Engagements Archives | Page 22 of 45

In Advice

How to make a DIY wedding bouquet

June 4, 2020 No Comments

In most cases, DIY is the cheaper and more fun option. Do you really need any other reason to take up a DIY project? If you do, we’re giving you one. A DIY wedding bouquet is not only quick and easy to do, but it also adds an extra special personal touch to your wedding day.

Imagine walking down the aisle, seeing your love await you at the end. You’re already beaming with pride. Now, you get to add to that pride, knowing that the bouquet you’re carrying was hand-made by you!

If you’re considering building your bouquet from scratch, here’s how to do it:

– You have options, use them

While you may have to stick to one vendor for other aspects of your wedding, with flowers you can mix and match. This means you can go to your local market (or several markets) and hand-pick your bouquet flowers, which makes it all the more special. Choose the ones that feel perfect to you.

-Look for inspiration on Pinterest

Before you go shopping, be sure you have an idea of what you’d like. This will make picking the flowers much less overwhelming when you’re there. Also keep seasonality in mind.

– Prepare your flowers

Once you’ve got a hold of the blooms that will make up your bouquet, remove the foliage from the stems using your hands or a stem stripper. If you’ve chosen roses, ensure that you’ve removed the thorns. Next you’ll trim the stems to ensure that they are all the same length.

– Organise the bouquet

Choose about 4 flowers for the base of your bouquet, then wrap their stems together (preferably with floral tape). Ensure that you have left some exposed stem at the bottom.

– Add as you please

To create your dream bouquet, add more flowers around the base flowers. Keep things like texture and colour in mind as you add, and wrap with floral tape at each layer.

– Wrap and Pin

Once you have decided your bouquet is perfect, give it one final wrapping of floral tape and leave some exposed stem at the top and bottom. Next, using ribbon to cover the floral tape, wrap the stems once more and pin it when you’re done.

– Preserve

Once the bouquet is prepped and read, over it in tissue and store it in the refrigerator. This will keep it looking fresh until you’re ready to walk down the aisle.

Image: Pexels

In Advice

Tremendous topaz engagement rings

June 3, 2020 No Comments

Diamonds are forever, but they’re also expected. Unique, alternative stones have been trending for years as modern brides seek to be different on their big day.

While topaz is an unusual and underrated stone for an engagement ring, it is slowly growing in popularity.

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Topaz is a silicate mineral of aluminium and fluorine. The gemstone ranges in colours from green, yellow, orange to its most common hue, blue. The most popular forms are London Blue and Imperial Topaz. According to the Gemology Institute of America, the colour of the stone depends on impurities or defects within the sructure of the crystal rather than its chemical composition.

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There are conflicting reports on how topaz got its name. Many authorities believe that the stone got its name from the old Greek name of a small island in the Red Sea called Topazios, now known as Zabargad. While topaz was never produced on the island, peridot was. Many confused peridot for topaz before the development of modern minerology.

Others argue that its name can be traced back to the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit and the word topas or tapaz, meaning “fire.”

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The ancient Greeks loved topaz for its supposed ability to give them strength.

“In Europe during the Renaissance (the period from the 1300s to the 1600s) people thought that topaz could break magic spells and dispel anger,” explains the Gemology Institute of America. “For centuries, many people in India have believed that topaz worn above the heart assures long life, beauty, and intelligence.”

In the 19th century, topaz was restricted for the Russian royal family. The majority of topaz came from the Ural Mountains at the time, and the pink gemstone varietal was mined there in honour of the Russian tzar.

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Topaz ranks on the Mohs scale of hardness with an 8, making it quite durable. In fact, it’s one of the hardest naturally occurring minerals, and the hardest of any silicate mineral. It’s hardness and durability makes it an excellent option for jewellery.

