Sapphire vs Diamond Engagement Ring

Shopping for engagement rings is a fun journey that marks the next step in your love story. You want one as unique as the relationship and commitment it represents. That’s why, despite being the standard, you may not feel like a diamond engagement ring is right for you.

Of all the different gemstone engagement rings we specialize in here at Alexis Russell, there’s one that we consider to be the perfect alternative to diamonds: our unique sapphire engagement rings. But which is really right for you between a sapphire vs diamond engagement ring?

These are two very different options in terms of color, sparkle, brilliance, durability, and cost. There are subtle nuances in symbolism and sourcing, too.

Feature	Diamond Engagement Rings	Sapphire Engagement Rings
Color Options	Mostly clear/white, limited colored options	Wide variety (blue, teal, peach, green, more)
Sparkle / Brilliance	High sparkle and fire due to strong light reflection	Soft, velvety glow rather than sharp brilliance
Hardness (Mohs Scale)	10 (most durable natural gemstone)	9 (very durable and suitable for daily wear)
Symbolism	Tradition, commitment, longevity	Wisdom, sincerity, individuality
Price Range	Higher price per carat for quality stones	More size/color flexibility within budget
Sourcing Considerations	Must verify ethical sourcing or consider lab-grown	Often easier to trace and source responsibly

 

We’ll break it all down below and help you feel more confident picking between a diamond vs sapphire engagement ring. Just know Alexis Russell is your trusted destination for the ring of your dreams either way. Discover the most unique engagement ring in our catalog today!

Overview of Diamond Engagement Rings

Pros:

• Extremely durable and ideal for lifelong wear

• Unmistakable brilliance and fire

• Classic look that pairs easily with wedding bands and other jewelry

• Widely available in various shapes, sizes, and price ranges

Cons:

• Often more expensive than alternatives of the same size

• May not appeal to someone looking for a more unique or personal ring

• Ethical concerns around diamond mining, unless sourcing is carefully considered (this is not an issue here at Alexis Russell)

Diamonds have long been the default for engagement rings, and that tradition runs deep. Their popularity skyrocketed in the early 20th century when the phrase “a diamond is forever” was coined. But clever advertising is just one reason diamond engagement rings are still popular. This is the most durable of all gemstones with a ranking of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, so you can rest assured your engagement ring will stand the test of time. Diamonds really DO last forever!

Of course, the natural brilliance and light reflection produces a stunning sparkle that other gemstones can’t match. Plus, you can find diamonds in an array of shapes like round, oval, emerald, cushion, and more in various settings like solitaire, halo, pavé, etc.

There are various clarity and color grades catering to both traditional and modern styles, too. Clear diamonds remain the norm, but champagne, gray, and even the salt and pepper diamond are becoming more and more sought after.

You may be wondering, though - do engagement rings have to be diamond? Definitely not! There are so many affordable, sustainable, and unique alternatives at your fingertips. Let’s look at the other half of the diamond vs sapphire engagement ring conversation below.

Overview of Sapphire Engagement Rings

Pros:

• Available in a variety of colors for a more personalized look

• Highly durable and suitable for everyday wear

• Typically more affordable than diamonds of similar size and quality

• Easier to source while upholding ethics and morals

Cons:

• Some colors (like teal or peach) may not match all metal tones or wedding bands

• Slightly softer than diamonds and may scratch over time if not handled with care

Sapphires are a vivid diamond alternative worth considering. You probably picture a deep blue hue when thinking of a sapphire, but there are so many other shades you’ll find: peach, green, teal, yellow, and even white.

They may not be quite as strong as diamonds, but sapphires still score really high on the Mohs scale at 9. They’re more than capable of standing up to the wear and tear of daily life.

Although we’re seeing more and more customers interested in our sapphire engagement rings, the trend can be traced back to Princess Diana and her stunning, world-renowned oval blue sapphire ring, now worn by Kate Middleton.

One of the reasons our customers tell us they want a sapphire ring is to stand out amidst the crowd. No two are quite alike as there are subtle differences in tone, saturation, and cut, so you can truly find a ring as unique as your relationship.

So, is sapphire a good engagement ring? One of the best, as a matter of fact. But whether you should go with a sapphire vs diamond engagement ring is another question entirely.

Sapphire vs Diamond Engagement Ring: Key Differences

The truth is you can’t go wrong either way choosing between a diamond vs sapphire engagement ring. Both of these can be a stunning way to represent the bond you share with your other half.

Ultimately, it’s just a matter of what resonates more with you, which will better suit your lifestyle, and of course, your budget for the purchase. You can connect with our expert stylist and service specialists for a one-on-one conversation, and we’ll help you make the right choice.

In the meantime, let’s look at the most significant differences between a sapphire vs diamond engagement ring.

Color and Aesthetic Variety

Diamonds have feature a clear, bright appearance that people love. They’re not exactly known for their range, though. There are only a few different types of diamonds aside from the classic colorless look: black, salt and pepper, champagne, gray + icy white, red and green.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but maybe you want a bit more color in your life. Sapphires are available in a wider array of hues: deep blue, teal, peach, green, yellow, purple, bi-color, even colorless.

Diamonds feel timeless and universal, while sapphires feel expressive and individualized. Neither is inherently better than the other - but one might resonate with you more.

