When it comes to engagement rings, diamonds have long been the reigning champions, symbolizing enduring love and commitment. However, in recent years, couples have been exploring alternative gemstones to express their unique love stories. Two such alternatives that have captured the hearts of many are sapphire and emerald engagement rings. But the truth is that Royals have been using beautiful, colorful gemstones to express their love for, well, ages. Today, we will dive into the captivating world of sapphire and emerald engagement rings to take a look at some famous Royal examples from history and examine the reasons why they make a splendid choice for those seeking an alternative to traditional diamond rings.
Sapphire's Serene Allure
Sapphire, with its rich blue hues, has a timeless allure that has been cherished for centuries. Famous for its durability and brilliance, it has graced the fingers of royalty and celebrities alike. One of the most iconic sapphire engagement rings in history is the one worn by Princess Diana, now adorning the hand of Kate Middleton. This 12-carat sapphire surrounded by a halo of diamonds was made by Garrand, a jewelry house that has maintained a close relationship with the Royal family since 1843 when Queen Victoria appointed them as her Crown Jeweler. Though we see it as a symbol of love that captured the imagination of the world, it caused a bit of a stir with the Royal family because it was purchased as-is and not made into a custom piece of jewelry as is tradition for a Royal engagement ring. However, its enduring appeal has inspired countless replicas and imitations.
(Edwardian, Art Deco, Vintage)
What makes sapphire so captivating is its deep, royal blue color, which symbolizes wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. This symbolism adds depth and meaning to the engagement ring, making it a beautiful choice for couples who value these virtues in their relationship. Moreover, sapphires are nearly as durable as diamonds, making them an excellent choice for an engagement ring that can withstand the test of time.
Emerald's Enchanted Green
Emeralds, with their lush green hues, have enchanted admirers for centuries. They are the embodiment of nature's beauty, often associated with renewal and fertility. When it comes to emerald engagement rings, one name that stands out is American Socialite turned Duchess of Windsor, Wallis Simpson. Simpson captured the heart of King Edward VIII of England, leading to one of the most controversial love stories in royal history. Central to their romance was a stunning emerald engagement ring, designed by Cartier, that would become an enduring symbol of their forbidden love. You can read more about their love here.
(Vintage, Mid-Century, Art Deco)
Emeralds, like sapphires, are a symbol of enduring love, and their vibrant green color represents growth and rebirth. Choosing an emerald engagement ring can be a symbolic gesture of the new life and growth that a marriage represents.
Why Choose Sapphire and Emerald Engagement Rings?
One of the most compelling reasons to opt for a sapphire or emerald engagement ring is their uniqueness. While diamonds are undoubtedly stunning, sapphires and emeralds offer a distinctive and personalized touch to your ring. These gemstones come in a variety of shades and shapes, allowing you to choose the one that resonates most with your partner's personality and that celebrates the unique depths of your relationship.
Both sapphires and emeralds carry rich symbolism that can add depth and meaning to your engagement. Sapphire represents wisdom, loyalty, and nobility, while emerald symbolizes renewal and growth. These symbolic attributes can infuse your ring with a unique significance that goes beyond what meets the eye.
(Mid-Century, Vintage, Mid-Century)
Sapphires and emeralds are durable gemstones that can withstand the rigors of everyday wear. While they are not as hard as diamonds, they are still extremely resilient and can last a lifetime. Choosing these gemstones for your engagement ring is a practical and long-lasting choice.
The vibrant blue of sapphires and the lush green of emeralds offer a wide range of colors to suit individual preferences. Whether your partner prefers a serene and calming blue or an energetic and vibrant green, you can find a sapphire or emerald that perfectly reflects their personality.
Sapphire and emerald engagement rings offer a dazzling alternative to traditional diamond engagement rings. Their unique colors, rich symbolism, durability, and historical appeal make them a wonderful choice for couples seeking something distinct and meaningful. Whether you opt for the regal blue of a sapphire or the lush green of an emerald, these gemstones will not only adorn your loved one's hand but also symbolize the depth and enduring nature of your love. You of course, could do both - David Beckham has reportedly given Victoria Beckham fifteen engagement rings over the course of their relationship, including an emerald, a sapphire, a moonstone and a ruby among the white and fancy colored diamonds. He’s not one to let tradition dictate what he does - and so why would you? When you're ready to pop the question, consider the timeless elegance of sapphire and emerald engagement rings to make your moment truly special.
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At Jack Weir & Sons, we’ve spent the last 40 years traveling to Europe and all over the world, curating extraordinary estate jewels. JWS is where the old world meets the new world. Celebrate life, preserve history, and discover your own priceless heirloom jewel. We are extremely grateful for our clients and the ability to help people to celebrate their special moments through one-of-a-kind jewelry. To share that gratitude and our strong family values, we chose to partner with Baby2Baby. So far, we've donated $125,000. A portion of every sale goes towards children living in poverty to provide them with diapers, clothing, and all the basic necessities that every child deserves.
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