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Mar 18, 2023
Diamonds
Diamonds VS White Sapphires: Which Is Better for Engagement Rings?

We have decided to get one of our top gemologists to write a short but insightful article where he explains the differences you need to be aware of between diamonds and white sapphires and why they are not an ideal choice for engagement rings.

Why Don't White Sapphires Reflect Light Like Diamonds Do?

To put it in simpler terms: when you look at a diamond from the top, diamonds are like mirrors, they reflect back all the light surrounding them. Hence, you cannot see through a diamond when looking at it from the top. White sapphires on the other hand do not reflect light back as the light simply goes through the stone.

Why Don't White Sapphires Sparkle Like Diamonds?

for the same reason they don’t reflect light. White sapphires don’t sparkle because of those two reasons. It’s very easy to notice with the naked eye the difference between white sapphires and diamonds.

Are White Sapphires Strong Enough for Engagement Rings?

enough to last in an engagement ring for many years. Even though White sapphires are strong and hard to scratch, compared to a diamond they do not last forever. If you were to use them for an engagement ring, the main stone will get chipped over time and scratch. If you were to wear it every day it will last about 2-5 years before needing to be replaced, as the stone would have changed a lot in appearance over time.

Conversely, the term “Diamonds are Forever” is because Diamonds are the strongest natural material known to man. 

Why Are White Sapphires Cut Differently from Diamonds?

due to the fact, white sapphires are considerably lower in price than a diamond. When they are being cut they do not get the same levels of detail and workmanship diamonds get. This impacts the overall look of the stone and it’s one more in the list of noticeable differences between the two.

 
Diamond VS white sapphire
How Do White Sapphires and Lab-Grown Diamonds Compare in Price?

and natural diamonds is quite significant. However, now with lab created diamonds available in the market, you don’t need to compromise. As you are aware lab grown diamonds are identical to mined diamonds in all aspects, minus the big tag price. 

Tip:

White sapphire is the best choice for the glass in all expensive watches, brands like Rolex, TAG, Omega, AP to name a few are known for using white sapphire for the glass because it’s clear and very hard to scratch.

Interesting find:

Nowadays more and more phone companies like Apple are starting to use white sapphire for the glass that goes in the camera part of your phone as it does not scratch easily. 

How is Sapphire Used in the Jewellery Industry:

We have found over the years, white sapphires get used a lot in gold jewellery made in India. The reason is that most white sapphires in the world get cut in India and the cost is viable to use for gold jewellery. Note, by gold jewellery we mean bracelets, necklaces and earrings not engagement rings. 

In summary

Our top gemologist highlights key differences between diamonds and white sapphires, explaining that white sapphires don't reflect light, sparkle, or endure like diamonds. Although white sapphires are used in watches and technology, they may not be the best choice for engagement rings, with lab made diamond in UK offering an affordable alternative.