Archive for the ‘Alternative Gemstones’ Category

 

Tanzanite Engagement Rings

Monday, December 14th, 2009

The beautiful, rich blue-ish purple hue of tanzanite lends an alluring look to engagement rings, and is quickly becoming a very popular alternative gemstone. When paired with small diamonds, the gorgeous color of tanzanite really pops!

 

Tanzanite Engagement Ring Designs

There are a surprising number of ways you can incorporate tanzanite into your engagement ring design. Because of it’s rich dark blue hue, tanzanite pairs well with sparkling diamonds but is just as lovely on its own.

 

Trilliant cuts are the most popular cuts for tanzanite, but also the most expensive as well. Trilliant cut stones are shaped like triangles, and sparkle brilliantly. Round cuts are a close second, and look just as stunning as trilliant cuts.

 

Because the dark hue of tanzanite complements most any precious metal, you can choose from platinum, white or yellow gold or even a two-tone design for an extra distinctive look.

 

Many people choose to use round diamonds as accent stones to a trilliant cut tanzanite, while other women prefer the brilliant elegance of a tanzanite solitaire. Whatever you choose, you can customize a tanzanite engagement ring to incorporate nearly any design elements you choose for a stunning ring you’ll love to show off.

 

Are Tanzanites Treated?

As a matter of fact, yes. It is extremely rare that you will find a blue tanzanite that has not undergone heat treatment to enhance the color of the stone. Tanzanites that are naturally a deep blue are very, very rare and are not going to be found at your local jeweler.

 

You’ll be able to recognize a treated tanzanite from an untreated one because of the difference in color. Tanzanites that have not been treated to enhance their color are typically a gray or brown color.

 

The Cost

If you choose to purchase a tanzanite engagement ring, you should be aware that tanzanite is actually one of the rarest and most expensive gemstones available.

 

The expense comes from the fact that tanzanite is a difficult stone to cut, and most tanzanites do not have the deep blue purple color they are known for in stones that are less than 2 carats. Smaller stones are available, but they will be a lighter color, and will not have such an intense hue to them.

 

The size of the stone definitely affects the overall price, but other factors such as the type of setting used, the metal and the intricacy of the design all play a part in determining the final cost of a tanzanite engagement ring.

 

The rich, intense blue color of tanzanite coupled with its unsurpassed rarity and brilliance combine to create a stunning engagement ring no matter how you design it.

 

For the bride-to-be who desires a unique alternative to traditional diamonds, a tanzanite engagement ring is the perfect choice. While they are naturally more expensive than other gemstones, the extra expense may be well worth it when you see the smile that lights up your beloved’s face when you slip this on her finger.

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The Beauty of a Peridot Engagement Ring

Sunday, December 13th, 2009

Peridot is known for its beautiful light green color, and can look fabulous when incorporated into an engagement ring design. In fact, engagement rings with center gemstones other than diamonds are becoming a very popular alternative to the traditional engagement rings with center diamonds.

 

Peridot Engagement Ring Styles

A genuine peridot stone will have a gorgeous, subtle green hue and looks well incorporated into a variety of engagement ring designs. Vintage and antique style engagement rings often use peridot, because the lovely color works well with these types of ring styles.

 

Solitaire rings do not often use peridot, but the stone looks very nice paired with small diamonds or pearls as accent stones. Emeralds, citrine and other yellow-ish or green stones are also popular as accent stones, because of the similarity in color.

 

Surprisingly, purple stones (such as amethyst) look especially striking when paired with the light green hue of peridot. This makes for a distinctive and highly unique engagement ring, and will undoubtedly turn heads wherever you go.

 

If you’re wondering about the types of metal that work well with peridot, you should be happy to know that nearly all metals complement the gemstone.

 

Most peridot engagement rings are set in a white gold or silver band, but peridot also complements yellow gold as well. Platinum is another option, but because of the expense most couples choose a less expensive precious metal.

 

Finding the Perfect Peridot Stone

If you choose to use peridot as the center stone for your engagement ring, it is very important that you know how to identify a quality stone from a poor quality stone.

 

Carefully examine the color of the peridot gemstones you are interested in. They should be a light green, with more hints of yellow than brown. You also want to make sure the stone you buy is naturally colored, and not treated to enhance the hue.

