When it comes to choosing the center stone for your engagement ring, four popular options stand out: diamond, sapphire, ruby, and moissanite. Each stone offers unique qualities, but it’s important to consider durability and how well the stone will hold up over time, especially with daily wear. Let’s break down these options to help you make the best choice for your forever ring.
Diamonds are known for their unparalleled durability, with a perfect score of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. This makes them the only gemstone that won't abrade over time, ensuring they maintain their brilliance for generations—assuming they don’t chip. A diamond is an investment in a stone that will look the same year after year, making it a truly timeless option for your engagement ring.
Sapphires, known for their stunning blue hues though they come in many different colors, are another popular choice. They rank at 9 on the Mohs scale, which makes them durable enough for everyday wear. However, sapphires will begin to show signs of wear after many years of use, depending on how often you wear your ring and your lifestyle. Despite that, they are a beautiful, colorful alternative to diamonds.
Rubies, also part of the corundum family like sapphires, are similarly hard, scoring a 9 on the Mohs scale. Their striking red color makes them an eye-catching option for those seeking something bold. However, like sapphires, rubies will eventually show signs of wear and tear after years of daily use.
Moissanite is a synthetic gemstone that has gained popularity as a diamond alternative. It ranks just below sapphire and ruby at 9.25 on the Mohs scale. Moissanite offers a brilliant sparkle, sometimes even more than a diamond, but like sapphire and ruby, it will eventually show signs of wear after years of use.
What We Don’t Recommend
While sapphires, rubies, and moissanite are all hard enough for everyday wear, they will show signs of abrasion over time. That’s why we generally don’t recommend softer stones for engagement rings, as they will abrade much faster and lose their beauty. Diamond remains the top choice if you're looking for a stone that will stand the test of time without losing its brilliance.
Which Stone is Right for You?
Choosing the right center stone comes down to balancing durability, style, and personal preference. If you want a stone that will last a lifetime and beyond, diamond is the top choice. However, if you’re drawn to the colorful beauty of sapphire, ruby, or moissanite, just keep in mind that over time, they may show signs of wear.
Ready to create the perfect engagement ring? I’m here to guide you through the process and help you choose the best center stone for your dream ring. Start your custom design journey today!