What’s the difference between a natural gem and a lab-created stone, and how do you know which one is right for you? 'Finding white sapphires straight out of the ground is not common. Prices can range anywhere from $100 for a lab-created stone to the low thousands for a piece with added gemstones. The first thing to note is the price white sapphires are a very accessible gem, though natural stones will have a higher price tag than lab-created stones. When shopping for a white sapphire engagement ring, there are a few things you’ll want to consider. What to Look For When Buying White Sapphire Engagement Rings Sharon Schatner is a GIA diamond graduate and self-proclaimed 'rock nerd' at Filigree Jewelers in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Interested in a white sapphire engagement ring or as part of your wedding set? We’ve rounded up some of our favorite white sapphire pieces for inspiration and shared what you need to know about this intriguing stone. 'White sapphires have the advantage of keeping the traditional look of a colorless stone engagement ring but without needing it to be a diamond.' 'White sapphires do sparkle but not nearly as much as diamonds because of diamonds’ high refractive index and dispersion, which are two measures for how a gemstone handles light,' Schatner shares. It is important to note, however, that white sapphires are not quite as sparkly as diamonds. This clear stone has a diamond-esque vibe without the higher cost, making it a popular option for budget-conscious couples. If you love the look of a colorless stone but don’t want to spend diamond-worthy prices, white sapphires may be for you. 'Sapphires have ancient associations in many different cultures with loyalty, integrity, and romantic devotion, so a white sapphire is an appropriate choice for someone wanting a stone that symbolizes the power of their commitment,' says Sharon Schatner of Filigree Jewelers. But did you know that blue sapphires have an equally gorgeous, yet much more affordable sibling stone, the white sapphire? It combines the look of a diamond with the glamour, mystique, and rich history and meaning of a sapphire. Her daughter-in-law Kate Middleton re-ignited the trend when she received the same ring from Prince William in 2010.

Blue sapphires have been a popular choice for engagement rings for decades, in part thanks to Princess Diana, who wore a 12-carat halo sapphire when she got engaged to Prince Charles. If you’re exploring alternatives to a diamond for your engagement ring, you’ve probably thought about sapphires.

White sapphire solitaire ring