I always tell my clients that, if they're working to a tight budget then they should let the focus fall on the star of the show: the stone. Durable and dazzling, sapphires come in all the colours under the rainbow and are absolutely timeless, moissanite is a modern and eco-friendly showstopper and whilst an opal requires more care it will suit a partner with a tender hand. With a higher budget for the stones, your jeweller (me) will be able to source you some unique cuts and shapes to choose from. Remember, the metal holds the story, but the stones steal the show.
An engagement ring is obviously something you will want to wear everyday. Therefore each of the stones listed below has been chosen with the following considerations.:
Hardness – The harder the stone, the better it can resist scratching or abrasion from everyday life.
Toughness – This is the internal strength of the stone and its ability to resist fractures from knocks and bangs that are part of everyday life.
Stability – This is the ability of the stone to resist physical changes and chemical changes, such as being exposed to acids and alkalis that are in both beauty and cleaning products.
So let's take a stroll through the best gemstones for engagement rings.
Diamond : The Timeless Classic
No gemstone is as synonymous with engagement rings as the diamond. Known for its brilliance and timeless appeal, the diamond symbolises eternal love, strength, and purity. It has long been the top choice for engagement rings due to its durability, ranking a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.
Its rare, sparkling beauty has been cherished for centuries. Ancient civilisations believed diamonds held mystical powers, symbolising the light of the soul and offering protection. Today, diamonds remain the epitome of luxury, loved for their ability to reflect light in every direction, capturing the essence of forever. Did you know that diamonds can be coloured too? You can find pink, green, blue, black and some shades in between.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT LAB-GROWN vs NATURAL DIAMONDS
Moissanite: A Brilliant & Affordable Alternative
For those who want the look of a diamond without the hefty price tag, moissanite is a brilliant option. Moissanite is a lab-created stone with remarkable brilliance, often outshining diamonds in terms of sparkle.
Although it was first discovered in a meteor crater, it’s now created in labs to ensure sustainability and consistency in quality. Moissanite is nearly as hard as diamond, making it an excellent choice for an engagement ring that will retain its brilliance for years. Its affordability combined with its dazzling fire and clarity has made it a popular alternative to diamonds for those who want a stunning ring on a budget.
Sapphire: The Stone of Wisdom
While sapphires are often associated with a deep, royal blue, they can actually come in a wide range of colours. The sapphire has long been admired for its beauty and symbolism.
Historically, this gemstone was considered a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. It’s also believed to protect its wearer from envy and harm.
Princess Diana’s iconic engagement ring, now worn by Kate Middleton, helped elevate the sapphire as a favourite choice for engagement rings. Whether blue, pink, or even yellow, sapphires are a captivating option for those seeking something unique yet steeped in tradition.
Ruby: A Stone of Passion
The ruby is the stone of intense passion and fiery love. With its rich red hue, it is often seen as a symbol of desire, vitality, and deep affection.
Rubies have been revered for thousands of years, with ancient cultures believing they possessed the power to bring strength, courage, and success to their owners. In fact, rubies were often used by royalty and warriors for their supposed powers of protection. The allure of a ruby engagement ring is undeniable, offering a vibrant and passionate alternative to the traditional diamond, and its deep colour symbolises a love that burns bright and true.
Spinel: The Hidden Gemstone
Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, spinel is a gemstone that deserves more attention. Spinel comes in a variety of colours, from red to pink, purple, and even blue, offering an elegant alternative to other gemstones.
Historically, many famous “rubies” in royal jewellery collections turned out to be spinels, as the two stones share a similar appearance. Spinel is known for its striking brilliance and vibrant hues, and it’s also highly durable, making it an excellent choice for an engagement ring that will stand the test of time. Spinel represents energy and renewal, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a fresh, unique option.
Synthetic Stones: Beautiful, Ethical, & Sustainable
As more couples look for ethical and environmentally-conscious options, synthetic gemstones have become increasingly popular. These lab-created stones, including diamonds, sapphires, and rubies, are chemically identical to their natural counterparts but are created in a controlled environment. This means they have the same physical and aesthetic properties as mined gemstones, but with a significantly smaller environmental footprint. Synthetic stones offer beauty, sustainability, and ethical assurance, making them a perfect choice for the modern couple who wants both luxury and responsibility.
To Conclude
Choosing the right gemstone for an engagement ring is a deeply personal decision, one that should reflect the unique love and commitment shared between two people. Whether you opt for the timeless elegance of a diamond, the fiery passion of a ruby, the wise and noble appeal of a sapphire, or the brilliance of moissanite, each gemstone tells a story and offers its own unique symbolism. Spinels and synthetic gemstones are also beautiful alternatives that offer stunning beauty with a unique twist. Ultimately, the best gemstone is the one that resonates most with you and your partner, one that will shine just as brightly as your love.
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