George Boyle
When it comes to wedding rings, diamonds are the classic choice. However, many couples are now opting for non-traditional stones. Gemstones come in a wide variety of colours and can add a unique touch to your ring. Popular choices include sapphires, rubies, emeralds, aquamarine, topaz, onyx, tourmaline, lapis lazuli, and pearls. When choosing a gemstone, it's important to consider the hardness of the stone, as some are more durable than others. Diamonds are the hardest gemstone, followed by sapphires and rubies, which are very scratch-resistant. For those seeking a wallet-friendly option, consider lab-created stones, which are functionally identical to natural stones but more affordable.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Durability | Diamonds are the most durable, scoring 10 on the Mohs scale. Other durable options include sapphires (8-9), rubies (8), alexandrite (8.5), topaz (8), aquamarine (7.5-8), amethyst (7), onyx (7), emerald (7.5-8), rose quartz (7) and citrine (variable) |
| Colour | Gemstones come in a wide variety of colours. Some stones, like sapphires, can even exhibit colour-changing properties. |
| Cost | Diamonds can be expensive, but lab-created diamonds are a more affordable alternative. Other budget-friendly options include aquamarine, citrine, amethyst and lab-grown alexandrite. |
| Symbolism | Different gemstones carry different symbolic meanings. For example, sapphires symbolise fidelity, chastity and modesty, while pearls symbolise devotion, tenderness and love. |
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What You'll Learn
Sapphire, Emerald, Ruby: durable and popular choices
Gemstones are a great way to add something extra special to your wedding ring, especially if the gemstone holds a special meaning for the wearer. They are valued for their colour and are usually chosen as the main stone in a wedding ring for this reason. While there are many types of gemstones that can be used in wedding rings, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies are among the most popular choices.
Sapphires are a favourite gemstone for wedding rings because of their lustrous colour and durability. They are formed of a mineral called corundum, which is the crystalline form of aluminium oxide. While sapphires are most commonly associated with the colour blue, they are actually found in a range of colours, including pink, yellow, green, and purple. Some sapphires even exhibit colour-changing properties, appearing blue in one light and grey-green in another.
Rubies are part of the same mineral species as sapphires and have the same crystal structure. They are classified apart from sapphires due to their special allure and long historical significance. Rubies are typically associated with the colour red, but they can also exhibit colour-changing properties similar to sapphires. However, rubies are softer than sapphires and can be easily scratched or scraped by the edge or point of another ruby, as well as by sapphires and diamonds. Therefore, it is important to take extra care when wearing and storing ruby jewellery.
Emeralds are formed of a mineral called beryl, which is the same mineral that forms other gemstones such as aquamarine, heliodor, and morganite. Pure beryl is completely clear, but it can exhibit different colours depending on the impurities present. Emeralds are typically associated with the colour green and have been prized for their beauty and magical qualities for thousands of years. However, emeralds are softer than sapphires and rubies and are therefore more susceptible to scratching, chipping, and breaking. As a result, it is recommended to remove emerald jewellery when doing rough work and to store it wrapped in a soft cloth.
In conclusion, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies are all durable and popular choices for wedding rings, each with its own unique characteristics and symbolic meanings. When choosing a gemstone for your wedding ring, it is important to consider not only the colour and beauty of the stone but also its hardness and durability to ensure that it will stand up to your life together.
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Aquamarine: a beautiful, affordable option
Gemstones are a great way to add a unique touch to your wedding ring. They are available in a wide variety, offering a range of colours and styles to choose from. While sapphires, emeralds, and rubies are some of the most popular choices, there are many other gemstones to consider, such as aquamarine.
Aquamarine is a beautiful and affordable option for a wedding ring. Its ethereal blue and green tones, ranging from light blue to medium or medium-dark blues, are valued for their calming and serene appearance. The name is derived from the Latin words "aqua marina", meaning "sea water", and the gemstone has been used in jewellery for at least 3000 years. Its unique colour complements any skin tone and adds a pop of colour to any outfit.
Aquamarine is also durable and resistant to cracking or breaking, making it suitable for daily wear. It is a good choice for those who want a unique and distinctive ring that is different from the typical diamond. Aquamarine rings come in various styles, including classic solitaire, halo, and vintage-inspired designs, and can be personalised with different metal bands such as rose gold, yellow gold, or white gold.
However, it is important to note that aquamarine is a relatively soft gemstone, and it may not be the best option for those who are looking for a low-maintenance ring. Aquamarine is prone to scratches and chips, and it gets dirty quickly with daily wear. It requires consistent cleaning to maintain its appearance. Nevertheless, with proper care, aquamarine can be a stunning and affordable choice for a wedding ring, offering a timeless and romantic appeal.
