design your own sapphire ring start with a sapphire
When it comes to engagement rings, the traditional diamond solitaire is no longer the standard option for many couples. In recent years, a growing number have been opting for sapphire engagement rings, which offer a unique and beautiful alternative to the classic diamond ring.
What is a sapphire?
A sapphire is an incredibly versatile gemstone. Most people assume that sapphires come only in blue, varying from deep indigo to cornflower to fresh ocean spray, but the reality is that they come in a wide variety of colors. They come in black, white (colorless), orange, yellow, purple, brown, champagne, peach, pink and green. The variety of colors available makes a sapphire engagement ring an excellent choice for those after a splash of color in their engagement ring design. Like most colored gemstones, sapphires are often enhanced by heat or thermal treatments to permanently improve their color and clarity. Sapphires make for a beautiful, unique engagement ring.
Sapphire ring designs
One of the most popular options for sapphire engagement rings is to combine sapphires and diamonds into the ring.
One option is a ring that features a sapphire as the centre stone, surrounded by smaller diamonds. The combination of the sapphire and diamonds creates a ring that is truly stunning and eye-catching. This is a perfect option for those who want the best of both worlds – the unique and striking color of a sapphire with the timeless elegance of diamonds.
Another popular option is to have sapphires down the sides of the ring while the centre gem remains a diamond.
Perhaps the most popular style at the moment is a sapphire and diamond ‘Toi et Moi’ ring which has both a sapphire and a diamond, two centre stones and a design that will look extraordinary.
Another popular option is to have sapphires down the sides of the ring while the centre gem remains a diamond.
Perhaps the most on trend style is a sapphire and diamond Toi et Moi ring which has both a sapphire and a diamond, two centre stones and a design that will look extraordinary.
Why should I choose a sapphire for my engagement ring?
Sapphires are an amazing choice for an engagement ring, as they’re very durable. This makes a sapphire the perfect choice for an engagement ring, as it can withstand everyday wear and tear. A sapphire ring should last a lifetime, and can be passed down for generations.
Sapphires come in many colors which allows you to pick one that expresses your individuality. Unlike diamonds which are known for their fire and brilliance, sapphires are known for their variety of colors. Sapphires might not sparkle in the same way as diamonds, but it is their color that makes this gemstone truly special. Of all the tones found in blue sapphires, the Kashmir & Ceylon blue sapphire are amongst the most coveted.
Amongst the rarest of fancy sapphires are Padparadscha, they are a delicate balance of orange and pink. Padparadscha translates to ‘tropical lotus flower’ in Sanskrit, reflecting its striking color.
The variety and range of color ensure that each gemstone has subtle differences, adding to the distinctive appeal of a sapphire. A sapphire is the perfect balance of a classic yet expressive choice for an engagement ring.
To learn more about the three most popular colors of sapphire, you can visit pages we’ve made specifically for pink sapphires, yellow sapphires and blue sapphires. You can also browse our sapphires in these colors here.
If you’re interested in another color (peach, purple, green or teal) or a custom sapphire ring design, you can contact us to assist you.
Sapphire Engagement Ring Gallery
Be inspired by our sapphire engagement rings, individually designed with love by you and crafted by us.
An oval teal colored sapphire set in rose gold with marquise diamonds
Design your ring
An oval teal colored sapphire set in rose gold with marquise diamonds
A pear shaped blue sapphire engagement ring set in yellow gold, with marquise and round diamond side stones
Design your ring
A pear shaped blue sapphire engagement ring set in yellow gold, with marquise and round diamond side stones
An emerald cut yellow sapphire set in platinum pavé band flanked with baguette diamonds
Design your ring
An emerald cut yellow sapphire set in platinum pavé band flanked with baguette diamonds
A teal oval sapphire set in platinum with a diamond halo and pavé
Design your ring
A teal oval sapphire set in platinum with a diamond halo and pavé
A pear shaped orange sapphire with a diamond halo, set in yellow gold
Design your ring
A pear shaped orange sapphire with a diamond halo, set in yellow gold
A round purple sapphire with a diamond halo, set in platinum with a pavé band
Design your ring
A round purple sapphire with a diamond halo, set in platinum with a pavé band
A emerald cut green sapphire engagement ring with baguette diamonds and engraving on a platinum band
Design your ring
A emerald cut green sapphire engagement ring with baguette diamonds and engraving on a platinum band
A pink marquise sapphire set in platinum with pear shaped side diamonds and pavé
Design your ring
A pink marquise sapphire set in platinum with pear shaped side diamonds and pavé
An oval blue sapphire with blue sapphire and diamond pavé, set in platinum
Design your ring
An oval blue sapphire with blue sapphire and diamond pavé, set in platinum
A princess cut dark green sapphire with a diamond halo and diamond pavé, set in yellow gold.