Price points vary depending on the colour of the stone. However, the stone is much more affordable than diamonds. Because of its hardness and versatility, the stone can be cut in a number of shapes and sizes. It is important to remember though, that it can scratch easily. Owners are encouraged to be careful with this stone.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0LlPiwB_q5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feature image: Pinterest

In Celebs

Little Mix’s Leigh-Anne Pinnock engaged to footballer Andre Gray

May 29, 2020 No Comments

Little Mix singer Leigh-Anne Pinnock is engaged to boyfriend of 4 years, footballer Andre Gray. Gray popped the question on their 4-year anniversary, which they celebrated at home with a romantic setup in their garden.

Gray shared the moment to Instagram, captioning the images: “Let the caption speak for itself this time. Hasta la muerte” (until death).

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAwAP4CnhjR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

While the singer has not shared images from their engagement, she did take to Instagram to show the love on their anniversary with a throwback image of the two.

“Happy Anniversary baby… how has 4 years gone so fast! ?❤️ all I know is I’m another year more crazy about you. I couldn’t love you harder if I tried ❤️❤️❤️,” she wrote.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAvGAV_nThI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Congrats to the happy couple!

Feature image: Instagram / Andre Gray

In Engagements

10 best movie proposals ever

May 28, 2020 No Comments

Movies are idealised versions of our messy, no-quite-so-perfect reality. This includes marriage proposals, which are often even grander and more emotionally satisfying on the screen. Here are some of the best marriage proposals through the ages.

1. Love Actually

This proposal is all about the power of love. Despite never having spoken a word the other could understand, Jamie and Aurelia feel a connection, leading both to attempt to learn the other’s language. We can’t help but melt as her entire town follows him as he searches for Aurelia and proposes to her in clumsy Portuguese and she says yes in equally clumsy English.

2. Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason

After two whole movies watching these two be on and off depending on which frustrating mishap or misunderstanding has happened, we finally get a typically Bridget awkward proposal. After interrupting Mark’s meeting to ask him to take her back, Bridget awkwardly leaves only to be met with a proposal from Mark in the hallway, even repeating it to make it slightly more perfect.

3. Sex and the City

Big and Carrie were the biggest ‘will they, won’ they’ couples of the 1990s. While the couple’s first proposal is dull and uninspiring, after their first attempt at a wedding didn’t go as planned we got the proposal we deserved. Carrie deserved nothing short of a proposal in a beautiful penthouse apartment with the perfect Manolo Blahnick heels.

4. Walk the Line

There is no bigger proposal than one that takes place on stage in front of everyone. Although this isn’t the first proposal throughout the movie, as Johnny is relentless despite June’s protests, it is the one where she says yes. Some may call it peer pressure (how can you say no to that blackmail?) but for the sake of fantasy, we’re chalking this up to a grand gesture.

5. The Proposal

This one had to make the list, the entire movie is premised on the concept of a proposal! While Margaret’s deal with Andrew is a kind of proposal, the real heart-warmer is that Andrew’s declaration of love comes after an antagonistic relationship grows into love with him finally asking her to “Marry me…because I’d like to date you.”

6. He’s Just Not That Into You

This entire movie about relationships involves many characters, but the most down-to-Earth, frustrating pair are Neil and Beth. Neil doesn’t believe in marriage and after an ultimatum by Beth, they break-up and he lives a sad life on his boat. After proving he is more of a husband not married to her than her sisters’ real husbands, Beth takes Neil back. While that may have been a sweet ending in itself, the best moment comes when Neil proposes using a pair of cargo pants Beth hates. “Check the pocket first,” he says, where she finds the ring box. He drops to a knee and asks, “Will you marry me?” and she says, “Of course.”

7. About Time

This simple proposal is as sweet as the film it features in. Tim wakes Mary up to ask her to marry him, at first she doesn’t realise what he’s getting at but once she does she says yes. This simple, truly romantic proposal is much sweeter and realistic than a grand proposal.