 

Check for flaws and imperfections as well, since the light color of peridot will make flaws much more visible.

 

Finally, peridot engagement rings require much more care than other gemstones, since peridot is quite soft and more likely to scratch or become damaged. Because of this, you should always store the ring when not in use in a safe location, away from other jewelry that may damage the stone.

 

Additionally, you shouldn’t wear a peridot engagement ring with a wedding band or any other jewelry, as the stone can become easily damaged and scratched.

 

If you are having a hard time locating a peridot ring at your local jewelers, try searching for peridot during its assigned birthstone month. During the rest of the year, a jeweler may have a limited selection of peridot rings, but they are often difficult to come by. Instead, try browsing online retailers for suitable peridot rings that suit your budget and your stylistic preferences.

 

Peridot engagement rings are a striking and unique alternative to traditional diamond rings, and look stunning when combined with a variety of precious metals or other gemstones. While it may be difficult to find a peridot that is suitable for an engagement ring, the effort will be well worth it when you find the perfect gem to incorporate into an engagement ring design!

 

To read more about Peridot, please visit our friends at Du Lyon Fine Jewelers and read their facts about Peridot gemstones here.

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Amethyst Engagement Rings

Wednesday, June 24th, 2009

For the bride-to-be who desires something a little different, an amethyst engagement ring is the perfect option. While colorless diamonds are the traditional stone found in most engagement rings, there’s no rule that says you can’t use alternative stones for a gorgeous, unique look.

 

Amethyst’s distinct purple hue makes it a wonderful choice for use in an engagement ring, and there are actually a surprising amount of options when searching for the perfect amethyst ring.

 

Amethyst Engagement Ring Designs

 

While amethyst rings may not typically be marketed as engagement rings, there are still many beautiful options to choose from.

 

Figural rings are a unique choice, and often use amethyst stones as accents in a flower or insect shape, such as a butterfly or daisy. Of course, an amethyst ring with other accent stones, such as tiny diamonds, is a lovely choice as well, especially paired with a white gold or platinum band.

 

Three stone rings are an extra symbolic touch, as the three stones represent the past, present and future of the relationship. While these rings traditionally use diamonds, amethysts can easily be incorporated into your very own three-stone design for a unique look.

 

For a distinctive appearance, eternity bands encrusted with small amethyst stones are beautiful. Eternity bands literally look like the entire band is created from nothing but gemstones, and while this may be a more expensive option it is certainly gorgeous and will undoubtedly turn heads.

 

Of course, while you’re looking for the perfect amethyst engagement ring you should be aware that amethyst is usually paired with other gemstones to complete the design. It’s pretty rare to find a ring with only amethysts, but if you are willing to spend the time and money for a customized ring you can design it nearly however you want.

 

Also keep in mind that yellow gold can change the visual appearance of a stone, so amethyst is not usually paired with a yellow gold band.

 

Even though amethyst is much more available now than it was in older times, most jewelers do not stock a significant amount of amethyst rings. In other words, you are likely going to have to customize and design your own amethyst engagement ring.

 

Find a jeweler you trust and who is reputable to customize the ring for you, and make sure you understand exactly how much you can afford to spend. Amethyst engagement rings can cost a few hundred dollars to upwards of one thousand dollars or more depending on the design and materials used to create the ring.

 

Searching for an amethyst engagement ring may take some time, but the time and money invested may prove to be well worth it when you realize how beautiful and unique your engagement ring will be. While they are unusual, amethyst engagement rings offer a stunning way to memorialize your relationship and with the proper care, will continue to shine for many years to come.

 

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Types of Gemstone Engagement Rings

Wednesday, June 10th, 2009

Choosing a gemstone engagement ring other than a diamond is a personal decision, and alternative gemstones can be just as beautiful as sparkling diamonds. There are many types of gemstone rings to choose from, whether off-the-rack or a customized version using specific gemstones that are important to you. Whichever type of gemstone engagement ring you choose, you should learn as much as you can about your options to find the perfect ring to commemorate your relationship.

 

Gemstone Engagement Rings

 

There are many types of gemstone rings that can be used as engagement rings. Even if they are not marketed as such, they can still be beautiful alternatives to a traditional diamond engagement ring.

