Gemstones have been used to express love for thousands of years, long before modern engagement traditions took shape. From ancient love tokens to Victorian engagement rings, gemstones were chosen not just for beauty, but for the emotions and meanings they conveyed. But if romance could be distilled into a single stone, which gemstone truly deserves the title of the most romantic?
The answer depends on what romance means to you. Is it passion, devotion, loyalty, endurance, or emotional connection? Historically, different gemstones have represented different aspects of love — many of which still resonate today.
Diamonds: Enduring Love and Commitment
Diamonds are often considered the ultimate romantic gemstone, symbolising strength, permanence and lifelong commitment. Their association with engagement rings is relatively modern, but their symbolism is ancient.
In antique jewellery, old-cut diamonds were prized not for perfection, but for their warmth and depth. Their ability to endure unchanged over time made them powerful symbols of love that could withstand hardship.
For those who see romance as longevity and resilience, diamonds remain deeply meaningful.
Ruby: Passion and Desire
Rubies have long been associated with passion, desire and the heart. Their rich red colour naturally linked them to love, vitality and intensity.
In medieval Europe, rubies were believed to strengthen emotional bonds and protect relationships. Antique ruby rings were often given as declarations of deep affection rather than formal engagements.
For those who see romance as fire and emotional intensity, ruby is hard to surpass.
Sapphire: Loyalty and Trust
Sapphires represent fidelity, sincerity and unwavering loyalty — qualities central to lasting romance.
Long before diamonds became standard, sapphires were popular choices for engagement rings. Their deep blue hue symbolised truth and constancy, making them ideal for promises intended to last a lifetime.
Antique sapphire rings often combine beauty with quiet emotional depth, appealing to those who see romance as trust and partnership.
Garnet: Devotion and Warmth
Garnet has been used as a love stone since antiquity. Its deep red tones symbolised devotion, protection and emotional connection.
Victorian garnet jewellery was frequently exchanged between lovers and family members alike, reflecting warmth, loyalty and enduring affection.
Garnet’s romantic appeal lies in its intimacy — a gemstone associated with closeness rather than grand gestures.
Turquoise: Faithful Love and Protection
Turquoise has long been associated with faithful love, protection and emotional harmony. In the Victorian era, turquoise rings were given as tokens of enduring affection and were believed to change colour in response to the wearer’s wellbeing.
Queen Victoria’s fondness for turquoise helped cement its romantic associations, particularly for engagement and sentimental rings.
For those who view romance as care, balance and shared life, turquoise carries powerful meaning.
Pearl: Emotional Connection and Purity
Pearls symbolise purity, sincerity and emotional truth. Unlike gemstones formed within the earth, pearls are created through time and patience — a process often likened to the development of love itself.
In antique jewellery, pearls were frequently used in sentimental and commemorative pieces, making them deeply personal rather than purely decorative.
Pearls appeal to those who see romance as gentle, thoughtful and emotionally grounded.
So, Which Gemstone Is the Most Romantic?
There is no single answer — because romance itself is deeply personal. Historically, gemstones were chosen not by hierarchy, but by meaning.
For some, romance means passion; for others, trust, devotion or endurance. Antique and vintage rings reflect this beautifully, offering gemstones chosen for symbolism rather than trend.
Perhaps the most romantic gemstone is the one that aligns with your own story — and the values you wish to carry forward.
Romance That Lasts Beyond a Moment
Antique and vintage rings allow romance to be expressed through history, craftsmanship and symbolism. These gemstones have already carried meaning for generations, making them especially powerful choices for love.
Explore our collection of antique and vintage rings to discover gemstones that have symbolised romance for centuries — and continue to do so today.