Antiques Roadshow. Are You Sitting on a Gold Mine?
Have you seen the one where the long-haired man hears what his watch is worth and falls on the groun...
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Jewellery insurance info, helpful guides, resources and industry-leading insights.
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Are diamonds really a girl’s best friend? Some phrases become so commonly used that they shape our perceptions, and this may be a good example. Back in 1949, composers Leo Robin and Jule Styne wrote a musical based on a novel by Anita Loos. The musical, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, featured a catchy song called “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” In 1953, Marilyn Monroe performed the song in the movie version of the musical, and the rest is history.
But what if your lovely lady doesn’t prefer diamonds? What sort of engagement ring might she like?
Although three-quarters of Aussie brides wear diamond engagement rings, quite a few opt for more colourful baubles. With tastes trending toward morganite, sapphires and other precious gemstones, perhaps today’s composers will write new odes to more colourful jewellery!
Let’s take a look at some of the incredible diamond-alternative engagement rings on the market here in Australia.
Romantic and eye-catching, the Pear Ruby Ring features not one, not two, but five stunning pear-shaped rubies on a polished rose gold band. If you prefer, however, you can have the ring made of yellow or white gold. This would be a perfect engagement ring for a woman whose birthday falls in July. But even if her birthstone isn’t the ruby, she’ll love wearing these fiery red stones on her hand.
The Helena Ring is a signature Grew & Co. design, and it’s an absolute beauty. From different angles and at different times of day, you’ll watch the oval Australian teal sapphire turn many shades of blue and green. Framed by matching pairs of white oval and round diamonds, the sapphire is a showstopper, sure to turn heads. A yellow gold band provides warm contrast and low-maintenance, which is always appreciated in an engagement ring.
Jason Ree’s HighWire collection features exotic gemstones and modern matte metals. If you’re looking for an elegant, out-of-the-ordinary engagement ring, check out his collection. We especially love the Blush ring. Its incredible Mahenge Garnet hails from Tanzania. Master-cut with a soft, captivating colour, the beautiful stone has excellent character, and because it’s paired with a matte rose gold band, the gemstone seems to flash continuously from its yellow-gold claws.
Some brides want a timeless look with a twist. Joseph George’s Electra Blue Sapphire ring fits the bill. A vibrant cushion-cut vibrant blue sapphire is held in a classic claw setting with a bar set tapered baguette diamond on each side. This stunning design can be crafted in 18k white gold, yellow gold, platinum or two-tone.
Can’t decide between diamonds and sapphires or white gold and rose gold? Why not have them all? You can with this gorgeous engagement ring. Kian Design’s Arancia Zaffiro Ring embraces a vintage style with its pair of sparkling diamonds flanking a vibrant orange sapphire in a square setting. The white gold settings contrast with a rose gold band in an ornate scroll design.
We’re seeing more and more Edwardian styles, and this Platinum, Emerald and Diamond Plaque Ring from Klepner’s captures the elegance and sophistication of the period. Thirty-two old cut diamonds set the stage for a bright, 0.9ct emerald. Any would-be bride would gasp at seeing such a ring presented to her by her love.
It can be challenging to find a ring that suits a minimalist bride, but this one might be just what you’re looking for. The Hexagon Cobalt Australian Sapphire Ring from Meg Maskell Fine Jewellery has a low profile, so it’s perfect for a woman with an active lifestyle. The rich, deep blue centre stone comes from Central Queensland, and its rose gold band and hexagon bezel give it a modern flair.
Halo settings have been popular for bridal jewellery for several years now, and using a coloured gemstone gives the halo style a fresh look. Tanzanite’s exquisite colour shimmers between blue and purple; it’s a perfect colour for complimenting diamonds. The fluttery oval shape of this Oval Cut Tanzanite with Halo ring carries a vintage charm that’s hard to beat.
Most engagement ring gemstones owe their sparkle to the skill of experienced gemstone cutters. But jewellers are also crafting beautiful rings with stones that don’t reflect light in the same way. This 18ct Yellow Gold Lapis Ring from Salera’s Heritage Collection is a great example. The lapis has a stormy opaque surface that contrasts beautifully with the yellow gold filigree, which creates a marquise-shaped halo.
Admiring a blue topaz is like peering down into a pristine lagoon, especially when the topaz looks like this one. Stefan Diamonds’ Blue Topaz Ring shows off a stunning 10.09ct sea-blue topaz. Its 18-carat white gold band is inlaid with round brilliant cut diamonds totalling 0.77 carats. Its lovely design is nearly as beautiful from the side as it is from the top, perfect for your bride’s private enjoyment.
And that’s just the beginning. The more you search, the more options you’ll find for a woman who prefers alternative stones. And once you find the perfect ring, insure it with Q Report Jewellery Insurance. We’ll provide constant peace of mind and be here if the unexpected happens.
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Have you seen the one where the long-haired man hears what his watch is wor...
The luxury watch market has never been more exciting. From revivalist model...
Keep up to date with the latest jewellery trends, insights and inspiration from Q Report.
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