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    Captivating citrine engagement rings

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    Want an engagement ring that is as bright as the sun? Instead of opting for a yellow diamond, a citrine stone might just be the perfect choice.

    The bright yellow or intense orange stone is a type of quartz and gets its colouring from traces of iron. The stone has been symbolic of the sun for centuries, and many associate it with health and happiness.  Citrine was considered the ‘sun stone’ for years, and believed to hold sunlight and to be able to protect against snakebites, heartbreak and evil.

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

    Citrine’s name is believed to have a number of sources that relate to citrus in ode to its colouring, including the French word ‘citron’ which means ‘lemon’.

    Natural citrine can be found in the Ural Mountains of Russia and in Madagascar, while the majority of heat-treated citrine comes from Brazil.

    Many confused citrine and topaz because of their similar colourings. However, they differ in that topaz is heavier and harder with a higher refractive index than citrine.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CBlElDKB-Kv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Citrine is the November birthstone and has good durability that makes it great for an engagement ring. It ranks a 7 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. However, it is still prone to scratching and damage, so wearers are advised to never wear two gemstones side by side. To clean it, simply use warm water, mild soap and a gentle brush.

    Like a diamond, a citrine’s value is based on the Four Cs: colour, cut, clarity, and carat. The more saturated its colour, the more expensive the stone.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B06NuOolVU1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    Pretty in pearl engagement rings

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    Many may consider pearls to be old-fashioned and matronly, but we disagree. This timeless gem adds a vintage feel but can easily be updated to reflect more a modern design.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2CQ7ccIhg9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Trends come and go, but style is eternal. A pearl engagement ring is the perfect choice for a timeless bride. This classic gemstone is also known as the ‘Queen of the gems’ and can be dated back to 520 B.C. A pearl fragement was discovered in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess, making this stone the oldest known gem to be worn as jewellery.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_FwC9QFYeH/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    The ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all revered this gemstone. In fact, the Greek word for pearl can also translate to ‘unique’, in honour of the fact that no two pearls are the same. Pearls quickly became a symbol of wealth and status, and at one point int time, a law was passed allowing only nobles to wear this gem in public.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BnP53SugAf8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Pearls are the only gemstones that grow inside another living organism. They come in various types, which will determine the price. The most rare and expensive is the natural pearl. This type is formed when an irritant like a parasite naturally enters a a bi-valve mollusk like an oyster, mussel or clam. A fluid coats this irritant as a defense mechanism, and continues to deposit multiple layers of this coating until a pearl is formed. 

    There are an estimated 8000 different species of bi-valve mollusks, of which only 20 can consistently produce pearls. As a result, natural pears are incredibly rare.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B5krbBVpKOy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Cultured pearls are made in a similar fashion, except the process requires human intervention. An irritant like a bead or piece of shell, known as Mother of Pearl, is surgically inserted into the mollusk.  The cultural process takes years to complete. After 3 years, mussels are at a mature stage and are able to receive an irritant either naturally or via implantation. Once there, it take another three years for the pearl to reach its full size. Only 5% of pearls produced are true gem-quality.

    Cultured pearls are grown in pearl farms under strict conditions, and fall into two categories: saltwater and freshwater.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CABTI3kgGHn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Imitation pearls are typically made of glass beads coated in a solution made from fish scales. It’s easy to tell whether a pearl is an imitation by rubbing it against you teeth. A fake pearl will glide across, while a real pearl will feel gritty.

    While this gemstone is most commonly round, it can also come in alternative shapes like pear or baroque pearls.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_wdeP9DTqL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image: Pexels

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    Glamorous garnet engagement rings

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    Dreaming of a truly unique wedding ring? We might have the stone for you. While emeralds and sapphires are understandably popular, a garnet is a standout choice for the unconventional bride.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BfOne2LhyF2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    This gemstone is typically red, but can actually be found in almost any colour and even a rare colourless form. It’s name comes from the latin word ‘garanatus’, meaning ‘seedlike’. This is in reference to the pomegranate, as red garnet stones closely resemble the bright red seeds one finds in this fruit.