 

Solitaires are beautiful choices but can be quite difficult to find in a non-diamond form. This is because most people want to accent a central gemstone with other stones to complement the design, so finding a particular gemstone solitaire that isn’t a diamond may not be feasible in off-the-rack styles.

 

Of course, you can always buy a loose stone and have it placed in a setting, or customize a solitaire gemstone ring to your liking.

 

Figural rings are another unique gemstone engagement ring choice that can be as simple or as elaborate as you want, and can be created using multiple gemstones to form the shape of flowers, animals or other objects.

 

You can also choose a particular gemstone and have it accented with diamonds or other stones and customize it to fit perfectly, no matter what your budget or style preferences.

 

Popular Gemstone Choices

 

When looking for alternative gemstones other than diamonds for an engagement ring, there are many options to choose from. However, certain gemstones are quite popular, and jewelers are liable to have a modest selection of certain gemstones on hand more so than others.

 

Rubies, for example, are very popular because their deep red color helps symbolize love and commitment, making them a perfect choice for engagement rings. Emeralds, sapphires and even traditional pearls are all also readily available at most jewelers, and can be used to customize nearly any type of engagement ring that strikes your fancy.

 

If you are worried about the cost of a gemstone engagement ring, oftentimes they can be much cheaper than a traditional diamond ring. Additionally, smaller and lower-quality diamonds can always be used as accent stones if you desire.

 

Important Considerations

 

When choosing a gemstone other than a diamond for your engagement ring, you should carefully check out the company and ask about its warranty and guarantees on the rings they sell. You do not want to buy a gemstone thinking it’s real and have it to turn out to be a synthetic stone.

 

Even though alternative gemstones are a break from the traditional diamond engagement rings, they still are just as beautiful and will be a cherished possession throughout the marriage. Learning about your options and how to choose the perfect gemstone for your engagement ring will help ensure the ring is as sparkling as your relationship!

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A Guide to Buying a Sapphire Engagement Ring

Saturday, June 6th, 2009

Traditionally, sapphires are symbolic of faithfulness, which make them a perfect choice for use in an engagement ring. While most people associate a deep royal blue color with sapphires, they are not the only colors to choose from. Whichever sapphire strikes your fancy, there’s no denying the gem makes a beautiful, unique alternative to a traditional diamond engagement ring.

 

What Colors do I have to Choose From?

 

Sapphires are known for their brilliant, deep blue color, but they are also available in a variety of other gorgeous shades. In fact, there are several “fancy” sapphires couples have to choose from when selecting a sapphire engagement ring.

  • Pink

Pink sapphires are often confused with rubies; however, if the stone has a purple tinge to it, it’s most definitely a sapphire. Pink sapphires are a beautiful alternative to the traditional blue stones.

  • Purple

Ranging in shades from light to deep, purple sapphires are a gorgeous alternative to the classic blue stones. The lighter purple sapphires may even look slightly pink in tone when exposed to light.

  • Green

Though unique in color, green sapphires are actually the least valuable of all sapphires. Green sapphires range in color from a light yellow-green to a blue-green. If you are looking for a deep green stone, however, you are better off selecting an emerald. Green sapphires simply cannot attain the same dark green shade emeralds can.

  • Orange

Orange sapphires are exceedingly rare and valuable, with the most valuable being a stone with a dark red-orange hue. Yellowish orange sapphires are less valuable.

  • Yellow

When selecting a yellow sapphire, look for a light yellow hue. Because of the transparency of yellow sapphires, you want to check for visible flaws and imperfections that can detract from the overall beauty of the stone.

 

Important Things to Consider

 

Before buying a sapphire engagement ring, you should carefully examine the clarity of the stone. Even though most gemstones will have some type of minor flaw, you should check the stone carefully for any visible cracks that can cause further damage to the stone at a later date. If there are flaws, make sure those flaws do not detract from the overall appearance of the stone. When checking a sapphire’s clarity, the stone should be transparent and the color uniform throughout the gem.

 

While most people commonly choose ovals or round cuts for their sapphires, other cuts can be used provided it is proportioned to allow the most brilliance possible. Different cuts will be more expensive than others, so compare pricing on a variety of sapphires before you purchase one. Additionally, you should verify the stone’s origins before you purchase a sapphire engagement ring. If the stone has been treated in any way, jewelers are required to disclose this up front. If you are unsure, ask!

