How to Select a Purple Sapphire Engagement Ring

Technically, a purple sapphire does not exist. What you are looking for is a blue sapphire with violet hues. Violet and purple are common hues in sapphires and considered beautiful characteristics in the gem. A dark purple sapphire is one that is mostly blue with about 12% to 15% of the stone in a violet color. These stones are a higher quality and more expensive. Sapphires that are light purple have less blue, are less valuable and, therefore, will be less expensive. Diamonds are traditional for engagement rings, but other precious stones are becoming more common.

Instructions

1. Establish a budget. Know how much you are willing to spend before you begin looking for an engagement ring. Tell the salesperson so he or she will show you stones only within your price range.

2. Choose a shape for your gem. Sapphires can be cut into round, square or oval shapes, and this will also determine the style of ring setting you will get. Look for a purple sapphire that matches your design idea. The color can be very light to very dark, depending on your preference. Dark purple sapphires have more blue and tend to look blue or violet, depending on the lighting.

3. Choose a setting for the gem. Gold, white gold, silver and platinum are all beautiful metals for an engagement band. However, yellow gold can look dull next to a purple sapphire, so have the salesman show you the different bands next to your stone. Choose a setting to properly secure the purple sapphire. If you want the sapphire to be the focus, choose a solitaire setting. If you want to contrast it, select a setting that pairs the sapphire with other gems, such as diamonds.

References

• "Jewelry Savvy: What Every Jewelry Wearer Should Know"; Cynthia A. Sliwa and Caroline Stanley; 2007
• "Before You Buy an Engagement Ring: With a 4-Step Guide for Making the Right Choice (Schiffer Book)"; Nancy N. Schiffer; 1999
• "Gemstones (Smithsonian Handbooks)"; Cally Hall; 2002
• "Gemstone Buying Guide, 2nd Edition: How to Evaluate, Identify, Select & Care for Colored Gems"; Renee Newman and Ren'e Newman; 2003