    In Greek mythology, the pomegranate was a gift given as a symbol of love and eternity. Hades gifted his love Persephone with a pomegranate before she left to ensure she returned home fast and safe.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1E8jC4FKMf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CABMDxYA4el/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    According to Gem Society, garnet is one of the most complex gemstones in the world as it consists of several species and varieties.

    “Unlike minerals such as beryl or corundum that are a single species with colored varieties created by trace elements, garnets come in different species and are never found in their pure state. They are always mixed with other garnet species,” write Gem Society on their website.

    “Garnets are called a solid-state series or a blend. Some of these blends have distinct features and are recognized as varieties of garnets in themselves. What makes them all garnets is the same crystal structure and similar properties.”

    Garnets were favoured by royalty. Red garnet necklaces adorned the necks of Egyptian pharaohs, and they were even buried with these mummified corpses in their tombs because they were considered prized possessions for the afterlife. In fact, a garnet bead necklace was found in a grave in Egypt that is estimated to date back to 3000 BC.

    Garnets have featured in many ancient traditions and legends. In medieval times, people believed garnets could cure depression, protect against bad dreams and even relieve liver disease. Legend says that Noah used a glowing garnet to light the ark during wet days and nights. Garnet was even one of the gemstones on the breastplate of the High Priest, the chief religious official of Judaism from the early post-Exilic times.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BsV8mZ6H9Ru/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Garnet is the birthstone for January, and has a 7-7.5 ranking on the Mohs scale of hardness. While it has a mid-level hardness and is thus a bit more susceptible to damage, the fact that this stone survived hundreds of thousands of years in a grave speaks to its durability.
    Being a gemstone, it is much more affordable than a diamond. If you like the look of rubies but not the price tag, garnet is an excellent alternative as it shares many properties.

    Feature image: Instagram

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    Tremendous topaz engagement rings

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    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Brud4JZB3Xj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BzCCFHKH6Pl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6XscfsBhzg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6c-lluhFsn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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

     

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    The perfect engagement ring based on your zodiac sign

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    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CApgN3BBLuj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAbKMCel0gO/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B-a7U4BFO8q/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9Aek_ahVUx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1lUokQh396/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAWXC2FJ2mE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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.

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

    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.

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

    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
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    Stone of the Gods: Amazing amethyst rings

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    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9asMKHHhj2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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.

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

    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.

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

    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.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CATSzP2FVRj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    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

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    Risky but romantic: Birthstone engagement rings

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    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

    May: Emerald (7.5 – 8.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAWO_5AlVcq/

    Also read: Enchanting emerald engagement rings

    June: Pearl (2.5 Mohs)

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

    Moonstone (7.5 – 8.0 Mohs)

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

    Alexdandrite (7.5 – 8.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3Hk0stFoqN/

    July: Ruby (7.5 – 8.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_8Ovp8lmGL/

    Also read: The fiery king of gems: Romantic rubies

    August: Peridot (7.5 – 8.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0q58B7nAtB/

    Sardonyx (7.0 Mohs)

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

    Spinel (7.5 – 8.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BwtPGb4hJ99/

    September: Sapphire (9.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_0AYZWDvJO/

    Also read:The royal touch: Sophisticated sapphire rings

    October: Opal (5.5 – 6.5 Mohs)

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

    Also read:The Queen of the gems: Opulent opals

    Tourmaline (9.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAXqeKhqB35/

    November: Citrine (7.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAKa5Kij-hy/

    Topaz (8.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAWwS5YpEPL/?utm_source=ig_embed

    December: Tanzanite (6.5 – 7.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B76urEIhF8q/

    Also read: Say ‘I do’ to tantalising Tanzanite

    Blue zircon(7.5 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_5p9RLHA8j/

    Turqouise (5.0 – 6.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_bp8whgsId/

    Blue Topaz (8.0 Mohs)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BA0-R_Tutgz/

    Also read: Why we wear diamond engagement rings

    Image: Instagram / Fauverie

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    Accidentally flushed wedding ring found 80 years later

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    What is yours will always come back to you. This saying is especially true for this story. A wedding ring that was accidentally flushed down a toilet back in 1940 has just been found mere metres from where it was lost.

