Throughout history, gemstones have spoken a language all their own — one of devotion, transformation, and timeless affection. For lovers seeking more than sparkle, coloured stones offer a rich tapestry of symbolism and lore that turns a ring into a storybook. At Prins & Prins, we believe that every gemstone engagement ring should reflect the unique romance it represents.
Below, we explore five captivating gems whose histories and meanings continue to inspire modern-day love stories, from Cleopatra’s emerald talismans to the royal sapphires that grace the House of Windsor. Let each one guide you toward a gem as meaningful as your own chapter in love.
1. Emerald: A Talisman for Renewal and Rebirth
With its verdant hue and hypnotic depth, the emerald has long symbolised renewal, fertility, and eternal youth. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), emeralds were revered by Cleopatra herself, who adorned her palaces — and person — with these royal green stones. She believed they held the power to preserve youth and reveal truth in the heart.
Choosing an emerald engagement ring today evokes the spirit of new beginnings — perfect for couples embarking on a shared future. It is also said to soothe the soul and bring clarity to love, making it an ideal gemstone for romantics who treasure growth, healing, and fresh starts.
Sapphire: The Stone of Loyalty and Royal Legacy
Few gemstones carry as much regal resonance as the sapphire. Once believed to guard against envy and infidelity, this deep blue gem is associated with fidelity, wisdom, and noble devotion. In mediaeval times, it was worn by clergy and kings alike to symbolise spiritual insight and divine favour.
In the modern imagination, sapphire’s story was forever sealed when Prince Charles presented Princess Diana with a sapphire engagement ring — a piece now worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales. This royal heirloom speaks to the timeless nature of true love, carried forward through generations.
For couples seeking a symbol of steadfast affection and elegance, sapphire remains a breathtaking choice. Its durability — second only to diamond — makes it ideal for daily wear, while its cool, celestial tones speak of trust and grace.
3. Ruby: The Gem of Passion and Power
If emerald is renewal and sapphire is fidelity, then ruby is fire itself — a gem long tied to passion, power, and the heart’s deepest desires. Across cultures, from ancient India to Victorian Europe, rubies have been considered the stone of eternal flame — believed to ignite and sustain love.
Its vivid red colour mirrors the very pulse of life, making it the perfect token for bold romances and unbreakable bonds. In fact, many cultures gifted rubies to warriors and leaders for courage and vitality.
Today, a ruby engagement ring is a declaration of spirited affection — ideal for the couple who leads with heart and never dims their flame.
4. Spinel: The Imposter with a Noble Past
Often mistaken for ruby, spinel has a story as dramatic as any royal scandal. The 170-carat “Black Prince’s Ruby” that crowns the British Imperial State Crown is, in fact, a spinel — once believed to be a ruby for centuries. Yet despite this identity twist, spinel has earned its own place among cherished gemstones.
Celebrated for its vibrant colours — from rich pinks to deep greys — and exceptional brilliance, spinel is symbolic of resilience, reinvention, and mystery. Its misunderstood past only deepens its romantic appeal.
A spinel engagement ring is ideal for the history-lover, the non-traditionalist, or the couple drawn to a story of unexpected beauty and enduring charm.
5. Aquamarine: Calm, Clarity, and Cape Waters
As its name suggests, aquamarine — derived from the Latin aqua marina, or “sea water” — captures the clarity and calm of the ocean. Once thought to be the treasure of mermaids, this serene gemstone symbolises tranquillity, communication, and protection during travel.
Its cool blue tones are reminiscent of Cape Town’s coastal waters, where ocean and mountain meet in natural harmony. Aquamarine is often given to soothe anxieties and encourage openness between lovers — an ideal stone for modern engagements where clarity and connection are key.
It is the perfect choice for couples who are gentle in spirit, emotionally intuitive, or drawn to the elemental magic of water.
Every Gem Tells a Love Story
Whether you choose emerald for renewal, sapphire for loyalty, ruby for passion, spinel for surprise, or aquamarine for peace, each gemstone carries a story that enhances the one you’re writing together.
At Prins & Prins, we offer bespoke Engagement Rings Cape Town set with natural gemstones of extraordinary provenance and quality. Each piece is carefully crafted to become not only a symbol of your commitment, but a future heirloom — steeped in both meaning and memory.