Sapphires, a variety of the mineral corundum, come in nearly every conceivable color except red (red corundum is called ruby). Second in hardness to diamond, they are an excellent option for engagement rings because they're durable enough for everyday wear.

For centuries, sapphires have been associated with royalty and nobility. In fact, the future Queen of England, Kate Middleton, received a sapphire engagement ring from her husband, William (the same exact ring Charles gave Diana). 

Some sapphires have asterism (star sapphires) and some change color under different types of light (color change sapphires). Whichever way you slice them, some of our favorite pieces (like this ring!) are our sapphire pieces.