In gem lore, nicknames aren’t just clever branding-they’re shorthand for a mood, a vibe, or a vintage chapter in jewelry history. Some monikers, like “Chocolate Diamond,” became modern marketing legends. Others, like “Evening Emerald,” date back to Victorian candlelight. Below, we explore ten flavorful aliases that gave overlooked stones a glow-up-and why their stories matter as much as their sparkle.
1 · Evening Emerald – Peridot
Victorian jewelers noticed peridot glowed beautifully under gaslight-unlike its deeper-toned cousin, emerald. Hence the nickname “Evening Emerald.” While peridot was once a more affordable stand-in, today high-quality specimens command attention in their own right. GIA notes that peridot’s vibrant green hue comes from its iron content, not trace elements.
Want more natural vs. lab comparisons? Read our Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds Guide.
2 · Green Fire – Demantoid Garnet
Known for its fiery dispersion-second only to diamonds-Demantoid garnets earned the nickname “Green Fire.” Russian stones from the 1800s even captured the attention of Fabergé himself. Their needle-like “horsetail” inclusions actually increase value. Gem Society explains why they’re rare and coveted.
3 · Mandarin Garnet – Spessartite Garnet
Bright orange and 100% untreated, Spessartite garnets from Namibia dazzled the gem world in the ’90s. Their citrusy color gave rise to the nickname “Mandarin Garnet.” These stones look incredible when set in rose gold-a metal we love for modern men's wedding bands.
4 · Grape Garnet – Pyrope-Almandine Blend
Only found in Odisha, India, this rare garnet blend shifts from violet to magenta depending on lighting. The juicy “Grape Garnet” moniker reflects its chromatic drama and limited availability. GIA classifies garnets based on color and chemistry, with this one standing out in both.
5 · Chocolate Diamond – Brown Diamond
Brown diamonds were once overlooked-until Le Vian trademarked “Chocolate Diamond” in the early 2000s. With strict grading and warm undertones, they’re now runway staples. Curious how brown stacks up against colorless? Our guide to unique diamond cuts and colors dives deeper.
Learn how lab-grown Chocolate Diamonds compare in our Lab-Grown Diamond Necklace Deep Dive.
6 · Watermelon Tourmaline
Slice a pink-and-green bi-color tourmaline crosswise, and you’ll see its fruit-inspired name. The best specimens have clear color zoning and “rind” rings. National Jeweler notes their popularity in bespoke statement pieces perfect for bold, nature-loving couples.
7 · Salt-and-Pepper Diamond
These edgy stones contain white crystal (salt) and black graphite (pepper) inclusions. Each one is uniquely imperfect-ideal for couples seeking an alternative engagement look. Just be mindful of durability and setting style. Our Alternative Engagement Ring Ideas blog has more sparkle-forward suggestions.
8 · Lotus-Blossom Sapphire – Padparadscha
“Padparadscha” means lotus blossom in Sinhalese. Western jewelers shortened it for simplicity, but there’s nothing simple about this rare pink-orange sapphire. Strict hue standards make it one of the most debated-and valuable-sapphires in the world. Read more via AGS.
9 · Poor Man’s Emerald – Peridot (Again)
The budget-friendly emerald of the 1800s, peridot got its second nickname when gem traders needed to move green stones fast. Today, top-tier peridot can fetch five-figure prices, especially when sourced from Pakistan or Arizona. GIA explains peridot’s rise in value.
10 · Champagne Diamond
Argyle Mine’s pale brown diamonds weren’t catching on-until they were rebranded as “Champagne Diamonds” in the 1980s. Set in rose gold, they exude warmth and vintage elegance. See how they stack up against modern neutrals in our blog on 2025 Bridal Jewelry Pairings.
Final Thoughts: Flavor with a Story
Nicknames add flavor, history, and heart to the world of gemstones. They remind us that beauty often lies in the unexpected and that every gem has a tale waiting to be told.
Want to meet these stones in person? Book your private appointment at Quantum Qarat’s Scottsdale showroom.
Have heirlooms with “forgotten names”? Let’s rediscover their magic together.