A. Turquoise Engagement Rings: The Complete Guide
It can be hard to give up on the idea that all engagement rings should have a diamond center stone, but once you embrace the possibility of a non-traditional approach, you’ll discover a vast world of beautiful historical gemology to choose from. One of those options that deserves a closer look is turquoise.
1. What is turquoise
Turquoise is an opaque gemstone known for its attractive color. It comes in a variety of shades of blue and green, although robin blue (or sky blue) has the highest score. This attractive gemstone dates back thousands of years; Perhaps most notable are the turquoise jewelry dating back to around 5000 BC. It was discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs in the el-Qaa region. It is mined primarily in Iran, China and the American Southwest today, and the name turquoise is derived from the French phrase pierre tourques (Turkish stone), meaning that it came from the Turkish region to Europe (although its original origins are believed to have been from Iran).
2. Advantages and Disadvantages of a Turquoise Engagement Ring
Because turquoise is between 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale (which means it’s softer than some other gemstones), it’s easier to cut and carve. Unfortunately, this also means it will scratch or crack. As for cost, prices may vary. The Gemology Institute of America says that turquoise is evaluated on three basic quality factors: color, texture and the presence or absence of matrix. Jewelry designer Grace Lee explains that the main cost will be the jewelry itself, as well as “the value of the metal used and how intricate and detailed the setting is.”
3. What to look for in a turquoise ring
Here are some questions and answers you should know before buying a turquoise engagement ring.
- Are there different color variations for turquoise engagement rings? The higher the copper density, the more intensely blue the turquoise appears. Another element of turquoise is its matrix, when you see veins like cobwebs running across the stone (as opposed to a solid color). Of course, compared to any other matrix, Matrix depends on your personal preferences when choosing your stone.
- Is there a specific configuration that works best? When considering a turquoise engagement ring, Lee notes that in addition to the cut, settings are also important. “Personally, I think the teeth adjustments work best so you don’t put too much pressure on the turquoise,” she says. “But it’s often used on panels and even as inlay.”
- Can other stones be incorporated with turquoise? Many turquoise engagement ring options incorporate other stones into the design as well, including diamond halos and other complementary side stones. Similar to diamonds, turquoise is also heavy in carats.
- What is a good cut for a turquoise engagement ring? “The smooth cabochon cut seems to be the most common cut for turquoise,” says Lee.
4. How to care for your turquoise ring
Lee recommends avoiding harsh chemicals or high temperatures when cleaning your turquoise jewelry (the former can affect the color of your gemstones).
5. ILA Felicia ring with turquoise and diamond
Who needs a big shine when you’ve got a trio of turquoise stones to step up your ring selfie game? To be fair, the 14-karat gold band is flanked by two diamonds for a beautiful finish.
6. Jennifer Meyer Ring made of 18k gold, turquoise and diamond
Avoid traditions with this delicate ring full of whims. Five turquoise stones are shaped like a flower with a brilliant diamond in the center.
7. Sophie Jane Antique Edwardian Turquoise and Diamond Ring
Are you a modern bride looking to add a special heritage to your wedding day look? This charming 1900s Edwardian ring consists of a round turquoise center and eight ancient mine-cut diamonds.
8. Turquoise Blue Ring with Grace Lee Maman Crown Frame
This ring features a rose-cut turquoise stone set in a 14-carat gold crown frame. The uniqueness of each stone makes it unique.
9. Effy diamond ring in turquoise yellow gold
The kind of engagement ring that gives off real serious vibes. An oval turquoise stone is surrounded by spectacular round diamonds.
10. Retrouvai Triple Coil Mini Compass Ring
This handcrafted ring features a unique turquoise inlaid design that is perfect for the bride who works with her hands and doesn’t want to accidentally hit the stone. In addition to a polished 14K yellow gold finish, you’ll notice white diamond accents that complete the triple coil silhouette.
11. Dru jeweled Halo signet ring
This modern turquoise ring is surrounded by 34 brilliant white diamonds for an elegant architectural finish.
12. Samantha Tea Laluna Ring Persian Turquoise Ring
This eye-catching ring is made of 18k rose gold with Persian turquoise and 0.20 carat gray diamonds. The diamond bow makes this ring admirable even from a distance.
13. Shahla Karimi Mini Honey Ring
If you’re looking for a simple engagement ring with a turquoise stone in the center, you’ve come to the right place with this option from a famous jewelry designer. We love the fact that it can be stacked with other rings for an easy statement.
14. The Last Line heart ring in turquoise and gold
Though subtle, this heart-shaped turquoise stone looks whimsical and romantic. It’s the perfect cocktail ring for your everyday stack.
15. Large Tamara Comolli button ring made of yellow gold and turquoise
With its minimalist design, this 18-carat gold ring with a breathtaking turquoise stone is the epitome of timelessness. The turned yellow gold setting is particularly elegant.
16. David Yurman Châtelaine turquoise ring with diamonds
Turquoise is the star of this striking piece, which is set on an 18-carat gold braided bracelet with diamond pavé in each claw. Innovative brides won’t want to miss this David Yurman classic.
17. No.3 star gypsy ring
Say “yes” to this incredibly unique engraved gold ring with stackable appeal. Elaborate details combined with a turquoise stone give a real treatment.
18. Yvonne Léon ring made of 9 carat gold, turquoise and diamond
We love this energetic ring that seems to have a story of its own. Yvonne Léon’s vintage-inspired design is made of 9-carat gold and features a beautiful turquoise stone with a 0.015-carat diamond that adds a touch of sparkle.
