What Not To Pair

Until the early 20th century, colored gemstones were more often chosen for engagement rings because of their symbolism or fashion. As professionals, we are witnessing a growing interest in custom engagement rings Palm Springs and Redlands, where our showrooms are located. We are always excited to discuss custom engagement rings, but couples are often surprised when we advise against certain gemstones for the role of center stone.

Why are some gemstones a bad choice for custom engagement rings?

A vast majority of women wear their engagement ring day in, day out, even though this is not actually recommendable. The more you wear your ring, the higher the risk of damage. If your job or lifestyle makes you spend a lot of time outdoors, doing some manual work or participating in rough activities, the risk of damage steps up. On the other hand, even if you are super careful about your ring, with some gemstones your care and gentleness may still prove insufficient. Some gemstones simply can’t take impacts of any sort.

Gemstones are rated according to their hardness factor on Mohs (pronounced Moe’s) scale. Their rank on this scale indicates the amount of bumping and scratching that the gemstone can take without showing damage. Generally, the higher the score on this 1 – 10 scale, the harder and more durable the stone is. By the same token, the lower the score, the more delicate and sensitive the stone is. If the stone can’t take a lot of (relatively) rough handling, it means it is less than a perfect choice for a ring that you will wear every day.

How is the hardness factor estimated?

The hardness of a gemstone is determined by whether it can be scratched with other gemstones and materials. When the stone shows damage it means that its hardness is lower than or equal to the hardness of the stone/material that scratched it.  

Diamonds rank 10 on Mohs scale, which means that they are the hardest gemstones that exist. Of all gemstones, they are without question the sturdiest and most durable. It takes much more to damage a diamond than some other stone.

Which stones are best not worn daily in engagement rings?

These diamond engagement ring alternatives are not recommended for everyday wear:

•         Pearl
•         Opal
•         Moonstone
•         Garnet
•         Emerald

Pearls score between 2.5 and 4.5 on Mohs scale. Their coating is prone to peeling and their surface is susceptible to dents. They are often glued into place, so sometimes they will fall out of the setting.

Opals are quite soft, reaching only the score of between 5.5 and 6.5. They craze and chip easily.

Moonstone scores between 6 and 6.5. Its iridescence is best captured in en cabochon cut, which is not immune to scratches.

Garnet sits between the notches of 6.5 and 7. Even though it’s not as soft as the previously mentioned materials, it needs care in order not to show its age.

Emerald is between 7.5 and 8, which may seem hard. Unfortunately, the internal structure is typically full of inclusions and cavities, rendering the stone susceptible to cracking and chipping.

Should you completely disregard these gemstones?

If the stones we mentioned as not recommended for engagement rings mean something special to you and you’d really like to have them sparkle on your finger, you can definitely use them for your custom engagement ring. Somethings what you should keep in mind if you decide to use opals, pearls, emeralds, moonstones or garnets:

•         It might be best to wear your engagement ring only on special days or just a few days a week.
•         You shouldn’t wear the ring if you think you’ll be active and using your hands in a way that might damage the ring.
•         Prepare yourself for the possibility of replacing the stones if and when they get damaged.

Custom engagement rings Palm Springs are our specialty

Custom-designed engagement rings are a beautiful way of expressing your love and devotion. Our expert team at Emerson & Farrar would be thrilled to make a unique engagement ring for you. Custom jewelry is at the core of our philosophy and passion. Visit our showroom on 125 South Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA 92262 or reach out to us via our online form. We’d love to hear from you!