Birthstone Engagement Rings

What are the Birthstones?

Every month has a specific gemstone that is designated as its birthstone. Several months actually offer two or more choices: modern as well as traditional gems. When creating a birth month engagement ring, check with the bride-to-be to insure you select the proper gem: while a traditional gem may indeed be an accurate birthstone, it may not be the gem she associates with that particular month.

• January: Garnet
• February: Amethyst
• March: Aquamarine
• April: Diamonds or Sapphires
• May: Emeralds
• June: Emeralds, Pearls, or Alexandrite
• July: Onyx or Rubies
• August: Peridot
• September: Sapphires
• October: Aquamarine, Opal, or Pink Tourmaline
• November: Topaz
• December: Rubies or Turquoise

Straightforward Birthstone Engagement Rings

Peridot is August's birthstone.

The easiest choice for birthstone rings is to use the bride’s birthstone. This can be done in two ways: using the birthstone as an alternative center stone instead of a traditional diamond, or using small accent birthstones in addition to a diamond. When using a large birthstone gem, be sure to investigate the characteristics of a quality stone, including typical flaws and appropriate coloration. For small accent stones, the quality is less vital because the central diamond will be the ring’s focal point.

Straightforward birthstone rings can potentially cost far less than traditional diamond rings, because many birthstones are semi-precious gems, which typically have a lower value because they are less rare. On the other hand, it may be necessary to customize birth month engagement rings because jewelry stores usually only have a very limited selection of birthstone jewelry, especially outside the month in question. When choosing a gemstone ring, the best financial deals can be made if the ring is purchased toward the end of the associated month.

Dual Birthstone Engagement Rings

Some couples choose to enhance a birthstone ring by using two different birthstones to signify both the bride and groom. In addition to simple Three Stone Engagement Rings, there are several design options for these birthstone engagement rings: the accent stones can be different gems or arranged in a symmetrical pattern around a central diamond, or the entire design of the ring can be focused on the two birthstones, such as a heart or infinity shaped band that encloses both birthstones. Not only are dual birth month rings unique and interesting, but because they use symbolism for both the man and woman, they are doubly significant and show the bond the couple shares through that engagement ring.

Additional Meaning With Birthstones

Birthstone engagement rings do not necessarily need to use the stones appropriate to the individuals involved. Another way to make a birthstone ring significant is to use the stones associated with important dates in the couple’s history: the first kiss, first date, date of the proposal, and anticipated wedding date are all clever choices that add subtle meaning to the ring.

Every bride-to-be enjoys showing off her engagement ring, and a birthstone ring is even more fun to display because she can explain the additional significance of the gems. That sentimental value is worth far more than a few colored jewels, and will be treasured for many birthdays and anniversaries to come.