Why diamonds are no longer forever: From sapphires to emeralds, colored gemstones are defining modern love

Looking for just the right ring to pop the question? Opting for a non-traditional style can be a thoughtful choice. Gemstones like sapphires, rubies and emeralds are making a comeback as engagement ring centerpieces, offering a colorful and unique alternative to conventional diamonds. While diamonds have dominated the engagement ring market since the early 20th century, historically, gemstones were actually the preferred choice for many aristocrats and royals.

During the Victorian era (1837 - 1901), engagement rings often featured sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and opals. Even before that, in the Renaissance (European 1500 - 1660) and Georgian (British 1714 - 1837) periods, gemstones were prized for their spiritual and romantic meanings. One of the most famous historical examples is Princess Diana's sapphire engagement ring, which now belongs to Kate Middleton, sparking renewed interest in gemstone rings.

And as the old saying goes, 'history often repeats itself, especially when it comes to love.'. Today, modern couples are reviving this trend as they seek more personalized and ethical alternatives to diamonds. Looking for just the right ring to pop the question? Opting for a non-traditional style can be a thoughtful choice. Sapphires - wisdom, protection, truth loyalty, and love. Rubies - love, passion, wealth, protection, and vitality.

Emeralds - love, rebirth, growth, and renewal. Opals- hope, purity, love, creativity, and good luck. Morganite - love, compassion, and healing. Tourmaline - protection, healing, balance, and creativity. Moonstone - new beginnings, intuition, and feminine energy. Aquamarine - health, hope, and youth. Garnet - love, protection, and friendship. Jessica Simpson's engagement ring from Eric Johnson features a central ruby between two diamonds.

Machine Gun Kelly worked with jeweler Stephen Webster to create a non-traditional ring for Megan Fox featuring both an emerald and a diamond stone designed to come together in the shape of a heart. Gemstone engagement rings are a symbol of timeless romance with a modern twist. Sapphires, morganite, tourmaline, and even unconventional stones like moonstone and salt-and-pepper diamonds are gaining popularity.

Many people appreciate the affordability, sustainability, and individuality that gemstones offer. Companies like Fenton have made it possible to create a spectacular ring at a price that suits you. The fine jeweler is committed to responsible sourcing, fair trade, and ethical practices across the many countries it has factories in. Through Fenton's regulated supply chain and dedicated team inspecting and selecting each of their sparkling gemstones and diamonds, they cut out traditional markups from middlemen.

One of the most famous historical examples is Princess Diana 's sapphire engagement ring, which now belongs to Kate Middleton , sparking renewed interest in gemstone ring. Fenton's Trilogy style ring featuring an emerald center stones represents the past, present, and future of a relationship. Deco ruby ring by Fenton, starting at $2,957. Star aquamarine ring by Fenton, starting at $3,085. Bezel Blue Sapphire ring by Fenton, starting at $3,473. East west emerald ring by Fenton, starting at $2,828.

In addition to opting for gemstones, many couples are blending contemporary designs with personal and vintage-inspired elements. Examples of this are Toi et Moi rings, East-West settings, signet-inspired rings and bezel settings. MODERN STYLES TO CHOOSE FROM. Trilogy. A setting with three gemstones, often representing the past, present, and future of a relationship. Vintage. A vintage style is ornate and timeless. The heirloom-worthy piece feels very romantic and full of character.

Celestial styles are dreamy. A design that incorporates star motifs, often with small diamonds or sapphires radiating around a center stone feel other-worldly. Mayfair. This style is named after London’s upscale district, it’s sophisticated and polished and features luxurious settings with high-end craftsmanship. Inspired by the 1920s, Deco rings feature bold clean lines, step-cut stones, and symmetrical designs – just like Art Deco architecture.

Solitaire. This minimalist and classic style allows the single stone to be the star. It’s understated elegance at its finest. Trefoil. A whimsical design featuring three smaller stones or metalwork resembling a clover, often representing luck or love. Toi et Moi. Romantic and Symbolic, Toi et Moi, which stands for You and Me, features two gemstones, often representing two souls coming together. Sebastian Bear proposed to Emily Ratajkowski with this style of ring.

Floral. Rings that incorporate floral motifs, or petal-like settings are delicate and whimsical. The best gemstone shapes for the delicate style are round, pear, or marquise. Sebastian Bear proposed to Emily Ratajkowski with a Toi et Moi style ring, while Zendaya said 'yes' to an east-west ring featuring an oval-shaped diamond from Tom Holland. A signet is a flat or slightly domed ring style, traditionally used for engraving initials or crests is chic and effortlessly cool. Pictured style by Fenton.