When Kate Middleton, engagement rings now the Duchess of Cambridge, was engaged back in 2010, women all over the world were curious about the ring Prince William gave to her. Much to the surprise of many people, it was not a diamond ring; it was a blue sapphire ring; the same ring Prince Charles gave to Princess Diana when they were engaged in 1981.

Sapphire engagement rings are not new, and surely they are not a fad that will quickly disappear. Thanks to Kate and Prince Williams engagement and wedding, this particular type of engagement ring is gaining recognition and curiosity among thousands of soon-to be-wedded lovers around the world.

History of Sapphire Rings

Even before diamond engagement became the norm, couples have already been using various gem stones, particularly sapphire, as symbols of their love, devotion and intention to share their lives together. In fact, it was only during the middle of the 20th century that diamond rings became the standard for engagement rings. This was due to the overwhelming supply of diamonds discovered in Africa and Brazil and the marketing campaign created by De Beers. It was De Beers’ extensive campaign that established diamond rings as the norm and made the phrase, “A Diamond Is Forever”, famous.

Sapphire engagement rings have long been used for betrothals since they symbolize the core qualities of genuine love; romance, honesty and commitment. Moreover, people of the past believed that sapphires protected the ones who owned them from harm and envy. They also believed that this particular gemstone was capable of attracting blessings from heaven.

Sapphire Engagement Rings: A Test of Fidelity

Sapphires have long been held as representations of purity and fidelity. It is interesting to note that the crusaders of the 12th century gave sapphire rings to their wives as a means for them to evaluate whether they have been unfaithful or not. It was believed that if the color of the sapphire ring faded, then the woman who wore it was unfaithful or impure.

Of course, this belief is viewed nowadays as absurd. But nonetheless its meaning remains true. When a man gives her lady a sapphire ring, it is a symbolism of him expecting her to remain faithful through thick and thin.

Sapphire Engagement Rings: The Perfect Alternative to Diamond Rings

Though they are still highly desirable, diamond rings are becoming overrated already, and many young couples are starting to realize this. In fact, many lovers nowadays are opting for other gemstones, particularly sapphire, as a way for them to celebrate their love.

What makes sapphire rings more exciting than their diamond counterparts is that they come in various colors. Though the most common color is blue, sapphire rings also come in purple, violet, green, orange, white and pink.

1. Purple and Violet Sapphires;

Many people believe purple and violet are the same. However, they are not; they are two different hues. Purple is produced by combining red with blue while violet is made out of blue and purple. What makes purple and violet sapphire rings interesting is that they can shift in color. Purple rings will look violet under fluorescent light or sunlight. Violet rings, on the other hand, will turn purple under incandescent light.

2. Green Sapphires;

Green sapphires are very rare. In fact, many people do not even know that they exist. Because of their rarity, they are quite pricey. Green sapphire rings are more durable than tourmaline or peridot and are more brilliant than emerald.

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