8. Sweet Home Alabama

This is a double proposal spectacular and which one you prefer really depends on what kind of person you are. First there is the New York lavish surprise proposal where Andrew takes Melanie into a darkened room before flicking on the lights and revealing it to be the inside of Tiffany’s so she can pick a ring. The second is the sweet, childhood sweetheart proposal between a young Melanie and Jake as he asks her to marry him. “Why would you want to marry me for, anyhow?” she asks. “So I can kiss you anytime I want,” he responds.

9. When Harry Met Sally

Harry fulfils the ideal of the proper but romantic speech to convince Sally that they are meant to be together. “When you realise you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible,” he says.

10. Crazy Rich Asians

One of the most recent entries on this list, this proposal takes the cliché airport chase to the next level, ending up actually on the plane. After getting the approval and ring from his mother, Nick rushes to Rachel before she flies back to the US. It’s a cute spin and the beautiful ring and engagement party at the end makes it one for the books.

Image: News365/Twitter

In Engagements

The perfect engagement ring based on your zodiac sign

May 28, 2020 No Comments

An engagement ring is highly personal. It’s something that speaks to the wearer, their character and their personality. What better way to find the perfect fit than to consult your zodiac sign?

For decades, people have relied on their horoscopes to tell them the way forward. If you’re in a tough spot and in need of some guidance, just turn to the stars. These are the perfect engagement ring styles to match your zodiac sign.

Aries (March 21–April 19)

As the first sign in the zodiac, it makes sense that Aries individuals love to come first. Aries humans are typically bold, adventurous and strong. Their confident nature lends them to many pioneering moves, so they’re not the type to go with the crowd. They’re also not ones for details, so best steer clear of designs that are complicated and over-the-top.

A statement ring is necessary for this loud and proud individual. Simple yet striking, alternative stones make a big statement without being too complicated. Go with a unique, less conventional stone like amethyst to truly stand out from the crowd. A triangular gem is highly unusual for an engagement ring, and even more so when paired with a rugged band. Perfect for the Aries individual who blazes their own trail.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CATvshHnndK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Taurus (April 20–May 20)

Ruled by Venus, the enchanting planet that governs love, beauty, and money, this Earth sign loves the finer things in life. They are sensual, and love to be pampered. However, while they are inclined towards luxury, they also know the value of money and earthly goods. Taurus individuals are not the type to jump in head first. Ambitious and hardworking, they do the work to make sure the outcome is to their satisfaction.

The devil is in the details, so best make sure everything is perfect with an engagement ring for a Taurean. An ethically mined, emerald cut diamond gives the perfect amount of flash and glamour without being overly showy. Being sensual by nature, touch is everything so an emerald cut will be pleasing to this sign. It is bold and luxurious yet responsible, just like a Taurus strives to be.

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Gemini (May 21–June 20)

This air sign has a reputation for having contrasting personality points, and is known to be energetic, youthful and versatile yet quiet and contemplative. They’re electric and curious, which is what draws people to them. Because of their personality, they often lead the pack with ideas and love to try something new.

With their dualistic personality, its best to go for a ring that blends traditional and modern. Consider a multifaceted emerald-cut emerald stone that honours their birthstone and reflects light from every angle, just like a Gemini.

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Cancer (June 21–July 22)

Cancerians are incredibly intuitive and passionate water signs. They float between both the emotional and material realms and are thus highly sensitive to their environment. Much like their celestial spirit animal, Cancerians are like crabs in that they have a tough outer shell, only to reveal themselves as gentle-natured.

Cancerians love love, and what says love more than a diamond? Being water signs, it seems fitting to go for a shape that appeals to the softness of the ocean. A pear or even heart shaped sparkler will appeal to a Cancer’s love of soft lines. Go for a floating setting to really hammer in the water theme.

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Leo (July 23–August 22)

Much like its spirit animal, Leo’s are top of the food chain (or at least think they are). Their motto is ‘Go big or go home’, and they carry it with pride through their bold and fiery personalities. Despite their dominant personalities, Leos still manage to strike the right balance with originality and elegance.

