When you picture an engagement proposal, what do you see?
Most of us imagine a sparkling, clear diamond. It’s the classic choice. It has been the standard for decades.
But maybe you want something different. Maybe you want a stone that screams passion, history, and individuality.
If so, you might be considering a ruby as an engagement ring.
Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most personal decisions you will make. It’s a symbol of your commitment. It’s a piece of jewelry you—or your partner—will wear every single day.
So, why stick to the status quo if it doesn’t feel right?
Rubies are stunning precious gemstones. They offer a deep red hue that diamonds simply can’t match. They have a rich history among royalty.
But are they practical? Do they hold up to daily wear? You will find 10 stunning Ruby and Diamond Engagement Rings here.
I’m here to walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover the pros, the cons, and the nitty-gritty details of buying a ruby engagement ring.
Is Ruby a Good Choice for an Engagement Ring?
The short answer? Absolutely.
A ruby is one of the best alternatives to a traditional diamond engagement ring.
Rubies are varieties of the mineral corundum. This is the same mineral family as the sapphire.
This makes them incredibly tough. In fact, on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, rubies score a 9.
The only natural gemstone harder than a ruby is a diamond, which scores a 10.
This means a ruby is durable enough for everyday wear. It can withstand the bumps and knocks of daily life. You don’t have to worry about it scratching easily. Obonappete has 10 Stunning Ruby Engagement Rings for Women
Beyond durability, a ruby brings intense emotional weight. It is the birthstone for July. It represents courage and passion.
If you want an engagement ring that stands out from the sea of clear stones, a ruby is a fantastic contender.
Pros of Choosing Ruby as an Engagement Ring
Why are so many couples swapping diamonds for rubies? Let’s look at the benefits.
Symbolism & Meaning
Red is the color of the heart. It flows in our blood. It represents our deepest emotions.
When you choose a ruby as an engagement ring, you are choosing a symbol of intense love.
Historically, rubies have represented passion, protection, and wealth. In some cultures, they were believed to hold an internal flame that could not be extinguished.
That is a powerful message for a marriage.
Unique & Eye-Catching Color
A white diamond sparkles, but a ruby glows.
The red color of a ruby is unmistakable. It ranges from pinkish-red to a deep, dark “pigeon blood” red.
An engagement ring with a ruby center stone catches the eye immediately. It is bold. It says that the wearer is confident and appreciates beauty.
Durability for Everyday Wear
We touched on this, but it bears repeating.
An engagement ring sits on your hand through everything. Washing dishes (though you should take it off!), working, gym sessions.
You need a stone that won’t crack or scratch.
Since rubies are a 9 on the Mohs scale, they are harder than emeralds or opals. They are a safe, lasting choice for a wedding ring or engagement ring.
Royal & Vintage Appeal
Rubies have been favored by kings and queens for centuries.
They have a regal quality that feels luxurious. If you love vintage styles, a ruby fits perfectly.
Many antique Art Deco rings feature rubies. A ruby engagement ring often feels like a future heirloom.
Rarity Compared to Traditional Diamonds
High-quality rubies are actually rarer than diamonds.
While diamonds are controlled to maintain market value, fine rubies are genuinely scarce.
Owning a top-tier ruby implies you have something truly special.
Cons of Ruby Engagement Rings
I want to be honest with you. There are some downsides to consider before you buy.
Can Be Expensive
Don’t assume a ruby is automatically cheaper than a diamond.
The ruby as an engagement ring price can be shocking for high-quality stones.
Rubies with the “pigeon blood” color and high clarity can cost more per carat than diamonds.
Color Variations & Quality Differences
Not all rubies look the same.
Some look pink. Others look brownish.
Finding that perfect, vivid red can take time. You have to be picky about the hue and saturation.
May Require Special Care
While hard, rubies can still chip if hit at the wrong angle.
Also, many rubies on the market are treated to enhance color. These treated stones might require specific cleaning methods. You can’t always just drop them in an ultrasonic cleaner.
Not as Traditional as Diamonds
You might face some questions.
People are used to seeing diamonds. You might get asked, “Is that an engagement ring?”
If you care deeply about tradition, this might bother you. If you like being unique, it’s a pro!
How to Choose the Best Ruby Engagement Ring
Ready to shop? Here is your cheat sheet for finding the perfect stone and price.
Understanding Ruby Color
Color is everything. It is the most important factor in a ruby’s value.
You want a pure, vibrant red.
Top-tier rubies are called “Pigeon Blood.” These are a vivid, medium-dark red.
