When selecting a gemstone ring to symbolise your love story, beauty is only part of the equation. For many couples, the ideal ring is one that journeys with them — from bustling weekdays to romantic getaways — with enduring grace. At Prins & Prins, we believe the right gemstone should not only reflect your personal style, but also suit your lifestyle, offering both elegance and peace of mind.
Matching Stone to Story: Everyday Life, Everlasting Brilliance
Whether you are a spirited adventurer or someone who prefers intimate dinners and quiet refinement, certain gemstones naturally align with your rhythm of life. The durability of a stone is most commonly measured by the Mohs hardness scale, which rates a mineral’s resistance to scratching — a key consideration for daily wear.
Sapphire and Ruby – For Those Who Never Slow Down
Mohs Hardness: 9 (Exceptional Durability)
Sapphire and ruby, both members of the corundum family, are among the hardest natural gemstones, second only to diamond. This makes them ideal for engagement rings, wedding bands, or signature pieces worn daily.
Picture a bezel-set sapphire ring glinting in the sunlight as you toast on a mountaintop, or a classic ruby halo piece accompanying you from morning coffee to evening gala. These stones are ideal for dynamic couples who live with energy and elegance.
Emerald and Aquamarine – Gentle Gems for Refined Romance
Mohs Hardness: 7.5 to 8 (Moderate Durability)
Emeralds, prized since Cleopatra’s reign, and serene aquamarines, reminiscent of Cape waters, hold rich emotional symbolism. However, their natural inclusions (often called “jardin” in emeralds) make them more delicate than their sapphire counterparts.
If you’re drawn to these softer stones, consider protective settings such as bezels or flush mounts, which cushion the gem from daily knocks. A vineyard-view engraving on a bezel-set emerald ring becomes a cherished heirloom, with just the right amount of everyday flair.
Tanzanite – The Twilight Gem That Demands Care
Mohs Hardness: 6 to 7 (Occasional Wear Recommended)
Tanzanite, found only at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, enchants with its pleochroic dance of blues and violets. Its story is poetic, but its structure requires gentler handling. While not suited for rugged wear, tanzanite is perfect for special-occasion rings, family keepsakes, or elegant anniversary pieces worn with care.
When recommending tanzanite, our gemologists often suggest prong settings for brilliance, combined with mindful care routines. This way, your tanzanite continues to symbolise that once-in-a-lifetime love — with enduring colour and meaning.
Settings That Support Your Story
Beyond the gem itself, the ring setting plays a vital role in its longevity. Active wearers — such as chefs, travellers, healthcare workers, or yoga instructors — are best suited to bezel, half-bezel, or flush settings, which encase the stone and shield it from abrasion.
At Prins & Prins, we offer bespoke consultations to tailor the right setting and stone for each couple’s lifestyle. From adventurous proposals atop Table Mountain to elegant soirées on the V&A Waterfront, our rings are designed to live with you, not just sit in a box.
Care That Keeps the Sparkle
Every gemstone, regardless of its hardness, benefits from proper care:
- Clean regularly with lukewarm water and mild soap
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for softer stones like tanzanite or emerald
- Store in separate compartments or pouches to prevent scratches
- Have prongs and settings checked annually by your jeweller
Our gemologists recommend an annual inspection at Prins & Prins — a small act of love for your most meaningful possession.
The Prins & Prins Promise: Beauty That Lasts
Your ring is more than a piece of jewellery — it’s a companion on life’s most precious journey. That’s why our gemstone experts guide you personally, ensuring that your choice balances legacy, luxury, and lifestyle.
Explore the collection of handcrafted gemstone rings, built for generations of wear and wonder. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless resilience of sapphire, the romantic depth of emerald, or the poetic elegance of tanzanite, our pieces are ethically sourced, expertly set, and made to last.
Discover Gemstone Jewellery in Cape Town and find the ring that fits not just your finger, but your future.