19. Emily Warden Cage Turquoise Ring
This turquoise ring is beautiful and captivating in design and is perfect for free-spirited brides. It is available in sterling silver or 14K gold and features a true Mexican turquoise stone.
20. Adina Reyter 14k Turquoise + Round Diamond Ring
For the bride who values simplicity. This versatile gold ring with an open design features delicate diamonds and turquoise stones.
21. Anna Sheffield Turquoise Luna Ring II Ring
Stand out from the crowd with this conversation ring featuring a rare turquoise Bisbee stone. A mix of reclaimed gray diamonds encircles the center, while an architectural structure provides support.
22. Van Cleef and Arpels Perlée Couleurs Ring
For a splash of color, say no more. This exquisite Van Cleef & Arpels ring with turquoise decorative stones is a real decoy. It is enhanced by delicate white gold pearls, which give it a decidedly feminine look.
23. Ashley Zhang Gypsy Ring Turquoise Jewelry
With this antique 1926 turquoise gypsy ring in 14K yellow gold, you’re immersed in a bygone era. While the classic style of the stamp has an elegant design, the blue shade of the Easter egg is sure to please bohemian brides.
24. ILA coexistence band
Only a whole series of turquoise is better than a turquoise stone. This stunning 14k gold wedding band accented by a medium diamond symbolizes your continued love for each other.
B. Turquoise Engagement Ring – Good Or Bad Idea?
As editors of the Jewelry Buying Guide, we write about things we love and we think you will love them too. We often partner with affiliates and can generate revenue from these links at no cost to you. There is a shift to trendy and cool engagement rings, as more and more couples choose alternative designs to showcase their personality and style. As a result, semi-precious stones such as turquoise are increasingly in demand as engagement rings. There is no doubt that turquoise looks good when expertly mounted in the correct ring configuration. In fact, it might blow your mind!
1. Advantages of Turquoise Engagement Rings
There are many reasons why a turquoise engagement ring is a great idea:
- One of the main reasons is that a turquoise ring is really unique. Turquoise is a special gemstone and there really is no other stone like it. Polished in cabochon, the turquoise has an attractive smooth finish and really stands out.
- The highlight of turquoise is its color. When used on the finger, turquoise adds a blue color that is very noticeable. Because of that, a little turquoise is worth a lot. So, if you like minimalist designs, you can opt for a small turquoise stone that is still very visible.
- Turquoise is the birthstone of December. For someone born in December or with a special bond that month, a turquoise engagement ring can have extra meaning. For example, if you met your other half or she proposed to you in December, you might want to celebrate that month with the appropriate stone.
- High quality turquoise is not necessarily cheap, but it is significantly cheaper than diamonds, sapphires or rubies. This makes a turquoise engagement ring an inexpensive option. Obviously, the quality and age of the setting, branding and other details must be taken into consideration as this would significantly increase the price of the entire ring. But overall, it’s safe to say that turquoise is a much cheaper option than most gemstones.
- A turquoise engagement ring goes well with different design styles. Set in yellow gold, turquoise rings can look very elegant, luxurious and have a vintage charm. Set in white metals such as white gold or platinum, the stone looks modern, with the blue and silver tones forming a striking contrast.
2. Disadvantages of Turquoise Engagement Rings
Every story has two sides, and unfortunately, like all other gemstones, turquoise has its drawbacks. Here are some disadvantages of turquoise engagement rings:
- The main disadvantage of turquoise is its smoothness. Turquoise is not a very hard stone and is rated on the Mohs scale of 5 to 6. This means that objects with a higher hardness can easily scratch the gemstone. For comparison, silica, which is found in dust, is in 7th place. Turquoise is also porous and usually requires treatment to stabilize the stone and make it suitable for use in jewelry. It is imperative that your turquoise engagement ring is mounted in a safe environment such as a bezel or halo.
- Turquoise can discolor and fade over time if it is of low or low quality. This can be aggravated by contact with oils, including body oils and water. To avoid this, consider purchasing the highest quality natural turquoise that has not been treated. These are not known to change color.
- Turquoise requires extra care and maintenance to extend ring life. This includes avoiding harsh chemicals, soaking in water for long periods, removing the ring during physical activity, using it in a gentle environment, and so on. Prevent stone from hitting hard objects and store it separately when not in use.
3. Tips for Incorporating Turquoise into Your Engagement Ring
If you really want turquoise in your engagement ring but aren’t sure if it’s worth the maintenance, you can try incorporating turquoise elements into your overall ring design instead of making it your main stone.
- Use turquoise on accent stones to add color to a core stone such as a diamond or moissanite. You can choose whether turquoise surrounds the center stone like a halo or embellishes the ring shaft.
- Another idea is to use turquoise in a ring protector, which is a unique way to incorporate turquoise into the engagement ring while protecting the central diamond from bumps.
- Opt for turquoise inlay instead of a turquoise stone for your ring. Turquoise inlay is a safe and inexpensive way to bring turquoise into your ring design and has a unique look. There are a few different inlay styles, with crushed turquoise inlay and turquoise inlay accents being two. They both have different looks, so choose a look that suits you.
So there you have it. The pros and cons of turquoise engagement rings and some ways to bring turquoise to your ring without making it the central gem. If you’re still in love with the idea of a turquoise engagement ring, give it a try! After all, you have a ring like no other.
