The History of Gemstone Rings

Rings! Not just an ornament but tell significance of power, wealth and Love. These are the jewelery pieces that became popular from the ancient times. All classes of people wore rings from the poorest to the richest. Rings were typically made of iron, copper, silver, and gold. The material of the ring worn usually indicated the class of the wearer. It wasn't until around the 14th century that faceted jewels appeared in rings.

Different cultures have distinct ring designs associated with their traditions. Native Americans often incorporate silver and turquoise in their jewelry, symbolizing protection and spirituality. Early Christians used the Greek symbol Ichthus (resembling a fish) as a sign of faith.

One of the most famous cultural rings is the Irish Claddagh, which carries a fascinating story. Richard Joyce, a fisherman from the village of Claddagh, Ireland, was captured by pirates just days before his wedding. Enslaved and trained as a goldsmith, he remained faithful to his love throughout his captivity. During this time, he crafted the Claddagh ring, featuring: a heart, a crown and two hands. 

After Joyce escaped capture, he returned to the village of Claddagh and was overjoyed to see his love again and to know she had never married. She always knew he would return to her. He gave her the ring that has become known as the Claddagh ring. If the Claddagh is worn on the right hand with the crown inward (toward the wrist) the heart is not yet committed. If it is worn on the right hand with the crown turned outward the wearer is committed to someone. Finally, if it is worn on the left hand with the crown outward it means "Let our love and friendship reign forever, never to be separated."

Rings are worn for a variety of reasons including adornment. There are rings given as a reward for a job well done such as the Super Bowl victory. They are given to represent commitment as in engagements and marriages. Women religious to signify their commitment to God also wear rings.

Rings can be made of almost any material now. They can be made from plastic, silver, gold, or copper, even wood. They can be made of ceramic materials as well. They can be of simple design or something as intricate as filigree.

They can be plain and simple or they can be adorned with jewels or gemstones, as in the case of birthstone rings. There is a birthstone for each month of the year and each has its own meaning. See the listing below.

January - Garnet

The gem of faith and truth; protects from poisons, thought to stop bleeding, cure sickness of the blood and infections.

February - Amethyst

Aids soldiers in battle, control evil thoughts, helps hunters to catch animals, and helps the owner be good in business.

March - Aquamarine

Sailors used aquamarine to gemstones to keep them safe and to prevent seasickness. It gives the wearer courage, foresight and courage

April - Diamond

Diamonds have long been revered as a symbol of strength, courage, and invincibility — qualities that mirror the powerful bond of true love. This timeless gemstone became forever linked with romance in 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring, marking the beginning of the tradition of diamond engagement rings.

Continuing that legacy, our Custom-Made Unique Emerald Cut Emerald Center Stone and Asscher Cut Diamond Accents Three Stone Engagement Ring (Style 506) is the ultimate gift of love. Featuring a richly colored emerald-cut emerald at its heart, flanked by two brilliant Asscher-cut diamond accents, this handcrafted design beautifully blends regal elegance with modern sophistication.

This bespoke piece is not just a ring — it’s a declaration of enduring love, unmatched in both symbolism and craftsmanship.

May - Emerald

Emeralds have captivated hearts and minds for centuries — not only for their striking beauty, but for the mystique and meaning they carry. In ancient lore, emeralds were believed to sharpen the wearer’s eyesight and mind, offering clarity and insight. Travelers wore them as protective talismans, shielding them from the hazards of long journeys. And in many cultures, the deep green color of the emerald was said to grant its owner the power to foresee the future.

Channel that history, energy, and elegance with our Custom-Made Unique Stackable Alternating Emerald Cut Emerald and Diamond Bar Set Eternity Ring (Style 119). This exquisite eternity band features a mesmerizing pattern of emerald-cut emeralds and diamonds in a sleek bar setting, symbolizing eternal love, clarity, and strength.

Whether worn alone or stacked for a bold, layered look, this piece is more than jewelry — it’s a legacy of wisdom, protection, and timeless sophistication.

June - Pearl

Freshwater pearls give the power of love, money, protection, and luck. It is said they give provide wisdom through experience and protect children from harm.

July - Ruby

Its red color is related to sex, passion, strength, health, physical energy, courage, and protection. It is associated with blood, birth, and death

August - Peridot

It is thought to bring the wearer good luck, peace, and success. Its powers include health, protection, and sleep. It attracts love, calms anger, eases anxiety and negative emotions

September - Sapphire

Its powers include spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. It is said to aid in the healing of rheumatism, colic and mental illness

October - Opal

It has healing powers that aid inner beauty, faithfulness, and eyesight. It also aids in remembering past lives.

November - Yellow Topaz (Sanskrit for fire)

In the Middle Ages was thought to heal both physical and mental illnesses and prevent death. Citrine - also for November - Aids the kidneys, heart, digestive tract liver, and muscles. It promotes creativity, personal clarity and eliminates self-destructive tendencies.

December - Blue Topaz (Sanskrit for fire)

Historically, gemstones were believed to possess healing powers. Turquoise, December's birthstone, was thought to attract prosperity, love, and offer protection, while also easing mental tension. Similarly, blue sapphires, known for their deep, mesmerizing hues, have long been associated with wisdom, loyalty, and spiritual enlightenment.

Our 526 Custom-Made Unique Emerald Cut Blue Sapphire Center Stone and Asscher Cut Diamond Accent Three-Stone Engagement Ring perfectly embodies this rich history. The striking emerald-cut blue sapphire at the center symbolizes clarity and truth, while the Asscher-cut diamond accents enhance its brilliance, representing strength and eternal love. This exquisite piece is not just a ring—it's a timeless symbol of elegance and meaning.

Today, rings serve diverse purposes, ranging from school and friendship rings to significant symbols like engagement and wedding rings, and personalized mother's rings featuring children's birthstones. Ring prices vary dramatically, from inexpensive novelty items to exquisite pieces valued in the thousands.