In the jewelry world, when most people think of black gemstones, they think of onyx. However, black gemstones come in various shapes and colors, from the rare black opal to the beautiful black spinel.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the world’s most popular precious and semi-precious stones that are black. We’ll explore what makes them so popular and sought-after, and some of the precious black stones on our list may surprise you!
So if you’re looking for something unique and eye-catching to add to your collection, check out these amazing black gems!
What are Black Gemstones: Meaning, Benefits, and Popular Names
Often seen as one of the gemstone colors that exude an aura of mystery, power, and sophistication, black is also the color of some of the most stunning gemstones in the world. From deep black diamonds to jet-black tourmalines, people have been revering to black gemstones for centuries for their unique beauty.
But what exactly are black gemstones? And what do they symbolize?
The darkness of black gemstones comes from the irradiation or dying of mineral crystals. The most famous black gems include black diamonds, black opals, black sapphires, and black tourmalines.
Black diamonds are the hardest of all diamonds and are incredibly rare. Black opals are a trendy new gemstone that has been gaining in popularity due to the distinctive color play it displays.
At the same time, black sapphires are a variety of mineral corundum and can range in color from midnight blue to jet black. And, they say that black tourmalines, which have an electrical charge, may shield their owners from harm.
Overall, black gemstones are often associated with strength, courage, and determination. They are also said to provide mystical protection and promote balance and harmony.
List of Black Precious and Semi-Precious Stones
Black gemstones always catch the eye, whether it is because of their rarity or unique beauty.
Black stones, such as those used in famous black engagement rings, have also become a popular jewelry option.
Here is a list of 10 of the most popular black precious and semi-precious stones:
1. Black Diamond
Black diamonds are a type of black carbon crystalline found in nature. They are scarce and valuable black precious stones. In the jewelry industry, black diamonds are often set in black metal to create a dramatic and unique look.
Black diamonds have a long history, dating back to ancient times. It wasn’t until the very affluent and nobility started wearing them that they became popular.
These days, you can easily find black diamonds in a variety of jewelry pieces, such as black diamond rings and wedding bands.
Despite their dark hue, black diamonds are pretty versatile and can be used to create various looks.
2. Black Opal
The rich black hue of black opals results from a high carbon concentration inside the stone, making them desirable. Black opals typically come from Australia and are often used in jewelry and other decorative items.
The blackest opal stones are the most valuable, but all black opals are relatively rare. In fact, black opals make up less than 5% of all opal production.
Researchers believe that iron oxide has a role in black opal production. This element gives the stone its deep black color. It is rare to find a black opal at a depth of less than 40 meters, although they do appear there.
Most black opals on the market come from Australia’s Lightning Ridge region. This area is renowned for its high-quality black opals, which fetch premium prices from collectors and jewelers alike. Lightning Ridge is also home to the famous “black egg” deposit, which has produced some of the largest and darkest stones ever found.
Black opals are quite fragile and should be stored in a soft cloth or padded box when not worn. It’s also essential to avoid exposing them to strong sunlight or heat, as this can cause fading or cracking.
Read More: White Gemstones: List & Types of Precious and Semi-Precious Stones
3. Black Star Sapphire
Black star sapphire is a type of gemstone that exhibits a unique asterism or star-like effect. The stone gets its name from the black star that appears in its center when viewed under direct light.
In addition to its unique appearance, black star sapphire is also one of the hardest and most durable precious stones. Consequently, it finds wide usage in the jewelry industry and other areas where durability is essential.
There are mines for black star sapphires throughout the globe, but Sri Lanka and India account for the vast majority of production.
4. Black Onyx
Black onyx, a semiprecious black stone, is a popular choice for jewelry and other decorative items due to its timeless elegance. Its denseness and hardness make it an excellent material for carving, and its rich black color is due to the presence of iron and other minerals in its structure.
Whether you’re searching for a black onyx ring, pendant, or earring, this black gemstone works well in a variety of settings. It is also a popular choice for construction and architectural applications due to its strength and durability.
Although black onyx is typically associated with negative emotions such as grief and sorrow, it is also said to promote stamina and self-control.
Read More: Yellow Gemstones: List of 12 Yellow Precious & Semi-Precious Stones
5. Black Jade
People often mistake black jade for other, lesser-known. But make no bones about it. Black jade is the most popular of all black gemstones. And that’s not saying much, considering all the competition it has.
