Choosing an engagement ring is an important decision – not because of the ring itself, but because of what it represents. This ring is a symbol of your commitment and, for women, is bound to serve as a conversation starter for many months. With all this in mind, why would you ever choose a conventional ring? Diamonds may be forever, but they’re also an environmentally questionable choice and a cliché. Instead, why not choose a colored stone such as an aquamarine?
Aquamarine is the March birthstone, but it’s also a highly variable gem and comes in many shades of blue. It also has a storied history in relationship to engagements; Queen Elizabeth’s engagement ring from Prince Philip starred diamonds but the gems came from a diamond and aquamarine tiara belonging to Prince Philip’s mother.
If you’re considering joining the royal lineage of aquamarine engagement rings, you need to consider a few key factors. While in many ways, choosing an aquamarine is much like choosing a diamond, but there are also a few other elements to consider.
Color Options
One of the best things about choosing a colored stone – not just an aquamarine, but also ruby engagement rings, sapphires, or other popular stones – is that in addition to the clarity of the stone, you also get to choose from among many different shades. Indeed, a quick glimpse at a selection of vintage aquamarine engagement rings reveals stones ranging from the palest blue to nearly green and dark blue. Each color makes a statement (and sells at a different price point).
A Range Of Cuts
Just as there are many different colors represented among available aquamarines, there are also many different stone cuts, and you should feel free to be experimental. You’ve already shown you’re not wedded to tradition by choosing a colored stone. One option to consider is an asymmetrical cluster, featuring different shades of the stone, or you might opt for a bold Art Deco cut. Of course, if the wearer tends toward a simpler style, there’s no reason to avoid more traditional cuts; the style must suit the bride who will wear it.
Bold Alternatives
Choosing an aquamarine remains a bold choice, even among those who opt to skip the engagement diamond. According to a recent report by The Knot, as reported in Yahoo!, 90% of couples still choose diamonds, and just 9% of non-diamond rings feature aquamarine. This shouldn’t be considered a referendum on its suitability, but rather the mark of the trendsetter – and you, too, can be on the cutting edge.
You’ll want to be sure that you choose a reputable gemstone dealer when buying your aquamarine engagement ring. Don’t just default to the big names. The best companies will verify the authenticity of the stone as well as the sourcing of newer stones. A great dealer will walk you through the key determinants of stone quality, as well as help you think through the style potential of your gem.
As colored stones become more popular among engagement ring buyers, aquamarines are likely to gain more market share, but right now they’re still cutting edge. Go for aquamarine now and you can be a style leader and make a splash when you announce that you’re betrothed.
