Top Gemstone Options & Their Qualities

There are a few major selection crux points that come with any wedding or engagement ring, and the gemstone that's used as a primary visual piece is at or near the top of any such list. While one particular gemstone is easily the most common and well-known here, there are actually a wide range of options available in this area.  

At Staghead Designs, we're happy to offer a wide range of engagement rings, wedding rings and more, featuring any kind of gemstone you're interested in. Let's discuss the most well-known gemstones out there, from the proverbial elephant in the room to some of the less common options, plus which might be ideal for your desires or that of your significant other.

Diamonds - The Most Popular Gemstone

As many were already expecting before they even got to this section, diamond is by far the most popular gemstone used in wedding rings and jewelry. Diamonds are often seen as a classic choice, with many connotations of eternity, strength, beauty and more associated with them. In fact, diamonds are such a massive part of this market that some people consider them in their own category of gemstone. Many in the ring world simply compare diamonds to one another, rather than to other gemstones.

Diamonds come with a number of benefits, such as their strength and virtually unmatched shine or sparkle. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and qualities, giving you plenty of options to choose from depending on your needs and budget.

At the same time, not everyone needs a diamond for their wedding or engagement ring. The cost of diamonds can be extremely high, putting them out of reach for some couples. In addition, many modern couples may want something a bit different from the classic diamond choice. That's where other gemstones come in.

Moissanite

For those whose primary concern with diamonds is cost, Moissanite might be the ideal solution. This is a manmade gemstone that has many of the same features as diamond, with excellent sparkle and shine, but at a fraction of the cost. In addition to being extremely affordable, it's also incredibly durable and tough - more so than some other gems like rubies or sapphires.

If you're going the Moissanite route, don't let anyone tell you it's a lesser option or not worth your time. Moissanite is becoming increasingly popular for wedding rings, and with its affordability, toughness and shine, it's easy to see why.

Sapphires

For those looking to infuse some beautiful color and unique style into their ring, sapphires are a great option. They come in a variety of colors, including classic blue but also yellow, green and even black. Sapphires have an impressive level of durability and toughness, making them perfect for any engagement or wedding ring.

They can also be quite affordable depending on the size and quality you're looking for, making them a great option if you want something different from the classic diamond while staying within your budget. Many people also love the unique look of sapphires, which sets them apart from the crowd.

Emeralds

Another gorgeous colored gemstone is the emerald, which tends to come with a deep, rich green hue. Emeralds are also quite tough and durable, so they're perfectly suited for any kind of ring or jewelry. They can also be quite affordable depending on the size and quality you choose.

One consideration with emeralds is that they typically require more care than some other gemstones. They can be more prone to scratching and chipping, so they may need to be treated with a bit of extra care or regular checkups from a jeweler. They also require more careful storage to keep them protected long-term - but if you're up for some extra maintenance, emeralds can be a beautiful and unique choice.

Rubies

For those who prefer a brilliant red hue, rubies are the perfect option. They have an impressive brightness and shine to them that makes them stand out in any setting - plus they come with a long history of being associated with luck and joy, which many people love.

Many rubies will be heat-treated to improve both color and clarity, and some can be quite affordable. Keep in mind, however, that untreated rubies tend to carry a higher price tag, so if you're looking for something truly unique and special you might have to pay a bit more.

Regardless of which gemstone you choose for your wedding or engagement ring, it's important to do your research and understand the features and qualities of each one. With so many options available, it's easy to find something that fits your needs, budget and style perfectly - so take your time and make sure you choose a stone that looks amazing for years to come.

For more here, or to learn about any of our engagement rings and custom wedding rings for both men and women, speak to our team at Staghead Designs today.