Is it okay for an engagement ring to include colored stones?

Question

This is the second marriage for each of us.

Answer 1

The diamond engagement ring is a very American traditions. Other countries use different stones. For example, in Ireland, many brides to be recieve emeralds or amethysts. It might be fun to look up the meanings of different stones (amethyst is wisdom, emeralds are eternal love, agate is a connection to nature, garnet is success, etc...) and have a ring custom designed with your feelings for your future wife!

Answer 2

Another tradition that makes more sense when you understand it. An engagement ring is a replacement for the dowery. It's a woman's hedge against poverty. If a guy married an ancient woman, she often didn't get to keep property or anything else she brought into the union. A real deal for men considering it was easy for a guy to get a divorce and impossible for a woman. The exception to the rule was an Jewelry he got for her. It was hers to take when she let (which is why engagement rings are the property of the woman once she puts it on and says yes and Unless it's a family heirloom, she doesn't have to return it no matter what happens - even if the wedding is called off).

So, the formula was it should be enough for her to take care of herself (and usually her children who were thrown out, too) for several months. The bigger the ring he'd be loosing, the less chance of him leaving. So, big expensive diamonds are the norm.

However, times are different and Diamonds might not be the most expensive things in the store. Its ok to get colored stones in the setting - It's also ok to buy her an emerald instead, if you know that's her favorite stone - ora ruby or Sapphire - just make sure you gems are certified and that you remember that the rule is three months salary!

Answer 3

It is the diamond industry that says an engagement ring must have a diamond, and then they artificially repress the trade and distribution of diamonds to drive up the prices.

Your engagement ring, your choice.

Things to remember.
Not all gems are as hard as a diamond, that's almost a no brainer, but some are actually 'soft' like emeralds and need extra attention.
Not all colors are as versatile as the clear diamond so if that's an issue.

Pick something that you like, it's your engagement, it's your marriage, it's your choice.
Don't be constrained by the evil diamond merchants

Answer 4

yes. My wedding ring had sapphires. A friend of mine has an emerald engagement ring. Whatever you both want is ok. The diamond industry has just brainwashed everyone to think that diamonds are the only acceptable stone for engagement.

Of course, they are the hardest gem known, and the inability to break them goes along with an unbroken marriage - that's probably why they push those.

I say - go with color!!

Answer 5

Do you mean a diamond in the center and rubies and emeralds on the side, or a colored stone in place of the diamond? Whatever your fiance can afford. You can always get a nice cubic zirconia for a fraction of the cost of a real diamond or go to a diamond wholesaler or even a pawn shop. You'd be surprised at some of the jewelry you can pick up at a pawn shop.

Answer 6

Yes, my wife's has a center diamond of about 1/2 carat flanked by two smaller rubies.

It was my grandmother's engagement ring.

Answer 7

It shouldnt' matter what the engagement ring looks like...it's the thought that counts and it's a symbol of something so she should like it regardless. If in doubt, let her pick it out, that's what my husband did.

Answer 8

Absolutely! The engagement ring is between you and the one to whom it is being given. If you both like this enchanting idea, I'd say, go for it.

Answer 9

It should not matter at all. I would purchase the ring I like, not the one that is traditional. Not everyone (me included) likes diamonds. Why be bound something that you don't want.

Answer 10

Sure, anything you like. Princess Di's had a big blue sapphire and Duchess of York has a ruby.