Diamond or precious stone: which stone to choose for an engagement ring?

What if the choice of stone revealed much more than just your tastes?

When it comes time to choose an engagement ring, the question of the gemstone quickly arises. Traditionally, the diamond has been the symbol of eternal love. But today, more and more couples are turning to colorful and equally precious alternatives: sapphire, emerald, ruby, or even semi-precious stones. How do you make the right choice? And above all… which stone truly reflects your story?

1. The diamond: tradition, purity… and strength

The diamond is the most classic choice —and for good reason. It embodies purity, fidelity, and eternity. It's no coincidence that 80% of engagement rings worldwide contain a diamond.

But its success isn't solely based on symbolism: the diamond is the hardest stone in the world (10 on the Mohs scale), making it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry. With proper care, it will last for decades without ever losing its brilliance.

🔎 If you wish to go further, discover our article on how to evaluate the quality of a diamond , which will help you better understand the essential criteria (weight, color, clarity, cut).

2. The sapphire: the nobility of commitment

Worn by royalty for centuries, the sapphire is prized for its deep blue color and understated elegance. It symbolizes sincerity and wisdom, ideal qualities for a lasting union.

It is also a very hard stone (9/10 on the Mohs scale), making it an excellent alternative to diamond. Sapphire also comes in other colors, such as pink or yellow, for an even more personalized ring.

3. The emerald: refined originality

Intense, vibrant, mysterious… The emerald is the stone of absolute love. It symbolizes rebirth and loyalty. Used since antiquity, it continues to captivate lovers of exceptional jewelry.

However, emeralds are more fragile (7.5 to 8/10 on the Mohs scale) and require more daily care. If you are drawn to this stone, consider a protective setting or reserving your ring for special occasions.

💡 To properly preserve your jewelry over time, consult our article on how to care for your jewelry to preserve its shine .

4. The ruby: pure passion

The deep red of the ruby ​​is associated with passion, courage, and ardent love. It is a powerful stone, whose brilliance leaves no one indifferent. Perfect for someone with a strong personality or to celebrate an intense love story.

The ruby ​​is also a very durable stone (9/10 on the Mohs scale), capable of lasting for years without weakening.

5. And why not a gemstone?

Tourmaline, topaz, aquamarine, or morganite… These so-called "semi-precious" stones offer an infinite palette of colors and allow you to create a unique ring at a more accessible price. They are ideal for a personalized and original engagement ring.

But be careful: their hardness is often less than that of precious stones, which may require a little more vigilance on a daily basis.

🔗 Still hesitating? Discover our guide on how to choose the perfect engagement ring in 2025 .

6. Ask yourself the right questions before choosing

Beyond the beauty of the stone, take a moment to reflect on what it symbolizes for you:
Do you want an eternal stone or a rare stone? A classic or bold setting? An investment value or a sentimental choice?

🎯 A figure to remember: according to an IFOP study, 68% of women prefer a personalized ring to a ring from a major brand.

Conclusion: a stone for every love story

There's no single answer to the question "which stone should I choose for an engagement ring?" — only the one that reflects who you are . Whether you opt for a timeless diamond or a colorful stone full of character, the important thing is that it resonates with you and tells your story.

At La Joaillerie Rive Gauche , we accompany you in the creation of your ideal engagement ring, whether it is classic, custom-made or inspired by an antique jewel.
🔗 Do you have a family ring that you would like to modernize? Discover our jewelry transformation service.