A Gemmologist’s Perspective

Pink Gemstones & the Lore of Love: A Gemmologist’s Perspective

For centuries, gemstones have been used to express love, devotion, and emotional connection. Among them, pink gemstones hold a special place. Their soft hues have long been associated with affection, romance, compassion, and deep emotional bonds.

From ancient myths to royal jewellery collections, pink gemstones have symbolised love in its many forms — romantic, familial, and self-love. As gemmologists, we are trained not only to identify and evaluate gemstones, but also to understand their cultural history and enduring symbolism.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, we invite you to explore the myths, meanings, and histories behind some of the world’s most beloved pink gemstones.

Why Pink Gemstones Symbolise Love

Pink sits between red — the colour of passion — and white — the colour of purity. Across cultures, pink gemstones have been linked to tenderness, trust, and emotional harmony. Historically, they were exchanged as tokens of affection, protection, and promise.

From a gemmologist’s point of view, these associations are not random. Many pink gemstones were rare, difficult to source, and treasured by royalty, making them powerful symbols of devotion and status.

Rose Quartz: The Stone of Unconditional Love

History & Lore
Rose quartz has been revered since ancient times. The Egyptians believed it could prevent ageing, while Greek and Roman myths linked the stone to Aphrodite and Eros — gods of love — who were said to have gifted rose quartz to humanity to inspire compassion and affection.

Symbolism
Rose quartz represents unconditional love, emotional healing, and harmony in relationships.

Gemmologist’s Insight
Rose quartz is a macrocrystalline variety of quartz, valued not for brilliance, but for its soft translucency and calming colour — qualities that perfectly reflect its symbolic meaning.

Pink Sapphire: Loyalty, Romance & Wisdom

History & Lore
Historically worn by royalty, pink sapphire symbolised sincerity, commitment, and trust. In ancient Asia, it was believed to strengthen bonds and protect relationships from jealousy or betrayal.

Symbolism
Pink sapphire represents romantic love, loyalty, and emotional resilience.

Gemmologist’s Insight
Pink sapphires belong to the corundum family, sharing durability and brilliance with blue sapphires and rubies — making them ideal symbols of enduring love.

Morganite: Compassion & Divine Love

History & Lore
A relatively modern gemstone, morganite was discovered in the early 20th century and quickly associated with tenderness and divine love. It became popular in engagement jewellery for its gentle, romantic tone.

Symbolism
Morganite is linked to compassion, emotional openness, and heartfelt connection.

Gemmologist’s Insight
As a member of the beryl family (like emerald and aquamarine), morganite combines durability with soft pastel beauty — a balance of strength and sensitivity.

Pink Tourmaline: Emotional Healing & Connection

History & Lore
Pink tourmaline has been used for centuries as a stone of emotional healing. Ancient cultures believed it could calm the heart and soothe emotional wounds.

Symbolism
It symbolises affection, empathy, and emotional balance.

Gemmologist’s Insight
Tourmaline’s wide colour range reflects emotional diversity — pink varieties are especially prized for their warmth and vibrancy.

Pink Spinel: Devotion & Renewal

History & Lore
Often mistaken for ruby in historical royal collections, pink spinel has long symbolised passion and renewal. Many famous “rubies” were later identified by gemmologists as spinel.

Symbolism
Pink spinel represents devotion, inspiration, and revitalised love.

Gemmologist’s Insight
Spinel is naturally vibrant and untreated, making it a favourite among gemmologists for its authenticity and brilliance.

Kunzite: Tender Devotion & Emotional Calm

Lore: Discovered in the early 20th century and named after gemmologist George Frederick Kunz, kunzite quickly became associated with heartfelt emotion and romantic devotion. It was believed to encourage openness of the heart and honest expression of love.

Meaning: Tender affection, emotional clarity, and calm connection.

Gemmologist’s Insight: A pink to lilac variety of spodumene, kunzite is admired for its delicate colour and natural pleochroism. Its gentle beauty reflects sensitivity and sincerity — a gemstone chosen for love that is thoughtful and deeply felt.

Love, Lore & Lasting Meaning

From ancient mythology to modern jewellery, pink gemstones continue to tell stories of love, affection, and connection. As gemmologists, we see these stones not just as beautiful objects, but as symbols shaped by history, culture, and human emotion.

This Valentine’s Day, choosing a pink gemstone is more than a romantic gesture — it is a way of honouring centuries of tradition, symbolism, and craftsmanship.

At My Precious, our gemmologists carefully curate gemstone jewellery not only for quality, but for the stories they carry — ready to be continued by you.