7 Types of Gemstones That Will Make Your Engagement Ring Pop

The center stone is the centerpiece of your engagement ring. Diamond rings are stunning, but some recipients prefer gemstone rings with vibrant hues. However, with dozens of stones on the market, you’ll need to narrow down your selection. Consider each stone’s unique history, appearance, and symbolism before you make a purchase.

1. Opal

For decades, jewelers have admired the opal’s iridescent hues. Dozens of colors appear to shine within an opal engagement ring, making it a versatile gift. Opal is also October’s birthstone, so this jewel can offer a personal touch.

Opals form when silica and other minerals seep into rocks, such as sandstone. The end result looks like a shimmering river. Manufacturers extract the minerals, then shape and polish them to make gemstones. Round and oval stones are common, but jewelers sell the occasional pear- or square-shaped opal.

White gold and silver delicately offset the opal’s brilliance, making them popular for rings. However, rose and yellow gold bring out the bright shades inside the stone. Opals are one of the more fragile gems, so some buyers take out an insurance policy.

2. Emerald

Bold and vibrant, emeralds have a magic allure that makes the wearer feel like royalty. Emeralds aren’t unique gemstones; instead, they’re a form of beryl combined with chromium, vanadium and iron. While emeralds are rare, prices range from a few hundred dollars to several million depending on the cut and clarity.

Emeralds have a distinct rectangular cut that allows their facets to shine, but you’ll also find round, pear-cut and square-shaped varieties. They frequently appear with silver or white gold because the neutrals emphasize the emerald’s cool undertones. Yellow gold bands make emerald rings look particularly luxurious.

3. Morganite

Like emeralds, morganite is a variation of beryl. Manganese gives morganite its distinct tan shade, offering subtle beauty with a hint of pink. Morganite is rare but more affordable than other jewels, and it’s strong enough to withstand daily use. This stone is ideal for collectors who prefer natural shades.

Jewelers often pair morganite with rose gold to accentuate the pink hues. Morganite also adds warmth to silver and yellow gold. The color is a little unconventional for an engagement ring, but morganite symbolizes love, romance and harmony, making this ring an ideal engagement gift.

4. Ruby

Their bright red hue makes a ruby engagement ring one of the most popular choices. Red symbolizes romance and passion, highlighting your fiery love affair. Rubies are also one of the world’s rarest gemstones, so scoring a ruby showcases your dedication.

Rubies are also one of the hardest gemstones. If your loved one plans on wearing their ring every day, rubies resist cracks, chips and scratches better than other jewels. They’re not invincible, so the owner should avoid wearing them while they’re performing hard labor. However, they withstand years of use with minimal maintenance.

These stones pair well with yellow and rose gold because the red shade brings out the gold’s natural warmth. However, rubies also add a bright pop of color to silver and white gold. Diamond halos offset the bold shade while adding a sense of luxury.

5. Pink Sapphire

Pink sapphires come in a variety of shades, ranging from deep pink to faint purple. Chromium gives pink sapphires their cheerful hue. Soft and romantic, a pink sapphire ring delights anyone who prefers delicate jewelry. However, pink sapphires are also one of the hardest stones on the market, so they enjoy a long lifespan.

White gold and silver emphasize the stone’s softness, while yellow and rose gold give pink sapphires a cozy glow. As you shop, look for a pink sapphire with shimmering clarity. Flawless sapphires are rare and expensive, but you can find quality pink sapphires for a reasonable price.

6. Tanzanite

Named after Tanzania, its country of origin, tanzanite displays a variety of blues and violets when you look at the stone from different angles. Lighting also changes the shade, making tanzanite look deep blue at the office and rich purple at home. Tanzanite attracts jewelry collectors who want to stand out and tell stories about one of the world’s rarest gemstones.

Tanzanite rings typically use silver or white gold to emphasize the cool, bluish hues. These stones tend to be softer, so handle your tanzanite engagement ring with care. These jewels symbolize peace and clarity, emphasizing your partner’s calming presence.

7. Diamond

Diamonds are the most common choice for engagement rings, but this doesn’t make them boring. Sometimes, diamonds surround a colored stone with a halo that adds a glittery sheen. Other times, they take center stage with their unique cut and clarity. They’re also one of the hardest gemstones in the world, so you can count on your ring to last a long time.

Silver or white gold typically encases diamonds because they have a similar hue. However, yellow gold gives diamonds a fiery glint. Diamonds come in various cuts, including square, emerald, pear and heart-shaped, giving you plenty of options as you search for a piece that will delight your future spouse.

Which Stone Should You Choose?

If you’re unsure which gemstone your beloved would prefer, consider their existing wardrobe. Do they wear cool neutrals, warm shades or eye-catching hues? They’ll wear their engagement ring every day, so they need a piece that complements their outfits.

Once you’ve discovered their preferred color scheme, search for gemstones that reflect their tastes. With thousands of options on the market, engagement ring shopping is easier than ever. And while you’re at it, try ordering a matching necklace or earring set to make a truly stunning ensemble.