Engagement rings are not just sentimental jewellery pieces that symbolize the couple’s love, they are also luxurious items that carry some of the most expensive precious stones available. So, how do you choose the precious stone for an engagement ring?

Diamonds are the classic choice for precious stones found in an engagement ring. But, there are other precious stones to choose from, including emeralds, sapphires, rubies, and opals. The choice of the stone set in the engagement ring is important as each of these precious stones has a specific meaning, and the couple’s choice of centre stones may be based on these meanings.

Diamonds

Apart from being every woman’s best friend, the diamond is the ultimate representation of beauty and opulence. This stone is known for its clarity, which also represents purity. Its hardness and durable properties signify longevity and eternal love. In ancient times, people even claimed that diamonds had the power to protect us from diseases, poisons, and even your enemies. You can find exceptionally bright diamonds from trusted jewellers such as Diamonds in New Zealand that are perfect for engagement rings. 

Emeralds

These precious stones are primarily composed of Beryl and are found in different hues of green, which range from bluish green to light yellowish green. Gemstone-quality emeralds may contain inclusions, which often gives pieces of jewellery a distinct character.

The intense green stone represents love, hope, rebirth, and eternal youth.  Emeralds are said to protect lovers from unfaithfulness. The ancients associate the precious stone with Venus, the Greek goddess of love and beauty. This precious stone is the most famous and valuable green gemstone. Combined with its durability and rarity, emeralds are considered among the most expensive gemstones.

Sapphires

One of the most popular gemstones on the jewellery scene nowadays, this deep blue coloured precious gemstone has a number of meanings. Considered by the Greek as “the most beautiful,” it is also considered as the greatest of lucky charms. For centuries, the sapphire has been seen as a symbol of the heavens, and it gives truth, guards innocence, promotes good health, and preserves chastity. It is also believed to bring gifts of beauty, prosperity, joy, fulfilment, and inner peace.

Ruby

Considered as the king of gemstones, ruby represents power. The stone inspires more emotions than almost any other precious stone. Described in the Orient as “a drop of the heart’s blood of Mother Earth,” rubies are known to have many positive effects and mystical properties. For couples, this precious stone means love, vitality, and passion. This sparkle and fire in small package is usually given on the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.

Opals

No two opals are alike, which also implies that no two great loves are exactly the same. Opals are available in various colours and appearances, from blues to bright reds and clear stones. These precious stones feature a spectacular pearly lustre, which can capture every colour you can imagine.

According to the Romans, opal is the most powerful and precious gemstone of all and throughout history, the precious stone has always been associated with a number of positive benefits including inspiring love, desire, and passion. It is also associated with self-esteem and confidence, creativity, and protection.

These are just five options among a number of other precious stones that couples can look into for their engagement rings. Aside from the meanings that each stone symbolises, you should also consider your fiancée’s personality and your finances.