Design your ring
A princess cut dark green sapphire with a diamond halo and diamond pavé, set in yellow gold.
An elongated cushion padparadscha with emerald marquise floral details, set in rose gold with diamond pavé
Design your ring
An elongated cushion padparadscha with emerald marquise floral details, set in rose gold with diamond pavé
A cushion cut blue sapphire, set in platinum with round diamond side stones
Design your ring
A cushion cut blue sapphire, set in platinum with round diamond side stones
An green oval sapphire, set in rose gold with diamond pavé
Design your ring
An green oval sapphire, set in rose gold with diamond pavé
A round orange sapphire with a diamond halo set in rose gold with diamond pavé
Design your ring
A round orange sapphire with a diamond halo set in rose gold with diamond pavé
A round diamond engagement ring with a blue marquise sapphire halo, set in a platinum band
Design your ring
A round diamond engagement ring with a blue marquise sapphire halo, set in a platinum band
A cabochon round sapphire set with eagle claws and a yellow gold band
Design your ring
A cabochon round sapphire set with eagle claws and a yellow gold band
A cushion cut blue sapphire set in a mixed metal band with a floral diamond halo
Design your ring
A cushion cut blue sapphire set in a mixed metal band with a floral diamond halo
A dark green round sapphire with a diamond halo, set in a platinum band with pavé and milgrain
Design your ring
A dark green round sapphire with a diamond halo, set in a platinum band with pavé and milgrain
A cushion cut blue sapphire with pear shaped diamonds set in platinum
Design your ring
A cushion cut blue sapphire with pear shaped diamonds set in platinum
A blue marquise sapphire with a round diamond halo, and bezel set baguette diamonds with milgrain detail
Design your ring
A blue marquise sapphire with a round diamond halo, and bezel set baguette diamonds with milgrain detail
A round diamond yellow gold engagement ring with custom cut emeralds and sapphires in a floral design, set in yellow gold
Design your ring
A round diamond yellow gold engagement ring with custom cut emeralds and sapphires in a floral design, set in yellow gold
A cushion cut blue sapphire with a round diamond rhodium coated halo, set on a rose gold band
Design your ring
A cushion cut blue sapphire with a round diamond rhodium coated halo, set on a rose gold band
An lilac oval sapphire, set with round teal sapphires and diamonds, set in yellow gold
Design your ring
An lilac oval sapphire, set with round teal sapphires and diamonds, set in yellow gold
An emerald cut orange sapphire, with a platinum band
Design your ring
An emerald cut orange sapphire, with a platinum band
A oval shaped blue sapphire set in platinum with a round diamond halo
Design your ring
A oval shaped blue sapphire set in platinum with a round diamond halo
A round blue sapphire set in yellow gold with custom cut emeralds and round diamonds
Design your ring
A round blue sapphire set in yellow gold with custom cut emeralds and round diamonds
A pear shaped diamond with pink pear shaped side sapphires set in rose gold
Design your ring
A pear shaped diamond with pink pear shaped side sapphires set in rose gold
A round blue sapphire set in platinum with a round diamond halo and diamond pavé
Design your ring
A round blue sapphire set in platinum with a round diamond halo and diamond pavé
A round blue sapphire with a sapphire and diamond halo, set in yellow gold with diamond pavé
Design your ring
A round blue sapphire with a sapphire and diamond halo, set in yellow gold with diamond pavé
A oval shaped blue sapphire set in platinum with diamond pavé
Design your ring
A oval shaped blue sapphire set in platinum with diamond pavé
Show more Design your ring
The Science
A precious gemstone, sapphires belong to the corundum mineral family, and consist of aluminium oxide, iron, titanium, chromium, copper and magnesium.
As part of the corundum family of minerals, sapphires are an incredibly durable gemstone, ideal for everyday wear. Sapphires score a 9 on the Mohs mineral hardness scale– a measure of the resistance of materials against scratches of harder materials.
The color of a sapphire depends on the element that is most prevalent in the corrundum’s lattice structure. For example, a deep blue sapphire contains titanium and iron, while a pink sapphire contains chromium. Sapphires and rubies are both corundum and structurally identical but they have historically always had their own names.
Sapphires can display pleochroism: an optical phenomenon that causes the sapphire to display different colors at different angles. This is due to the gem’s crystalline structure.
An interesting characteristic of a sapphire is that they sometimes contain minor inclusions called rutile needles. These needles are almost like birthmarks, that develop naturally in the stone as it forms. Commonly known as silk, these decrease the transparency of the gemstone. Sometimes the rutiles can cause a star effect where a dense group of rutiles create the phenomena called asterism. Star sapphires can have either six ray or twelve ray stars.
Where do sapphires come from?