    Margarete Herzog accidentally dropped her ring into a public bathroom toilet while she was washing her hands back in 1940. Her daughter, Sonja Güldner, explains to Märkische Allgemeine Zeitung, a Brandenburg-based newspaper that Herzog was heartbroken over the loss.

    After all the years, Herzog eventually lost hope that she would ever recover her precious band. She died in 1996 at age 87, never getting the chance to wear her ring again.

    Now, however, the ring has miraculously been recovered. According to Beelitz city spokesman Thomas Lähns, hobby metal detectorists uncovered the ring in a fruit orchard near a water mill in the city, only metres away from where it was lost.

    “Hobby archaeologists who recently traveled with the metal detector on the site of the old watermill exposed for the State Garden Show and in the immediate vicinity have brought to light all sorts of things, including a gold shimmering ring on which the initials H.H. and the date March 30, 1940 are engraved. ”

    The detectorists then took the ring to the civil registry office to find the owner.

    “Based on the few details provided, it was determined that Hans Herzog and Margarete Fechner were the only couple who got married on the day engraved on the jewelry,” Lähns said.

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    Unusual things people have made engagement rings from

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    Diamonds are forever, but creativity is boss. While anyone can buy an engagement ring, sometimes a handmade gift is even more meaningful.

    Here are some people who got creative and thought out of the (ring) box. Using common household items, they crafted unique rings that tell a story.

    Fingernails

    Yes, really. A Japanese man collected his fingernail clippings for a year, then ground it to a powder and baked it to create a “stone” for an engagement ring.

    Hex nuts:

    Everyone has nuts and bolts lying around, so why not use them? This crafter transformed this common household appliance into a 1 carat diamond ring!

    A coin:

    Coins are meant to be good luck, so it seems fitting to make an engagement ring out of them. Here’s how.

    A spoon:

    Who knew a spoon could be so handy?

    3D printing:

    When printing was first invented, we never thought it would come this far. This man worked with a local jeweller to create a printed ring out of castable 3D printing resin to pop the question to his love. Here’s the process from start to finish.

    Feature image: screenshot from video

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    In Rings

    Amazing aquamarine engagement rings

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    If you’re a colourful person, why not have your engagement ring to reflect that? Instead of opting for the standard diamond, go for something unique and unexpected. Colourful stones have been trending in the wedding world for a few years now.

    While rubies, sapphire and tanzanite are popular alternative choices, how about something less popular but equally beautiful? Aquamarine is slowly growing in popularity as an engagement ring stone. Here’s why.

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

    Aquamarine is a light blue stone reminiscent of crystal clear ocean waters, making it a fitting option for your ‘something blue’. This stone falls in the beryl family, calling morganite and emerald sisters. It’s name comes from the latin aqua marinu, meaning “water of the sea”.

    Aquamarine scores 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale, making it less durable than a diamond, but is more suited for everyday wear.

    The stone is typically a light greenish-blue, but can range in shades and colour saturation. The more vivid the colour, the more expensive the stone. Instead of size, the price of the stone is dependent on clarity, depth of colour, and to a lesser extent the purity of colour.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_0XJx_lCUI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Speaking to Brides.com, jewelry expert Lauren McCawley explains the interesting legend of this dazzling stone.

    “Legend has it that the aquamarine gemstone originated in the treasure chests of mermaids,” said McCawley. “Mariners have long carried the stone for protection against the wrath of the sea.”

    As such, aquamarine makes for an amazing gift for anyone with a deep love for the ocean. It is also the birthstone for March, so anyone born in that month will appreciate this stone.

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    Picture: Pexels

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