Natures Palette: How Coloured Gems Are Making a Splash in Bridal
The Rise of Coloured Gemstone Engagement Rings
A seismic shift has occurred in the engagement ring and bridal jewellery landscape. Coloured gemstones have emerged again, surpassing the once-unquestioned dominance of traditional diamonds (at least over her at ML Studios). Why is this happening, you might wonder?
First and foremost, coloured gemstones offer a fresh and captivating alternative to the classic diamond. Today, Brides and grooms seek a unique symbol of their love that speaks to their individuality and personal style. Coloured gemstones, with their vibrant and diverse range of colours, provide the perfect opportunity for self-expression.
The Allure of Coloured Gemstones
What makes coloured gemstones so alluring? Why choose coloured gemstones for engagement rings? To answer this, we need to delve into their unique characteristics.
One of the most enchanting aspects of coloured gemstones is their extraordinary diversity. Each gem possesses its own distinctive colour, and charm. From the mesmerizing blue of sapphires, the vibrant allure of parti-sapphires, and the rainbow of colour choices from spinel, the spectrum of possibilities are boundless. This diversity ensures that every coloured gemstone engagement ring is one-of-a-kind, much like the love it represents.
Moreover, coloured gemstones often have a more profound and personal meaning. Each hue carries with it a unique symbolism. For example, blue sapphires are associated with loyalty and fidelity, making them a meaningful choice for engagement rings. Parti sapphires, with their captivating mix of colours, represent the complexities of love and life. Coloured gemstones allow couples to infuse their rings with sentiment and meaning beyond the brilliance of a traditional diamond.
Coloured Gemstone Durability for Everyday Wear
While colored gemstones are incredibly attractive for all jewellery, some varieties also have the advantage of being suitable for everyday wear. Many coloured gemstones, such as sapphire, ruby, spinel, topaz, and some types of beryl, chrysoberyl, and moissanite, have a hardness rating of 7.5 and above. This makes them more durable and resistant to scratches than their softer counterparts, making them ideal for rings that will be worn day in and day out.
For those who lead active lifestyles or simply prefer low-maintenance jewellery but long for a pop of brilliant colour, these varieties of coloured gems with a gemstone hardness of 7.5 or above are an excellent choice. They can withstand the rigors of daily life while continuing to shine brightly, symbolizing your enduring love.
Popular Coloured Gemstone Choices
Now, let's take a closer look at some of the gemstone engagement ring trends on the Bridal scene.
1: Parti Sapphires
Parti sapphires are an enchanting choice for those who appreciate the harmonious blending of colours. These gemstones are known for their unique feature of displaying a combination of hues, often in mesmerizing patterns. The formation of parti sapphires is attributed to specific geological conditions and the presence of various trace elements during their growth. These trace elements influence the colours within the gem, resulting in the striking colour patterns that make parti sapphires so unique. The interplay of green, blue, and yellow makes parti sapphires more than just a stone; they are a conversation starter. These stones represent the multifaceted nature of love and life, making parti sapphire engagement rings a profoundly symbolic choice.
Photo: Blue and Colourless Parti-Sapphire from Pierres De Charme
Photo: Green and Yellow Parti-Sapphire from SapphirusLanka
2: Blue Sapphires
Blue sapphires, known for their rich and regal hue, are making a stunning comeback in the world of engagement rings. This may be attributed to the magnificent blue sapphire engagement ring that once belonged to Princess Diana, making a new debut as the engagement ring for Her Royal Highness, The Princess Of Wales, Kate Middleton, alongside many other celebrities who have chosen sapphire as their engagement ring stone in recent years. They have been beloved for centuries for their association with loyalty and fidelity. A blue sapphire engagement ring is a timeless, elegant choice that exudes grace and sophistication. As sapphires rank a very respectable 9 on the hardness scale, you can be sure that they are up to the task of accompanying you through all the adventure life has in store.
Photo: Sri Lankan Blue Parti-Sapphire
Photo: Sri Lankan Blue Cushion Sapphire Lola Ring
3: Spinels
Spinel is a gemstone gaining popularity due to its remarkable durability (a 7.5 to 8 on the hardness scale), vibrant colours, and brilliant sparkle. Its superior light refraction really is something to behold. It's a great alternative to sapphires and can offer a more affordable yet equally dazzling option, depending on the color and size. With a range of hues from deep red, pink, grey, lavender, deep purple, electric blue, and even black, spinel engagement rings are an eye-catching choice for those who desire a gemstone that can withstand the test of time.
Photo: Red Spinel from Kenya, East Africa
4: Coloured Diamonds
Coloured diamond engagement rings are another noteworthy choice for those searching for unique engagement ring options. These diamonds are available in natural and lab-grown varieties and offer a unique twist on traditional, colourless diamonds. Coloured diamonds come in a wide array of hues, including pinks, blues, warm chocolates, soft champagnes, and yellows, and they add a distinctive touch to your engagement ring. The rarity and individuality of natural-coloured diamonds make them an attractive option for those seeking something extraordinary. Still, if the budget is strict, a lab-grown or colour-treated diamond can give you that brilliant hue without the heart palpitations that often accompany the price of a natural. Let's not forget the rising superstar in the diamond family, the salt and pepper diamond. These diamonds are gaining in popularity exponentially, making for some eye-catching and unique designs.
Photo: Soft Pink Lab-Diamond in 19.2KT Portuguese Apricot Gold
Photo: Fancy Grey Natural Diamond from Misfit Diamonds
In conclusion, the reign of traditional diamond engagement rings is being challenged by the allure of coloured gemstones. Whether it's the captivating play of colours in parti-sapphires, the timeless elegance of blue sapphires, the brilliance of spinel, or the uniqueness of coloured diamonds, there's a coloured gemstone for every style and personality. So, if you're looking for an engagement ring that stands out, tells a unique story, and can withstand the test of time, consider the beauty of coloured gemstones as you embark on this journey of love and commitment.