Leos love being in the spotlight, so they deserve a ring to match. Go with a cushion-cut stone in a pavé setting for even more sparkle. Coloured stones like tanzanite or sapphire are perfect for the fire sign that sees themselves as royalty. This ring choice is elegant yet attention-grabbing, just like a Leo.

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Virgo (August 23–September 22)

Logical and dependable, this Earth sign is known for taking a systematic approach to life. Virgo’s are perfectionists at heart and often appear polished and put together. However, they are still intrinsically down to earth and modest.

For the classic Virgo, a timeless ring design is one they will cherish most. Think of simple designs that are perfectly and meticulously crafted. A simple round cut diamond in a prong setting and a classic metal like platinum or yellow gold appeals to a Virgo’s love of order and practicality.

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Libra (September 23–October 22)

This air sign is all about balance. Represented by the scales, Libra’s love symmetry and strive for harmony. Like Taurus, they are also ruled by Venus, the planet that governs love, beauty, and money. As such, they love romance and being surrounded by beauty.

A ring that oozes grace, romance and subtle playfulness is perfect for a Libra. Think of a timeless design with an unexpected twist like a three-stoned ring with a bezel or tension setting.

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Scorpio (October 23–November 21)

This water sign is easily confused as a fire sign for its passionate and fiery personality. Scorpios are also incredibly mysterious, intense and detail-oriented. This sign is the most closely linked to sex, seduction and pleasure.

Given their hedonistic tendencies, a bold yet romantic ring design is perfect for Scorpios. Instead of the expected diamond, go for something darker like onyx or ruby to centre the stone.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-vQLNilT7P/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Sagittarius (November 22–December 21)

Known as the archer, this fire sign is a fun-loving free spirit always searching for adventure and knowledge. They’re ruled by Jupiter, the planet of abundance, spirituality, and growth. As such, they love to roam free and explore the various facets of the world and life.

Being adventurous in nature, your ring should reflect that too. Citrine and Topaz are birthstones for Sagittarius individuals born in November and December respectively. Citrine reminds one of sunflowers, fire and the sun while topaz is reminiscent of cool blue waters. Choose one of these stones to centre your ring and go even further by surrounding it with diamonds in a flower shape to reflect a Sagittarius’s carefree and whimsical spirit.

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Capricorn (December 22–January 19)

Classic and thoughtful, Capricorns are incredibly grounded individuals. They tend to prefer the simpler things in life and are often more mature than their years. Capricorns tend to hold family close to their heart.

A vintage-inspired ring or an heirloom is perfect for the old Capricorn soul. An art deco-inspired ring gives that old time feel and subtle sparkle with a touch of modernity.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAqjCQsFY72/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Aquarius (January 20–February 18)

Represented by the water bearer, the mystical healer who bestows water, or life upon the land, Aquarians are natural humanitarians. They are also rebels and refuse to bow to conformity, instead deeply believing in the power of individuality, change and transformation.

Considering their out-the-box sensibilities, an Aquarian deserves a ring just as unique as they are. Aquamarine is an unusual choice for an engagement ring, but its meaning will highly appeal to an Aquarians love of water. According to legend, the stone originated in the treasure chests of mermaids, and mariners would carry the stone for protection against the wrath of the sea. Go even more unique with a modern marquise cut.

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Pisces (February 19–March 20)

Represented by the two fish swimming in opposite directions, Pisces are often at odds with fantasy and reality. As the last sign of the zodiac, they absorb the lessons of the signs before it, making Pisces individuals more psychic, empathetic, and compassionate. They are deep and sensitive, much like the ocean.

Considering their multi-faceted personality, an asscher cut diamond is perfect to reflect the depths of a Pisces individual. Asscher cut diamonds have great sparkle, much like the glistening sea. This ring thus perfectly embraces the sign’s water attributes.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAsSn5FpVMp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

Creative guest book ideas your guests will love

May 26, 2020 No Comments

A wedding guest book does not have to mean pen and paper only. As weddings evolve and modernise, couples are looking for more creative ways to still incorporate traditional elements into their big day.

