How to Select a Birthstone Engagement Ring

Amethyst is February's birthstone.

Selecting a birthstone for an engagement ring requires preparation. There are several lists of birthstones, but the most commonly used by jewelers is the list of modern birthstones. You can also choose to go off the traditional birthstone list, which has a few variations. Another key factor to consider when selecting a birthstone engagement ring is your budget. The type of gem will determine the cost of the gem. For example, rubies are more expensive than yellow topaz, so it is important to know the price point you're working with before shopping.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Know which birthstone corresponds to each month. Whether using the modern or traditional list, January's birthstone is garnet, February is amethyst, April is diamonds, May is emeralds, October is opal and November is yellow topaz.

   March is aquamarine by the modern list and bloodstone or jasper by the traditional. June is traditionally turquoise or agate, but the modern choice is pearl. July is ruby for the modern stone and turquoise or onyx for traditional. August's modern stone is peridot, while the traditional stone is topaz. September's traditional stone is chrysolite and modern is sapphire. December's traditional stone is bloodstone or ruby, while the modern choice is blue topaz.

2. Consider the symbolism of a birthstone. Each birthstone represents a different character trait, which can be a useful piece of information. If you have ruby as a July birthstone, representing devotion, you might surround it with diamonds that represent eternal love. January symbolizes prosperity, February is wisdom, March is happiness, April is eternal love, May is fidelity, June is chastity, July is devotion, August is success, September is sincerity, October is beauty, November is cheerfulness and December is strength.

3. Decide on the quality of gem you want. The fewer flaws in the gem, the more expensive it will be. Determine your budget before shopping so you can determine how high of a quality gem you can afford.

4. Choose the cut of your stone. You may want a square cut or a round cut gem. You should also consider the style ring you will want when choosing the gem's cut.

5. Pick your ring and ring setting. Different birthstones look better with different metals. Decide if you want a yellow gold, white gold, silver, bronze or platinum ring. The setting can also determine if you want to display the birthstone as a solitaire or pair it with other gems.

References

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