When it comes to choosing an engagement ring, the decision between diamond or gemstone can be tough. Today we’ll be looking at the stunning blue aquamarine vs. traditional diamond to decide on which gemstone is best for your engagement ring.
Engagement Ring Cost
No engagement ring decision is made without consideration of cost, so let’s jump to that straight away! Diamonds are famously on the more expensive side, on account of rarity and popularity. When it comes to diamond vs. aquamarine you definitely get more for your money with an aquamarine in terms of carat weight, so if you would prefer a larger ring the aquamarine is a great choice!
Durability
When we look at how durable gemstones are we look to their rating of the Mohs scale of hardness. The aquamarine ranks between 7.5 and 8 on the scale whilst the diamond scores a perfect 10 as the hardest natural substance on earth, resistant to scratches and minor abrasions.
Whilst not as durable as the diamond, the aquamarine is still a great choice for an engagement ring with a higher rating than other traditional engagement ring stones such as the green emerald, scoring just below at 7-8 carats.
Aquamarine Symbolism
The aquamarine is often thought of as a ‘good luck’ stone, bringing prosperity, balance and harmony to the wearer. With its ocean-inspired hues this gemstone was originally believed the keep sailors safe at sea and considered a mermaid’s treasure! This gemstone is a great choice for water babies or a loved one who loves travel!
Diamond Symbolism
As an engagement ring classic, the diamond is wildly recognised to symbolise everlasting love and strength in union. This idea is reinforced by its durability, with even it’s name derived from the Greek word ‘adamas’ meaning ‘invincible’. The strength of the diamond is the perfect symbolism of eternity and ever-lasting love.
Aquamarine Benefits
If you’re looking for something a bit less traditional than a diamond – an aquamarine is an excellent choice for a special and unique piece. This gem can be varied in hues, from a soft pale blue to more vibrant shades or even green tones, allowing you to select a ring as distinctive as your partner.
For many, one of the biggest advantages of choosing an aquamarine engagement ring is its affordability compared to a diamond ring and, if you’ve been researching your gemmology and brushing up on the 4 Cs of diamond buying, we have the great news that aquamarines are renowned for their excellent clarity – enhancing their brilliance and appeal!
Their beauty and symbolism makes the aquamarine a perfect representation of a lifelong commitment.
Diamond Benefits
The timeless beauty of a diamond engagement ring is makes it a classic choice that never goes out of style. Diamonds complement all skin tones and hair colours, ensuring they look stunning on everyone, while their versatility allows them to pair effortlessly with any other jewellery.
This gemstone’s durability is a key benefit. As one of the hardest natural substances on Earth, diamonds are incredibly resilient, making them perfect for everyday wear.
Beyond their practical and aesthetic qualities, diamonds are also rich in symbolism, often associated with eternal love, strength, and unbreakable bonds and a great choice for your engagement ring.
Stand out Celebrity Aquamarine Rings
If you’re thinking “I haven’t seen many aquamarine rings” – let us guide your attention to some of these showstopping celebrity aquamarine rings:
Justin Timberlake decided not to choose between our two gemstones and instead proposed to his now-wife Jessica Biel with a large cushion cut diamond, flanked by vibrant blue aquamarines – a romantic nod to the actress’s march birthstone. Jessica’s love of this blue stone is apparent through the rest of her jewellery collection, often spotted on the red carpet adorned in Tiffany platinum and aquamarine earrings and bracelets.
Megan Markle has been spotted wearing a glittering tribute to the late Princess Diana several times, donning Diana’s own large aquamarine ring. Princess Diana was gifted the aquamarine by her friend, Lucia Flecha de Lima, and then commissioned British jeweller Asprey to set the stone into a stunning ring with diamond accents. She was seen wearing it on several occasions, with many believing it to embody her strength and elegance. Markle wore Princess Diana’s aquamarine ring as her something blue on her wedding day, a beautiful detail.
When it comes to engagement rings the big decision always comes down to personal preference! If you feel inspired, take a look at our antique aquamarine rings or engagement rings collection!