The guest book allows you to preserve memories from your nearest and dearest. Traditionally, couples go for a hardcover book for guests to sign. However, this easily gets sidelined amid the various exciting points of a wedding.

Make sure your guest book is a moment itself by offering a fun and creative way to sign. Besides encouraging more people to sign, having an alternative guest book allows you to have a creative and functional decor piece to display in your home and remind you of the good times.

Here are some cute ideas:

For the record:

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Shake it like a polaroid picture:

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Wait a minute, Mr Postman:

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The Bucket List:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAdkjrTnO0I/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

You’re my world:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAO2c4EgD9x/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Tile-tastic:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxko56hjNgS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Pretty as a puzzle:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm0rBmUBj3g/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Let’s play a game:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAhd4YSn6tm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Take a seat:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAMBFcnB_qi/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Surf’s up:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvW4OLNgXrE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feature image: Instagram

In Engagements

Surprise proposal incorporates Hyatt hotel lights

May 22, 2020 No Comments

If you’ve ever felt like your love would light up the city, it looks like you’re not alone. A Seattle man made this literal by incorporating the lights of a hotel into his surprise proposal.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in closed doors for most businesses, especially those in the travel and hospitality industries. The Hyatt Regency Seattle is one of those businesses. They have been closed for operations for a while. Every night, however, they light up their windows in the shape of a heart – supposedly to life the spirits of all the people stuck in lockdown.

Mitesh and Apoorva are able to see the light show from their apartment. Since Mitesh was planning to propose, he thought he should use the lights on the hotel in his favour.

According to Fox 56, Mitesh approached the Hyatt to ask for their assistance, and they happily obliged.

“Hence, we can see the beautiful heart sign that the hotel shows with the use of lights in individual rooms,” Mitesh said. “It would probably be the best proposal that I could ever hope for!”

The Hyatt adjusted their lights to read “I (heart) you”, with Apoorva’s initials (AP) in the heart. How sweet!

Of course, she said yes!

Congrats to Mitesh and Apoorva!

Image: Facebook / Hyatt Regency Seattle

In Engagements

Stone of the Gods: Amazing amethyst rings

May 20, 2020 No Comments

If you’re looking for a truly unique stone to centre your engagement ring, look no further. Amethyst is an unconventional choice, but oh so beautiful.

The deep purple hue of this stone is a standout choice for bold brides, and can easily give a vintage feel depending on one’s ring settings. Here’s what you need to know about amethysts.

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Amethyst is an ancient semi-precious gemstone, and a purple variety of quartz. The stone ranges in purple tinged shades, from deep violent to lavender.

It got its name from the Greek word “Amethystos” meaning “not intoxicated”. According to legend, the wine god Bacchus was angered over an insult and vowed that the next person he met would be devoured by his tigers. A maiden named Amethyst was that person. Upon the attack, she sought protection from the Gods and was saved by being turned into a clear white crystal. Bacchus, feeling immense guilt, poured his wine over the stone as an offering, turning the stone purple in the process.

The Ancient Greeks believed this stone could prevent people from getting drunk, and would thus stud their wine goblets with it. The stone was also considered a master healer, and the ancient Greeks would wear it on their armor during battle as protection and to stay focused.

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Amethyst is the birthstone of February and the stone of St.Valentine, who was said to have frequently worn it. As such, the stone’s meaning is often connected to faithful love and passion.

During the Middle Ages, a lady would present an amethyst in the shape of a heart set in silver to a knight or her husband, and was said to encourage the greatest possible happiness and good fortune for the pair.

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Amethysts are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to diamonds, making it a great choice for brides and grooms on a budget. However, a disadvantage is that they are not as durable as diamonds. Amethysts has a 7 ranking on the Mohs scale of hardness, compared to a diamond’s 10 ranking. It is, however, durable enough for everyday wear.

