The Ultimate Gemstone Guide for Men’s Jewellery
Colours, Meanings & Styles
Gemstones aren’t just for women’s jewellery. Some of the most striking men’s pieces are set with bold stones that add personality, colour, and meaning. From the sleek sophistication of black onyx to the deep richness of sapphire or the commanding presence of ruby, gemstones elevate men’s jewellery by combining timeless elegance with individuality.
If you’re wondering which gemstones work best in men’s jewellery—or searching for the perfect luxury gift—this guide highlights the most popular choices, their meanings, and how to style them.
Why Gemstones Belong in Men’s Jewellery
Where plain gold or platinum offer understated luxury, gemstones bring character and individuality. They transform a simple design into something unforgettable.
Dark, rich tones are especially popular for men, thanks to their versatility and refined drama. Diamonds, for instance, create an effortlessly striking look—cool and icy in white metals, or elevated and classic in yellow gold. Pair diamond accents with sharp tailoring in black or grey, and you’ve got a monochrome power statement.
Popular Gemstones for Men
Black Onyx
Colour: Deep, metallic or glossy black
Why It Works: Bold, versatile, and effortlessly masculine—perfect for rings, bracelets, and pendants
Style Tip: Choose silver or white gold for a sleek, modern finish, or yellow gold for a warmer, traditional contrast
Bespoke Timothy Roe Gent’s Black Onyx, Emerald and Diamonds in Two Tone Gold and Platinum
Sapphire
Colour: Most often deep to royal blue, but also available in green, orange, or yellow
Why It Works: A symbol of wisdom and strength, sapphires are elegant, durable, and perfect for everyday wear
Style Tip: Set in white gold or platinum for a crisp contrast in signet rings, pendants, cufflinks, on ends of bangles as cabochon stones, or single studs. Blues and greens are especially flattering, masculine tones.
Bespoke Timothy Roe Rope Twist Bangle in 925 Silver with 9 ct Yellow Gold Ends Set with Diamonds and Blue Sapphire Cabochons
Timothy Roe Teal Sapphire Stud Earrings in Yellow gold £425.00
Ruby or Red Garnets
Colour: From vivid pigeon blood red to cherry and pinkish/purplish hues
Why It Works: The ultimate power stone—dramatic, commanding, and one of the most valuable coloured gems. Perfect for those who want to be noticed.
Style Tip: Best reserved for rings, lapel pins or earrings, rubies shine brightest at formal occasions and high-profile events.
Timothy Roe Cabochon Garnet Ring £1,420.00
Emerald
Colour: Rich, vibrant green
Why It Works: Luxurious and rare, emeralds echo the beauty of natural landscapes. Their natural fissures give depth and intrigue.
Style Tip: Stunning in yellow gold as statement rings or pendants, but due to their delicacy, emeralds are better suited to occasional wear.
Bespoke Timothy Roe Rope Twist Bangle with Emeralds in Yellow Gold
Tourmaline
Colour: A wide spectrum—forest green, olive, deep red rubellite, indigo indicolite, and electric Paraiba turquoise
Why It Works: Sleek, geometric cuts make tourmaline a versatile, durable gemstone for men’s jewellery reflecting elegant tailoring, lapel edges and pinstripes. Darker shades radiate strength, while bright Paraiba is a show-stopping luxury choice.
Style Tip: Perfect for pinkie rings, lapel pins, or pendants. Use yellow gold for greens and reds, or white metals for indigo and turquoise shades.
Bespoke Timothy Roe Tourmaline Pendant in Yellow Gold
Tsavorite Garnet
Colour: Electric neon green
Why It Works: Found only in East Africa, Tsavorite’s rare vibrancy is unmatched. Its fierce colour ensures it always stands out.
Style Tip: Ideal for statement signet rings or wide bands, especially paired with diamonds to amplify the green.
Tsavorite Inspiration: 1970’s Style 18ct Yellow Gold Gent’s Ring with Tsavorite Garnet Made in the US. This ring was recently sold on 1stdibs.com. Designer unknown.
Diamond
Colour: Classic white, but also black, pale blue, champagne, and cognac
Why It Works: Timeless and elegant, diamonds adapt to any style. Black diamonds bring a modern, metallic edgy feel, while warm champagne and cognac tones echo vintage sophistication giving delicious warm whisky and coffee vibes.
Style Tip: White diamonds suit subtle details, black for bold designs, and warmer hues for a softer, romantic aesthetic.
Delicious Chocolate, Champagne and Cognac Coloured Diamonds
Bespoke Timothy Roe Laboratory-Grown Diamond Ring in White Gold with Engraving
Bespoke Timothy Roe Gold and Platinum Skull Ring in Yellow Gold with Diamonds
Lapis Lazuli
Colour: Intense royal blue flecked with gold pyrite
Why It Works: Prized since antiquity, lapis is bold, regal, and instantly recognisable.
Style Tip: Best in yellow gold for a vintage-inspired look—think signet rings and beaded bracelets or a modern twist in white gold, palladium and platinum.
Gent’s Bespoke Timothy Roe Palladium Signet Ring with Hammered Finish Featuring a Lapis Lazuli Stone
Tiger’s Eye
Colour: Golden-chocolate brown with a silky shimmer
Why It Works: Known as the stone of confidence, it has an earthy, grounding energy that feels casual yet luxurious.
Style Tip: Striking in beaded bracelets or paired with gold accents for an elevated finish.
Tiger’s Eye Inspiration: Tiger’s Eye Tennis Bracelet in Yellow Gold
Tiger’s Eye Inspiration: David Yurman’s Tiger’s Eye Beaded Bracelet
How to Style Gemstone Jewellery for Men
Keep It Balanced: Let the gemstone shine by pairing it with simple metals.
Choose One Accent Colour: Start with a single gemstone shade and echo it in your outfit. Add more colour as your confidence grows.
Start Subtle: Black onyx or a single diamond detail is a great entry point before exploring bolder stones.
Day vs. Night: Neutral stones like onyx or black diamonds transition seamlessly, while brighter stones like emerald or ruby work best for evening statement looks.
Timothy Roe Silver Signet Ring with Emerald and Seal Engraved Crest
Gift Ideas: Gemstone Jewellery for Men
Looking for something meaningful and stylish? Consider:
Black Onyx Signet Ring – Classic and versatile
Diamond Studs or Gemstone Set Cufflinks – Timeless luxury
Sapphire Molten Disc Pendant Necklace on a chain or leather – Elegant and symbolic
Emerald, Tsavorite, Ruby or Sapphire Statement Ring – Unique and bold
Tiger’s Eye Bracelet with Solid Gold Details – Relaxed luxury with refinement
Bespoke Commission: Black Diamond in Platinum & Rose Gold
Final Thoughts
Gemstones in men’s jewellery aren’t just about colour—they’re about identity, symbolism, and timeless style. From the sleek minimalism of onyx to the commanding vibrancy of ruby, the right gemstone transforms any collection.
At Timothy Roe, we specialise in artisanal goldsmithing and gemstone expertise, creating bespoke pieces that reflect your personal style—whether for everyday wear, a business milestone, or a family celebration.
Why should ladies have all the fun with gemstones? Explore our gemstone collections, discover our past commissions, and book your free consultation. Together, we’ll design something truly extraordinary—timeless, meaningful, and uniquely yours.
