Sapphire Engagement Rings: The Non-traditional Engagement Ring Fit for a Princess
When engagement rings as we know them first became popular (in the 14th or 15th century), sapphires were the favored gemstone. This is because the stunning deep blue gems symbolized romantic love, commitment, and truth. Over the centuries, all kinds of gemstones have been used in engagement rings, but since the 1930’s, diamonds have been the most popular gemstone of choice for engagement rings. However, for modern couples seeking a unique engagement ring with vintage charm, sapphire engagement rings are again becoming a popular choice.
Diamonds gained popularity in the 1930’s and 40’s thanks to an aggressive marketing campaign by the De Beers Company. The campaign highlighted the durability of the gem and likened it to the everlasting love of the engaged couple. Thus the concept of “diamond = love” was born. This association between eternal love and diamonds is still so ingrained in American culture that some women would be outright furious to receive anything but a diamond engagement ring!
However, many women have rejected this traditional view of engagement rings and embraced a more distinctive way to celebrate their love–with sapphire engagement rings. One such woman was Princess Diana.
When Princess Diana was engaged to Prince Charles she could have chosen any ring she wanted. However, instead of opting for a massive custom diamond ring, she surprised everyone and selected a 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire engagement ring from the Gerrard jewelry collection. Jewelry historians still debate why she chose the ring. Some say she selected it because it was the biggest, others suggest it reminded her of her mother’s ring. However, Princess Diana insisted that she chose the sapphire ring because she thought it was beautiful. Whatever her reasons were, her unique choice turned the sapphire engagement ring into a lasting testament of Princess Diana’s incredible sense of style.
After Princess Diana’s death, Prince Harry selected his mother’s sapphire engagement ring as a memento; he then gave it to Kate Middleton when he proposed to her in 2010. When Kate first appeared in public wearing Princess Diana’s iconic sapphire engagement ring, the media went wild–and so did sales of sapphire rings.
Though sapphire rings have increased in popularity thanks to Princesses Diana and Kate, sapphires are still a very unique choice for engagement rings. Women who select sapphire rings instead of diamond engagement rings demonstrate a distinct sense of style and fashion-forward independence.
If you are in the Sacramento area and you are looking for a non-traditional engagement ring that is fit for a princess, come by Adam’s Jewelers to view our exquisite collection. We have sapphire engagement rings that will perfectly suit the princess in you. Come by Adam’s Jewelers in Roseville today.
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