Often mistaken for ruby or sapphire throughout history, spinel is a distinct gemstone prized for its brilliance and rich range of colors. Slightly softer than rubies and sapphires but still highly durable, spinel is an excellent choice for engagement rings. These 2 couples said yes to spinel with the help of Chelsea Mead of Honey Designs Jewelry.

Caroline and Justin chose a Custom Toi et Moi Heirloom Setting with Teal Blue-Green Sapphire and Dark Grey Spinel 

The Proposal
Justin proposed in Red River Gorge at a treehouse Airbnb, knowing Caroline’s childhood dream was to live in a treehouse. They are both avid outdoors enthusiasts, and the proposal was a complete surprise.

The Ring
Caroline’s engagement ring is set in her great-grandmother’s setting, designed by her great-grandmother’s father, a jeweler. A couple of years before, Caroline’s mother gave the beautiful Toi et Moi setting to Justin, her partner, with the intention that he keep it until they were ready for the proposal. Caroline had discovered Chelsea’s jewelry designs on Instagram and fell in love with them, so she shared Chelsea’s page with Justin. Together, they set up a meeting with Chelsea, as they both wanted the ring to be a collaborative effort. Caroline wanted a mix of surprise in the proposal, but also wanted the ring to reflect their joint vision.

Caroline never imagined wanting a diamond over a colored gemstone. She always envisioned a unique ring that would stand out, and with her great-grandmother’s setting, she knew the stones needed to be just as special. When visiting Chelsea, Caroline was initially unsure of the stone color but appreciated Chelsea’s patience in showing many options. After seeing a variety of stones in person, Caroline chose a blue-green sapphire and grey spinel, which felt perfect when placed on her hand.

Abigail and Dario Fell in Love with a Moody Dark Grey Spinel with Heirloom Diamonds 

The Proposal
Abigail and Dario’s relationship began at Findlay Market in downtown Cincinnati, where Abigail regularly shopped at Dario’s produce stand. Over several months of bi-weekly visits, they formed a connection through friendly exchanges. Their first official date came after Dario’s thoughtful gesture of finding the “prettiest strawberries” for Abigail. When Dario decided to propose, he chose the location that meant so much to them both, Findlay Market. Abigail had no idea the proposal was coming. After a typical dinner out, Dario surprised her with a table set with a ring box surrounded by strawberries. Overwhelmed with joy, she forgot to say “yes” but was thrilled to celebrate with friends and family, who were waiting nearby.

The Ring
Abigail always knew she wanted a unique, non-traditional engagement ring. While she appreciated the beauty of white diamonds, she envisioned a colored gemstone at the center. She was drawn to vintage rings with rubies, emeralds, or sapphires, but when Chelsea introduced her to grey spinel, Abigail was captivated by its moody, dark allure. It perfectly complemented her smaller heirloom diamonds—one from her mother and the other from her late grandmother.  We love the hidden engraved strawberry on the inside of the band in connection to their first fateful meeting at the market stand.

Honey Designs Jewelry’s Notes
When working with couples choosing gemstones, especially for engagement rings, Chelsea always encourages her clients to see stones in person. Hue is subjective, and while high-quality gemstone videos and photos are available, they can’t fully capture the way a stone feels in person. Trust plays a vital role when choosing gemstones, as they typically are not certified or inscribed like diamonds. It is essential to work with a jewelry professional who prioritizes educating couples to help them make the best choices. Spinels are amazing but for those considering emeralds, don’t be afraid to explore them. No other gemstone captures that same vivid hue, and as for durability, that’s where insurance comes in!

Sponsored by AGTA  (The American Gem Trade Association)