What makes an engagement ring suitable for sports?
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Sporty engagement rings best describes a style of engagement ring less prone to damage during wear. But, first and foremost, we recommend the removal of jewellery—especially rings, during physical exercise.
Throughout our extensive ring collection, some of our designs make more suitable engagement rings for active wearers. As part of our service, we recommend suitable designs for buyers based on their lifestyle and occupation.
Unsuitable engagement rings for sports
As we make recommendations for suitable ring styles, we also advise against certain designs for the same reason. For example, ring styles with delicate, fine detail. Also, minimalist diamond settings with less support to hold the diamond. Whilst many such designs provide appealing looks, they remain high-risk during physical activity.
Engagement rings for active women
In addition, we recommend against narrow bands with very slim widths. Engagement rings with thin bands stand more chance of bending out of shape. For example, when gripping exercise equipment. For this reason, a wider band makes far more sense. As a result, most of our engagement rings measure at least 2.5mm in width.
Diamond settings suited to sports
Some engagement ring settings surround the diamond. Sometimes the setting holds the diamond within a full bezel of precious metal.
At other times, several claws provide even coverage and secure the diamond evenly. In contrast, two, three or four claws offer less stability and protection. As a result, an impact may displace the diamond without the knowledge of the wearer. For this reason, we strongly urge our clients to take out adequate jewellery insurance for their rings.
We recommend a balance between looks and practicality. For example, six-claw settings rarely reduce the beauty of a ring design. Nor, do they take away from the beauty of the diamond within.
In contrast to claw settings, we often recommend bezel settings for another reason. A polished bezel around a diamond seldom catches on clothing. But, claws frequently snag on clothing especially when damaged, or lifted from the diamond.
Lower profile sporty engagement ring designs
In addition to the design of the diamond setting, a lower height reduces the risk of knocking or bumping the setting. For this reason, a low-profile engagement ring makes perfect sense for anyone with an active lifestyle.
Large diamonds often require a minimum depth for the engagement ring setting. For this reason, a smaller stone makes a more suitable choice for a shallow ring design.
Diamond shape and durability
Consider a diamond shape less prone to damage. Despite the hardness and durability of diamonds, pointed shapes damage more easily. An impact to the point of a Pear-shape or Marquise diamond can break the tip. In contrast, round brilliant-cut diamonds remain the most popular for good reason. Oval brilliant cuts provide an elongated version of the modern round brilliant cut.
Durability and precious metal choice
Your choice of precious metal affects durability. 9-carat white gold, yellow gold or rose gold remain far less durable than 18-carat gold choices. Furthermore, Platinum makes greater sense too. At the same time, Platinum never requires Rhodium re-plating owing to the natural colour of the metal. In addition, the added density of this metal provides a perfect choice for diamond settings. For this reason, Platinum restores to as-new condition, even when scratched or dented.
Gemstone durability
Consider your choice of gemstone carefully for a sporty engagement ring chosen for an active lifestyle. Some gemstones provide hardness. Put simply, they withstand wear and tear far better than other choices.
The following table provides a quick reference to durable and non-durable gemstones for this reason. In fact, for anyone concerned about durability, choose your gemstone from the first column. For example, diamond and ruby, along with sapphire and moissanite, make good choices.
Each gemstone below appears with its hardness noted, according to the Mohs scale of hardness.
| Durable Gemstones | Non-Durable Gemstones |
|---|---|
| Diamond (10) | Pearl (2.5-4.5) |
| Ruby (9) | Opal (5.5-6.5) |
| Sapphire (9) | Amber (2-2.5) |
| Topaz (8) | Turquoise (5-6) |
| Chrysoberyl (8.5) | Malachite (3.5-4) |
| Spinel (8) | Lapis Lazuli (5-6) |
| Alexandrite (8.5) | Moonstone (6-6.5) |
| Corundum (9) | Fluorite (4) |
| Garnet (6.5-7.5) | Rhodochrosite (3.5-4) |
| Moissanite (9.25) | Rhodonite (5.5-6.5) |
Where to put your engagement ring during sports?
If you remove your engagement ring during sports, leave it in a safe place at home. Or, if you remove the ring at the gym, lock it safely away and check to make sure your insurance covers your ring away from the home. Some gym-goers hang their ring on a chain around their neck to avoid damage while gripping dumbells and barbells.
About Mark Johnson
My name is Mark and I'm founder at Serendipity Diamonds. By day you'll find me working in our showroom—in a variety of roles. My work (which I love) ranges from photographing jewellery, to writing blog posts and helping clients with my colleagues Drina, Emily and Debbie.
