The Passion of Red Gemstones

The Passion of Red Gemstones

Red is an energetic color, the color of life and death, strength and power, danger and excitement. Red represents love, temptation and passion.

Physiologically, red is a stimulant. With red, the eyes blink more frequently, the blood pressure rises, the heart beats faster and the appetite increases. It’s thought that the human response to red is linked to ancient man’s associations with fire and blood. With threats all around, red signaled danger, therefore the body has a “fight or flight” response to red.

It’s no wonder that around the globe, red has remarkably similar meanings. In Native American cultures, red is fundamental -- representing life and fertility. In the Hindu traditions, red is symbolic of joy, creativity and life. In China, red is associated with good luck and fortune. In India, a red dot on the forehead is believed to bring good luck.

Red in fashion

Current fashions offer various shades of red, allowing you to choose the red that best reflects your sense of style and complements your complexion and wardrobe. Popular reds include tomato-reds, cool reds and earthy reds.

If red is your favorite color, then you're likely to be a person who loves to be involved, is well-informed and has a zest for life. Red lovers are typically movers and shakers; they are competitive, daring and energetic. Different shades of red will be more appealing to them. If you're a lover of red, ask yourself these questions: Are you seeking a piece of jewelry that is more trendy or classic? Do you want something to wear to a black-tie event or for fun? Do you desire an accessory that draws the eye or jewelry that is understated but makes you feel confident on the inside?

Tomato-red, which can be described as red with a touch of yellow, or red-orange, is youthful and exuberant. These reds are more outgoing and tend to be trendier. During the coming year, tomato-reds can be seen in designs inspired by Mexican folklore, Russian and Oriental cultures as well as open-geometric designs inspired by the 1960s and '70s “mod” fashions. Other tomato red-related colors include:

· Carnelian, while typically thought of as orange, has a darker quality.

· Neon leans more toward the red side.

· Mexican Fire Opal’s Cherry or AAA quality is also more red than orange.

These are great gems to go with tomato-red fashions.

Cooler reds have a touch of blue or violet. Deeper and more sophisticated, these reds can be described anywhere from ruby-red to burgundy, even leaning toward the deep pinkish side. For those who want a more classic red, the cooler red palette is one from which to select. If you want to add sophistication to your work wardrobe or are looking for the perfect item to transition from day to evening, consider Ruby or Rhodolite Garnet accessories. If price is an issue, keep in mind the availability of Chatham Created Ruby. Cooler reds set in deco designs and designs influenced by architecture will be popular through 2008.

Earthy reds are reds with a hint of brown such as Mozambique Garnet and Madeira Citrine. These gems look great in both classic and geometric designs. They will have significant appeal in nature-inspired creations and designs with curvilinear styling. These earthy reds also enhance jewelry with a Celtic pattern. For those attuned to the natural elements but want an accessory that gets attention, try Mozambique Garnet or Madeira Citrine.

These suggestions can help you as you select the perfect shade of red. Keep in mind that these are not hard and fast rules, just ideas to spark your own creativity and help you think of color first when buying gemstones and gemstone jewelry.

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