Blue diamond or Blue Sapphire Engagement Rings

Have you always fantasised about a beautiful blue engagement ring? While many people naturally assume sapphire engagement rings are the only option when looking for such a ring, such a vibrant hue is also achievable in diamonds.

While sapphire engagement rings are famous for their gorgeous deep blue hue, blue diamonds are considered one of the most rare and most valuable gemstones in the world. While all natural fancy colour diamonds are rare, blue diamonds are incredibly so, with most jewellers never having even seen one. Naturally, this means that they are also very expensive, particularly as blue is considered one of the least common and most desirable colours. The Hope diamond, which is in the Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C. is the most famous blue stone in the world and the largest at 45.52-carats.

It is both easy and difficult to distinguish between blue sapphire engagement rings and blue diamond engagement rings but the major discerning factor is the price. Other differences include the properties of the different stones; blue diamonds are very similar to the classic colourless diamonds, in that they also score a perfect 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness and they also possess unrivalled brilliance and fire. The difference between a blue diamond and a colourless diamond is the presence of boron, which is what creates the beautiful blue hue. Sapphires, on the other hand, can be quite expensive but they do not have the sparkle that blue diamonds possess. Similarly, although they are also hard and durable stones, they cannot hope to compete with diamonds on the Mohs Scale of Hardness.

It appears that the price is the principle factor when it comes to deciding between these two stones, and if you are on a budget, a blue sapphire is certainly the next best thing, having its own natural flash and fire characteristics. Although, when it comes to the value of diamonds and sapphires, both are more desirable the deeper and richer the blue colour. This does, of course render them more expensive.

Diamonds and sapphires are not the only options out there for a blue gemstone engagement ring. Blue topaz gemstones come in a tone that is considerably brighter than natural blue diamonds, as well as being much more affordable. Similarly, blue aquamarine gemstones showcase a stunning display of marine blue and are both affordable and extremely durable. Although such gems tend to have lower flash and fire qualities, both are treasured for their natural beauty and lustre.

Clearly, blue coloured stones will always be cherished for their beautiful and enigmatic colouring, and whether you prefer blue diamonds to blue sapphire engagement rings, you can rest assured that both will stand out as a magnificent and beautiful piece of jewellery.

Frederick Holm is staff writer for of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From diamond to sapphire engagement rings 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.