When Britain’s Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in 2010, he used the oval blue 18-carat Ceylon Sapphire and diamond engagement ring that belonged to his mother, Princess Diana. In the process, an engagement ring and gemstone trend was launched that does not seem to be waning as we move into 2012. The unique engagement ring prompted an avalanche of replicas both in the UK and here in the US. In fact, sales of a royal engagement ring replica have become a best-seller for one retailer in the UK. Kate has prompted what many are calling the Duchess Effect whereby her fashion choices sell out almost instantaneously. People are paying close attention to what this fashion icon wears.

The popularity of Kate’s sapphire and diamond engagement ring coincided with a growing trend for colored gemstones. According to Sri Lankan gemstone dealers, demand for blue sapphires and other gemstones rose sharply in the first half of 2011 and has continued to increase since the royal wedding last April. Celebrities also have embraced what has become one of the hottest jewelry trends for 2012.

[Glacial Mist Mokume Gane Sapphire and Diamond Three Stone Engagement Ring]

Andrew Nyce Designs has been incorporating Ceylon Blue Sapphires into our unique wedding band and engagement ring designs. The striking blue color complements the subtle hues of our white metal Mokume Gane wedding bands and engagement rings as well as the steely blue of our Damascus Stainless Steel men’s wedding and commitment rings. You can customize any of our handcrafted rings with a brilliant blue sapphire or any other colored gemstone. Just ask!

Embraced Mokume Gane Wedding Ring with Palladium Channel and Flush Set Sapphires (left)
BOLD Damascus Steel Men’s Wedding Ring with Flush Set Sapphire (right)