Turquoise Engagement Rings: An Overview

Over the past decade or so, a new phenomenon has begun to surface in the engagement ring world, whereby couples deliberately try to go for the most original and offbeat colours available for their wedding and engagement bands and stones. Recent examples have seen materials such as black diamonds, pearls and even wood challenge the long-standing diamond and gold mainstays, with a certain degree of success.

The latest contenders in this rapidly growing arena are turquoise engagement rings. Turquoise has long been a favourite among those seeking a sophisticated, elegant look, and it is only natural that its appeal should extend to the world of engagement jewellery as well.

Referring to both a colour and a gemstone, the term ‘turquoise’ usually denotes a greenish blue hue, although there are several more or less blue-tinted variations of it in the colour palette. ‘Pure’ turquoise is the same colour as the gemstone it derives its name from, while turquoise blue and celeste are slightly more bluish, and light turquoise a little more subdued. Other hues include medium turquoise, dark turquoise and pearl mystic turquoise, although these are less frequently seen in clothes or jewellery items such as turquoise engagement rings.

Historically, the word derives from the French for ‘Turkish’, a connection justified by the fact that most turquoise stones were originally imported from Turkey. The term was first recorded as the English language denomination of a particular colour in 1573, and the next few centuries saw the hue in question become quite popular among the moneyed classes in western culture.

Nowadays, turquoise continues to retain its popularity and reputation as a symbol of sophistication, class and wealth, which might explain the popularity of turquoise engagement rings among young and fashionable couples. There is no denying the visual impact of this hue, and when worn on a finger, either with or without the accompanying stone, it can definitely raise eyebrows. It is also a relatively uncommon colour for an engagement band, which makes it popular among people looking to set themselves apart from the gold-and-diamond advocates.

The beauty of the hue is not however the only reason for couples to seek out turquoise engagement rings. In ancient Eastern culture, turquoise gemstones were traditionally linked with good fortune, constituting holy stones or talismans that guarded against unnatural death. As such, couples looking to protect the good health of their relationship and embellish it with luck might be interested in getting one of these stones to top their exquisitely-coloured band.

It comes as no surprise then that turquoise (both the colour and the gemstone it derives from) is on the rise within the engagement ring world. Its unique combination of visual appeal and esoteric meaning continues to attract couples the world over, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down.

Laura L Bolick is the founder of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From turquoise engagement rings to princess cuts and engraved bands, we have ideas and opinions covering all the options. 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.