Engagement rings have symbolized love, commitment, and a promising future for many generations. While diamonds continue to be the go-to choice for many, a plethora of captivating gemstones have found their way into these cherished tokens. Here’s a deeper dive into these gemstones and their histories.
Diamond: Beyond its brilliance, the diamond's strength is unparalleled, making it a symbol of eternal love. Formed deep within the Earth’s mantle, they have been cherished since ancient times, with some of the earliest references dating back to 4th century BC in India.
Sapphire: With hues ranging from royal blue to pink and yellow, sapphires have long been associated with the heavens, thought by ancient civilizations to be protective talismans. Their prominence grew in the Middle Ages, believed to protect those close to you from harm.
Ruby: Treasured throughout history for their vibrant red , rubies have been considered the stone of kings, embodying passion and power. Ancient Burmese warriors believed that rubies made them invincible in battle.
Emerald: This green gemstone, associated with fertility and rebirth in ancient Egypt, was a favorite of Cleopatra. Its vivid color has made it a symbol of spring, rebirth, and enduring love.
Morganite: A relatively newer gem, its gentle pink hue is believed to nurture feelings of love and promise. It was named after the famous banker and gem enthusiast, J.P. Morgan.
Opal: Revered by the ancients as a symbol of hope and purity, opals have a play-of-color that has been likened to galaxies and fireworks. Ancient Romans believed it was a symbol of love and hope.
Pearl: Formed within mollusks, pearls have been symbols of purity and innocence. They were highly prized in ancient cultures, with evidence of pearl jewelry found in Mesopotamia from around 2300 BC.
Aquamarine: Its name, which translates to “water of the sea”, speaks of its calming blue hue. Ancient sailors believed it to be the treasure of mermaids and a protective talisman.
Moissanite: Discovered in a meteor crater, moissanite is literally a gem from the stars. It possesses fire and brilliance that rivals diamonds, making it a popular alternative.
Tanzanite: Found only in Tanzania, this blue-violet gem is rarer than diamonds. Its discovery in the 20th century propelled it to stardom, embodying uniqueness and deep emotional connection.
The beauty of engagement rings extends beyond the gems they bear; they are the embodiment of love, history, and commitment. Choosing a gemstone becomes not just about aesthetics, but the rich tapestry of stories they carry. With over 50 years in the jewelry industry, Johnston Jewelers takes pride in this legacy. We don’t just sell rings; we curate memories and history. As you select a gemstone, know that you’re intertwining your story with ages of history, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.