Jewellers tend to find the best sapphires in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Madagascar, Thailand, Cambodia, Tanzania, Australia and the US. The Kashmir region located in northern India was once a place where you could find the famous Kashmir ‘blue velvet’ sapphire, but since then the mine has been exhausted.
Sri Lanka is where you can find the famous “Ceylon” sapphires– a rich electric blue gemstone.
Why should I choose a sapphire?
Sapphires are an amazing choice for an engagement ring, as they are very durable. This makes a sapphire the perfect choice for an engagement ring, as it can withstand everyday wear and tear. A sapphire ring should last a lifetime, and can be passed down for generations.
Sapphires come in many colors which allows you to pick one that expresses your individuality. Unlike diamonds which are known for their fire and brilliance, sapphires are known for their variety of colors. Sapphires might not sparkle in the same way as diamonds, but it is their color that makes this gemstone truly special. Of all the tones found in blue sapphires, the Kashmir & Ceylon blue sapphire are amongst the most coveted.
Amongst the rarest of fancy sapphires are Padparadscha, they are a delicate balance of orange and pink. Padparadscha translates to ‘tropical lotus flower’ in Sanskrit, reflecting it’s striking color.
The variety and range of color ensure that each gemstone has subtle differences, adding to the distinctive appeal of a sapphire. A sapphire is the perfect balance of a classic yet expressive choice for an engagement ring.
View this post on Instagram
What does a sapphire symbolize?
Sapphires are September’s birthstone, aligning with the planet Saturn. The word sapphire likely derives from the Latin word “sapphirus”, while some linguists argue that it derives from Sanskrit, “shanipriya” and “shani” translating to “Saturn” and “Priya” meaning: so dear to Saturn.
Throughout history, sapphires have always been prized for their spiritual qualities. To cultures across the world, the celestial sapphire was symbolic of wisdom, royalty, protection and good fortune. The Ancient Persians believed that the earth was created atop a large blue sapphire, and they believed the sky was blue because of the reflection of the gemstone. The Persians and the Catholics believed the gemstone was holy, and they believed the deep blue color of the sapphire represented the heavens.
In Ancient Hebrew lore, King Solomon and Abraham both wore sapphires as talismans of protection and insight. The ten commandments were said to be engraved on a sapphire, and given to Moses. Buddhists believed that sapphires bought devotion, enlightenment and a calming presence that aided prayer and meditation. The Ancient Greeks associated the sapphire with the god Apollo, and they wore it for wisdom at Delphi when seeking answers from the Oracle at Apollo’s shrine. They believed it helped them connect to the spiritual world.
In modern times, the sapphire still carries spiritual meaning. The sapphire is seen to activate the mind, a stone of wisdom and learning. The gemstone stimulates the throat and third eye chakras, allowing one to access deeper levels of consciousness.
Design your ring
Who wears sapphire engagement rings?
Princess Diana & The duch*ess of Cambridge
Princess Diana’s sapphire engagement ring is one of the most iconic engagement rings in the world. When Prince Charles proposed to Lady Diana Spencer, he presented her with a few options from the then crown-jeweller Garrard. Diana picked an oval Ceylon blue sapphire, surrounded by a halo of 14 round diamonds. The ring was a controversial choice as it was not custom made—a tradition in the royal family—but it was said that Diana was so fond of it that she wanted nothing else. Now worn by her daughter-in-law, Catherine, duch*ess of Cambridge, the ring was given to her by Prince William as ‘something blue’ for their wedding. Prince William said it was a ‘way of making sure my mother didn’t miss out on today and the excitement’.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Kate Middleton Wales (@katemiddletonwales) on
Princess Eugenie & Victoria Beckham
Princess Eugenie’s sapphire engagement ring is particularly unique as it contains the rare Padparadscha sapphire. This salmon pink and light orange gem is highly prized for its unique color. This gem given to the princess was oval shaped, surrounded by a halo of round diamonds and flanked by two pear shaped diamonds. The ring was given to her by Jack Brooksbank, her boyfriend of seven years.
Victoria Beckham’s sapphire engagement ring would make it her tenth engagement ring, part of a tradition with David Beckham of receiving a new engagement ring every year. We think this sapphire could at least be 25+ carats in weight.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
How much does a sapphire engagement ring cost?
Sapphires generally come at a lower price point per carat than diamonds. Considered a precious gemstone, they are a substantial investment if a large, vibrant sapphire is desired. Sapphires are generally chosen for their color, rather than for being a cost effective option.
That being said, a similarly-size sapphire can have quite a large price range based on color, clarity, carat weight and cut.
You can see how our sapphires prices by visiting our gemstone search here.
How can you tell a good quality sapphire?
A sapphire’s quality is mainly evaluated from the color and shape of the gemstone. Sapphire engagement rings vary in quality depending on the classic factors such as cut, clarity, color and carat. Like most colored gemstones, a sapphire’s color and tone are the most important factors to consider.
