Why Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Rings are Worth Considering
Photo: Pink Sapphire & Diamond Halo Ring
Sapphire rings sound like they are straight from a Disney movie, but they exist and have become increasingly popular over the years.
Choosing an engagement ring is an important decision that some have dreamt about their whole lives. It truly is the most significant symbol of commitment.
While diamonds have long been the traditional choice, more brides-to-be are opting for sapphire and diamond engagement rings.
With their rich history, stunning beauty, and practical benefits, sapphires offer a compelling alternative to traditional diamond rings.
A Brief History of Sapphires
Sapphires have been cherished for centuries, often symbolising wisdom, virtue, and good fortune. Historically, they were worn by royalty and revered in various cultures.
The famous royal blue sapphire and diamond engagement ring of Princess Diana, now worn by Kate Middleton, revitalised the popularity of sapphire engagement rings.
Princess Diana's engagement ring stands out for several reasons. It is a striking statement piece with a stunning centre stone and large accent diamonds arranged in a luxurious halo setting, and its value is equally impressive.
Greg Kwiat, CEO and owner of Kwiat Diamonds and Fred Leighton, explains, 'Princess Diana's engagement ring features a 12-carat oval sapphire, encircled by 14 round diamonds set in 18-carat white gold. The sapphire, a royal blue gem from Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), was purchased for £47,000.' Today, this iconic ring is estimated to be worth £320,000.
Unique Beauty and Colour Range
Photo: Ruby & Diamond Fancy Halo Ring
One of the most captivating aspects of sapphires is their stunning range of colours.
While the deep blue hue is the most well-known, sapphires come in various shades, including pink, yellow, green, and even colour-changing varieties.
This diversity allows you to choose a stone that reflects your personality and style.
Is a Ruby a Sapphire?
Yes, a ruby is technically a type of sapphire. Both rubies and sapphires are varieties of the mineral corundum, which is an aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃). The distinction between them comes down to colour and trace elements:
- Ruby refers specifically to the red variety of corundum, which gets its red colour from traces of chromium.
- Sapphire, in a more general sense, refers to any other colour of corundum that is not red. The most well-known sapphire is blue, but sapphires can also be pink, yellow, green, or purple.
So while both rubies and sapphires are made from the same mineral (corundum), their colour differences define whether they're called a ruby or a sapphire.
Where do Blue Sapphires Come From?
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Sri Lanka (Ceylon): Sri Lanka, historically known as Ceylon, is renowned for its high-quality blue sapphires, often featuring a lighter, vibrant blue hue with excellent clarity.
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Kashmir (India): Kashmir is famous for its deep, velvety blue sapphires, which are considered some of the finest in the world. Due to their limited availability, these sapphires are rare and highly sought after.
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Myanmar (Burma): Burmese sapphires, particularly from the Mogok region, are known for their rich, royal blue colour, often with a hint of violet. They are prized for their intensity and depth of colour.
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Madagascar: In recent years, Madagascar has become a significant source of blue sapphires, producing stones in a wide range of blue shades, from light to dark.
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Thailand: Thai sapphires are often darker, with a deep, inky blue hue. Thailand is also a significant centre for the cutting and trading of sapphires.
- Australia: Australian sapphires are typically darker, with a deep, almost blackish-blue hue, often with a greenish undertone. They are known for their unique, earthy appeal.
These regions contribute to the global supply of blue sapphires, each offering stones with unique characteristics influenced by their geological origins.
Where in Australia do Blue Sapphires come from?
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New South Wales: The New England region in northeastern New South Wales is known for its sapphire deposits, particularly around Inverell and Glen Innes. This area is often called the "Sapphire City" due to its rich history of sapphire mining. The sapphires from this region tend to be darker, often with a deep blue to blue-black hue.
- Queensland: Central Queensland, particularly the Gemfields around Sapphire, Rubyvale, Anakie, and Emerald, is another significant area for blue sapphire mining. The sapphires from this region vary in colour but are often recognised for their dark, inky blue tones, sometimes with a greenish tint.
Durability and Practicality
This durability ensures your ring can withstand daily wear and remain beautiful for years.
Unlike softer stones, sapphires are less prone to scratching and damage, making them a practical choice for an engagement ring.
Unique Grading System
This grading flexibility allows for a range of options that can suit various budgets and preferences.
Why Choose Sapphire Over Traditional Diamond Rings?
Price Point and Value
This value allows you to invest in a larger, more impressive stone or allocate your budget to other aspects of your wedding.
Ethical Considerations
By choosing a sapphire, you can feel confident that your purchase aligns with your values.
How to Choose the Perfect Sapphire Engagement Ring
Selecting the Right Colour
Consider your preferences and the symbolism of different colours when selecting.
Understanding Carat Weight and Size
Focus on the dimensions and proportions of the stone rather than just the carat weight to find the perfect size.
Where to Buy Sapphire Engagement Rings
We offer a stunning selection of ready-made and bespoke designs, ensuring you find the perfect ring for your special day.
Every piece is meticulously crafted with an unrivalled sense of luxury.
Their team of experts ensures that each sapphire and diamond is of the highest quality, providing you with a beautiful and durable ring.