Admired for their charm and toughness, sapphires offer a great alternative to diamond engagement rings. Ranking 9 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, after diamonds, these coloured gemstones can handle everyday wear and are perfect for engagement rings designed to stand the test of time.
When deciding on the suitability of a sapphire engagement ring, it's crucial to keep in mind that personal preferences play a role. Sapphires provide a refined choice compared to diamonds, as their luxurious hues are frequently linked with royalty and classic charm.
Are Sapphires Suitable for Engagement Rings?
Cost Considerations for Sapphire Engagement Rings
The price of sapphire engagement rings differs based on factors like quality and size. Generally speaking, sapphires cost less than diamonds that are similar in size and quality, making them a popular choice for those wanting the most value without compromising beauty.
When inquiring about the price of a sapphire engagement ring, the cost may also vary based on origin. For instance, a rich blue sapphire sourced from Kashmir or Burma might come with a price tag of a high quality diamond. On the other hand, sapphires originating from other regions, or sapphires showcasing colour variations, could present a more affordable alternative.
When choosing a sapphire engagement ring, a significant factor influencing cost is the quality of the sapphire, assessed by colour, clarity, and cut. Sapphires with vivid, deep blue hues are generally the most valuable, and larger sapphires tend to be more expensive due to their rarity (especially if they possess high clarity and minimal inclusions).
Another cost consideration is the setting and craftsmanship. A well-crafted sapphire engagement ring, featuring intricate details like halo settings or diamond accents, can increase the price. Platinum settings are typically more expensive than gold, which can also influence price.
The Significance of Sapphire in Engagement Rings
Are sapphires good for engagement rings? Throughout history, sapphires have been linked to wisdom and luck, making them a meaningful selection for unique engagement rings. The blue sapphire is often associated with royalty and love stories; the iconic sapphire engagement ring once belonging to Princess Diana is now worn by Catherine Middleton, the Princess of Wales. This connection to aristocracy further enhances the appeal of sapphire engagement rings.
Sapphires have a range of colours to offer beyond the traditional blue hue they are famous for; they can be found in shades spanning the entire spectrum of the rainbow such as pinky hues and sunny yellows to lush greens and royal purple - even clear options known as white sapphires.
If you're looking for something hard to find, a padparadscha sapphire is a great choice, with its highly valued and uncommon pink-orange shade. If you want to go for a contemporary look, a bright pink sapphire can give a fresh spin on the classic engagement ring style.
The Colour Spectrum of Sapphires
When picking out the ideal sapphire gemstone for yourself or a loved one, remember to take into account more than just the colour. Pay attention to the richness and depth of the stone's hue. A saturated sapphire with rich colour typically holds greater worth and catches the eye more powerfully compared to a sapphire with a fainter or subtler shade.
All things considered, the deep blue sapphire remains the most iconic and sought-after sapphire, prized for its rich, velvety hue that has captivated couples and sapphire-loving celebrities for centuries. Whether set in platinum, white gold, or yellow gold, a blue sapphire radiates elegance and sophistication, making it a timeless addition to any modern engagement ring.
Blue sapphires are especially recognised for their classic beauty and association with nobility, wisdom and loyalty. Their intense blue colour can vary in tone, from lighter cornflower blue to deep midnight shades, with the most valuable sapphires exhibiting a vivid, saturated blue. These gems have become a timeless choice for sapphire engagement rings and other sapphire jewellery, cherished for their striking appearance and durability.
SH Jewellery sapphires are sourced directly from carefully vetted suppliers in Sri Lanka. This ensures that the stones are not only of the highest quality, but also ethically and sustainably mined. By working closely with trusted suppliers, we maintain strict standards for craftsmanship and responsible sourcing, ensuring each sapphire is a reflection of both beauty and integrity.
Origins of Sapphires
Sri Lanka, often referred to as the "Gem Island," is renowned for producing some of the finest sapphires in the world. For centuries, Sri Lanka has been a key source of exceptional quality sapphires, with its mines yielding a variety of colours, particularly the highly coveted blue sapphires. The island’s unique geological conditions have allowed for the formation of sapphires with stunning clarity and vibrant hues, making it a premier location for sourcing these precious gems.
Ethical Considerations: Sapphire Engagement Rings
Where to Find the Best Sapphire Engagement Rings
When you're in the market for sapphire engagement rings, it's important to choose a jeweller known for quality and dependable service, including complimentary lifetime aftercare. Go with a retailer who provides certifications from respected gem labs to guarantee the authenticity and excellence of the sapphire stone.
Superior craftsmanship matters; an intricately handcrafted setting can enhance the beauty of the sapphire stone by highlighting its colour and sparkle. Opting for an exclusively designed piece allows you to have an engagement ring that mirrors your taste and the significance of the special moment.
Sapphires are known for their durability and minimal upkeep, which make them a great option for everyday wear. To preserve their beauty over a lifetime, it's important to take care of them. Cleaning a sapphire engagement ring is straightforward and can be conveniently performed at home using an ultrasonic jewellery cleaning machine.
To maintain the condition of your sapphire engagement ring and ensure the gemstone’s security and longevity over time, it is advisable to have it professionally cleaned and inspected annually. While sapphires are generally less vulnerable to chipping compared to diamonds, regular upkeep is still recommended to preserve their brilliance, and the structural integrity of your ring.
Care and Maintenance of Sapphire Engagement Rings
If you’re in the market for an exclusively designed sapphire engagement ring and would like some assistance, get in touch with our non-commissioned consultants through online support, or instore at our Melbourne showroom.
As Australia’s best reviewed jeweller, we’ve helped over 15,000 couples say “I do”, and hundreds more in their decision to buy unique sapphire engagement rings designed and continually refined by our family for decades.
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