 

Purchasing a sapphire engagement ring is a beautiful alternative to a traditional diamond ring. Deep royal blue sapphires are classic, but other colors offer a distinctive look any bride-to-be would be happy to wear on her finger.

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Ruby Engagement Rings

Tuesday, May 19th, 2009

If you want to break away from a traditional diamond ring, a beautiful ruby engagement ring may be the perfect choice. Their gorgeous red hue offer the symbolism of love and commitment while offering a unique twist on the traditional engagement ring. Before shopping for a ruby engagement ring, take the time to familiarize yourself with what makes rubies so valuable, and learn how to choose the perfect ruby for your bride-to-be’s ring.

 

How to Judge the Value of a Ruby

Rubies are gorgeous, classic and are a great alternative as the center stone for an engagement ring. Gemologists will look at the color and size of a ruby to help determine its value.

 

  • Color

 

Rubies are revered for their beautiful red hue, but the color can be neither too light nor too dark. Look for a ruby that has a rich, intense red, but not so dark that it will be confused with a garnet. Similarly, a ruby shouldn’t be so light as to look like it has hints of pink.

 

  • Size

 

Carat weight is an important way to determine the value of a ruby. Large rubies are quite rare; as such, naturally large, high-quality rubies will cost a small fortune – perhaps even more so than most diamonds!

 

Choosing a Ruby

When choosing a ruby for an engagement ring, it will be quite difficult to locate a stone free of flaws or imperfections. With that being said, it’s important to keep in mind that a ruby’s clarity is not always as good as other gemstones. With that in mind, look for a ruby that does not have any large cracks that could signal future problems down the road, and make sure the color is consistent throughout the entire stone. Avoid gems that have visible fractures or cracks, because you will inevitably need to take your ring in for repairs sooner than anticipated.

 

Shapes and Treatments

While the shape you choose for your ruby is a highly personal choice, ovals are arguably one of the most popular cuts for an engagement ring. Some shapes are harder to cut than others, and you should always choose a shape based on your budget and your bride-to-be’s personal preference. The majority of rubies also happen to be heat treated, which helps to enhance the color of the stone. Rubies that have not been treated with heat are exceptionally rare, and thus cost more. However, treated rubies have a more intense color and can often look even more beauty than rubies that have not undergone treatment.

 

Things to Check For

If you notice words such as “synthetic,” “created,” or similar terms describing a ruby, the stones have been created in a lab and are not technically natural. While lab-created rubies are grown to resemble a natural ruby in every visible way, they are not real and this should be disclosed prior to the sale.

 

Rubies are beautiful gemstone, and are a classic symbol of passionate love and commitment. If your bride-to-be desires a gemstone engagement ring, consider a ruby for a beautiful look.

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Beautiful Birthstone Engagement Rings

Saturday, May 16th, 2009

Birthstone engagement rings are a unique way to personalize your ring without spending a fortune. Diamonds are by far the most popular stone for engagement rings, but many couples are choosing birthstones for a deeper sentimental meaning.

 

Birthstones by Month

Each month has a specific gemstone associated with it – some months have two to represent both timeless stones and modern gems. Because some months offer different birthstone options, it’s never a bad idea to ask your bride-to-be which stone she most closely associates with for her birth month. It would be a tragedy to spend time picking out the perfect birthstone engagement ring and end up with the wrong gemstone!

 

If you are unsure which stone represents each month, here’s a handy chart for you to use:

  • January – Garnet
  • February – Amethyst
  • March – Aquamarine
  • April – Diamonds (or sapphires)
  • May – Emeralds
  • June – Pearls
  • July – Rubies
  • August – Peridot
  • September – Sapphires
  • October – Opals (Or tourmaline)
  • November – Yellow topaz (Or citrine)
  • December – Blue topaz (or turquoise, or tanzanite)

As you can see from the chart above, several months have a few possible gemstones to choose from. These stones represent both modern-day gems associated with the month and traditional stones that have been closely linked to each month for quite some time.

