The trend for sapphire engagement rings has been gaining in momentum since Prince Charles gave Princess Diana a sapphire engagement ring 20 years ago.

According to Douglas Hucker, AGTA executive director, colored gemstone engagement and wedding rings are often the choice for contemporary couples with more sophisticated tastes, who marry later in life, or are remarrying. "Gems help personalize a piece, reflecting a birthstone, favorite color, or attribute," Hucker explains. "They are found in every color of the rainbow with no two alike, giving bridal consumers endless options to express their own symbolism and style."