Gemstones in Celebrity Engagement Rings Over Decades

Gemstones in Celebrity Engagement Rings Over Decades
Posted on September 3rd, 2025 01:00 PM

The desire to have something unique yet meaningful has always influenced modern couples. Today, they are not just looking for an engagement ring that only catches everyone’s attention, but also reflects their individuality. Gemstones like blue sapphire have been a preferable choice for decades. The celebrity engagement rings trend has evolved with time. Let's have a look at this journey.   

1920s–1930s: The Era of Art Deco Glamour

The era of art deco from 1920-1930, was a time of great transformation in the jewelry world. Art Deco was considered one of the boldest designs. It featured streamlined geometry, bold patterns, and clean lines.   

Gemstones in this era focused not only on diamonds but also on emerald stone, sapphires, rubies, and aquamarines. The Tutti Frutti bracelet from the Cartier collection is a standout piece of this era. The geometric arrangement of colored gemstones and diamonds defines the beauty of this bracelet.   

Also Read: Why Bachchan Family Wears Gemstones?

1940s–1950s: Diamonds Still Rule, But Gemstones Appear

Diamonds ruled the era of 1940-1950s, especially amongst Hollywood celebrities. During the movie promotion “ Gentlemen Prefer Blondes ”, Marilyn Monroe wore a yellow diamond necklace. This pear-shaped diamond was unearthed from the Golconda mines of India and weighed 24.04 carats.   

As said, this era was a mixture of both diamonds and colored gemstones; the most famous engagement ring of that time was in a toi-et-moi design. The emerald and diamond engagement ring was gifted to Jacqueline Bouvier by John F.Kennedy in 1953.    

This ring featured two stones studded in toi-et-moi style. Both were cut in emerald cut and weighed 3 carats each. So if you think toi-et-moi rings are new in fashion, they have their presence back then in history. 

1960s: The Rise of Royal Influence

Princess Margaret’s engagement ring was much talked about in the 1960s. This engagement ring featured a cluster of vivid red rubies in the center surrounded by diamonds that look like rose petals. Gemstones in this era were beyond fashion.   

They were worn to express personal style and individuality. For instance, this ruby engagement ring was a bold choice for the Princess, signifying her love for color. Moreover, the ring design reflected her individuality, which made this jewelry personal to her. The design looked like a rose petal, a gesture to her middle name, Rose. 

Also Read: Gemstones in Royal Families Worldwide  

Princess Margaret’s engagement ring

1970s: Bohemian Spirit and Bold Choices

During this era personal touch to jewelry was the key. Celebrities follow their own rules and choices, making their engagement rings truly their own pieces of jewelry. Jane Fonda’s opal stone and diamond ring is a perfect example of focusing on individuality while breaking away from the traditional diamond-only engagement norm.   

Jackie Kennedy’s emerald and diamond engagement ring in the early 1970s was a testament to innovative gemstone settings and cuts. 

This was one of the famous engagement rings in history. It displayed the elegance of a 2.84-carat emerald stone and a 2.88-carat diamond. Plus, the marquise and baguette-shaped gemstone cuts in a two-stone ring design reflected the creative craftsmanship that defined that era.  

Also Read: Why Successful People Still Rely on Astrology and Gemstones

1980s: The Sapphire Boom

Natural gemstones in celebrity rings over the decades changed with the popularity of sapphires. Diana’s iconic sapphire engagement ring fueled this trend. The oval-cut Ceylon blue sapphire in the center, surrounded by a diamond halo, displayed a breathtaking look.  This was the era where diamond alternatives came into vogue.    

Emeralds, ruby stone, and sapphires were highly appreciated for colored engagement rings. Besides the durability factor, these diamond alternatives were loved for their significance. 

1990s: Minimalism with a Touch of Color

The minimalist trend was in this era. White gold gemstone celebrity rings were popular. Preferred metals were white, yellow gold, and platinum. Solitaire ring designs were common. American actress Sarah Jessica Parker’s engagement ring featured a cushion-cut diamond as a centerpiece set in yellow gold.   

Sapphires, emeralds, and fancy diamonds were the most loved diamond alternatives of this era. Oval, pear, and marquise cuts dominated the fashion world. In the 1990's engagement rings were more about expressing individuality. 

2000s: Glamour Returns with Unique Gems

The 2000s marked a bold shift in engagement ring trends. This era was about making a statement. Diamonds remained the staple with unique cuts and white gold metal setting, picking up steam.   

Large gemstone cuts became popular. Jennifer Lopez’s stunning 6.1-carat pink diamond ring from Ben Affleck highlighted the era’s love for colored diamonds. Moreover, the bold gemstone cut gave a statement look.   

2010s: Heirlooms and Non-Traditional Stones

This era marked the importance of heirlooms. Passing down jewelry to future generations in the form of gemstones became popular. Kate Middleton’s inheriting Diana’s sapphire engagement ring became an iconic moment in history.    

Amongst the Indian celebrity engagement rings, Priyanka Chopra’s ring became an instant sensation. It featured a stunning 3-carat emerald-cut diamond symbolizing modern love with a touch of glamour. 

Also Read: Why Heirloom Jewelry is Significant in Indian Weddings

Dianna sapphire engagement ring

2020s: Breaking Traditions Boldly

In 2020, colored gemstones remain the preferred choice for modern couples. Megan Fox's emerald and diamond engagement ring is a true example of blending tradition with contemporary elegance. Pear and marquise cut gemstones are in trend. White and yellow gold metal settings are widely appreciated.   

Why Gemstone Engagement Rings Remain Timeless

Today, modern couples are looking for unique engagement rings that not only signify love but also their reflective individuality. Couples are looking for customised options as well. In customised jewelry, gemstones are a preferable choice as they add:

Dianna sapphire engagement rings

  • Unique Personal Expression 
  • Rich Symbolism
  • Variety of Colors & Cut.
  • Heirloom Potential
  • Break from Tradition
  • Celebrity Influence
  • Durability & Value

  If you are someone looking for unique gemstones for your engagement rings, then Navratan is the best place. We offer you colored gems from the best origin available in different cuts and shapes. You can also browse our jewelry collection for exquisite pieces.

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