Back in the Day – circa 1930′s – 1960′s — diamonds weren’t necessarily the first choice for engagement rings. He might have waited to buy the engagement ring after he proposed – least the ring didn’t suit her hand.
Diamonds were expensive, so most engagement rings used small solitaire stones — which look best on a small hand.
So what was the hot engagement ring thrilling brides mid-century?
Birthstones!
Brides could choose a much larger semi-precious stone, and the ring would also be much more personal to her. We think this is a really lovely and romantic idea to bring back. And how romantic if he designs a one of a kind engagement ring, using her birthstone? He is honoring her birth, her uniqueness, which honors her parents. Familial and romantic. Sweet.
Idea: If he gives you an engagement right after the wedding date has been settled on, you may choose the color of your wedding month for the engagement ring, or in some of the colors for your wedding.
For wedding color ideas, you might want to look at these vividly colored Vintage Wedding Invitations here >>
So, here is a list of Engagement Ring Birthstones:
JANUARY: Garnet. Deep, rich, red and romantic. The garnet is found in other colors: orange, green, yellow, blue, purple and nearly clear. A mix of these jewel colors will brighten an already brilliant January Winter Wedding.
FEBRUARY: Amethyst. Violet loveliness. Perfect for the most romantic month!
MARCH: Aquamarine, or bloodstone. A brilliant aquamarine was a popular engagement stone, for women who were not born in March as a substitute for a diamond.
APRIL: Diamond. Oh well.
MAY: Emerald. The deep rich green of Emeralds can be used beautifully in May weddings. Especially paired with clean bright white.
JUNE: Pearl. This is a trend waiting to happen. Pearls are just a perfect metaphor for love and marriage. Lemonade out of lemons, and pearls from irritation!
JULY: Ruby. Deep rich ruby red. Use with a lovely pale blue and crisp white. Lovely for summer and both blondes and brunette hair color.
AUGUST: Sardonyx, Peridot, or Carnelian.
SEPTEMBER: Sapphire (an oldtime favorite engagement ring)
OCTOBER: Opal. Some say that it’s unlucky to wear an Opal if you are not born in October, but very very good luck if your birthday falls in the 10th month. A pearlescent wedding design, with rustic accents would just be dreamy.
NOVEMBER: Topaz. Brilliant in any color: from clear to blue, reddish brown or pink.
DECEMBER: Turquoise or Lapis Lazuli.
There is some really great information about various gemstones here.