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Topaz: symbolises wealth and royalty
Gemstones are a popular choice for wedding rings, with many couples stepping away from the traditional choice of diamonds. Gemstones are available in a wide variety of colours and can add something extra special to the ring, especially if the gemstone holds a special meaning for the wearer.
Topaz is one such gemstone that is a good option for wedding rings. It is a hard stone, scoring 8 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, making it suitable for everyday wear. Topaz is also a symbol of wealth and royalty. It is regarded as a stone of love and good fortune, bringing successful attainment of goals. It is believed to attract wealth and money and is traditionally known as the "lover of gold". Topaz is also said to bring confidence, aid in problem-solving, and promote self-realization.
The ancient Egyptians associated topaz with Ra, the Sun God, who was the giver of life. In Europe, topaz was linked with Apollo, another solar being. Topaz was believed to have special powers that could protect against danger or harm. Topaz was often set into crowns or other jewellery worn by royalty and nobility in the Middle Ages.
The most common colour of topaz today is blue, although it is also naturally found in shades of pink, yellow, peach, green, purple, brown, grey, black, and white. The most sought-after and expensive colour is called "imperial topaz". Topaz is a good choice for couples who want a large stone for their wedding rings, as blue topaz comes in some massive crystals.
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Tourmaline: a unique, playful option
Gemstones are a great way to add something extra special to your wedding ring, especially if the gemstone holds a special meaning for the wearer. Tourmaline, for example, is a unique and playful option for wedding rings.
Tourmaline is a gemstone with a rich history, dating back to ancient Egyptian and Roman jewellery. It is believed to possess soothing and calming properties and is said to be ideal for those interested in spirituality. The stone is also associated with unconditional love and friendship, making it a popular choice for wedding rings.
The word "tourmaline" comes from the Sinhalese word "turamali", meaning "stone of mixed colour". It is celebrated for its exciting colour spectrum, ranging from pink, red, green, blue, yellow, amber, and even multi-coloured varieties like watermelon tourmaline. This makes it a perfect choice for those who embrace colour and individuality in their lives.
In terms of affordability, tourmaline can offer excellent value for its size and colour intensity. It is often more accessible than diamonds and its price depends on factors such as size, quality, rarity, and the choice of metal. Tourmaline has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear with proper care.
When choosing a tourmaline stone, consider the colour and clarity of the stone. Colour has the biggest impact on price, so pick a colour that you like! Green tourmalines, for example, should be perfectly eye-clean, without any visible inclusions. Imperfections are more common in pink, red, and blue tourmalines. A bezel or semi-bezel setting can also help protect the stone and prolong its life.
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Onyx: a modern, bold statement
Gemstones are a popular choice for wedding rings, with many different types of stones to choose from. Each gemstone is unique and can add a special meaning to your ring.
Onyx is a bold and modern choice for wedding rings. Distinguished by its sleek black colour, onyx symbolises strength and confidence. It is a perfect choice for those who want to make a statement with their jewellery. The gemstone is also said to sharpen the wits of the wearer. With a rating of 7 on the Mohs scale, onyx is a durable option for everyday wear.
Onyx rings are often chosen for their striking, minimalist appearance, favoured by trendsetters and those with a bold fashion sense. The black stone creates a sophisticated contrast when set in sterling silver or white gold.
Onyx is a versatile gemstone that can be paired with a variety of metals, making it suitable for both men's and women's wedding rings. In Western culture, men typically wear their wedding band on their left ring finger, and onyx can be a stylish and modern choice for this. Men's wedding rings are becoming increasingly popular, with celebrities such as Ryan Gosling and Johnny Depp sporting them.
Onyx is an elegant and unique gemstone that makes a bold statement in wedding ring design. Its durability and striking appearance make it a modern choice for those who want to stand out.
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Frequently asked questions
Some popular stones for wedding rings include sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and pearls. Sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are valued for their colour and durability, while pearls symbolise devotion, tenderness, and love.
Some unique stone options for wedding rings include onyx, sunstone, lapis lazuli, and tourmaline. Onyx is distinguished by its bold black colour and symbolises strength and confidence. Lapis lazuli brings a touch of ancient royalty to your ring, with its deep blue colour speckled with golden pyrite. Tourmaline is celebrated for its exciting colour spectrum and symbolises creativity and emotional connection.
Diamonds are the most durable stones for wedding rings, with a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option, consider sapphires, rubies, or alexandrite, which are also very durable.
