GEMSTONES
From radiant gemstones to brilliant diamonds, each piece is a unique treasure — a stunning reflection of nature’s artistry, timeless beauty, and the individuality expressed through the finest gemstones in Ontario.
& DIAMONDS
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GUIDANCE
At our gemstone store in Toronto, we offer a thoughtfully curated collection of gemstones that are as diverse as they are mesmerizing. From fiery rubies and tranquil sapphires to deep emeralds and radiant diamonds, every stone in our showcase captures a distinct emotion, a unique energy, and an untold story.
These exquisite gemstones, Toronto collectors admire, are more than adornments — they reflect nature’s most intricate creations. Whether you’re drawn to the mystery of moonstone or the timeless brilliance of a diamond, each piece invites you to experience something truly exceptional.
With Solitaire x Alex Armen, the journey of choosing a gemstone becomes explicit, informed, and deeply personal. You aren’t just making a purchase — you’re curating legacy, discovering rare beauty, and stepping into the world of fine gems with trusted guidance.
SOLITAIRE x ALEX ARMEN
OUR DISTINCTION
At Alex Armen Designs, we specialize in evaluating Ontario gemstones and gemstones in Toronto, offering unparalleled insights into the unique qualities that make each stone remarkable. Whether you are searching for a dazzling diamond or a captivating ruby, we guide you through the factors that influence a gemstone’s value, ensuring you make a well-informed investment.
With Solitaire x Alex Armen, our expertise shines through, helping you confidently navigate the world of gemstone jewelry in Ontario. Our team is passionate about the beauty of gemstones and committed to providing you with exceptional craftsmanship and insight that exceeds industry standards.
Buy gemstones Toronto with us by visiting our gemstone store in Toronto to discover more designs by Alex Armen.
Welcome to Solitaire x Alex Armen
A Symphony of Romance and Timeless Beauty
A Journey
Guided by Love
Choosing a gemstone or diamond is a poetic journey, and we are honoured to guide you every step of the way. With over 40 years of experience in fine jewelry, our team, led by the creative vision of Alex Armen, brings passion and expertise to each interaction. We take pride in uncovering the true essence of every stone: how its facets catch the light, the colours that evoke deep emotions, and the lasting impression it leaves on your heart.
At Solitaire x Alex Armen, we offer a curated selection of Ontario gemstones, each with a unique story to tell. Whether you’re seeking gemstones in Toronto or exploring the world of gemstone jewelry in Toronto, we are here to help you find the perfect stone that captures your love and memories.
Gems Crafted from the Earth’s
Most Cherished Corners
Our gemstone collection celebrates the beauty of nature, showcasing GIA-certified diamonds—both earth-mined and lab-grown—as well as a captivating range of coloured stones, including rubies, sapphires, emeralds, aquamarines, and garnets. Each piece is carefully sourced from two globally trusted partners:
Our Partners Earth and Hans-Jakob Klein
More than suppliers, they are the artisans and storytellers behind every gemstone, guiding each stone from its origin to its final brilliance and imbuing every piece with love and legacy.
Prosperity Earth
Dedicated to ethically sourced gemstones, Prosperity Earth mines Demantoid garnets in Madagascar. These rare stones, known for their stunning sea-tone greens and extraordinary fire that rivals diamonds, are sustainably extracted from conflict-free regions and precision-cut in their lapidary. Each unenhanced gem represents beauty and integrity, perfect for a love that endures purposefully.
Discover the exquisite world of gemstones in Ontario, where nature’s wonders come to life in every facet.
Hans-Jakob Klein
Hans-Jakob Klein, a legacy of three generations, creates gemstones with impeccable cuts and vibrant colours sourced from the world’s most esteemed mines. Their sapphires, glowing in rich royal blue, come from Sri Lanka and Madagascar, while rubies, radiating fiery passion, are sourced from Myanmar and Thailand. Each gemstone is expertly shaped by skilled German artisans, transforming these precious stones into timeless treasures that accompany your most cherished moments.
