Why Aquamarine Might Not Be the Best Choice for an Engagement Ring
Selecting the perfect gemstone for an engagement ring is a decision heavy with symbolism and sentiment. While aquamarine, with its spellbinding charm and soothing hues, is a gemstone that has captured the hearts of many, there are quite a few reasons that could make you reconsider choosing it as the centrepiece of an engagement ring.
We explore the allure of aquamarine, explain why it may not be the best suited as a centre stone of choice for rings intended to be worn every day, and offer up excellent alternatives that will help capture its essence in a more durable and everlasting way.
What does an aquamarine symbolise?
Aquamarine, with its name derived from the Latin words “aqua” (water) and “mare” (sea), embodies the essence of the ocean. It’s often associated with calmness, tranquility, and the soothing qualities of water. Symbolically, aquamarine is known to represent purity and a connection to the elements of nature.
What colour is aquamarine?
The colour spectrum spans from serene blues to delicate greenish-blue shades. These variations bring to mind the tranquil waters of the sea that embody aquamarine’s inherent charm.
The range of hues falls primarily into two categories:
Green aquamarine: Some gemstones may boast a subtle greenish tint, reminiscent of the gentle waves of the sea.
Blue aquamarine: The most coveted aquamarines are a serene, clear blue – like the crystal-clear waters of tropical oceans.
Which month is associated with the aquamarine birthstone?
Aquamarine is the birthstone for the month of March. It’s believed to bring good fortune and protection to those who wear it in their birth month.
How hard is aquamarine?
Aquamarine has a moderate hardness on the Mohs scale, typically ranging from 7.5 to 8. This places it in the same category as gemstones like amethyst and citrine. While it’s durable enough for various types of jewellery, it may still require care to prevent scratches or damage.
Why We Don’t Recommend Aquamarine for an Engagement Ring
When it comes to choosing the perfect gemstone for an engagement ring, many are drawn to the delicate beauty of aquamarine. While this gemstone has its own unique charm and qualities, there are several compelling reasons why it may not be the ideal choice for an engagement ring. These are pieces that are worn on the part of the body that is susceptible to most knocks and contact with other materials just given we use and move our hands so much. That’s why our guidelines on which materials we’ll use are so stringent – we craft exclusively with materials that will last a lifetime when worn with care.
Aquamarine’s Moderate Hardness
One of the primary reasons why aquamarine is not commonly recommended for engagement rings is its moderate hardness. While lovely to look at, aquamarine has a ranking of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it less durable compared to some other popular engagement ring gemstones like diamonds and sapphires. Hardness really matters for an engagement ring as it directly affects the gem’s longevity.
Vulnerability to Scratches
The moderate hardness of aquamarine makes it susceptible to scratches and abrasions, especially when worn daily. Over time, this can diminish the gem’s brilliance and clarity. This vulnerability to damage should be at the forefront of your mind when thinking of what is to be a long-lasting engagement ring.
Wear and Tear Over Time
Engagement rings aren’t just beautiful symbols of love and your relationship, they’re meant to be worn daily and should withstand the rigours of daily life.
The Alternatives: Diamonds and Sapphires
There are popular alternatives to aquamarine for engagement rings. Both diamonds and sapphires, known for their exceptional hardness and durability, are excellent choices. Sapphires are the most prevalently used alternatives, however, blue diamonds are an option as well. Given their fancy blue colour, these diamonds are so incredibly rare that they can garner huge price points, so that’s something to bear in mind. Light blue sapphires with tinges of cool blue and slightly turquoise tones can make for a great alternative to capture the colour hue of aquamarine.
Aquamarine Special Occasion Jewellery
While aquamarine may not be the top choice for an engagement ring, it remains a wonderful option for other types of jewellery, such as necklaces, and earrings, and as a thoughtful gift for special occasions. Our bespoke jewellery offering does include aquamarine, so you can still have a piece celebrating your birth month or any other connection to the stone, without subjecting it to the wear and tear an engagement ring would endure.
Choosing the Perfect Gemstone: Blue Sapphire vs. Aquamarine for Engagement Rings
Blue sapphire is often considered a more suitable option for an engagement ring compared to aquamarine for several reasons:
Durability: Blue sapphires are one of the hardest gemstones, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale. This means they’re highly resistant to scratching and chipping, making them well-suited for everyday wear, which is essential for an engagement ring. Aquamarine, while reasonably durable with a hardness of 7.5 to 8, is much more prone to damage over time.
Colour Versatility: Blue sapphires are super versatile and come in a wide range of icy blue tones and hues, making them the perfect contender to emulate and celebrate the appearance of an aquamarine.
Symbolism: Blue sapphires are associated with qualities like wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. They’re often seen as a symbol of commitment and fidelity, making them a meaningful choice for an engagement ring. Aquamarine is associated with qualities like tranquility and courage, which aren’t as stringently connected to the symbolism traditionally associated with an engagement ring.
Aquamarine, while known for its gentle hues and captivating beauty, may not be the most practical choice for an engagement ring due to its moderate hardness and susceptibility to wear and tear. While it has its unique place in the world of fine jewellery, couples seeking a stone that best symbolises enduring commitment and an unbreakable bond should look to more suitable options in the form of diamonds and sapphires. They’re both excellent alternatives, with sapphires especially, offering a rich choice of blue colourways.
When choosing an engagement ring, it’s essential to consider both aesthetics and practicality to ensure it stands the test of time, just as the love it represents does. If an aquamarine still holds a special place in your heart, we recommend choosing it as a signature stone in your ring where it can reflect the desired symbolism from a much safer and personal placement.