Sparkle, Brilliance, and Light Reflection

Diamonds win when it comes to sparkle with a difference you can see. They feature a really high refractive index that reflects light in ways that produce more brilliance and fire than any other gemstone (aside from moissanite).

This is what puts out those tiny flashes of color and white light. It’s an unmistakable characteristic of diamonds. Sapphires, on the other hand, don’t perform quite the same optical tricks. They still pop, but it’s more of a soft glow or sheen than a dance of light - especially in darker shades.

So if you want to fly under the radar and remain more understated, a sapphire engagement ring might be the right choice. If you want to make a statement when the light catches your ring, stick with diamonds.

Durability and Hardness

This is where you’ll see a more tangible advantage between a diamond vs sapphire engagement ring - durability and hardness.

Diamonds are the hardest natural material on earth with a ranking of 10 on the Mohs scale. They’re extremely scratch-resistant, perfect for those who plan on wearing their ring no matter where life takes them.

Sapphires fall just short of this durability, but they’re still really durable with a rating of 9 on the Mohs hardness scale. They’re plenty tough for daily wear but can show minor scratches over time if you aren’t careful in how you wear and care for them.

Some choose to look at these minor imperfections as marks of character rather than flaws. But if you don’t want to worry about any potential damage during your day-to-day life, diamonds are the stronger gemstone.

Symbolism and Meaning

There are even differences in symbolism and meaning in comparing the sapphire vs diamond engagement ring. Diamonds traditionally symbolize forever, loyalty, and commitment - which is exactly what most people want in an engagement ring.

However, sapphires have a more distinct meaning. Ancient cultures thought sapphires were meant to protect against envy and harm. Today, they’re more known to represent wisdom, truth, and sincerity.

Couples also choose sapphires for their uniqueness and individuality. Your relationship is unlike any other, so why would you go with the same gemstone as everyone else? This is the appeal of sapphire.

The Cost Conversation

Here’s where you’ll see a major advantage for the sapphire engagement ring vs diamond counterpart. You can often get a larger, high-quality sapphire for the same price as a smaller diamond.

Be clear, sapphires are not “cheap” by any stretch of the imagination. However, they typically provide more value for couples who want something striking without paying a premium for sparkle.

Diamonds cost more per carat, but you get what you pay for. These are as durable and unmistakable as a gemstone gets, with a brilliant fire that catches eyes and scores compliments.

Sourcing and Ethical Considerations

Both diamonds and sapphires raise sourcing questions, which is why you need to do your due diligence in shopping for engagement rings. Diamonds have a well-known history of conflict mining, which is why lab-grown diamonds have become more and more popular.

But here at Alexis Russell, you won’t have to compromise on your morals to get a stunning diamond engagement ring. We comply with the Kimberley Process and offer traceable, ethically sourced stones.

On the other hand, sapphires are looked at as easier to source responsibly - but that doesn’t mean the industry is immune to the same exploitation as the diamond industry. Many are mined in small-scale operations in countries like Sri Lanka and Madagascar.

Again, though, you can get the ring of your dreams without worrying about the harm that has gone into getting it on your finger when you shop at Alexis Russell. We’re the trusted choice for a sapphire OR diamond engagement ring. More on that in a moment.

So, Should I Get a Sapphire or Diamond Engagement Ring?

Hopefully you feel clear about which is more up your alley between a sapphire vs diamond engagement ring at this point. Each has its pros and cons, so think about what matters most to you and choose accordingly.

A diamond might feel like the natural fit if you love a classic, high-sparkle look and want the most durable stone. But, a sapphire could be a good candidate if you’re drawn to color, individuality, or a deeper sense of symbolism - and want to save some money.

Both gemstones are durable, meaningful, and stunning in their own way. It really comes down to what feels like you. That said, the real challenge isn’t always choosing the stone. It’s finding a jeweler who gets your vision and takes the stress out of the process. That’s where we come in.

Either Way, Discover an Engagement Ring as Unique as Your Love Story at Alexis Russell

For more than 20 years now Alexis Russell has been playing a small part in forever stories. We specialize in creating rings that feel personal, whether you're leaning toward a moody Montana sapphire or a classic rose-cut diamond.

Discover a curated collection of one-of-a-kind engagement rings handcrafted in our New York studio using ethically sourced gemstones and recycled gold. We have ready to ship engagement rings if you’re in a rush to pop the question.

Or, you can design your own engagement ring with the help of our team. Choose your center stone, select a setting that fits your aesthetic, and customize every detail with support from experts who are passionate about what they do.

We’ll make the process smooth, pressure-free, and genuinely exciting. So, take the next step today and tell your story through color, through shape, and through details that reflect who you are and the commitment you’re making.

Wrapping Up Our Diamond vs Sapphire Engagement Ring Guide

Choosing between a sapphire vs diamond engagement ring is more than a design decision. It’s about what you want your ring to represent. There’s no wrong answer here, fortunately. As long as you shop with a trusted jeweler like Alexis Russell you can’t go wrong either way.

Learn how to shop for engagement rings in our blog if you’re in the thick of this journey. Or, take the next step with Alexis Russell by your side and find the ring that fits your relationship, not just the trend. Explore meaningful, handcrafted rings designed for how you love today!