Coloured gemstones have unique crystal structures that lend themselves towards certain styles much sort after in bespoke engagement rings. Tourmaline is one example of a gemstone that is so distinctive it is made for designs with an Art Deco inspiration. These crystals grow in long finger-like formations, which are typically cut into baguette and emerald cuts both characteristic shapes of 20’s architecture and design. Displaying vibrant greens, pinks or more rarely blue these hard-wearing gemstones make the perfect pop of colour in classic Art Deco designs usually flanked by geometric metal work or small diamonds.
One of the challenges we face when designing with coloured gemstones is overcoming any worries about durability, especially when it comes to creating a sentimental piece such as an engagement ring. Emeralds, amethysts, amber are often popular and have their own particular romance for engagement ring designs but these can be too brittle for everyday wear. The beauty of being able to talk to people about stone choices is that there are normally really stunning alternatives that they have never considered, or even seen before, which are perfect for a durable design.
Sapphire is the perfect example of a stone that actually comes in far more colours than the classic royal blue we all think of. Sapphire is naturally available in many shades of blue and almost any other colour under the sun, making it the perfect durable alternative to some of the most sort-after but least durable coloured stones.