Coloured gems for everyday life!

Looking for a piece of gemstone jewellery you’ll want to wear again and again? According to YVONNE LIM, founder of Edelgems, precious coloured gems don’t have to be reserved for black-tie events. “They can be worn, enjoyed and part of everyday life,” she says. Yvonne’s Singapore-based brand specialises in natural gemstone jewellery that is thoughtfully curated, reasonably priced and often features striking stones you may not have come across before. We find out more!

Tell us a bit about yourself and how you got into the jewellery business.

I didn’t set out to enter the jewellery business. It started with a curiosity about gemmology and mineral formation. I was fascinated by how two stones of the same variety could look completely different. That led me to take formal courses with GIA, where I began to understand why some gemstones feel vibrant while others don’t – and why prices vary so widely.

Over time, I saw an opportunity to bring more clarity and curation into this space. Edelgems grew from that idea – to make natural-coloured gems more accessible and less opaque.

What inspired you to start your Singapore jewellery brand Edelgems?

About six years ago, a friend and I went shopping for coloured gemstone rings but found very limited options. Most retailers either focused on diamonds, or had coloured gemstone jewellery that was prohibitively priced.

I wanted to create a middle ground – natural coloured gems, from classic to lesser-known varieties, curated for both beauty and long-term value, and offered at more accessible prices.

Most importantly, these are pieces you can wear daily. A statement ring can elevate a simple top and denim while expressing individuality and confidence.

What drew you to natural, coloured gemstones specifically? And where do you source yours from?

Each natural coloured gem is one of a kind, formed over millions of years under intense heat, pressure and geological movement. Its unique variations in hue, saturation and internal character go beyond what any standard grading scale can measure.

At our Singapore jewellery brand, we work with trusted suppliers globally, and for certain gemstones, I also collaborate directly with mine owners. I look for presence, balance and vibrance. Inclusions aren’t necessarily flaws – they’re part of the stone’s natural beauty. If anything, they add character. It’s a bit like “wabi-sabi” – the idea of appreciating imperfection.

We all know about the 4Cs for diamonds, but what should people look for when choosing coloured gems?

Colour comes first. You’re looking at hue (the colour itself), tone (how light or dark it is) and saturation (the intensity). The balance between these is what gives a gemstone life.

Many coloured gems radiate different shades under different lighting, which I personally love. To me, it’s a metaphor for the multi-dimensional beings that we are. Clarity matters, but unlike diamonds, some natural inclusions can be part of its intrinsic beauty.

And of course, cut is key. A well-cut gemstone brings out its best colour. Ultimately, the right stone is one that resonates with you – visually and emotionally.

Beyond the rubies, emeralds and sapphires, what are some coloured gems you think deserve more attention?

Exploring beyond convention often reveals unexpected beauty. Here are some of my favourites:

Spinel: This gem offers a wide range of vibrant shades with excellent durability. Historically, it has even been mistaken for ruby.

Tsavorite: A vivid green garnet that’s often more brilliant than emerald.

Morganite: It has soft pink hues and a feminine elegance that many women appreciate for everyday wear.

Tourmaline: One of the most versatile gemstones, celebrated for its extraordinary spectrum of colours from vivid greens and blush pinks to lagoon hues. Rare varieties like Paraíba and indicolite have appreciated significantly in value in recent years.

What do you think about lab-grown coloured gems?

Lab-grown gemstones certainly have their place in today’s market. They offer consistency and accessibility. At Edelgems however, we specialise in natural, coloured gems. Part of their appeal lies in their journey. From the intensity of their formation by mother nature through the test of time, they travel from the mines to trading hubs across the world. Then it’s on to the gem-cutters and polishers to reveal their best colour and brilliance.

This combination of nature and craftsmanship gives each gemstone a depth and inherent worth that many collectors value.

Does all natural gemstone jewellery cost a fortune?

Not necessarily. Exceptional, rare stones command higher prices. But not every beautiful natural gemstone falls into that category. When clients are open to exploring beyond the most marketed varieties, they can be pleasantly surprised by what is possible within a considered budget. Natural coloured gem jewellery does not have to be unattainable!

You’re a big fan of women buying jewellery for themselves; tell us more.

Historically, fine jewellery has often been positioned as something gifted to women. I believe that narrative is evolving. Many of our clients purchase jewellery to mark personal milestones – career achievements, life transitions or as an expression of self-love.

There is something empowering about choosing a gemstone for yourself. Jewellery can celebrate romance, certainly, but it can also celebrate independence. Both are equally meaningful.

Get in touch with Yvonne to shop her collection or design a bespoke piece.
WhatsApp 8040 1965 | edelgems.com | IG @edelgems4u

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