Although traditionally diamonds have been the top choice for engagement rings and bridal jewellery, gemstones of rich, vibrant colours are now at the top of the wish list for many brides-to-be. Perhaps also for you?
But wait!
Don’t just pick ANY gemstone. It's important to consider the durability factor if you are planning to wear your ring every day.
The most durable choice besides a diamond is a sapphire.
“But I don’t like blue”, I often hear clients say.
Not a problem!
Did you know that sapphires come in all colours of the rainbow?
Gasp!
Even each colour comes in a range of shades to choose from, giving you unlimited possibilities when it comes to selecting your perfect sapphire.
Sapphires in colours other that blue are called "fancy sapphires".
You can be more specific by calling them by their colour e.g. pink sapphire, green sapphire etc.
What is the most popular sapphire colour?
Although blue sapphires are still the most popular choice (thanks to Princess Diana and Kate Middleton) colours that are currently "on trend” include soft peaches, pastel and hot pinks as well as purple shades.
Green and blue-green combinations (aka teal sapphires) have also become popular in the past 5 years.
Blue-green, teal and Montana sapphires
Unique combinations of blue and green colours are HOT right now!
Montana, US, produces some incredible sapphires that boast unique green and blue-green colour combinations.
If you are looking for one of these, get in touch with me and request a Montana Sapphire or a Teal Sapphire.
I'd love to help you find your perfect stone!
Our Serena Ring (oval teal sapphire set in white gold) and Cerelia Ring (cushion cut Montana sapphire set in yellow gold) are available for purchase from our Ready-to-Wear collection
Other gorgeous options include yellows, oranges and green sapphires.
Looking for your perfect engagement ring?
Check out the Top 3 Engagement Ring Trends for 2022 here
A ruby is basically a "red sapphire"
Sapphires in all colours are part of the "corundum" family.
Another member of the corundum family is a Ruby (this stone has its own name, instead of "red sapphire").
Ruby colour ranges from pinkish to purplish red as well as deeper, darker red shades.
Gemstones in the “corundum” family score a 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. The only harder material is a diamond at a 10.
Sapphire in all colours as well as rubies are perfect for engagement rings that will withstand everyday wear.
Love celebrity engagements?
Check out this post: Celebrity Ruby and Pink Sapphire Engagement Rings
Yellow, white or rose gold?
Deciding on the metal colour can be tricky.
Personally, I love combining coloured gemstones with yellow or rose gold, to either complement the centre stone or create a stunning contrast.
Imagine a vibrant, bright red ruby set in yellow gold for a bold look, or a mesmerising peach sapphire in rose gold for something a bit more subtle yet unique.
Alternatively, a magnificent, royal blue sapphire set in white gold is a more “traditional” choice yet still adds a touch of individuality.
Choose an engagement ring with a fancy sapphire if you are:
looking for a one-of-a-kind colour
want to make a statement
“over” the diamond engagement ring trend
love a pop of colour on a daily basis
considering a larger stone for your budget
looking for a durable stone for daily wear
love a fancy cut such as oval, pear or elongated cushion (sapphires are typically cut to suit a more elongated shape, however round options are also available)
looking to follow the likes of Victoria Beckham, Katy Perry and Princess Eugenie
Speaking of royalty, have you seen Princess Eugenie's exquisite ring starring a "Padparadscha sapphire"?
Named after a lotus blossom, "Padparadscha" is a rare, pinkish orange variety of sapphire.
Love this unique colour?
Check out the Anastasia Ring featuring a Padparadscha Sapphire set in rose gold, available for purchase from our Ready-to-Wear collection
Looking for the perfect sapphire but don't know where to start?
I'd love to help!
To chat about your options, schedule a complementary, 30 minute connection call with me here
Visit Tsarina Gems Instagram page for more stunning jewellery ideas and styling tips