Apatite for life

Blue apatite is a vivid gem that is often confused with aquamarine or topaz – even its name, stemming from the Greek word apatein, means “to cheat” or deceive. Despite the apatite’s dubious repute, its bright tone is a true favorite among top designers, in part due to its accessibility. Though gem-quality examples are more rare, blue apatites have rather bountiful sources in India, Brazil, and southeastern Africa. Here, we call out four incredible examples of this electrifying blue stone…

A) A spectacular 12-carat apatite sits front and centre in a pendant necklace surrounded by 16 yellow-gold spokes, each of which boasts myriad colourful gems, including sapphires, emeralds, peridots, and turquoise. This statement piece was handcrafted in Khazzam’s New York studio.

B) Signet rings, once used to press hot-wax seals into important documents, are enjoying a modern-day revival. Today’s fans are drawn to the unique personal expression each ring provides. This mesmerizing gold interpretation by New Mexico–based jeweller Paula Crevoshay is encircled with white diamonds and 22 bright blue apatites. “I love the colour so much,” says Crevoshay. “It is an excellent substitute for Paraiba tourmaline when it comes in the neon blue that I cherish.”

C) Now this is a bug you can love. Colette Steckel’s bold 18-karat-gold beetle ring boasts a dazzling pair of ice-blue apatites, which flank a small diamond heart, all surrounded by Champagne diamonds. Imaginative nature-inspired designs like this are a trademark of Steckel, who splits her time between Paris, Los Angeles, and Mexico City.

D) Cool and classic, this multi-coloured chain-link necklace from New York designer Mimi So frames apatites alongside complementary aquamarines and green tourmalines.