What gemstones are suitable for engagement rings?
There are many gemstones in the world, however only a few are suitable for engagement rings. Interestingly, from the following extensive list of gemstones below, there are only a couple of gemstones that Orsini Fine Jewellers would recommend for engagement rings. Diamonds being our number one choice, followed by Corundums..
The following list of gemstones are extensive and a bit overwhelming...
Alexandrite, Andalusite, Axinite, Benitoite, Beryl, Aquamarine, Bixbite, Morganite, Emerald, Bloodstone, Celestite, Chrysoberyl, Cat’s Eye, Chrysocolla, Chrysoprase, Clinohumite, Cordierite, Corundum, Ruby, Sapphire, Danburite, Diamond, Diopside, Dioptase, Dumortierite, Feldspar, Amazonite, Labradorite, Moonstone, Sunstone, Fluorite, Garnet, Andradite, Hessonite, Hambergite, Hematite, Jade, Jadeite, Nephrite, Jasper, Kornerupine, Kunzite, Malachite, Peridot, Prehnite, Pyrite, Quartz, Amethyst, Citrine, Smoky Quartz, Tiger’s-eye, Chalcedony, Agate, Aventurine, Onyx, Rhodochrosite, Sérandite, Spinel, Sugilite, Topaz, Turquoise, Tourmaline, Variscite, Vesuvianite, Xenotime, Zeolite (Thomsonite), Zircon, Zoisite, Tanzanite, Thulite, Cassiterite…
However hardly any of the above listed gemstones are suitable for engagement rings, they are not hard and durable enough for the wear and tear an engagement ring endures. An engagement ring is designed to last a lifetime, therefore it is important to select a gemstone that will also last a lifetime and hopefully be passed on to future generations.
To understand the difference between the gemstones durability and hardness, it is important to understand one of the most important tests that gemologists use for identifying mineral specimens, the Mohs Hardness Test. This test compares the resistance of a mineral to being scratched by ten reference minerals known as the Mohs Hardness Scale. The test is useful because most specimens of a given mineral are very close to the same hardness. This makes hardness a reliable diagnostic tool for most minerals.
Please make sure you select an appropriate gemstone for your engagement ring. I have had a couple of clients visit with cracked/chipped Tanzantites and they have been heartbroken (these have not been purchased via me). They should have been advised that these are not suitable, or at least be warned that they may break or chip. Please either go to a knowledgeable jeweller, or research the suitability of a gemstone via a credible source.
Written by Sarah Hutchings
