Sapphire Engagement Rings Explained: Colors, Meanings & How to Choose

Diamonds may be the dazzling star of the jewelry world, but sometimes you want a little pop of color. Sapphires have a rich history as one of the most popular diamond alternatives, beloved by royals and nobles for thousands of years, and a clever little nod to the beauty of nature.

Whether you’re a fan of Princess Diana’s engagement ring or want a vintage-inspired look, sapphires deserve a spot on your vision board. This stunning gemstone adds a touch of elegance to any engagement ring. At Valley Rose, our Australian and Montana sapphires are responsibly sourced from small-scale artisanal miners and small businesses, making them fully traceable.

What is a Sapphire?

A sapphire is a precious gemstone that is rated at 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it the second hardest gemstone after a diamond. It naturally occurs in a variety of colors, with blue sapphires being the most popular. Throughout history, sapphires have come to symbolize nobility, truth, wisdom, and protection.  

Read more: Why Sapphires are the Most Popular Diamond Alternative in 2026

Sapphire Colors Explained (Beyond Blue)

Although blue is the most popular color of sapphire, this precious gemstone occurs in a variety of colors, making it the perfect center stone for a unique engagement ring. While the classic blue sapphire represents loyalty, a teal sapphire is even more romantic and offers a modern take on the traditional look. 

Pink sapphires are soft and feminine, while a yellow sapphire shows optimism for the future. If you love the look of a diamond but want a different gemstone, then a white sapphire is a great alternative.

The Meaning Behind Sapphire Engagement Rings

We can trace the popularity of sapphires back to ancient Greece and Rome. Sapphires were originally worn as protective talismans and a symbol of nobility and loyalty. In the Middle Ages, sapphires were considered to represent heaven, making them perfect for couples who have fallen head over heels for each other.

FAQs About Sapphire Engagement Rings

Are sapphire engagement rings durable enough for daily wear?

Sapphires are rated a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them ideal for everyday wear as they’re highly scratch-resistant and can be cleaned at home.

Do sapphires scratch or fade over time?

Sapphire engagement rings are highly scratch-resistant, and the gemstone does not fade over time. It’s rare to damage a sapphire, and regular cleaning can help treat any imperfections.

Are sapphire engagement rings more affordable than diamonds?

Sapphires are generally more affordable than natural diamonds, although they may be similarly priced to lab-grown diamonds. They’re one of the most popular diamond alternatives.

Can I design a custom sapphire engagement ring?

You can design a custom sapphire engagement ring by adding your chosen gemstone to any of our pre-designed settings or by booking a virtual consultation to design a bespoke ring.

Shop Ethical Sapphire Engagement Rings at Valley Rose Studio

Sapphire engagement rings are timeless and more than a ‘trend’. They’ve been popular for generations, from the Art Deco era through to the glamour of the 1980s. Whether you have a September birthday or love the historical meaning behind sapphires, this type of engagement ring will never go out of style.

Every Valley Rose ring is made-to-order by our team of talented artisans, allowing you to select everything from your choice of gemstone to your preferred type of fairmined gold. Our rings are designed to be worn today and cherished forever as heirlooms that will stand the test of time. Get started by exploring our sapphire engagement rings or by booking a virtual consultation to begin designing your custom engagement ring.