Spoiler alert: The answer is yes. I was always taught, while working in retail, that the use of emerald gemstones—at least as the main stone—in an engagement ring was a major no-no. Too soft, too risky, too expensive to replace. Of course, if someone absolutely, 100 percent wouldn’t have it any other way, make it work (that’s why jewelry insurance is such a necessary expense!). So needless to say, I’ve always been a little afraid of them. But, if the grapevine proves to be correct, emeralds are making a big showing in bridal. I’m also influenced by a novel I just finished, wholly based on a royal obsession with Wills and Kate, called The Royal We. It was the lovely Becky of Diamonds in the Library who recommended it to me, and boy, does she know her stuff (hence the diamonds plus books angle of her blog). It’s by far one of my favorite books. I devoured it—and cried like a baby a number of times throughout—and I’ve never been more disappointed to finish a book. Okay, back to emeralds. The book’s main character, Bex (clearly based on Kate Middleton), is given an heirloom emerald engagement ring (clearly influenced by the infamous sapphire and diamond ring worn first by Lady Diana and now Kate herself). The ring is described beautifully in the book, brought to life by these words: “The twelve-carat Lyons Emerald was a flawless, classically square stone, ringed twice with tiny diamonds and set in antique Welsh gold. I loved the sight of it sparkling at the end of my arm.” Yeah, that had me hooked. So, am I a sucker for an emerald engagement ring because I fell in love with a bevy of fictional characters and their story? Absolutely. But I love when fantasy meets reality. If the rumors are true that we should expect a rise of emerald engagement rings, I say bring it on—the risk is worth it. Here’s proof.
Handcrafted ring in platinum and 18k yellow gold with 2.59 ct. emerald, 0.48 cts. t.w. trillion diamonds, and 0.33 cts. t.w. round diamonds by Omi Privé, price on request
Carved emerald ring in 18k yellow gold with a 4.57 ct. emerald and 0.25 ct. t.w. diamonds by Vivaan, $3,200
One-of-a-kind ring in 18k white gold with 3.63 ct. pear-shape emerald and 0.73 ct. t.w. diamonds by Parade Design, $7,750 (center stone not included)
Emerald-cut ring in platinum and 18k with a 1.98 ct. emerald and 2.16 cts. t.w. diamonds by Leibish & Co., $16,975
Emerald collection three-stone ring in 18k white gold with a 2.8 ct. emerald and 0.88 ct. t.w. diamonds by Yael Designs, $27,672
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