Best Engagement Rings for an Active Lifestyle

There are many features commonly seen on engagement rings these days that are simply impractical for people who lead a fairly active lifestyle. Obviously one of the most attractive features of any engagement ring is that it stands out and is noticed, but in certain situations this can increase the chances of cracks, scratches, and sometimes irreversible damage. But, all is not lost, as it is possible, with some careful research and planning, to find the best engagement rings to suit the most active of lifestyles without depriving the bride-to-be of that highly desirable glamorous and dazzling look.

Avoid the Delicate Stones

The first point to consider is your stone selection. Every gemstone is measured on a hardness scale from 1 to 10, known as the Mohs scale. Diamonds rank at 10, sapphires at 9.0, with emeralds rated at only a 7.0 and opals a 5.5. Consequently, the best engagement rings to suit an active lifestyle should probably feature a diamond or sapphire and not an opal or a pearl. This is not to say that a diamond or sapphire can withstand excessive knocks or bangs, as they too can become damaged if bashed or bumped. The best advice is to remove any engagement ring prior to vigorous activity, and this holds true for these harder gemstones as well.

The Appropriate Setting is Key

The second, and possibly most important feature to consider, is the setting and the mounting of the gemstones. Popular mounting techniques that elevate the gemstones away from the band will leave them much more susceptible to impacts and surface damage. They also have a much greater tendency to snag on clothing and other objects, which can be just plain annoying. Try to avoid prong settings or even solitaire styles and instead choose either the pave or halo setting, or one where the gemstones are a little more snugly inset into the band. The options are endless and you might gain a lot of benefit from consulting with a bespoke designer who can knowledgeably address any special needs you might have.

Watch Out For Sharp Edges

The cut you select for your featured gemstones should also be high on the list of considerations. Again, common knowledge dictates that gems cut in very angular shapes and with sharp corners will invariably be more prone to snagging or chipping and will not make the best engagement ring centrepiece for an active person. Therefore, avoid emerald cuts, marquise cuts and some pear cuts too. Gemstones with softer cuts such as the brilliant cut, the round cut, or the oval, will be better suited and simply sturdier due to their protective shape.

Choosing the best engagement rings for people with particularly active lifestyles does require a little extra consideration. However, part of the beauty of the engagement ring industry is its never-ending efforts focussed on creating unique and personalised designs to suit all taste preferences and needs. So if your bride-to-be desperately wants to wear her ring while rock climbing, kayaking or trekking in the Andes, then so be it. Where there is a will there is a way, and there is bound to be a design out there to suit and thrill her.

Laura L Bolick is the founder of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose the most unique and the best engagement ring designers in the UK. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose that perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.