Avoid stones that look too dark (garnet-like) or too light (pink sapphire-like).
Checking Clarity & Inclusions
Rubies almost always have inclusions. These are tiny flaws inside the stone.
In the trade, they say flawless rubies don’t exist. If it’s flawless, it’s probably synthetic.
However, you want a stone that is “eye-clean.” This means you can’t see the flaws without a microscope.
Avoid inclusions that reach the surface, as these affect durability.
Cut & Shape Options
Rubies are often cut into ovals or cushions. These shapes preserve the most weight from the rough crystal.
Round cuts are more expensive because you lose more crystal during cutting.
Choose a shape that flatters your partner’s finger.
Natural vs. Treated Rubies
Most rubies are heat-treated. This improves their color and clarity.
Heat treatment is standard and accepted. It is stable and permanent.
However, avoid “glass-filled” rubies. These are low-quality stones filled with lead glass. They are cheap but very fragile.
Always ask for a certificate from a lab like GIA or AGL.
Best Metal Pairings
The metal color changes how the ruby looks. Read more on How Much Is a 14K Gold Ruby Ring Worth
Yellow Gold: Creates a warm, vintage look. It makes the red pop.
White Gold or Platinum: Creates a modern, cool contrast. It makes the red look deeper.
Rose Gold: Blends with the ruby for a romantic, monochromatic look.
Ruby vs Diamond Engagement Ring: Which Is Better?
Still on the fence? Let’s compare the engagement ring titans.
| Feature | Ruby Engagement Ring | Diamond Engagement Ring |
| Hardness | 9 (Very Hard) | 10 (Hardest) |
| Sparkle | Glows/Color intensity | Brilliance/Fire |
| Price | Varies widely. Top quality is expensive. | Generally high and standardized. |
| Tradition | Unconventional/Royal | The standard choice |
| Meaning | Passion, Courage, Love | Eternity, Purity |
If you want maximum sparkle and safety, choose a diamond.
If you want color, personality, and passion, choose a ruby.
Can’t decide? Consider a diamond and ruby engagement ring. You can have a diamond center with ruby side stones, or vice versa.
Buying Guide for Ruby Engagement Rings
When you are looking for a ruby as an engagement ring for sale, research is key.
- Set a Budget
The ruby as an engagement ring cost is flexible. You can find decent stones for $1,000 or incredible ones for $50,000. Know your limit. - Where to Buy
You can look at major retailers. For example, you might look at ruby engagement rings Tiffany offers for high-end inspiration.
However, local jewelers or specialized online gem dealers often have better loose stone selections.
- Check the “Meaning”
Remember the ruby as an engagement ring meaning. It’s about passion. Does the stone feel passionate to you? Trust your gut. - Ask About Origin
Rubies from Burma (Myanmar) are famous for their color. Rubies from Mozambique are also stunning and often more affordable.
Why Choose a Ruby Engagement Ring?
At the end of the day, an engagement ring is a promise.
It is a promise to love someone forever.
A diamond is beautiful, but it is also common. Millions of people have one.
A ruby is bold. It represents a love that burns bright. It represents a couple that isn’t afraid to be different.
If your partner loves color, loves history, or just loves you fiercely, a ruby is the perfect choice.
It is a stone that will get noticed. It will spark conversations.
Most importantly, it will make your partner smile every time they look down at their hand.
FAQs
Is ruby durable enough for everyday wear?
Yes. Rubies are very durable. They rank 9 on the Mohs scale. They are excellent for daily wear in an engagement ring.
Is ruby more expensive than diamond?
It depends. Commercial-quality rubies are often cheaper than diamonds. However, a top-quality, unheated Pigeon Blood ruby can be more expensive per carat than a diamond.
What does a ruby engagement ring symbolize?
It symbolizes passion, deep love, and courage. The ruby as an engagement ring meaning is rooted in the heart and vitality.
Can ruby scratch easily?
No. Only a diamond or another ruby can scratch a ruby. It is very resistant to scratches from dust or daily objects.
How do I care for a ruby engagement ring?
Clean it with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft toothbrush to scrub behind the stone. Avoid harsh chemicals like chlorine.
Embrace the Red
Choosing an engagement ring is the start of your journey.
If you choose a ruby, you are starting that journey with color and fire.
Don’t be afraid to break tradition. Explore the ruby as an engagement ring.
Look at different cuts. Compare a diamond and ruby engagement ring style. Check the ruby as an engagement ring price points to see what fits your life.
Your love is unique. Your engagement ring should be too.
