Diamonds have dominated the engagement ring market since the mid-20th century. Their unmatched brilliance and durability (scoring 10 on the Mohs scale) make them ideal for everyday wear. Symbolically, diamonds represent enduring love and unbreakable bonds. The tradition of diamond engagement rings gained popularity after De Beers' famous "A Diamond is Forever" campaign in 1947, forever linking these gems with matrimonial commitment.
Sapphires, particularly blue ones, have experienced a surge in popularity for engagement rings, especially after Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton with Princess Diana's sapphire ring. These gems symbolize loyalty, sincerity, and faithfulness. With a Mohs hardness of 9, sapphires offer excellent durability for daily wear. Beyond the classic blue, sapphires come in various colors including pink, yellow, and even colorless.
Emeralds bring a distinctive pop of green that represents growth, new beginnings, and fertility—all fitting symbols for a couple starting their life together. While slightly less durable than diamonds or sapphires (with a Mohs rating of 7.5-8), emeralds offer incomparable color depth. Their internal characteristics, often called "jardins" (gardens), make each stone uniquely identifiable and tell the story of its formation deep within the earth.
As the gemstone of passion and desire, rubies make a bold statement in engagement rings. Their rich red color symbolizes the heart, love, and vitality. Like sapphires, rubies score 9 on the Mohs scale, making them durable enough for everyday wear. Throughout history, rubies have been associated with power and protection, with many cultures believing they guard the wearer against misfortune in love.
Many couples now choose alternative gemstones that hold personal significance. Morganite, with its soft pink hue, represents compassion and promise. Aquamarine, symbolizing tranquility and harmony, speaks to a peaceful union. Moissanite offers diamond-like brilliance with higher fire at a more accessible price point. Other popular choices include amethyst (representing devotion), topaz (symbolizing love and affection), and opal (representing hope and creativity).