Opal and sapphire engagement rings

[stormyseas1]

Can I see your opal or sapphire engagement rings?

Also can anyone tell me how robust the stones are? especially opal as I know it's a soft stone. I want something that will last but want to explore something other than diamond.

Opals have to be removed before hand washing as water damages the stones over time.

I'd avoid in a ring worn daily.

I believe opal is known for its tendency to shrink over time, & consequently it can fall out of its setting.

I had a sapphire engagement ring previously - I would recommend not to choose a stone too dark or it can look like there is a gap.

I've been wearing an opal engagement ring for 24 years. I don't ever take it off. It's still fine. I'm so glad I chose it because I still absolutely love it. DD1 recently got engaged and she's chosen an opal too.

@TranquilityofSolitude that's a beautiful ring!

I thought as much, I love opals.

@TranquilityofSolitude your ring is gorgeous, very similar to the one I was looking at.

A family friend of mine had an opal ring and 2 years after she married she smashed it on the corner of a table, her husband had the pieces put into earrings as original stone was reasonably large but agree with PP they are fragile. I have sapphire and love it! They are the next strongest stone to diamond and come in a beautiful range of shades x