Beauty is not the only factor to be considered when choosing a gemstone for an engagement ring, or even everyday jewelry. Durability is important, especially if you rarely remove your ring. You don’t want to damage or chip a stone with sentimental value.
What are the hardest stones? Which ones can be worn daily without losing their brilliance and still retain their luster? We’ll break down your best options, and explain why they may be the perfect fit for you.
Why Durability is Important
Engagement rings, in particular, are subjected to a great deal of wear and tears. Your ring is constantly exposed to damage from handwashing, cooking and working out. It can also be damaged by accidental bumps on hard surfaces. Your ring will look stunning for many years to come with a durable stone.
It’s especially important when you choose a piece from a collection like ready-to-ship engagement rings. You want to be sure that it will handle everyday life.
Diamond: The Gold Standard of Durability
Diamonds are the most valuable gemstones. Diamonds are almost indestructible. They score a 10 out of 10, on the Mohs hardness scale (which measures how resistant a stone is to scratches). Diamonds are ideal for everyday wear and engagement rings.
Diamonds are more resistant to chipping, scratching and cracking than any other gemstone. They also offer timeless brilliance, and are available in many different cuts and settings. You’ll find diamonds with classic solitaires and halo settings as well as modern minimalist designs.
Moissanite: A Strong and Sparkling Alternative
Moissanite, a great diamond substitute that offers both sparkle and durability is the top choice. It is one of the most durable gemstones, scoring 9.25 on the Mohs Scale.
Moissanite, which is created in a lab, is eco-friendly and resistant to breaking and scratching. The fiery brilliance of Moissanite can make it hard to tell apart from diamonds, unless you are a gemologist. Moissanite can be found in ready-to-ship engagement rings. It offers beauty, durability and affordability all in one.
Sapphire: More than Just Blue
The rich, blue color of sapphires is not the only one available. They are a great choice for rings because they score a 9 on the Mohs Scale.
Sapphires, which are known for their durability and resistance to chips, are popular choices in alternative engagement rings. They are available in minimalist styles, vintage-inspired designs, or even as the centerpiece of ready-to ship engagement rings.
Ruby: Red and Radiant
The same mineral as sapphires, corundum, rubies are just as durable. Rubies have a 9-point hardness rating, making them perfect for everyday wear. They are a vibrant color that represents love and commitment.
A ruby engagement is a statement piece with style and strength. Modern jewelers now include rubies in ready-to-ship engagement rings to add a luxurious touch to a timeless tradition.
Spinel: The Underrated Tough Gem
Spinel, both literally and metaphorically, is a hidden jewel. It’s less known, but it is incredibly durable. The Mohs rating is 8. Spinel comes in many colors, including lavender, red, and blue.
Spinel is an excellent choice if you want something different but durable. Some jewelers have begun to include spinel in their ready-to-ship engagement rings to give shoppers more durable and colorful options.
Avoiding softer stones
Although stones such as opals, pearls, and turquoises are beautiful, they are not suitable for everyday rings. These stones are prone to breaking and cracking because they are softer.
If you fall in love, it’s best to use the gem in a pair of earrings or a necklace instead. Or save the ring only for special occasions. It’s best to choose durable stones for everyday wear.
Final Thoughts
Durability is a factor that should not be ignored when choosing a gemstone for an engagement ring or other jewelry. A hard gemstone will ensure that your ring retains its brilliance and structure for many years.
Ask about the durability of a stone when you are designing a piece for yourself or purchasing engagement rings. Diamonds, moissanites sapphires rubies and spinels are all reliable and beautiful stones that will last a lifetime.
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