Diamonds will always remain a tried and true favourite, but maybe it’s time to re-think tradition and try on a different gem for your engagement. It’s a budget-friendly, on-trend alternative and there are countless brilliant hues to choose from. Or, if you want to keep a hold on tradition, why not supplement your diamond ring with a few gemstones to add a hint of vibrant colour to your sparkler? If you think you can handle this tweak on convention and want the facts on how to choose one, read on!
My Precious…and Semi-Precious
According to the world of gemology, there are four “precious” stones: diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires. The rest are classified as “semi-precious.” Before you decide that it’s only the top of the line for you, and renounce all things that are not fully “precious,” remember that the value of a ring is not solely determined by classification or price tag. Perhaps your mister picked out a fiery-red garnet stone to symbolize his undying passion. Or maybe it’s a deep purple amethyst, signifying the intellectual connection the two of you share. If your first kiss happened one November night, then maybe citrine is the stone for you! There are important meanings behind each gemstone, and for many (including your über-romantic husband-to-be), this is more significant than the number of digits on the price tag.
Be Strong
There are so many gemstone colours out there and let’s be honest, they’re all beautiful! But while beauty is a determining factor in picking an engagement ring, other aspects like durability should be considered. Gemologists use a scale from 1 to 10 (10 being the strongest) to determine the strength of a stone and since you’ll most likely be showing off your new bling as much as possible, you’ll want one that lasts. So, while turquoise, peridot and opal are gorgeous, they’re a bit weaker, so klutzy girls steer clear. Precious stones are the most durable, followed by topaz, aquamarine, amethyst and garnet.
All About You
What it essentially comes down to is finding a stone that is suited to you. Whether that is a sparkly diamond for you traditionalists, an olive green peridot because it’s your favourite colour or a cornflower blue sapphire to represent his “true blue” devotion, like your engagement, it should be about you and what you want.
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Posted by Rachel on January 9, 2011 at 10:30 p.m.
I have been given a LOVELY engagement ring which was made for me by a local jeweler here in Calgary. The main stone is a unreal honey coloured citrine. Its about the size of a 4 carrat (sp?) diamond and emerald cut. And there is a lovely diamond on either side. The citrine is thought of as the symbol of new beginnings and is believed to bring joy and happiness to those who wear it.
Did you also know that by flanking any stone with meaning or purpose by diamonds, that it is thought to strengthen its powers???
So romantic... and made just for US!
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