Birthstones in Engagement Rings: A Guide

For the vast majority of couples, the choice of which engagement ring to purchase is likely to be based on personal taste, budget, symbolism and other considerations. Brides and grooms who are interested in astrology, however, may add an extra requirement to their search, and seek to buy their partners’ rings according to their birth month.

In fact, while to the average person ruby and sapphire engagement rings are simply viable and attractive alternatives to a diamond, to astrology enthusiasts they are also birthstones, each associated with a specific month and a set of characteristics.

Amateur astrologers will know, for example, that sapphire engagement rings will be more suitable for and appreciated by people born in September, since that is the month the stone is associated with in the birthstone calendar. Similarly, fans of star signs will know that the dark blue hue of this stone represents heaven and serenity, and will base their choice on this knowledge as well.

Sapphire engagement rings are not, however, the only type of non-diamond ring to contain birthstones. Each month of the year contains a birthstone and, with some offering brides and grooms more than one choice, there is no shortage of unique, original and symbolic stones from which to choose.

Personality also plays a big part in the choice of birthstones. Because each of these types of gems represents a certain personality trait or natural element, some stones will naturally suit people with certain dispositions better than others. Individuals who value friendship and trust, for instance, will be pleased with a garnet engagement ring, as will those born in January, as it is their birthstone. Emerald rings represent youth and prosperity and, with their green hues, perfectly symbolise the verdant nature of their associated month, May. Sapphire engagement rings, as noted, symbolise serenity, which makes them perfect for September, the month that marks the winding down of summer and the quietude of early autumn.

For people born in March, June, November or December, this choice is slightly more complicated, as these months have numerous birthstones. However, as with other months, each of these gems represents the ‘character’ of the month of their association: June’s gems being generally light-coloured and December’s being somewhat more heavily hued. Shoppers buying for natives of these times of year will therefore have to exert discretion when choosing an engagement ring stone.

Choosing stones based on birth months and significance can, therefore, be a fun and original way to build custom engagement rings for astrology aficionados.

Frank L Orman is the founder of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From a diamond to a sapphire engagement ring from a princess cut to a platinum band, 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.