12 best gemstone engagement rings for a radiant proposal

As popular as diamonds are, their reigning appeal is being put to the test thanks to a new alternative that's entered the scene in recent years. Growing in popularity amongst celebrities and newly-engaged couples alike are gemstone engagement rings. It's not hard to see why. They're a fashionable and often cost-effective alternative to traditional diamond rings. In fact, not only are they gorgeous to look at, but they come in a wide range of styles and sizes, giving brides-to-be a plethora of options if a classic diamond just doesn't feel right. With that in mind, we've rounded up some of the best gemstone engagement rings to buy right now, from stunning sapphire stones to gorgeous green emerald rings. 

The captivation with gemstones is something which has been around for quite some time. According to Google, The Duchess of Sussex and the late Princess Diana’s emerald engagement ring are the most searched engagement rings worldwide, with Megan Fox’s engagement ring following closely behind.

Not to mention in 2018, when Made in Chelsea veteran Oliver Proudlock wowed the world when he proposed to his then long-term girlfriend Emma Louise Connolly with an Art Deco engagement ring crafted from apple green gemstones in collaboration with Vow Jewellery. Gemstone rings certainly have the seal of royal approval, but there's also something suitably trendy about a colourful stone, making them a top choice with influencers and fashionistas. 

We’ve gathered the most stunning and unique gemstone engagement rings to help make your search a little bit easier. From eye-catching ruby rings that are guaranteed to steal the show, to a dreamy peach-coloured sapphire ring that's as special as the wearer, these designs are sure to take your breath away. 

Do note that the most durable gemstones are sapphires, rubies, topaz, aquamarine and amethyst, so if your partner is a little clumsy or has a very active lifestyle, you might like to narrow down your search to one of these stones. Keep scrolling to find your perfect ring.

Fenton - Solar Diamond Toi Et Moi

What: This exclusive Fenton design combines a sparkling pear-cut solar diamond with a bold, emerald-cut gemstone of your choice. Set in an 18k yellow gold band, this statement piece is made for brides with main character energy. It's also similar to the one Megan Fox has on her finger!
How much: £2,850
Buy now: Fenton Solar Diamond Toi Et Moi

Diamonds Factory - Oval Halo Ruby Engagement Ring

What: A great way to express your love and commitment for your partner, Diamond Factory’s oval-shaped ruby ring evokes feelings of love and lust. Set in a 9k white gold band, with a diamond-encrusted halo designed to highlight the inner stone, this elegant motif is sure to get you a 'yes'.
How much: £1,030
Buy now: Diamonds Factory - Oval Halo Ruby Engagement Ring

Moon Magic - Moonstone Lab Diamond Ring Muse

What: An enchanting number featuring a high-grade, oval-shaped rainbow moonstone surrounded by lab-grown diamonds. So, what are the properties of moonstone you ask? Dubbed the 'stone of intuition', it's designed to provide protective energy, inner balance and emotional healing. We'll take two in that case...
How much: £510
Buy now: Moon Magic Moonstone Lab Diamond Ring Muse

Brilliant Earth - Masquerade Lab Alexandrite and Diamond Cocktail Ring

What: Looking for a design with real wow factor? This rare design features a hexagon-shaped lab-grown alexandrite with a diamond-accented band. The Masquerade ring is surely fit for a fashionista! It's available in 14k yellow gold, white gold, platinum and rose gold, and only made in small quantities, ensuring your partner has something one-of-a-kind to flaunt.
How much: £3,640
Buy now: Brilliant Earth Masquerade Lab Alexandrite and Diamond Cocktail Ring

Temple and Grace - Oval Peach Sapphire Ring

What: This Temple and Grace design is just breathtaking! Featuring a mesmerising 2.5ct peach sapphire stone, set in a four-claw 18k white gold band, this beautiful ring puts a subtle twist on an otherwise classic design. The perfect pick for an elegant bride. 
How much: £3,856
Buy now: Temple and Grace Oval Peach Sapphire Ring

Lily Arkwright - Viola Pink Sapphire Ring

What: An ultra feminine design with an 18k white gold band, Lily Arkwrights’s Viola ring spotlights a stunning pink sapphire centre stone. It's balanced with a glittering pavé setting made with conflict-free diamonds on each side, too. Dazzling!
How much: £1,535
Buy now: Lily Arkwright Viola Pink Sapphire Ring

Goldsmiths - Yellow Gold Green Amethyst and Diamond Ring

What: We love the pale hue of this green amethyst ring set with dainty diamonds on either side. It's subtle and special in equal measure. This traditional ring by Goldsmiths is also one of the most affordable in this list at well under £1,000. 
How much: £850
Buy now: Goldsmiths Yellow Gold Green Amethyst and Diamond Ring

Chupi - Love is All Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring

What: This gorgeous sapphire ring might be small, but it's sure to make a statement! The central round sapphire stone is set next to dainty diamonds, and has been fashioned to sit comfortably next to your future wedding band. We also like that the band is made of 100% recyled 14k gold. This ring has it all!
How much: £2,489
Buy now: Chupi Love is All Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring

Brilliant Earth - Soiree Prasiolite and Diamond Cocktail Ring

What: This Brilliant Earth design is perfect for an ostentatious marrier. A humungous praisiolite stone takes centre stage, while two pear-shaped accent diamonds sit beside the cushioned gemstone. Want to change the centre stone? Choose between topaz or rose quartz instead.
How much: £1,835
Buy now: Brilliant Earth Soiree Prasiolite and Diamond Cocktail Ring

Best Brilliance - Rebecca Moissanite and Gemstones Ring

What: This modern moissanite ring is sure to bring some glitz to your wedding finger! In the centre is an oval moissanite stone, but the real show-stealer is the pink sapphire-encrusted band. There are even gemstones hidden underneath the main stone in case you thought it needed a bit more sparkle. 
How much: £1,654
Buy now: Best Brilliance Rebecca Moissanite and Gemstones Ring

Holts Gems - Emerald Forrest

What: Holts Gem's ring epitomises timeless elegance thanks to its minimalist design. Crafted to highlight the magnificence of its beautiful emerald centre stone, we love its simple and sleek feel. Available in 18ct yellow gold, rose gold, white gold and platinum with the option to choose your desired stone shape.
How much: From £750
Buy now: Holts Gems Emerald Forrest

Jemma Wynne - Bespoke Padparadscha Sapphire and Diamond Open Ring

What: Can't decide between a diamond or gemstone ring? With this design you can have the best of both worlds. Jemma Wynne's sapphire and diamond open ring is a flattering design that will look good on any finger. Do note that this is a previously sold design, but the team specialise in bespoke pieces so you can work with their designers to create something similar. 
How much: POA
Buy now: Jemma Wynne Bespoke Padparadscha Sapphire and Diamond Open Ring

If you still feel a little confused about what you need to look for in an engagement ring, our essential guide contains everything you need to know about buying an engagement ring online.