The History & Meaning of Sapphire Engagement Rings
At Acacia Fine Jewellers we believe that every stone tells a story. It’s just that the sapphire’s story is one of mystique, magic and royalty. When you choose a unique sapphire engagement ring, that piece of jewellery could represent a lot more than what meets the eye.
Quick fact: Did you know sapphires come in a rainbow of colours? Many of our customers associate sapphires with a royal blue shade. In fact, apart from red, the gemstones can be found in any colour.
What does a sapphire engagement ring symbolise?
The sapphire has a long and fascinating history. Throughout its life, this beautiful gemstone has been worn to symbolise all sorts of different things. From kings to witches, it seems everyone has interpreted the meaning of the sapphire in their own unique way.
For centuries, sapphires have been linked with romance and royalty. Throughout that time, they’ve also been said to symbolise elegance, nobility, truth, wealth and wisdom.
Zodiac
Sparkling with mystical associations, celestial blue sapphires have always been linked with the planet Venus. In certain Zodiac systems, it covers Taurus and Gemini, and September babies already know the sapphire is their stone.
Gods
The Ancient Greeks associated sapphires with the god Apollo, who was said to have healing powers.
Kings
Since the 2nd century AD, sapphires have been worn by kings who believed the gemstone would protect them from harm.
Witches
Shortly after, they were popular with witches, because of sapphire’s supposed “magical ability to tap into the third eye”.
Royalty
More recently, it maintains its links with the British Royal family, featuring in the Crown Jewels and worn on the hands of Princess Diana and Kate Middleton.
Heaven
During the Middle Ages, the sapphire was thought to attract heavenly blessings.
Legend has it...
Superstitious or not, the myths about sapphire through the centuries are fascinating. When you’re browsing sapphire ring designs, imagine the power you could wear on your finger, if these legends are anything to go by.
- Sapphires attract wealth
- Sapphires protect from envy and infidelity
- Sapphires are an antidote to poison
- Sapphires boost the wearer’s strength & health
- Sapphires help to make peace between enemies
- Sapphires influence spirits
- Sapphires inspire intelligence
- Sapphires improve eyesight
- Sapphires are an anti-depressant
Unique Sapphire Engagement Rings
Here at Acacia Fine Jewellers, we have the perfect alternative to a diamond ring. Sapphires are suitable for everyday wear due to their hardness, and more Australians are choosing to speak to tradition and their own style all at once with sapphire ring designs.
It’s time to introduce one of our favourite sapphire ring designs:
Toi Et Moi
The Toi Et Moi collection is special. These fashionable designs have become iconic in our eyes. The pairing between different cuts and colours signifies your own one-of-a-kind union, for the ultimate sentimental gift.
How much does a sapphire engagement ring cost?
We’re often asked whether sapphires are a good investment. The beauty of sapphires is they can last a lifetime. Ranking 9 out of 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, the only natural material that can scratch a sapphire is a diamond.
As a general guide, the more vivid the colour, the higher the cost of a sapphire engagement ring. Of course, a stone’s carat, clarity and source all come into play, too.
What to look for when buying a sapphire engagement ring?
Ultimately, the sapphire is a popular choice for those looking for something other than a white diamond ring. When clients visit us, we guide them to their perfect piece, asking a few key questions along the way.
1. What colour sapphire are you drawn to?
A customer’s first choice tends to be blue, but remember to explore orange, green, yellow, violet and pink sapphires, too.
2. What shape do you want your sapphire engagement ring to be?
A round-cut stone may be traditional for engagement rings, but some popular shapes at the moment include oval, pear, cushion, marquise and heart-shaped stones.
3. How many carats would you like to wear?
This usually comes down to your budget. Keep in mind that carat describes weight rather than size, and we always cut stones to maximise beauty rather than carat weight.
4. What’s your lifestyle like?
Those with an active lifestyle might want to avoid sapphire rings where the stone sits high above the band, as it could catch on clothes and furniture.
5. Do you prefer a traditional or modern aesthetic?
Classic engagement rings are having their moment in the spotlight once again, with yellow gold, cushion-cut stones and intricate settings re-surging in popularity. Contemporary styles include the use of multiple diamonds, such as three-stone, pavé and halo settings.