George Balanchine's sensational ballet

One of the most beloved works in any company's repertoire, George Balanchine's signature ballet is inspired by gemstones: emeralds, rubies, and diamonds, and danced to the music of French composer Faure, Russian composer Stravinsky, and famed musician of the Romantic period, Tchaikovsky. A glittering experience told in three parts, don't miss the San Francisco Ballet's revival as it lights up the stage as part of its 2026/27 season.

A Three-Part Masterpiece

Jewels' three parts begin with Emeralds, a sultry and nostalgic evocation of the French school of ballet. Romance and style abound from the moment the dancers appear in their long tutus, extolling the virtues of courtly love through a haze of perfume and a score by Gabriel Faure.

Conversely, Rubies, the middle section, is a jazzy riff on American modernity as scored by longtime Balanchine collaborator Stravinsky. Humor fizzles in this self-aware piece; the rich heritage of Emeralds evolved into a street-smart and rhythmic celebration of vim and vigor.

Finally, Diamonds closes the program with shimmering grace and grandeur as inspired by the Imperial Russian ballet of the Mariinsky, where Balanchine himself received his training. With the lush tones of Tchaikovsky, a whole era and tradition are captured in an entrancing and heart-soaring climax.