tribes of the southeastern United States, who believed it could ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.

In addition to its use as a gemstone, staurolite has also been used in industrial applications, such as sandpaper and water filtration systems. It is a durable mineral with a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a good choice for abrasion-resistant materials.

30. Dravite Tourmaline

dravite tourmaline bracelet
Dravite tourmaline bracelet by 22crystals Shop. See it here.

Dravite Tourmaline is a brown variety of the Tourmaline mineral group. It is named after the Drave region in Carinthia, Austria, where it was first discovered. Dravite Tourmaline is found in many parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Brazil, and the United States.

Dravite Tourmaline is used in jewelry as a gemstone and is popular for its deep brown color and high clarity. It is often used as a center stone in rings, pendants, and earrings, and can also be used in beadwork and other jewelry designs.

Dravite Tourmaline also has a number of industrial applications due to its electrical and thermal conductivity. It is also used in the production of high-strength materials for aerospace and defense applications.

Which Brown Gemstone Should I Choose?

For Engagement Rings

Brown gemstones like chocolate diamonds, smoky quartz, citrine, and brown sapphires are ideal for engagement rings due to their unique and natural appearance. They offer an affordable alternative to traditional diamonds and are also durable enough to withstand everyday wear.

Examples of popular brown gemstones used in engagement rings include chocolate diamonds for their rich brown color, smoky quartz for a warm and earthy tone, citrine for its affordability, and brown sapphires for their hardness and durability.

For Costume and Fashion Jewelry

When it comes to costume and fashion jewelry, brown gemstones can offer a versatile and affordable option. Some of the best brown gemstones for costume and fashion jewelry include:

  • Tiger’s Eye: This gemstone has a unique chatoyancy, or cat’s eye effect, that makes it a popular choice for fashion jewelry. It is also relatively affordable and durable, making it ideal for costume jewelry.
  • Smoky Quartz: Smoky quartz has a warm and earthy tone that is perfect for fashion jewelry. It is also a durable gemstone that is easy to find in large sizes, which makes it ideal for statement pieces.
  • Brown Agate: Brown agate is a type of chalcedony that is often used in fashion jewelry. It has a unique and interesting pattern that can add visual interest to any piece of jewelry.
  • Brown Jasper: Jasper is a popular gemstone for fashion jewelry due to its affordability and versatility. Brown jasper has a warm, earthy tone that can be used to create a range of different looks.
  • Brown Tourmaline: Brown tourmaline is a relatively rare gemstone that has a warm brown color. It is often used in fashion jewelry to add a unique and exotic touch.

Soft Brown Gemstones

A ‘soft’ gemstone is a gemstone that has a low score on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. The Mohs scale is used to measure the hardness of minerals on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the hardest. Gemstones that have a score of 6 or less on the Mohs scale are considered to be ‘soft’ gemstones.

Soft brown gemstones can be used for a variety of jewelry purposes, but they are best suited for jewelry that will not be subject to daily wear and tear. For example, soft brown gemstones like amber, turquoise, and unakite can be used to create statement pieces of jewelry that will be worn on special occasions. Soft brown gemstones can also be used to create unique and interesting jewelry designs, as their softer texture can allow for more intricate carving and shaping.

However, it is important to note that soft gemstones are more prone to scratches, chips, and other types of damage. They require special care and handling to ensure that they stay in good condition over time. Soft brown gemstones are not typically recommended for use in engagement rings or other jewelry items that will be worn on a daily basis, as they may not be able to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.

Brown Gemstones and Metals

Because brown is a fairly neutral color, brown gemstones pair well with all types of metal colors. When paired with yellow or rose gold, brown gemstones have a beautiful vintage vibe. These colors are harmonious and go beautifully together. The reason is that the contrast between the stone and the setting is not very high. The transition from stone to setting is smoother and easier on the eyes.

However, pair brown gemstones with silver-hued metals for a contemporary, contrasting look. Silver metals make the brown gemstone stand out and take center stage.

Brown Gemstones and Skin Tone

Brown gemstones are a versatile option that can complement a range of skin tones. However, some brown gemstones may look better on certain skin tones than others. If you aren’t sure what your skin tone is, read our article on skin tones.

For warm skin tones with yellow or golden undertones, brown gemstones with warm undertones such as citrine, smoky quartz, and chocolate diamonds can be particularly flattering. These gemstones can add warmth and depth to the skin, creating a beautiful contrast.

For cool skin tones with pink or blue undertones, brown gemstones with cooler undertones such as brown tourmaline, brown topaz, and brown sapphires can be a great choice. These gemstones can add a touch of sophistication to the skin and enhance the natural coolness of the complexion.

It’s worth noting that these guidelines are not hard and fast rules, and personal preference and style should always be taken into consideration when choosing a brown gemstone for jewelry. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a gemstone that speaks to you and makes you feel beautiful and confident.

Where to Shop for Brown Gemstones

Because brown is not a mainstream choice for gemstones, most physical stores don’t have a wide selection of brown gemstones. Taking your search online will give you more options to find even the most uncommon varieties of brown gemstones. If you’re on the lookout for a brown gemstones or jewelry, check out the following stores:

  • Blue Nile offers a wide range of high-quality brown gemstones including brown diamonds, smoky quartz, and citrine. Their online platform is easy to navigate, and they offer competitive pricing and excellent customer service.
  • Amazon is a convenient option for buying brown gemstones with a vast selection of loose gemstones, gemstone jewelry, and accessories. Be sure to check the seller’s ratings and reviews before making a purchase.
  • Etsy is a great place to find unique and handmade brown gemstone jewelry from independent artists. The platform offers a wide variety of gemstones and jewelry styles, making it easy to find the perfect piece to suit your taste and budget.
  • Angara Jewelers specializes in high-quality, ethically sourced brown gemstones, including chocolate diamonds, smoky quartz, and topaz. They offer a 30-day return policy and a lifetime warranty on their products.
  • James Allen offers a selection of brown diamonds and brown diamond jewelry, including engagement rings, wedding bands, and earrings. They offer free shipping, a 30-day return policy, and excellent customer service.

Wrapping Up

The world of brown gemstones is vast and varied, offering an abundance of options for jewelry lovers. Whether you’re drawn to the warm and earthy tones of smoky quartz or the rich, chocolatey hues of chocolate diamonds, there is a brown gemstone to suit every taste and style.

From classic gemstones to lesser-known varieties, the possibilities for creating unique and beautiful jewelry pieces are truly endless. So, the next time you’re in the market for a new piece of jewelry, consider a brown gemstone and explore the rich world of natural beauty they have to offer.

Dani Rhys

Dani Rhys has worked as a writer and editor for over 15 years in the jewelry niche. She holds a Masters degree in Linguistics and Education. She has always been interested in expression through fashion and accessories, and her extensive experience in the field has made her a respected voice in jewelry trends and education. As the chief editor of Jewelry Shopping Guide, she not only leads the content strategy but also shares her insights through engaging articles. Her passion for storytelling is reflected in every piece she curates, exploring the intricate relationship between jewelry and personal identity.

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