All that glitters

Precious and semi-precious gemstones have been synonymous with ultimate luxury throughout the ages. Here are the treasures in the antiques market today

- Ellie Fells

As far back as the history books go, gemstones have been in demand. The four precious stones – diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds – have come to be the ultimate markers of decadence and wealth on account of their rarity, durability and beauty, and have adorned the most powerful people and places since ancient times. There are records of diamond trading in India as far back as the fourth century BC, whilst rubies have been traded along China’s Silk Road since at least 200 BC; Cleopatra was one of the earliest fans of emeralds, and rulers of ancient Persia believed the sky was painted blue as a reflection of the deep blue of sapphires.

As a result these stones have been used in fine jewellery for generations, so there are many beautiful examples to be found on the antiques market today. Needless to say, these pieces can fetch staggering prices – diamonds are more or less always high in value thanks to their enduring appeal, but recent years have seen the popularity, and in turn the price, of coloured stones rise too.