We are excited to head out to Texas this fall to discover the submissions for a brand new AGTA Spectrum Awards category: engagement rings. We will be joining influencers and esteemed members of the press and Jennifer Heebner, the EIC of AGTA’s publications.

Sponsored by the  AGTA Spectrum Awards

If you are a jeweler and would like to enter a design for the award competition, you can do so here.

Anueva sapphire engagement rings

If you’re looking for an engagement ring that’s as unique as your love story, you might want to consider stepping away from tradition and exploring some vibrant alternatives to diamonds. Sapphires, spinels, and emeralds are not only stunning but come with fascinating histories, making them perfect for anyone who wants their ring to stand out from the crowd. Let’s dive into what makes these gemstones so special and why they’re perfect for popping the question.

Anna Sheffield spinel engagement rings

Spinel Engagement Rings

Spinel might be the best-kept secret in the gemstone world, but it’s quickly becoming a favorite for those in the know. Available in a rainbow of colors, spinel can easily be mistaken for more famous gemstones like rubies and sapphires. In fact, some of the world’s most legendary “rubies” are actually spinels—talk about a plot twist!

With a hardness of about 8 on the Mohs scale, spinel is pretty tough, too, making it a great choice for a ring that’s going to be worn every day.  If you want a ring that’s a little off the beaten path but still packs a punch, spinel is your go-to. Plus, it’s believed to bring energy and renewal, which is a pretty awesome vibe to bring into your marriage. Indie Designer Anna Sheffield offers an array of beautiful engagement rings set with dark spinels. Check them out on Anna’s website, some of our favorite settings are pictured  above. Thanks Anna for taking the time to answer a few of our questions about spinel engagement rings.

Creatively, why is spinel such a mesmerizing gemstone?

This gem has been captivating for ages- and the red hues are remarkably ruby-like. But the deep indigos, blue greys, and purples have been catching more attention recently. We love them for the color range as well as the sparkle- they’re remarkably pretty in that regard for a semiprecious gem.

Couples might not consider a grayish gemstone for an engagement ring. As a jewelry designer, why do you think this unique hue is romantic?

Since I launched my ceremonial rings in 2011, we have always looked for uniqueness and unconventional options – stones, shapes and metal colors.  The grey diamond has seen a huge amount of interest in the last ten years and the really beautiful gem-quality pieces are harder to find and have become more expensive as well. I think this the blue grey of the spinel is equally alluring in that it’s subtle but also beautiful. And of course that these are less traditional and less costly than white diamond — many couples are looking for just that combination!

On a more practical level, why is spinel such a great diamond alternative for couples?

Practically speaking these are harder on the Mohs scale than many colored stones in the semi range, and being a bit closer to the precious stones means they are more durable.

Are there any specific maintenance tips for engagement rings featuring spinels?

Using a delicate cleaner is advised and, as with any engagement ring in a delicate setting, it’s important to be conscious of what daily activities you might want to take your ring off for– anything that puts pressure on the setting could also impact the stones.

Any dos and don’ts in terms of spinel engagement ring settings?

I suggest working with a designer versus buying a ring from a more generic manufacturer. Designers not only deliver something beautiful and considered but they know how to create for the best possible wear and  fitted to the gemstone’s attributes.

Emerald Engagement Rings

Emeralds are like the lush, green forests of the gemstone world—rich, vibrant, and full of life. Their deep green hue is unmistakable and has been a symbol of love and renewal for centuries. There’s just something about an emerald that feels both luxurious and earthy at the same time.

Now, emeralds are a bit softer than sapphires and spinels, with a Mohs hardness of around 7.5 to 8. This means they need a little extra TLC to keep them looking their best. But don’t let that scare you off! With the right setting and some care, an emerald ring can be a beautiful and lasting choice. And let’s be real—nothing beats that rich green color when it comes to making a statement.

AGTA Board President Kimberly Collins got engaged earlier this year with the stunning emerald engagement ring pictured above and she gave us some great tips if your heart is also set on one. Watch the video!

