If you’d like your engagement ring to stand out and be a unique expression of your individuality opt for a coloured engagement ring.
The story behind gems
The romance and mystery of gemstones dates back as long as human experience. In primitive days, gems were worn to ward off evil spirits and were considered to embody mystical powers. As time went on, gems became the ultimate symbols of wealth and status. Today, the pride of owning a beautiful gem is as irresistible as ever. Diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires remain the most popular coloured gemstones but there are also many others, in every colour of the rainbow.
Choosing your gemstone
When picking your stone consider the 4C’s. As with a diamond, a gemstone’s value is determined by its cut, clarity, carat and colour. Colour is the most influential factor – the more vivid the colour the more valuable. You should expect some inclusions in the stone, as flawless gems are extremely rare.
Emeralds
The rich green colour of emeralds is the colour of spring, the ancients treasured them as symbolising love and rebirth. Today scientists have discovered that the human eye is more sensitive to green than to any other colour, hence the emerald’s soothing properties and timeless appeal.
Rubies
For thousands of years rubies have been the world’s most precious gemstones. Even today, they are still more valuable and rare than even the top-quality white diamonds. The intense red colour of a good-quality ruby not only looks sensational but is also the most important factor to consider when choosing a ruby. Rubies sometimes display a three-ray, six-point star and are cut in smooth, domed cabochon cut to maximise this incredible natural effect.
Sapphires
Sapphires are formed by the same minerals as rubies, corundum, in fact, every shade of corundum except red (ruby) is known as sapphire. These spectacular stones are found in every colour, from midnight blue to bright blue, delicate violet, to fiery reddish-orange. The most valuable however, are those sapphires boasting an intense royal blue.”¨Sapphires are particularly suited to engagement rings, as they have long symbolised truth, sincerity and faithfulness.”¨You can find a gorgeous gemstone in almost any colour you desire. Each stone is a natural work of art that possesses unique and distinguishing beauty marks. As with diamonds, your jeweller should be able to evaluate the 4C’s with you to give you an idea of the value of your gem.