A Canvas for
Your Love Story
Whether you’re looking for a loose gemstone to cherish, an engagement ring to symbolize a vow, or a bespoke creation that tells your unique story, our team is ready to bring your vision to life. With a blend of time-honoured techniques and modern creativity, we create gemstone jewelry in Toronto that serves as a lasting symbol of devotion, as enduring as the love it celebrates.
Explore the beauty of Ontario gemstones and find the perfect piece that reflects your unique story.
Why Solitaire x Alex Armen Steals Hearts
A Legacy of Romance
For over four decades, since 1983, we have been a part of your most cherished memories, crafting timeless treasures that capture the essence of love and lasting connections.
A Reflection of Your Love
Join Alex Armen in creating a piece that’s as special and unique as your love. Together, we’ll bring your vision to life, down to every detail, making your jewelry a true symbol of your journey.
Ethical Beauty
We carefully source our diamonds and gemstones, ensuring they reflect our deep respect for nature and humanity. Each stone carries with it a story of integrity and grace, just like the love it represents.
Care that Lasts a Lifetime
From the first consultation to expert repairs, we’re always here to support you. Our commitment to your piece doesn’t end once it’s created—we’re by your side, making sure it continues to shine bright for years to come.
Step Into a World of Dazzling Romance
Step into the world of Solitaire x Alex Armen, where every gemstone and diamond tells a timeless story of love and legacy. Whether you visit our intimate design studio in downtown Toronto or arrange a private consultation, we’ll help you discover a gem that doesn’t just sparkle—it becomes a lasting part of your love story.
Gems of Solitaire
RUBY NOTES
Ruby is one of the most sought-after gemstones, and eye-flawless rubies—especially unheated ones—are scarce. While small amounts of rutile inclusions are standard, they can add to the gem’s beauty by breaking up and scattering light across its surface. Over 95% of rubies available today are heat-enhanced, improving their colour and clarity.
Rubies resembling the famed Burmese type can also be found in Pakistan, Vietnam, and Mozambique. These stones are often referred to as ‘Burma-type’ rubies. Rubies sourced from East Africa, including Thailand, typically exhibit iron traces, giving them a brownish hue with minimal fluorescence.
COLOURS
Orangy red, red, slightly purplish red, strongly purplish red (5RP, 7.5RP, 10RP, 2.5R, 5R)
RUBY COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct
a) Non-origin specific = 1-6k USD
b) Burma = 2-20k USD
c) Mozambique = 2-12k USD
Fine Grading 1ct
a) Non-origin specific = 4-25k + USD
b) Burma = 15-100k + USD
c) Mozambique = 9-50k + USD
EMERLAD NOTES
Emeralds are celebrated for their captivating green hues, with the most coveted shade being the purest green. However, emeralds often carry undertones of yellow or blue, giving them unique character. Visible inclusions are standard in emeralds, and it’s rare to find an emerald over one carat that is free of inclusions. Emeralds possess a satiny brilliance, giving them a soft, glowing appearance.
In terms of treatment, oiling is an accepted practice to enhance the clarity of emeralds. However, at Solitaire, we prioritize the purity of emeralds and avoid those treated with polymers or dyes.
COLOURS
Very strongly bluish green, bluish green, very slightly bluish green, green, slightly yellowish green (2.5G, 5G, 7.5G, 10G)
EMERALD COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct:
a) Non-origin specific = 500-5k USD
b) Colombia = 1-7k USD
c) Zambia = 500-5k USD
d) Brazil = 500-5k USD
Fine Grading 1ct:
a) Non-origin specific = 3-25k + USD
b) Colombia = 4-30k + USD
c) Zambia = 3-25k + USD
d) Brazil = 3-22k + USD
PARAIBA NOTES
Paraiba tourmaline is renowned for its unique copper-infused hues, primarily sourced from Brazil. This gemstone is prized for its vivid blue-green to greenish-blue colours, among the rarest in the world of gemstones. While newer sources in Mozambique offer lighter tones, they are typically less saturated than Brazilian Paraiba. Due to its copper content, the intense and vibrant colours make it one of the most valuable and sought-after varieties of tourmaline.
