Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but there’s another gemstone that’s been catching our eye lately: sapphires.
Long a symbol of royalty and elegance, they’re fast becoming the first choice for engagement rings. With their stunning blue hues and rich history, sapphires have captured the hearts of many throughout the ages.
The September birthstone is also said to bring strength, harmony and loyalty between lovers – what better way to pop the question? But there’s more to these precious gems than meets the eye.
With contemporary luxury jeweller Fenton, you can customise your own royal heirloom with the precious gemstone. And as proposal season gets underway, here’s everything you need to know about sapphires…
A majestic history
Sapphires have been treasured for thousands of years and were once believed to have protective powers. The ancient Greeks and Romans wore sapphires to ward off harm and envy, while Hindus saw them as symbols of the heavens.
In the Middle Ages, sapphires were worn by the clergy as a symbol of heavenly grace and by knights for protection in battle. But it wasn’t until the Middle Ages that sapphires really became associated with alty.The gems were prized by the powerful and wealthy, often set in crowns and other royal regalia. Here in Britain they are a major part of the Crown Jewels and have been passed down through the family for generations.
In more recent history, the sapphire has appeared on the hand of a certain iconic British princess as she announced her engagement, as well as in the jewellery of countless other royals across Europe.
Where do sapphires come from?
Sapphires are found all over the world. Some of the world’s most famous sapphires come from Sri Lanka and Thailand and can be found in a spectrum of blues from pale, icy blues to deep, almost black inky blues.
These countries also pride themselves on their remarkable quality, as well as their responsible and transparent mining practices.
As a modern luxury jeweller and certified B Corp, Fenton ensures the highest quality gemstones and chooses the country from which its sapphires are sourced based on these qualities.
Sapphire engagement rings today
It’s not just their royal associations that make sapphires a desirable choice for engagement rings. These gemstones are also known for their impressive durability and hardness, making them an ideal choice for everyday wear.
Sapphires score an astonishing nine on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them one of the hardest gemstones available.
This means that they are less likely to be scratched or chipped than other gemstones and can withstand daily wear and tear.
In addition to their durability, sapphires come in a range of colours, from deep blue to pink, yellow and even green or teal.
This variety of hues makes it easy to find a sapphire that perfectly complements your personal style and taste.
Whether you choose a classic blue sapphire or opt for a more unconventional colour, a sapphire engagement ring is a timeless and elegant choice.
Is a sparkling sapphire for you?
While diamonds may be the obvious choice for an engagement ring, a sapphire will stand out from the crowd.
Its rich history and association with royalty will make your engagement ring feel like a treasured heirloom.
When it comes to choosing the perfect sapphire for your engagement ring, there are countless options to choose from. From subtle to bold, there’s a sapphire to suit every style.Whether you choose a simple solitaire setting or a more elaborate design with sparkling diamonds and intricate metalwork, a sapphire engagement ring is sure to make an unforgettable statement.
At Fenton, the most popular sapphire styles are the classic Star and Mayfair, typically in an oval cut. A close second is the Trilogy style or the recently launched Deco. The addition of diamond accents in these styles serves to enhance the depth of colour of the central sapphire.
So whether you’re looking for a classic and elegant ring or a bold and colourful statement piece, a sapphire engagement ring is sure to capture your heart and dazzle you for a lifetime. Why not consider a sapphire for your own happily ever after?
