Sapphire vs Diamond Engagement Rings: Which is Right For You?

What’s in a Gemstone?

When people think of engagement rings, it’s often the marketing version – the single solitaire diamond that glitters on a gold band. But what happens if that’s not what you want or what suits you? It can often feel like you must choose a side between sapphires or diamonds, but in reality, you don’t.. There’s no showdown! Just two different gemstones with different strengths. Choosing the right engagement ring isn’t about rules or traditions; it’s about what suits you, your lifestyle, your budget and your personal sense of style.
 
Let’s take a closer look at both and maybe this will help you decide!

The Diamond Engagement Ring

Diamonds have become the traditional choice, but this has largely been due to the infamous De Beers marketing campaign in 1947. They were used prior to this, as were other gemstones. However, they are a recognisable symbol of commitment and the featured in over 85% of engagement rings in the US in 2025 according to Estate Diamond Jewellery. 
 
So what makes them good for engagement rings, apart from being classic, beautiful and sparkly? Well, they have exceptional durability, ranked at 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making the ideal for everyday wear. They also come in a range of shapes and styles meaning there’s. a diamond cut to suit pretty much everyone! Also, diamonds are well understood, it makes for easy insurance and valuation.
 
So far so good! But what is less attractive about them? They can be expensive! Especially large or higher quality stones. If you wanted a coloured diamond, you would really be having to raid the piggy bank because as with all things rare, they are very expensive. The other downside to a diamond engagement ring can be that some clients feel they are less distinctive because they are so popular. Unless the design/cut is unusual or they are paired with other stones, they can feel less individual.

The Sapphire Engagement Ring

Sapphires have been used for centuries in fine jewellery, including for Royalty – think Princess Catherine’s heirloom ring from her mother-in-law! Although most thought about as being blue, they come in a range of colours from pink to purple, yellow orange and green! There is literally a hue for everyone. 
 
When thinking about durability and hardness, they rank 9 on the Mohs scale, making them perfect for daily wear. They too also come in a variety of shapes and cuts, so you aren’t restricted on design. One of the big differences comes in size vs cost. You can often achieve a larger looking stone for less than a diamond. By using a gemstone with colour, it can be great for clients who want something a little less traditional as well.
 
But what are the cons to sapphires? Everyone knows about carat weight when it comes to diamonds, but the two cannot be compared. This is because sapphires are denser than diamonds and therefore the same carat weight won’t necessarily look the same size. Sapphires also have their own quality parameters – the colour, saturation and clarity are all very important for the overall look of the stone and therefore its cost.

Price Matters

Often, price is one of the biggest deciding factors and understandably so. Diamonds are based on the 4 Cs – cut, colour, carat and clarity. Rarity drives the price, especially for high colour and clarity grades. With sapphires, they are priced primarily on colour, origin and quality. A fine sapphire can be valuable but generally allows more flexibility in price to a carat per carat comparison with a diamond. For example, a pink diamond is super rare and therefore commands a very high price. A pink sapphire can offer a similar hue but a far more accessible price point.

So How Do You Choose?

Choose a diamond if:
You love timeless elegance
Prefer a neutral, but versatile look
Want maximum sparkle and light return
Enjoy classic silhouettes with modern details

Choose a sapphire if:
Are drawn to colour and individuality
Want a ring that is distinctive but still refined
Love vintage, antique or heirloom-inspired designs
Want to reflect personal meaning (colour etc)
 
Or, you could always combine the two! A central diamond or sapphire paired with the other as accent stones or halo.
 

But Which is ‘Better’?

Both stones are excellent choices for engagement rings. They are robust for everyday wear, and the setting will be just as important as the stone choice in making sure it stands the test of time and an active lifestyle!
 
So, in reality, neither is better. They are unique. The best gemstone choice for your engagement ring is the one that fits your lifestyle, reflects your personality, feels right when it’s on and is within budget. I actively encourage clients to try stones in person and see how they look in natural light and get a feel for their day-to-day life. The best choice for them soon becomes clear.

In Summary…

An engagement ring is about meaning – telling your story. It’s not about tradition on trends. Whatever you choose – diamond, sapphire or a combination – the important thing is that the ring feels like you. If you’re unsure, a bespoke approach allows us to explore all options in a no pressure environment, so feel free to get in touch. Sometimes the perfect ring isn’t one gemstone or another, it’s somewhere beautifully in between.