Black jade is relatively rare, which accounts for its high price tag. Additionally valued are its glossy finish and capacity for a high polish.
While you may get black jade in many different places across the globe, the vast majority originates from Asia. In fact, Myanmar is the primary source of black jade used in jewelry.
The quality of the gemstone varies depending on where it is sourced, with the highest quality coming from Myanmar, followed by Australia, China, and New Zealand.
6. Black Tourmaline
Black tourmaline is one of the most popular black gemstones. As a stone used in healing, people value it for its ability to neutralize harmful vibrations.
Brazil, China, India, Madagascar, Mexico, Mozambique, Namibia, Sri Lanka, and the United States are all excellent places to look for this gem. Black tourmaline is a powerful gemstone and is said to be one of the best protection stones.
It is also said to be helpful for grounding, deflecting negative energy, and increasing positive energy. It is also beneficial for anxiety, stress, and insomnia.
Black tourmaline crystals are known for improving circulation and detoxifying the body.
7. Black Agate
There is a wide variety of shades of black in black agates, from jet black to a very light grey.
People often turn to black agates when they need to relax or quiet down since folklore has it that they can do just that.
They are also said to promote strength and courage. Brazil, India, Madagascar, and Uruguay are just a few countries where you may get genuine black agates.
The ancient Greek word “Achates,” meaning “stone,” is the source of our modern term “agate.” They have been a popular gemstone for jewelry, sculptures, and other forms of ornamentation for millennia.
Read More: Complete Guide to Aquamarine Gemstone: Price, Colors, Types & Benefits
8. Black Spinel
Black spinel is one of the oldest and most popular gemstones and has a long history. The mineral black spinel, or magnesium aluminate, belongs to the spinel family and is a kind of spinel.
You may find black spinel all around the globe, although the most prevalent locations are Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Jamaica. There are further deposits of the gem in India, Pakistan, and Burma.
Black Spinel is a very hard gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 8.5. The gem is also very durable and is not easily scratched or chipped. Black Spinel has a vitreous luster, and it reflects light beautifully.
Black Spinel gets its color from the presence of magnesium in its composition. The gemstone can also have a blue or violet tint, depending on the amount of iron present in the stone.
In addition to its application in jewelry, it is also an abrasive.
9. Amphibolite
Amphibolite is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a truly unique gemstone. Only a few locations on earth have this uncommon black diamond, which stands out from the rest because of its striking black hue.
Amphibolite is a metamorphic rock created when sedimentary materials are heated and compressed to extreme conditions. This process typically happens deep underground, where the Earth’s hot core heats the rocks.
As the rocks are heated, their minerals begin to change, forming amphibole minerals. These minerals give amphibolite its characteristic black color.
Amphibolite has a Mohs hardness of 5-6, making it relatively hard and durable. It’s a popular gemstone for use in jewelry and other decorative items.
10. Black Obsidian
Black obsidian gemstone is an excellent stone for scrying. The areas of old lava flows are often the best places to find this black volcanic glass.
When felsic lava poured from a volcano cools swiftly with limited crystal formation, obsidian forms. It is widespread throughout the Asian, North American, and European continents.
Black obsidian is a protective and grounding stone. It helps to cleanse the auric field and remove negative energies. It is also said to assist in past life recall and allow one to release karmic ties.
Using care while working with black obsidian is essential because of its potency. It can be overwhelming for those not ready to face their past issues.
FAQs
Yes, black gemstones are rare. They are typically found in volcanic rocks and are usually dark in color.
There are a few naturally black gemstones. The most famous natural black gemstone is the black onyx. Other naturally black stones include the black opal, the black spinel, and the black tourmaline.
The easiest way to identify a black gemstone is to look at its physical properties, such as its color, hardness, and luster. Another way to identify a black gem is to perform a gemstone test, such as the streak test or the acid test.
Can You Name Your Favorite Black Gem?
We’ve come to the end of our list of various types of gemstones that are black, but we want to know – which is your favorite?
Do you have a deep personal connection to any of these ten stones? Let us know in the comments below.
And if you’re feeling inspired, maybe consider adding a black gemstone ring, necklace, or bracelet to your collection. Thanks for reading!
