Emerald rings, ruby rings, sapphire rings and even pearl rings were once the engagement rings of choice, long before the diamond industry told the world that diamonds were the designated gems of marital bliss.

Is a Ruby Right for HER?

If your lady is a “lady in red” then perhaps you should consider a ruby engagement ring. It will take extra effort because there are fewer jewelry shops that specialize in ruby engagement ring sets, but the reason for a ring in the first place is to demonstrate that you will protect and love and spend time devoting yourself to her as your wife.

A good way to start is to give her an engagement ring SHE will love and wear everyday. If you are not a jewelry buff, or have perhaps never bought a significant piece of jewelry before, you may appreciate a little help.

One of her girlfriends (or a guy friend) who has already bought rings or who knows your fiancé very well may be able to go shopping with you. If not, talk about rings and jewelry in casual conversation with HER and find out what she has in mind.

You needn’t give away the secret if you want a surprise proposal, but it is imperative you know what she wants especially if you are planning on doing something unique or untraditional in the ring department. A ruby engagement ring is not something for every woman, so before investing, be sure she wants a ruby.

The Ruby Ring selection

You know she doesn’t want a diamond and you’re convinced she’ll be happy with a ruby engagement ring. All you have to do is find the right one.

• You may choose to go with a custom made ruby three stone ring in 14K white gold that is very elegant with a deep crimson red ruby and diamonds all around the ruby central stone. Something like this will cost you almost $3,000 – $4,000. There are similar options using diamond and a ruby with a round ruby and two pear diamonds, which depending on the carat sill be at least $3,500 and up.
• The setting will be important to offset the ruby, so you may consider a 4-prong set blood red ruby and accent around the ruby with gold but have the band made of platinum or titanium.
• A round ruby engagement ring is very unique and you can flank the red gem with pear shaped diamonds and select the metal for the band in white gold or the ever popular hypoallergenic titanium rings.

Be careful to select the ruby for its color and ask about the flaw that will potentially create a star effect on the ruby ring in the light.

• Another unusual ruby ring engagement ring option is the blood red ruby on gold filled wire set into deep yellow gold. There are a few different styles of this but they are about $3, 300, again depending on the size of the gemstones selected.

Since a ruby is the symbol of love and passion it may be ideal as a wedding or engagement ring that is more than just a ring. It may well be the object she holds nearest and dearest to her as she wears it daily.

Rubies are hardy gems and withstand much abuse, so match that ruby with a band made of platinum or titanium so it really will last a lifetime.