Anueva sapphire engagement rings

Sapphire Engagement Rings

Sapphires are like the cool, mysterious sibling of the diamond, and a sapphire engagement ring setting that’s as iconic as it gets. Remember Princess Diana’s engagement ring? Prince Catherine of Wales AKA Kate Middleton is the trusted wearer now of this family heirloom. That breathtaking blue sapphire set the standard for timeless elegance, and now it’s a favorite among modern brides too.

Sapphires aren’t just pretty faces; they’re tough as nails—literally. Ranking a 9 on the Mohs scale, they’re super durable, which means they can handle your everyday adventures without losing their sparkle. Plus, sapphires are said to symbolize wisdom and loyalty, making them a meaningful choice for a lifelong commitment.

Did you know sapphires come in almost every color? Yes, you can find them in pink, yellow, green, and even white! Aside from the iconic blue, teal and green (AKA as mermaid) sapphire engagement rings have become extremely popular. The woman who launched this trend , Jennifer Vinje, founder and owner of Anueva Jewelry was kind enough to answer these questions for our audience.

Creatively, why are mermaid sapphires such mesmerizing gemstones? Where do you source your sapphires and how do you pick them?

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, we would learn about the kelp forests, the under sea gardens that supported our ecosystems. Sometimes the inclusions we find in teal and sea-green stones mimic those oceanic gardens, and we’re reminded of how incredible it feels to be submerged in the ocean, just a witness-participant in that amazing, underwater world.

Choosing our sapphires is my favorite part of the job! Even several years later, I can remember the origin, treatment, where/when/from who I bought almost all of them. They’re each so unique. I look specifically for beautiful, diamond-like cuts that are made to enhance the brilliance and color of the gem instead of a crude cut that is simply meant to keep the stone heavy and “expensive.” I’m looking for vibrant colors, and don’t mind inclusions that don’t jeopardize the integrity of the stone. Our stones find the customers that want something that looks like it came from the earth, not a lab.

I’ve been working with some of the same vendors from countries like Australia, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and locally here in the United States for about ten years. Though our customer relationships are very important to us, the relationships I have with my vendors require so much trust, reliability and respect, that those relationships have been so impactful for our business and for my overall experience as a woman-owned company in this male-dominated industry.

Is there a difference in price between traditional dark blue sapphires and teal sapphires?

One of our longest-running vendors of green/teal sapphires told us that before our business, he had such a hard time selling any sapphires with a green undertone. All the market demanded a decade ago were the traditional blue, cornflower and royal blue stones. We rarely buy them! Because of our love for teals and greens (and our customer demand), unfortunately the price of teals and greens are going up. They did, indeed, used to be less expensive than traditional blues but we are seeing them climb.

On a more practical level, why are sapphires such a great diamond alternative for couples? Are there any specific maintenance tips for engagement rings featuring sapphires?

I’m sure each region, each market has their own answer to this question. Our customers in the Pacific Northwest and others with an outdoor-oriented life actually want LESS flash, less bling than a diamond has to offer. Our green and teal, and even brown sapphires are a better ode to the activities these couples love to share together, hiking and fishing, swimming and camping in the great outdoors. They want to honor their commitment but don’t want to wear something that doesn’t feel authentic to their passions, personality and style.

Be aware that sapphires can still scuff and be scratched! We recommend removing jewelry before gardening, doing the dishes, exercising, anything that could bend your gold or scuff your stone. Rock climbers, we love you, but please remove your jewelry before scaling those cliffs. For cleaning, a soft bristle toothbrush, warm water and dish soap will do just fine.

Any dos and don’ts in terms of engagement ring settings?

Make sure that you’re not just buying a pretty picture. Some styles on Pinterest might be beautiful to look at in an enlarged image. However, you’ll want to make sure the band you choose is still thick enough for everyday wear and that the tips of your pear and geometric sapphires are covered by prongs and not exposed. Other than that, wear what you love! And don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Jewelry is still fashion, and if you decide ten years from now you want to wear your sapphire ring on your right hand or that you want to reset your stone, don’t feel guilty! Styles and preferences can change over time.

Sponsored by the  AGTA Spectrum Awards

If you are a jeweler and would like to enter a design for the award competition, you can do so here.