Unlike diamonds, emeralds are known for their vibrant colour rather than clarity, sometimes described as "garden-like" due to their natural inclusions known as jardin (French for garden). This natural beauty makes each emerald truly one-of-a-kind.

In a world awash with modern designs, there’s something profoundly romantic about choosing an antique ring with history and individuality.

The most prized emeralds exhibit a deep, intense green with a slight bluish hue. Antique rings often feature Colombian emeralds, celebrated for their quality and colour.

Antique emeralds are typically hand-cut, resulting in softer edges and less uniformity than modern machine-cut stones. Common antique shapes include:

Emerald cut (rectangular step cut)

Old mine cut (rounded square)

Cabochon (smooth, polished, and domed without facets)

Emeralds have long been associated with rebirth, love, and eternal youth—fitting symbols for a lifelong commitment. As the birthstone of May, emeralds are especially meaningful for those born in this spring month. Their deep green hue represents growth, renewal, and vitality.

They also have a regal lineage, having been favoured by royalty and nobility for centuries. However, they’re slightly softer than diamonds and sapphires, so antique emerald rings should be worn with care and attention.

Jackie Kennedy

One of the most iconic emerald engagement rings belonged to Jackie Kennedy. Her ring from John F. Kennedy featured a 2.88-carat diamond paired with a 2.84-carat emerald, set in a unique Art Deco-inspired toi et moi design from French jeweller Van Cleef & Arpels. It was a perfect blend of classic and modern, just like Jackie herself.

The Toi et Moi – meaning “you and me” features two gemstones set side by side. This style has seen a recent resurgence in popularity, with many celebrities embracing the romantic design. However, the style dates back centuries, most notably when Napoleon Bonaparte proposed to Joséphine de Beauharnais with one in 1796.

Wallis Simpson

Wallis Simpson’s engagement ring from King Edward VIII is a hugely historically significant piece, symbolising a love that defied royal convention and ultimately changed the course of British history. Crafted by Cartier in 1936, the original ring featured a striking 19.77-carat emerald, a bold and unconventional choice for an engagement stone, reflecting both Wallis’s unique style and Edward’s willingness to break with tradition.

The emerald was one half of a much larger gem originally owned by a Grand Mogul, with the other half sold to an American millionaire. Set in platinum and flanked by diamond baguettes, the ring bore an engraving on the underside that read “We are ours now 27 X 36,” marking the date of their engagement – 27 October 1936 – which was also the day Wallis filed for divorce from her second husband.

Jewellery can mean many things to many people. Take emerald engagement rings, for instance. While they’re beautiful objects made from precious materials, their true value often lies in the meaning we attach to them.

An emerald’s deep green tone stands out from more traditional choices, making it a thoughtful option for those who want something a little different. It's a stone often linked to love, growth, and balance—fitting symbols for a relationship built to last.

When chosen for an engagement ring, an emerald adds a personal touch. It becomes more than just a ring—it marks a moment, tells a story, and quietly reflects the character of the person who wears it.

Choosing an antique emerald engagement ring is a thoughtful and personal decision. With its rich colour and unique character, an emerald offers something a little different from the traditional diamond. Antique rings also bring a sense of history and individuality that many modern designs can't match. If you’re looking for a meaningful, distinctive ring with lasting style, an antique emerald could be the perfect choice.

At Charlotte Sayers, we are always delighted to assist those seeking guidance or inspiration in choosing the perfect engagement ring. We understand that navigating this decision can feel overwhelming, but we believe the journey should be as enjoyable and meaningful as the ring itself.