Source of origin is usually a factor in price. Sapphires from Thailand, Sri Lanka and East Africa are some of the most renowned in the world.
What is the best shape for a sapphire?
The best shape for your sapphire is totally subjective–it depends on what you choose to reflect a certain style. However, within the industry it’s agreed that an oval shape truly brings out the best in a sapphire. The oval cut allows the light to transform the color of the gemstone, making sure the sapphire does not appear flat.
Sapphires are extremely versatile gemstones, allowing you to select one that reflects your or your partner’s personality. A gemstone rich in history and emotion, your sapphire engagement ring will last for generations.
search sapphires
Sapphires colors and metal combinations
Since sapphire engagement rings are available in many colors, including pink, yellow, green, and teal, it is worth exploring how each of these combine with different metal types and colors. Teal sapphire engagement rings, for example, are a beautiful option that can work well with both a white gold or platinum option, and yellow gold. Similarly for green sapphire engagement rings and purples ones.
When it comes to metal choices, most sapphires look great in a white gold or platinum setting, and for the warmer colored pinks and yellows, rose gold and yellow gold are great options too.
Matching sapphire wedding ring or eternity ring
When it comes to pairing blue sapphire engagement rings with wedding bands, there are a few options to consider. A diamond wedding band is a classic and elegant choice, as the diamonds complement the sapphire perfectly. A plain gold or platinum band is also a popular option, as it allows the sapphire to be the focal point of the ring. A sapphire wedding band is also a beautiful option, as it creates a cohesive and coordinated look.
A sapphire eternity ring can also look incredible, either with all sapphires in one color or an ombré assortment of darker colors, lighter colors and diamonds – like our Daisy design.
Are sapphires OK for engagement rings?
Sapphires are a perfect choice for engagement rings. They are a timeless and elegant gemstone that has been prized for centuries. One of the biggest advantages of choosing a blue sapphire engagement ring is that it offers a wide range of options. Blue sapphires come in different shades, from light blue to deep blue. This means that there is a perfect shade of blue sapphire to match every taste and preference. It also means that you can find a ring that suits your budget and style.
Another advantage of choosing a blue sapphire engagement ring is that it offers a unique contrast to the traditional diamond ring. The deep blue color of the sapphire is a beautiful and striking contrast to the sparkling diamond, making for a ring that is truly one-of-a-kind and sure to catch the eye of anyone who sees it. Many couples opt for a diamond with blue sapphire ring, which combines the timeless elegance of the diamond with the unique beauty of the blue sapphire. This combination is perfect for those who want the best of both worlds – the classic look of a diamond ring with the unique color of a blue sapphire.
How can you tell if a sapphire is real?
There are a few ways to determine if a sapphire is real. One of the most common methods is to conduct a thermal conductivity test, which involves using a thermal probe to see how quickly the stone conducts heat. Real sapphires will conduct heat much slower than fake sapphires. Additionally, a real sapphire will have a higher refractive index, which means it will bend light more than a fake sapphire. Another way to determine if a sapphire is real is to examine the inclusions, or natural markings, inside the stone. Real sapphires will have inclusions that are unique to the stone.
Do sapphires chip easily?
Sapphires are generally considered to be a durable gemstone and are not known to chip easily. They are rated 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which means that they are only slightly less hard than diamonds.
With proper care, a blue sapphire engagement ring can last a lifetime. However, sapphires can be scratched and chipped if they are hit or dropped, so it is important to be mindful of the ring when wearing it and to store it carefully when not wearing it.
Do sapphires sparkle more than diamonds?
Sapphires and diamonds have different optical properties that affect their sparkle. Diamonds are known for their brilliant sparkle, which is created by the way light is refracted and reflected within the stone. Sapphires also have a sparkle, but it is different from that of a diamond. Sapphires have a more muted and subdued sparkle, which is created by the way light is scattered within the stone.
While diamonds may be known for their brilliance and fire, sapphires are known for their depth and beauty of color. Both sapphires and diamonds are gorgeous in their own right and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Vintage sapphire rings
For those looking for vintage-inspired engagement rings, vintage sapphire engagement rings are a wonderful option. These types of rings often feature intricate and detailed designs and are perfect for those who love the charm and romance of vintage jewellery.
In conclusion, sapphire engagement rings are a unique and beautiful alternative to the traditional diamond ring. With their timeless elegance and unique beauty, they are sure to be treasured for generations to come. Whether you choose a blue sapphire, a pink sapphire, or a green sapphire, a sapphire engagement ring is a perfect choice for those who want a ring that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Related pages
- Colored gemstones
- Kate Middleton’s sapphire engagement ring
- Princess Eugenie’s padparadschaengagement ring
- Blue sapphire engagement rings
