A Choice to Last a Lifetime

When choosing a ring to wear for a lifetime it’s important to choose well. We believe that engagement rings are “forever accessories” meaning that they should suit their wearer and be timeless. In an age where individuality is celebrated and advances in technology have made different gemstone colours, shapes and sizes much more accessible, it’s worthwhile researching a little further to make sure you get a piece that is uniquely you and that offers the best value. 

There are many different types of engagement rings, see some examples of these in our 7 Engagement Ring Trends for 2023 blog post. A great place to start your engagement ring is to consider Centre Stone Options. Although Natural diamonds generally sit at the top of this list, as the epitome of luxury and the ultimate expression of love, there are an endless number of options to choose from. 

For engagement ring centre stones, there are generally three important aspects to consider:

1. The type of gemstone
2. The shape of the stone
3. The colour of the stone

Types of Stones

Although there are an endless number of gemstones to choose from, here's a closer look at three of our favourites.

Lab-Created Diamonds

Organically and chemically identical to natural diamonds, Lab-created diamonds like those featured in our own Vida range, are the perfect alternative for a traditional centre stone option. These diamonds are certified the same as natural diamonds, are graded in the same way and offer the same quality and longevity too. They come in the same cuts, and colours and are also a 10 on Mohs Scale making them hard and durable for a lifetime of wear. Lab-created diamonds usually come in at a much better price point too because they do not require the same amount of time or resources to procure as mined diamonds. Incidentally, this also makes them far more sustainable and friendly on our planet. If a diamond is on your engagement ring wish list, this is definitely an option worth exploring.

Moissanites

If you haven’t already heard, Moissanites are, quite literally, out of this world! French scientist Henri Moissan, discovered this scintillating gem in a crater in Arizona in 1893. He initially thought he had discovered diamonds in the crater, but later determined that the crystals were silicon carbide in composition - an entirely new gemstone unlike anything the world had seen before.

At 9.25 on Mohs Scale, a Moissanite is also a sturdy stone, which is sure to last a lifetime while costing a fraction of the price of a diamond of similar size and quality, making them a very attractive option for Engagement ring centre stones. 

Sapphires

These exquisite precious gemstones are composed of the mineral Corundum and have a few unique features that make them a beautiful option for an engagement ring centre stone. A 9 on Mohs Scale these beautiful gems will look good for years to come. Aside from being symbolic of love, Sapphires are also symbolic of wisdom, sincerity, fidelity and loyalty a beautiful meaning to include in a ring that symbolises your commitment to your love. Available in a stunning array of colours, and every shape that your heart could desire, these stones definitely stand out. No two sapphires are exactly alike and they are a bold exciting choice for self expression for a ring as uniquely beautiful as you are. Like all stones we recommend and sell, Sapphires are an ethical choice, our reputable sapphire suppliers work hard to ensure that all mined stones adhere to the standards set by the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO). 

Stone Shape

The shape of the centre stone in an engagement ring goes a long way in creating a piece that is unique and beautiful. It’s an excellent way to express individuality and transform an engagement ring, from just another ring into a work of art! 

The shape of the stone refers to the outline shape of the gemstone as you look at it from top down. The most common shapes are Round, Oval, Princess, Emerald, Cushion, Heart, Marquise, Asscher, and Pear. With advances in technology you can now get any shape imaginable, animals, flowers, letters of the alphabet and even body parts like lips, hands and feet, have been created into diamond shapes.

Of course, the beauty of a round brilliant cut is, and has been, the most popular option for engagement rings for the best part of a century now, and for good reason. This is the shape with cut proportions that best allows a gemstone to sparkle in the light - and you know we love sparkle! The shape also sits elegantly on most fingers making it a safe choice, as well as being classic and chic.  

We have noticed a rise in the popularity of more unique shapes recently too. Kite, shield and hexagon shaped stones also making a beautifully unique impression on the engagement ring scene, particularly when used in trending settings like Toi-et-Moi and Trilogy rings. We think these shapes are especially gorgeous when paired with classic shapes like pear and princess cut stones. Playing with these newer shapes in your design allows you to have a show stopping piece that is totally unique to you. 

Stone Colour

There was a time when a clear, dazzling white diamond was the epitome of engagement ring centre stone standards, but times have changed and adding a bit of colour to your ring is not only exciting, it’s encouraged! 

Colours help us to express individuality and often hold greater meaning and symbolic significance too. Pinks symbolise love, while blue hues symbolise fidelity, sincerity and loyalty. Green stones are often synonymous with new beginnings, while purple is representative of creativity and luxury. Birthstones have been a popular colour option for engagement ring centre stones and many like, Garnet, Emerald, Aquamarine, Ruby, Sapphire and Topaz, make excellent colourful centre stone  options.  If you would like colour in your centre stone but prefer a more subtle option like a pale pink, peach or champagne hue, then a sapphire, morganite or tourmaline are all great options for centre stones.

Did you know you can also get stones with multiple shades in the same stone? Some beautiful examples are salt and pepper diamonds, sapphires and tourmalines that can have mixes of two or more hues of colour. If you'd like one of these, our designers and jewellers can help you find the perfect stone for your ring.

Consider Custom Design For Your Engagement Ring

We know this is also a lot to think about, which is why we highly recommend looking into a custom design approach. Our designers will work with you to create a piece that suits you perfectly. They are skilled at designing beautiful jewellery and take important factors like timeframes and budgets into account. However, custom design pieces generally start from $1500 and take around 4-8 weeks to complete. Think we can help? Book your consultation today.