Explore Q Report's Content Centre for expert advice on jewellery insurance. You can also read e-guides and blogs, watch videos and more.
You've found the one; the ring box is ready. What's inside will be as unique as the journey you are about to unfold.
Traditional diamond engagement rings have always been timeless and classic. However, non-diamond engagement rings are becoming increasingly popular for couples seeking something as unique and personalised as their relationship.
Suppose you want to pop the question with one of this year's top trending non-diamond engagement rings. Get ready to be inspired.
One of the primary benefits of non-diamond engagement rings is that their cost is often lower than their counterpart, the traditional diamond engagement ring. The upside is that couples can better allocate their budget to other aspects of their wedding or new life together.
While diamonds tend to hold their value well, certain gemstones like sapphires and rubies have proven valuable over time. As long as they're well-cared for and protected with insurance, non-diamond engagement rings can be a smart financial choice for couples.
Non-diamond engagement rings offer endless possibilities for creativity and personalisation. With various gemstones available, including birthstones, non-diamond rings can reflect the couple's unique tastes and personalities.
From deep red rubies to brilliant blue sapphires, non-diamond engagement rings can incorporate a wide range of colours and styles that may not be available with traditional diamond rings.
While there are many benefits to choosing a non-diamond engagement ring, there are also some potential drawbacks.
One of the main concerns is durability. While some gemstones like sapphires and rubies are almost as hard as diamonds, others like opals and pearls can be more delicate and prone to damage. It's essential to consider the lifestyle and daily activities of the person wearing the ring when choosing a gemstone.
Another potential drawback is the limited availability of certain gemstones. While diamonds are readily available, some coloured gems can be more challenging to find, especially those high in quality and larger sizes–making them less accessible than diamonds.
Gemstones and diamonds differ in several ways, including their composition, hardness, rarity, and value. Diamonds exist through pure carbon crystallised over millions of years under intense heat and pressure deep within the earth's mantle.
Gemstones, on the other hand, are made up of various minerals, each with its unique chemical makeup and crystal structure. Their makeup is what gives these precious jewels their distinctive colours and properties.
Rubies are one of the most popular gemstones for engagement rings, and for a good reason. Rubrics symbolise love, passion, and commitment with their deep red colour and rich history.
When selecting a ruby engagement ring, it's essential to consider factors such as the size, cut, and quality of the stone, as well as the design of the setting. Caring for a ruby engagement ring involves proper cleaning and maintenance to ensure longevity and beauty.
Sapphires are another popular choice for engagement rings, prized for their durability, beauty, and symbolism. While blue sapphires are perhaps the most well-known, sapphires come in a range of colours, from pink and yellow to green and purple.
When choosing a sapphire engagement ring, it's essential to consider the colour and quality of the stone and the setting and design of the ring. A sapphire engagement ring can be a timeless and meaningful symbol of love and commitment.
Image by Ellen Johnston Jeweller
Emeralds have a rich cultural history and unique features. The lush green colour of emeralds symbolises renewal and growth, making it a meaningful choice for an engagement ring. Types of emeralds include Colombian, Zambian, and Brazilian emeralds, each with unique features and characteristics.
Morganite is a growing trend in engagement rings, prized for its soft pink hue and affordability compared to other gemstones. While morganite may not have the durability of a diamond or sapphire, it still offers a unique and beautiful option for those seeking a non-traditional engagement ring. It's essential to consider the pros and cons of morganite as a gemstone for an engagement ring and take proper care of it to ensure its longevity.
Pearls are a timeless choice for an engagement ring, with their unique lustre and delicate beauty. They are formed inside mollusc shells when an irritant, such as a grain of sand or a small piece of tissue, becomes trapped inside. The mollusc then secretes layers of nacre around the irritant, forming a pearl.
Types of pearls include freshwater, Akoya, Tahitian, and the South Sea. Freshwater pearls are typically smaller and more irregular, while Akoya pearls are known for their lustre and round shape. Tahitian pearls are large and come in a range of dark colours, while South Sea pearls are the most significant and most valuable type of pearl, known for their size, lustre, and rarity.
Image by Kip Wilckens Jeweller
When it comes to caring for non-diamond engagement rings, proper cleaning and storage are vital. While some gemstones may be more durable, they all require regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure they look their best. You can include the following:
Different types of gemstones may also require specific care and maintenance. For example, emeralds are relatively soft and porous, so they should be cleaned gently and kept away from heat and chemicals. On the other hand, rubies are more durable and can withstand more wear and tear, but they should still be stored carefully and cleaned regularly. It's also essential to have a comprehensive insurance policy to protect your engagement ring from loss, theft, or damage.
Non-diamond engagement rings offer a range of benefits, from lower cost to unique designs and ethical considerations. The top gemstones for 2023 include rubies, sapphires, emeralds, morganite, and pearls, each with unique properties and symbolism.
However, regardless of the type of engagement ring you choose, it's important to care for it properly and protect it with a reliable insurance policy. With the proper care and protection, your engagement ring can be a cherished symbol of love and commitment for years. Q Report provides a specialised and comprehensive cover so you can wear your precious items with confidence. Get your instant quote now!
To get an accurate insurance quote, please provide the amount from your purchase receipt.
Don't have the receipt?
If you don't have the receipt, you can provide the most recent valuation amount instead.