COLOURS
Very slightly bluish green, bluish green, very strongly bluish green, blue-green, green, greenish blue, very slightly greenish blue, blue (other colours are possible)
PARAIBA COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct
a) 3-20k USD
Fine Grading 1ct
a) 30-130k + USD
Blue Sapphire, Padparadscha Sapphire
NOTES
Padparadscha sapphire, primarily sourced from Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Vietnam, and Madagascar, is renowned for its delicate pinkish-orange to orange-pink hues. This rare and beautiful gemstone is prized for its unique colour, which blends soft pink and orange tones. Padparadscha sapphires are highly valued for their vibrant yet subtle appearance, symbolizing elegance and rarity. These stones are often cut to highlight their natural colour and command high prices, particularly those with excellent grading. Their captivating hues and rarity make them a cherished choice for collectors and gem enthusiasts.
COLOURS
Pinkish orange to orange-pink hues (7.5R, 10R)
PADPARADSCHA COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct
a) 2-3k USD
Fine Grading 1ct
a) 5-16k + USD
NOTES
Tourmaline, available in various hues, is primarily sourced from Brazil, with notable deposits also found in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Mozambique, Nigeria, Namibia, Tanzania, and the United States. This gemstone is known for its remarkable colour variety, offering a stunning range of green, blue, and red shades, along with many bicolor and multicoloured options. Tourmaline is celebrated for having one of the broadest colour spectrums of any gemstone, surpassed only by diamond. Its diverse hues and unique combinations make it a versatile and highly coveted gemstone in the jewelry world.
COLOURS
Bicolor, blue (indicolite), blue/green, chrome, pink, green, red (rubellite)
ZIRCON
NOTES
Zircon, known for its brilliant refraction and fire, comes in various colours, making it a highly lustrous and radiant gemstone. The blue variety, often referred to as “starlight,” is particularly sought after. Zircon is found in alluvial deposits from Myanmar, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Brazil, and parts of Africa. The gemstone offers a range of hues, from vibrant blues to autumnal yellows, reddish-browns, reds, and greens, making it a versatile and captivating choice for jewelry. Its high brilliance and fire make it a dazzling addition to any collection.
COLOURS
Blue, autumnal yellows, reddish browns, red and green
MORGANITE
NOTES
Morganite, a member of the beryl family alongside aquamarine, emerald, and red beryl, is cherished for its delicate pastel shades of pink. Intense colours in morganite are rare, and the finest hues typically appear in larger stones. Most morganites showcase soft, elegant tones, ranging from pink to orange-pink. While not as intensely coloured as other gemstones, its subtle beauty and soothing hue make it a popular choice for those seeking a gentle, feminine touch in their jewelry. The light, romantic appeal of morganite adds a unique charm to any collection.
COLOURS
Pink to orange-pink
ALEXANDRITE NOTES
Alexandrite, one of the rarest gemstones, is celebrated for its unique ability to change colour. Discovered in 1830 near the Tokovaya River, alexandrite shifts from a greenish hue in daylight to a reddish tone under incandescent light, creating a striking and dramatic effect. This colour-change phenomenon sets alexandrite apart from other gemstones. To be considered acceptable, the colour shift must be distinct and visible. While Russian-origin stones are particularly prized, today’s primary sources include Brazil, Tanzania, Madagascar, and India. Due to its rarity, well-cut alexandrites are a valid exception.
COLOURS
Slightly yellowish green, green to bluish green in daylight and orangy red, red to purplish red in incandescent light
ALEXANDRITE COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct:
a) 7-22k USD
Fine Grading 1ct:
a) 25-100k + USD
TSAVORITE NOTES
Tsavorite, a vibrant green gemstone from the garnet family, is known for its crisp brilliance, contrasting with emeralds’ softer, satiny shine. Its high refractive index and excellent light dispersion radiate life and intensity. Tsavorite is durable, making it suitable for daily wear, and its toughness ensures long-lasting beauty. The most sought-after favourite features a pure green hue with a slight blue secondary tone. Inclusions, mainly those visible, can significantly decrease its value. Tsavorite’s rare beauty and toughness make it a prized gem for fine jewelry.
