For centuries, mankind has marveled at the beauty of gemstones and prized them for their special properties, like healing or protective powers. Ancient Romans believed that diamonds were the tears of gods, while others gave pearls on wedding days with the belief that it promoted fertility.
Nowadays, we may not necessarily believe in these magical properties but these gems continue to represent the values important to us. Couples often choose wedding rings that hold significance and symbolism that are meaningful to them individually and as a couple. So if you’re looking at incorporating gemstones into your wedding engagement ring, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from that reflect who you are. A unique stone can also be combined with a variety of bridal wedding jewelry to create a one-of-a-kind wedding ring stack.
Here are seven spectacular gemstones to consider if you want to add some extra sentiment and create a unique piece.
Moonstone
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The dreamy moonstone is a soft, milky-colored stone from the feldspar family. Its magical glow is caused by the color and light shifting, reminiscent of the moon. These opalescent stones can also be found in shades of pink, peach, and blue.
This gorgeous gem was originally believed to be frozen moonlight that connects to the Third Eye, Solar Plexus, and Heart chakras which link to our inner wisdom and clarity of thought. Moonstone is often associated with feminine energy, enhancing our intuition and creativity by helping us get in touch with our true emotions.
Many have long associated this June birthstone with love, protection, and fertility. For some, moonstones resemble the moon’s cycles which may resonate with couples who appreciate the symbolism of growth, change, and renewal in their relationship over time.
Citrine
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French for “lemon”, the counterpart to the moonstone is citrine. This member of the quartz family comes in beautiful orange and yellow hues. It is believed to harness the power of the sun to bring positive energy and light to those who wear it, making it the perfect pick for those who are all about happiness and good vibes only.
Throughout history, citrine has also been linked to wealth and success, warding off negative energy. It is an ideal choice if you’re looking for something that represents new beginnings to help you manifest abundance.
The sunny gemstone is also a great alternative to canary yellow diamonds. Even though it is slightly softer than diamonds, with a 7 on the Mohs scale, it is affordable and durable, great for everyday wear. Pair it with a gold band and you have an absolute show-stopper.
Peridot
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Looking for something green? Called the “evening Emerald” by the Romans, peridot’s citrus tones remained constant even by candlelight unlike the deep-green emerald.
The August birthstone is a little bit lighter and more muted, giving off a soft gentleness with its gorgeous gold-flecked olive green color. Peridot is also the stone often given to celebrate the 16th year of marriage, a reminder of the tenderness and lightness of your relationship.
Ancient Egyptians treasured peridots, believing that it could guard against nightmares, promoting good health, restful sleep and restoration to the wearer. It is believed that many of Cleopatra’s emeralds are actually peridot gemstones.
Peridot is a wonderful alternative to the more expensive Emerald, as the best quality peridot stones are still quite affordable whereas mined, untreated emeralds can cost up to $100,000 per carat.
Sapphire
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Sapphires are a popular choice for wedding band gemstones, second only to diamonds. These gems have long been favored by royalty, such as Princess Diana and Kate Middleton’s engagement rings.
Did you know that sapphires also exist in a myriad of colors, such as pink, yellow and green? The deep, velvety blue sapphire is the most popular and well-known choice, and represents loyalty, faithfulness, and wisdom – the perfect stone to represent your commitment and love.
These precious stones can even be your “something blue” on your special day.
Amethyst
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If you love purple gemstones, amethysts are a unique and stunning gem for an eye-catching ring. Derived from the Greek work ‘amethystos’ which means “not intoxicated”, this purple stone alludes to the idea of maintaining a solid, clear headed mindset.
This pretty and feminine gemstone is a representation of peace and calmness, bringing the wearer more in tune with the divine. Aside from being the birthstone of February, the purple quartz is also a representation of purity of heart and integrity, so incorporating this into your wedding ring is a charming symbol of your pure love for your partner. Your lavender gem will pair well with both yellow and white metals, or you can opt for a rose gold band for a romantic setting.
Greeks and Romans believed that amethyst helped avoid the effects of drunkenness or hangovers, so maybe it will work its magic the day after your wedding!
Opal, and Pink Opals
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Opal wedding rings are a visually striking choice for couples who appreciate the mesmerizing play of colors and want a distinctive symbol of their love and commitment.
October’s birthstone comes in an array of colors, like pearly white, vibrant reds and oranges, and dramatic blacks. These iridescent stones are known for their stunning play of colors, which can include shades of blue, green, red, orange, and pink as light hits it from different angles.
When picking an opal ring, pay attention to the type of opal. Fire opals, which flash shades of red, symbolize passion and love. Famously, Napoleon gifted his lover Josephine a vivid fire opal called “The Burning of Troy” as a symbol of his never ending love. White opals are ethereal and mystical with its shiny, milky glow.
If you want something a little more feminine and romantic, opt for a pale pink opal. While these gemstones are opaque and not quite as iridescent, they still have a gorgeous glittery shimmer.