The best varieties of Amethysts come from Siberia, Sri Lanka, Brazil, and the far East.

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Speaking to Brides.com, Madeline Fraser, the founder and CEO of Gemist, explains that those wanting to purchase an amethyst stone should hold it up to the light to check for quality.

“When held up to the light, it should travel completely through the stone,” she says. “Amethysts of high quality should be completely clear and should not have inclusions.”

Remember to be conscious of the band as well. The type of metal chosen could affect the colour of the stone. For example, a white gold band could bring out bluish undertones, while a warmer metal could enhance the deep purple tones.

Feature image: Pinterest

In Accessories

Rock star rings for grooms

May 19, 2020 No Comments

The bride’s ring used to be the sole focus of an engagement. These days, groom’s rings are claiming their place in the spotlight too. Don’t let her have all the fun, show your rocking ring to all who can see.

Take a look at these stellar rings for inspiration:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-dlrWWJkJy/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6_zEUaJA5h/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxxqupClpMR/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BJXjtk-AOzo/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BFc0NwGw0p2/

https://www.instagram.com/p/46naXVClfR/

https://www.instagram.com/p/wJaDffClSI/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAWxIrrgNhI/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAWRQSInmQ2/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAVWqnDgK68/

Image: Instagram/tungstenjewelercom

In Engagements

Risky but romantic: Birthstone engagement rings

May 19, 2020 No Comments

As the traditional diamond engagement or wedding ring slowly loses popularity, various alternatives are being used in its place. One newbie on the scene, be it a bit uncommon, is the birthstone.

Elle reported that in 2019, Etsy named birthstone engagement rings as one of their breakout wedding trends. “On Etsy, we’ve seen 34K searches for ‘birthstone engagement rings’ in the last three months, and I predict the trend will continue to grow,” Etsy’s trend expert Dayna Isom Johnson explained at the time.

According to The Jewellery Editor, there are a few things to consider when opting for the birthstone engagement ring, which could mean that you’re walking down a path that comes with many more decisions. However, they claim that this option is becoming more and more popular.

Canadian jeweller Kat Florence, who launched her own brand of jewellery specialising in unusual gemstones and owns a store in London, told The Jewellery Editor that “a lot of people are going in that direction”, adding that “Everyone feels attracted to their birthstone, and jewellery represents who we are, so birthstones are the perfect point to begin.”

Of the things which need to be considered, one of the most important is the hardness of the stone. When selecting the birthstone as the gem for a ring, depending on your partner’s birth month, they may end up with a stone which is not durable. For example, it is not recommended that opal be used for a ring, as it is a fragile stone. We’re sure you want the ring to last a lifetime! So keep this in mind when making your final choice, and be sure to ask your jeweller about durability, hardness, and inclination to be damaged with scratches.

It is reported that any stone which ranks above 7.5 on the Moh’s Hardness scale, which measures how easily you can scratch a gem, is a good option. Those below 7.5, of course, can be used for a ring too. However, you’d have to be much more careful with your ring.

Regardless, birthstones are pretty, colourful, meaningful and trendy. If you love the idea of a ring that represents you and when you were brought into the world, then perhaps your mind is already made up.

Here is a guide to your options, including Moh’s Scale values from Gem Rock Auctions, for birthstone engagement rings:

January: Garnet (6.5 – 7.5 Mohs)

https://www.instagram.com/p/CATDnAIpCNx/

February: Amythyst (6.5 – 7.5 Mohs)

https://www.instagram.com/p/BNbVTtgBFAW/

Also read: Stone of the Gods: Amazing amethyst rings

March: Aquamarine (7.5 – 8.0 Mohs)

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9F78yWHAiC/

Also read: Amazing aquamarine engagement rings

April: Diamond (10 Mohs)

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAXxwFRnXmZ/

Also read: How to choose the right diamond for you