COLOURS
Medium to dark yellowish-green, green, slightly bluish green (7.5GY, 10GY, 2.5G)
TSAVORITE COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct:
a) 1,200-2,250 USD
Fine Grading 1ct:
a) 2,100-6,750 USD
TANZANITE NOTES
Tanzanite is known for its captivating colour shift, transitioning from blue to violet hues depending on the light. The finest tanzanite exhibits a blue primary hue with a subtle hint of purple, ideally at 75% blue, distinguishing it from less desirable shades. This gemstone’s colour can shift dramatically from daylight to incandescent lighting, enhancing its visual appeal. Tanzanite’s unique and mesmerizing colour and rarity make it a highly coveted gem. It is often prized for its deep, vibrant hues that embody elegance and sophistication in fine jewelry.
COLOURS
Purple, violetish purple, violet, bluish violet, violetish blue, blue (2.5PB, 5PB,7.5PB, 10PB, 2.5P)
TANZANITE COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct:
a) 300-900 USD
Fine Grading 1ct:
a) 750-1,425 USD
Aquamarine, Spinel
AQUAMARINE NOTES
Aquamarine, named after the Latin word for “sea water,” is treasured for its serene blue hues, with the deepest blue stones being the most valuable. While darker-toned aquamarine is highly prized, it often carries a grayish tint. Brazil is the primary source of the finest aquamarine, and most of this gemstone is heat-treated to enhance its vibrant colour, increasing its overall value. The clarity and rich blue tones are key factors in determining the quality of the gemstone, making it a beloved choice for fine jewelry.
COLOURS
Blue, very slightly greenish blue, greenish blue, very strongly greenish blue, green-blue
AQUAMARINE COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct
a) 200-800 USD
Fine Grading 1ct
a) 800-3k USD
SPINEL NOTES
Spinel is a versatile gemstone in many colours, with the most prized hues being red, pink, and blue. Its exceptional diaphaneity gives it brilliant clarity. Fine red spinels tend to have a medium-dark tone, while pink spinels are lighter, paler reds. The most coveted cobalt blue spinels exhibit a vivid, pure blue hue. Regardless of colour, spinels with dazzling hues and eye-clean clarity, free of visible gray, are highly desirable. Their beauty and rarity make them a sought-after choice in the world of gemstones.
SPINEL COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct
a) Blue: 400-2k USD (cobalt commands a premium)
b) Lavender: 300-800 USD
c) Pink: 540-2k USD
d) Red: 660-2k USD
Fine Grading 1ct
a) Blue: 800-3k USD (cobalt commands a premium)
b) Lavendar: 440-2k USD
c) Pink: 2-7k USD
d) Red: 3-14k USD
BLACK OPAL NOTES
Black Opal, renowned for its striking play of colour, is most famously sourced from Lightning Ridge, with smaller amounts coming from Queensland and Nevada. The preferred cut is symmetrical ovals with a high cabochon dome, which can significantly increase the value. These opals contain approximately six percent water, which contributes to their unique lustrous appearance. Black opals, with their dark body colours of bluish coal-black and primary hues of green-blue or red-blue, are rarer and more valuable than white opals, making them highly sought after.
COLOURS
Very dark body colour, i.e. blueish coal-black background, with green-blue or red-blue as the primary play of colours.
Black opals are rarer than white opals.
BLACK OPAL COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct
a) 1-6k USD
Fine Grading 1ct
a) 4-20k + USD
DEMANTOID NOTES
Demantoid, one of the rarest gemstones on earth, is a green variety of garnet, with tsavorite being the other notable variety. Known for its exceptional brilliance, demantoid exhibits the highest dispersion of all precious gems, even surpassing diamonds. The finest gems typically display a medium-dark or slightly lighter tone, enhancing their sparkle. Demantoid is highly valued for its vivid green hues, ranging from yellowish-green to yellow-green. This rarity and brilliance contribute to its high demand and premium pricing.
COLOURS
Green, slightly yellowish green, strongly yellowish green, yellow-green (5GY, 7.5GY, 10GY)
DEMANTOID COSTS
Excellent Grading 1ct
a) 1-4k USD
Fine Grading 1ct
a) 3-13k USD
