For travelers who want something other than a diamond — or in addition to one — gemstones offer color, character, and (often) better value per carat. The partner boutique we work with stocks a broad selection of colored stones plus Aruba’s signature materials: abalone shell and mother of pearl, both worked into the boutique’s local in-house collection.

Gemstones you’ll see at your appointment

• Sapphire — the most popular non-diamond engagement stone. Classic deep blue, plus pink, yellow, and Ceylon varieties. Mohs hardness 9, durable for daily wear.
• Ruby — red corundum, the most precious colored stone after fine diamonds. “Pigeon’s blood” rubies are the apex of the category. Mohs 9.
• Emerald — green beryl, prized for color saturation. Often has natural inclusions (“jardin”); accept this as character rather than a flaw. Mohs 7.5-8.
• Opal — Australian and Ethiopian opals with internal play-of-color. Softer (Mohs 5.5-6.5) so better suited to earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings.
• Tanzanite — blue-purple, found in only one place on earth (Tanzania). Becoming scarcer; popular as an alternative to sapphire.
• Aquamarine, topaz, citrine, amethyst — wider color range, accessible price points, gorgeous in larger statement pieces.
• Abalone shell — iridescent shell with rainbow play-of-color. Featured prominently in Aruba-designed pieces.
• Mother of pearl — soft white nacre, often paired with diamonds in classic vintage settings.

Caring for gemstones at home

Softer stones (opal, pearl, abalone, emerald) need more care than diamond, sapphire, or ruby. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and rapid temperature changes. The boutique will brief you on care specific to whatever you buy at the appointment.

The Aruba-designed in-house collection

The boutique’s signature line uses local materials — abalone, mother of pearl, sometimes paired with diamonds — set in 14K gold. These pieces are designed locally and aren’t available outside the island. Many travelers buy a piece from this collection as their primary Aruba souvenir, instead of a diamond.

Featured pieces from the boutique

A selection from the partner boutique’s current inventory — all available to view in person at your private appointment.

✦ View Full Collection