While diamonds have long been the most popular gemstone for engagement rings, many couples are now exploring other options to add a personal touch and splash of colour to their ring. Choosing a gemstone like sapphire, emerald, or ruby, rather than a diamond, allows couples to express individuality, value, and perhaps even specific meanings they want their engagement ring to embody. Whether for their vibrant colours, affordability, or symbolic meanings, alternative gemstones are more accessible than ever and are perfect for those who want something distinctive.
This guide will introduce some of the most popular gemstone alternatives, explain why they are worth considering, and offer insights into each stone's unique characteristics, durability, and care needs.
Sapphires: Timeless and Durable
Sapphires have long been associated with royalty, truth, and wisdom. Most people think of sapphires as blue, but they actually come in various colours, including yellow, pink, and green, making them versatile and beautiful options for engagement rings. Blue sapphires are especially popular because they offer a classic look that feels both elegant and striking.
Benefits of Choosing a Sapphire
- Durability: Sapphires score a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them one of the most durable gemstones available. This durability makes sapphires well-suited for daily wear, similar to diamonds.
- Variety of Colors: Sapphires are found in almost every colour except red, providing options for those who want a non-traditional look.
- Symbolism: Blue sapphires, in particular, are known to symbolize fidelity and loyalty, adding deeper meaning to an engagement ring.
Caring for Sapphire Rings
Sapphires are relatively easy to care for due to their hardness, but they should be kept away from harsh chemicals, just like any precious gemstone. Regular gentle cleaning with a soft brush and soapy water will help keep them looking vibrant.
Emeralds: A Rich and Regal Choice
Emeralds are prized for their rich green colour, symbolizing growth, fertility, and love. These gemstones have been cherished for thousands of years and were especially adored by ancient Egyptians, including Cleopatra. Emeralds make stunning engagement ring stones, but they require more care than some other options.
Benefits of Choosing an Emerald
- Unique Color: The deep green hue of emeralds makes them stand out and gives a touch of elegance and individuality to an engagement ring.
- Historical Significance: Emeralds have been linked with royalty and high-status individuals throughout history, adding a sense of luxury.
- Symbolism: The green color of emeralds is often associated with renewal and healing, which can hold special meaning for some couples.
Caring for Emerald Rings
Emeralds rank around 7.5-8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them more vulnerable to chipping and scratching than diamonds or sapphires. For this reason, emerald rings are best suited for those who can handle them with care, especially during activities that might expose the stone to potential damage. It’s advisable to store emerald rings separately from harder gemstones and to avoid wearing them during strenuous activities.
Rubies: Bold and Passionate
Rubies are known as the “king of gemstones” and have symbolized love, passion, and power for centuries. Their fiery red colour makes them one of the boldest and most visually striking gemstones available, perfect for couples who want a statement piece that also feels timeless.
Benefits of Choosing a Ruby
- Durability: Rubies score a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them extremely durable and suitable for everyday wear.
- Vibrant Color: The deep red of a ruby is instantly recognizable and gives an engagement ring a regal and passionate touch.
- Symbolism: Rubies are often associated with passion and commitment, ideal qualities for an engagement ring.
Caring for Ruby Rings
Rubies are tough stones, but like any gemstone, they benefit from regular cleaning to maintain their brilliance. Cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush is usually sufficient, but it’s best to avoid exposing rubies to harsh chemicals, as this could damage their vibrant colour over time.
Morganite: Soft and Romantic
Morganite is a relatively new gemstone on the engagement ring scene, known for its soft pink to peach hues. This gemstone has a romantic, vintage feel and pairs beautifully with rose gold, which complements its soft colour. Morganite is a beryl stone, related to emerald and aquamarine, and is celebrated for its affordability and delicate beauty.
Benefits of Choosing a Morganite
- Affordability: Morganite is often more affordable than other gemstones, making it a great choice for couples on a budget who still want a unique and beautiful ring.
- Romantic Color: The pastel pink and peach tones of morganite evoke a sense of romance and femininity, giving a subtle yet distinct look.
- Symbolism: Morganite is often associated with unconditional love, making it a fitting choice for an engagement ring.
Caring for Morganite Rings
Morganite has a Mohs hardness rating of 7.5-8, making it somewhat durable but more vulnerable than diamonds, rubies, or sapphires. It should be handled with care and cleaned regularly to keep its soft pink hue vibrant. Avoid exposing morganite to harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can cause damage.
Aquamarine: Cool and Calming
Aquamarine is another member of the beryl family and is known for its beautiful pale blue colour, reminiscent of the sea. The gemstone’s calming hue makes it a lovely choice for an engagement ring, especially for those seeking a relaxed, beach-inspired aesthetic.
Benefits of Choosing an Aquamarine
- Unique Color: Aquamarine’s soft blue tone is refreshing and distinct, adding a serene vibe to an engagement ring.
- Affordability: Generally more affordable than diamonds and other coloured gemstones, aquamarine provides great value.
- Symbolism: Aquamarine is often linked with tranquillity and clarity, suitable meanings for a commitment to a peaceful, enduring partnership.
Caring for Aquamarine Rings
Aquamarine is relatively durable, scoring around 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale. However, it is still susceptible to scratches and should be treated with care. Clean with mild soap and water, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this can fade the colour over time.
Moissanite: A Diamond-Like Alternative with Extra Sparkle
For couples who still want a colourless stone with a bit more brilliance, moissanite is a perfect alternative to a diamond. Although moissanite is lab-created, it shares a similar appearance with diamonds but offers even more sparkle and fire. Moissanite’s high refractive index gives it a unique brilliance that some couples find even more appealing than a traditional diamond.
Benefits of Choosing Moissanite
- Extreme Brilliance: Moissanite’s refractive index is higher than a diamond’s, giving it a level of sparkle that is unmatched.
- Durability: Scoring 9.25 on the Mohs scale, moissanite is incredibly hard and suitable for everyday wear.
- Affordability: Moissanite is significantly more affordable than diamonds, providing couples with a cost-effective alternative that looks stunning.
Caring for Moissanite Rings
Moissanite is a resilient gemstone, but regular cleaning is still recommended to maintain its high sparkle. Moissanite can be cleaned using soap, water, and a soft brush.
Choosing the Right Gemstone for You
Ultimately, choosing a gemstone for an engagement ring comes down to personal preference, lifestyle, and symbolism. Each stone has unique characteristics, colours, and meanings, so it’s worth considering what resonates most with you and your partner.
Explore Perrara’s Unique Collection of Gemstone Engagement Rings At Perrara, we offer a carefully curated selection of gemstone engagement rings for couples who want to make a statement. Whether you’re drawn to the fiery red of a ruby, the cool blue of aquamarine, or the gentle pink of morganite, our collection includes rings that reflect your unique love story. Discover how these alternative gemstones can bring colour, meaning, and individuality to one of the most important symbols of your life.
With Love, Perrara
