There is no doubt that diamonds are one of the most popular stones for engagement rings – and often for good reason, too. Boasting a brilliant sparkle, simple clear colour and a superior strength that makes them hardy and long-lasting, these stones are also versatile and easy to wear with metal of all tones. This makes them a logical choice in a variety of rings – rose gold, platinum, yellow gold and even more unusual metals such as black gold.
But, as beautiful as diamonds are, there are many other stones. If you are looking for something special that has meaning, symbolism and a bit of magic, you may want to consider the traditional meanings of gem stones when choosing your ring. Whether you choose your birthstone or something that speaks to your inner being, a carefully chosen stone can transform a pretty-but-generic ring into something personal, individual and entirely “you”.
Choosing a Meaningful Stone for Your Engagement Ring
Stones have importance in almost every culture around the world. From the earliest days, gems have been treasured for their face value as well as their significance. Many cultures believe in the healing properties of stones, while others believe that different stones grant the wearer fortune and prosperity. Stones have also been associated with each month of the year, with birthstones said to bring extra protection and luck to those born within the month of their birthstone.
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Amethyst
The birthstone for February, this stone is said to calm emotions, bringing clarity and wisdom. It is believed to help the wearer get in touch with feelings, intuition and values and is also said to have soothing, healing properties that aid sobriety. If you crave clarity and balance in your life, this stone may be a good choice.
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Citrine
With its deep citrus tones that range from bright yellow to warm orange, citrine is associated with opening the mind to new thoughts. It is also said to have calming, restful properties as well as the ability to encourage optimism. Known as the ‘merchant’s stone’, it is also favoured by merchants for it wealth attraction properties.
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Diamond
April’s birthstone is a classic stone that also has symbolism. Diamonds are thought to absorb and amplify the thoughts of its wearer, while also enhancing the properties of other gem stones. Ancient cultures once used this stone for detoxifying, believing it to have powerful protection against poison.
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Emerald
This is the birthstone for May. Traditionally, the stone was believed to help fertility and provide the wearer with psychic powers (neither a bad thing in a marriage!). It is also thought to combat depression and bring about better sleep, promoting pleasant dreams, balance as well as patience.
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Jade
Another richly hued green stone, jade is a stone known for its serenity. It is believed to ease anxiety and fear, and bring the wearer good luck. In Asian folklore, this stone is particularly important for its prosperity and luck.
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Opal
October’s birthstone has long been seeped in mystery and intrigue. The word opal comes from the Latin term ‘opalus’, which means ‘precious jewel’. The stone has strong associations with emotion – particularly love and passion. It is also said to encourage spontaneity, creativity, dreaming and healing, and symbolises faithfulness and confidence.
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Peridot
The birthstone for August has a vibrant hue that is unusual and bold. This stone is believed to add strength, prosperity, growth and openness to the wearer’s life. It is also thought to help the wear build relationships, while combating depression, anger, fear, jealousy and anxious thoughts.
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Rose Quartz
This simple but lovely stone is starting to become a popular choice for engagement jewellery. It has long been associated with gentle, pure love, as well as peace and calm. It is a positive stone that removes negativity, restores harmony after conflict and helps to heal all wounds of the heart.
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Ruby
Ruby is the birthstone of July. This stone is associated with protection against bad luck and bad health, and is also said to open the heart and promote love and passion. It is a symbol of royalty and vitality, as well as love and friendship.
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Sapphire
September’s birthstone has associations with peace, happiness, inspiration, insight, communication and prayer. Ancient cultures believed that these stones could help to predict the future, and while that remains to be seen, the stone is still thought to bring wisdom to its wearers.
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Tanzanite
This stone hails from East Africa. The Masai people have long believed in its healing properties. Thought to represent the life force, the stone is often given by the Masai to newborns. For relationships, this stone represents the driving force of life as well as the start of a new life together.
Which stone represents you the best? Only you can answer that of course, but we hope that these gem meanings give you plenty of inspiration when choosing your engagement rings.