From a distance, a white sapphire looks very similar to a diamond. Since a sapphire is less expensive than a diamond, many people consider sapphires as an alternative when it comes to engagement rings. Sapphire center stones have been popular for a while but often for the colored choices rather than clear. So, is using a white sapphire a good idea as an alternative to a diamond?
Despite looking similar to the naked eye, white sapphires and diamonds have different qualities and characteristics. These differences range from composition to brilliance as well as hardness and durability. White sapphires are made of corundum, the crystalline form of aluminum oxide. Diamonds are made of carbon in crystalized form.
A sapphire won’t shine like a diamond will. They’re also harder than sapphires, although sapphires are very hard stones as well. When it comes to brilliance, sparkle, and fire, diamonds win in all levels. Brilliance is how diamonds reflect white light. Fire is how diamonds reflect the spectrum of colored light. While sapphires can approach the brilliance of diamonds, they don’t display fire at all.
In addition, depending on the quality of the cut, a sapphire may look glassy or cloudy. For colored sapphires or rubies (which are simply red sapphires) that’s not an issue at all but it can severely hamper the beauty and value of a white sapphire center stone. When it comes to jewelry, white sapphires work best as small surrounding or pave set stones that help to show off a center stone, preferably a diamond.
Of course, engagement rings are all about the personalities of the people involved and their preferences. There are those who enjoy the slightly less showy nature of a sapphire and the more earthy tones. The thing to remember above all else is that the engagement ring you buy is yours and your partner’s and nobody else’s.
If you’re in the market for an engagement ring, reach out and we’d love to help you. If you’re looking for an engagement ring in San Diego, why not drop by our showroom? You’ll be glad you did.
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