Alternatives to the diamond

Engagement rings, like many other jewels, are a symbol of love, promise and eternity. Traditionally a diamond is often chosen, but did you know there are so many other beautiful options? As a gemmologist and jewellery designer, I would love to introduce you to a world of colour and character. Because why limit yourself to one choice when there are so many dazzling alternatives?

Why choose colour?

Coloured gemstones give a jewel personality and meaning. A coloured stone can stand for a memory, a quality you admire or simply a shade that makes your heart beat faster. Colourful gemstones also let you wear something truly unique, something nobody else has.

Different colours of gemstones can be worn together beautifully, too. The possibilities are endless, as long as it suits your personality.

In several of my collections, such as Bold, Eclectic and Adeline, we use a wide range of colourful gemstones that together tell a beautiful story and form a unique colour palette.

Gemstones in every shade

When we think of coloured gemstones, three names often spring to mind: blue sapphire, red ruby and green emerald. But did you know there is a whole world of colourful alternatives that are just as impressive, and sometimes even more unique and valuable? In my collections I use a wide range of gemstones that give these classic colours a new dimension. Let me take you on a colourful journey.

Blue gemstones: a sea of shades

Blue is undoubtedly one of the most loved colours in gemstones, and sapphire is the star of this palette. But the world of blue gemstones offers so much more.

Sapphire: timeless elegance. Deep blue sapphire radiates royal luxury and symbolises wisdom, loyalty and protection. What many people don't know is that besides classic royal blue, sapphire also comes in yellow, green and pink. A sapphire is a stunning choice for a timeless look, in a ring or in refined earrings that let the blue shine.

Aquamarine: fresh and playful. With its light blue to blue-green tint, aquamarine radiates calm and freshness, perfect for a playful, airy accent. My personal favourite? The intense, deep blue Santa Maria aquamarine, with a rare rich colour that gives jewellery a striking presence.

Blue zircon: a sparkling rarity. If you are looking for a blue gemstone with a unique brilliance, I recommend blue zircon. It is known for its vivid colour and intense lustre: a beautiful alternative for those who want to wear something exclusive. Blue zircon is a true investment gemstone.

Indicolite tourmaline: mysterious and unique. The deep indigo and blue-green shades of indicolite give this gemstone an edge and make it irresistible to lovers of unique colours. Its play of tones gives every jewel a mysterious, striking charm.

From pink to red: romance and strength

Besides the classic ruby, there are beautiful red and pink gemstones that give jewellery a romantic or powerful character.

Morganite and pink tourmaline. For a soft, romantic look, morganite is a fantastic choice: a light pink gemstone with a delicate charm. Want more intensity? Candy pink morganite and pink tourmaline offer a deeper shade.

Rubellite tourmaline: deep pink-red luxury. One of my favourite pink gemstones is rubellite. Its deep, saturated pink-red radiates pure luxury, perfect for those who love statement jewellery.

The classic ruby: powerful and elegant. With shades from dark pink to the famous "pigeon blood" red, ruby remains a timeless choice. The more intense the red, the more precious the stone. A ruby in a ring or pendant instantly gives any jewel a powerful, elegant look.

Green, greener, greenest: natural splendour

Green gemstones are hugely on trend right now. In my collections I work with a wide selection, from the classic emerald to rarer varieties.

Emerald: a rich classic. The intense green of emerald is simply breathtaking. It symbolises growth, harmony and balance. An emerald, with or without diamonds, lifts any jewel to a new level of refinement.

Tsavorite and green tourmaline: unique shades of green. Alongside emerald I often use tsavorite, a richly and deeply coloured garnet, and green tourmaline, which comes in every shade of green. Our favourite? The beautiful mint tourmaline, a fantastic and unique colour.

Green sapphire and beryl: versatility in green. For something less classic, green sapphire or green beryl are great alternatives. Green sapphires tend towards yellowish green or khaki, while green beryl has a more aqua or yellowish undertone.

Jewellery full of colour

With so many gemstones, each of our jewels offers the chance to tell a story that suits you. The common thread is a rich diversity of gemstones in all shades of blue, red and green. Whether you choose the timeless elegance of sapphire, the vibrant charm of rubellite or the fresh look of aquamarine, every design is a unique story of colour and personality.

Which colour suits you? Let's create something together that reflects your personality. Feel free to visit my design studio to discover which gemstone tells your story best. Because your style is unique, and it deserves to be seen.

Authors: Celine Roelens and Michèle Mignolet