 

Classic Birthstone Rings

For a simple, classic ring, simply choose the bride’s birthstone to replace a traditional diamond as the center stone. If your bride has her heart set on a diamond, you can add her birthstone as accents. If you choose to buy a large birthstone for the center stone, carefully examine the stone before purchase. Check for any noticeable flaws or irregularities that can not only detract from the beauty of the ring, but may cause problems later on.

 

Because most birthstones are semi-precious gemstones, you can typically purchase a birthstone engagement ring for much less than a traditional diamond ring.

 

Jewelers will have a limited selection of birthstones to choose from, especially if you are shopping for a birthstone outside of the current month (a July birthstone in September, for example.) For best results, visit the jeweler at the end of the month the birthstone you need is associated with. Chances are, you may need to custom order your ring if the jeweler doesn’t have the stone you need.

 

Multiple Birthstone Rings

While the classic birthstone ring offers a beautiful sentiment for your bride-to-be, consider customizing a ring with both the bride and groom’s birthstones for a truly special piece. There are a number of options a couple can choose when customizing an engagement ring with both birthstones. Either way, the special significance of a dual birthstone ring is both unique and indicative of a couple’s bond to one another.

 

For a truly special ring, couples can also use the birthstone or stones associated with a particular date in their lives, such as the first kiss or date of the proposal.

 

Birthstone rings bring extra special meaning to an already joyous occasion, and can be just as beautiful as a traditional diamond engagement ring. When used to symbolize the special bond between a couple, your ring will hold extra significance for many years to come!

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Alternative Gemstones for Your Engagement Ring

Friday, May 8th, 2009

Engagement rings are meant to symbolize something precious and beautiful. Diamonds are undoubtedly gorgeous, but they are not your only option when selecting an engagement ring. Many couples are choosing rings with center gemstones instead of the traditional white diamond.

 

If you choose to go this route, there are many gemstones that are historically linked with love and similar emotions. A gemstone engagement ring with this kind of symbolism can be a wonderful break from tradition and offers an affordable, unique alternative to traditional rings.

 

Red Gemstones

 

Red gemstones are usually associated with love and passion. Rubies are used to symbolize love and enduring friendship, but other red gemstones can be used as the center stone for an engagement ring. Garnets are an affordable alternative to Rubies, and symbolize passionate devotion to your loved ones.

 

While more pink than red, rose Quartz has long been used to promote love and bring peace to relationships. This gemstone would be an exceptionally unique stone to use in an engagement ring.

 

Green Gemstones

 

Symbolically linked to faithfulness, green gemstones are a beautiful alternative to traditional diamond engagement rings. Emeralds are the most popular choice and were historically believed to promote love and faithfulness among partners. Green Tourmaline, Jade, or Tsavorite (green Garnets) are also excellent choices.

 

Blue Gemstones

 

Blue gemstones have long been linked to purity and spirituality, and are an excellent choice as a center stone for engagement rings. Sapphires are a popular choice because they symbolize reliability, permanence and harmony. Lapis Lazuli, while traditionally more expensive than other gemstones, symbolizes friendship and trust, making it the perfect stone for an engagement ring.

 

Aquamarine signifies trust, harmony and lasting relationships and can be very attractive as a center stone. Iolite also works well as the center stone because of its amazing durability and beautiful color. Blue Tourmaline, said to represent honesty and tolerance, can also be used.

 

Pearls

 

Pearls have long been associated with weddings and would make an exceptionally unique choice when used in an engagement ring. Said to represent purity and innocence, pearls are a gorgeous testament to undying love between a couple. If you choose to use a pearl as the center stone, look for a setting that will complement the stones beauty, such as an antique setting.

 

 

If you’d like, you can have small diamonds on each side of the center pearl for a truly unique engagement ring that combines the symbolism of both stones.

 

Birthstones

 

Birthstone engagement rings are truly symbolic of a couple’s love for one another. Combine a birthstone ring with small diamonds within the setting, or allow the ring to stand alone as a testament to your love. Whatever you choose, the ring will be a lasting reminder of the one you love and are an excellent choice for an engagement ring.

 

Gemstone engagement rings are an affordable alternative to traditional diamonds and are a unique way to express true love and passion. Because many gemstones are historically symbolic of love, purity and enduring relationships, choosing a gemstone engagement ring offers a beautiful representation of your love and life together.

 

 

 

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