How to Choose the Perfect “Something Blue” Jewellery
Every bride knows the old wedding rhyme: “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” Some traditions have faded over time, but “Something Blue” has stood the test of time. Whether it’s a subtle ribbon hidden inside a dress or a pair of sapphire earrings worn proudly down the aisle, it’s a tradition that’s as meaningful today as it was generations ago.
For many brides, jewellery is the perfect way to embrace it. Unlike flowers or shoes that are worn just once, a beautiful piece of fine jewellery becomes part of your story. Every anniversary, family celebration or special occasion is another chance to wear it and remember the day you said “I do”.
If you’re deciding which blue gemstone to choose, here’s what makes each one special.
The Meaning Behind “Something Blue”
The tradition comes from the Victorian rhyme:
“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe.”
Each part was believed to bring good fortune to the marriage.
Something Old represents the life you’ve lived before your wedding day and the people who helped shape it. Family jewellery, heirlooms and vintage pieces are all wonderful ways to honour the tradition.
Something New looks towards the future. While this is often the wedding dress, many brides choose a new piece of jewellery that they’ll continue to wear for years afterwards.
Something Borrowed symbolises the love and support of friends and family, while Something Blue represents loyalty, love and faithfulness.
The final line of the rhyme – “a sixpence in your shoe” – was thought to bring prosperity. Although genuine sixpences are now something of a rarity, many couples still enjoy including the tradition in their own way.
Why Jewellery Is the Perfect Choice
There’s no rule that says your “Something Blue” has to be hidden.
In fact, many brides deliberately choose jewellery because it’s something they’ll treasure long after the wedding day. A sapphire pendant or aquamarine earrings don’t disappear into a keepsake box afterwards – they become part of your jewellery collection, ready to be worn on anniversaries, birthdays and countless special occasions.
Jewellery can also tick two boxes at once. A new necklace or bracelet can become both your Something Blue and your Something New, making it a meaningful investment rather than a one-day accessory.
Which Blue Gemstone Should You Choose?
Blue gemstones each have their own personality. Some are bold and dramatic, others soft and understated. Your choice often comes down to the overall feel of your wedding.
If your style is timeless and classic, sapphire is difficult to beat. If you’re planning a relaxed summer wedding with soft colours, aquamarine might feel more at home. Looking for something a little different? Tanzanite offers an intriguing violet-blue hue that’s unlike any other gemstone.
Sapphire – The Traditional Favourite
When most people picture a blue gemstone, sapphire is usually the first that comes to mind. Its rich royal blue has been associated with love and fidelity for centuries, making it one of the most meaningful choices for bridal jewellery.
It’s also incredibly versatile. While sapphire earrings and pendants are always popular, don’t overlook a bracelet. It catches the light beautifully as you hold your bouquet and adds just enough colour without dominating your overall look.
One piece that perfectly captures this understated elegance is Zelley’s 18ct White Gold Sapphire & Diamond Line Bracelet. Alternating vibrant sapphires with sparkling diamonds, it’s delicate enough for your wedding day yet timeless enough to wear for decades afterwards.
If you prefer a necklace, the 18ct White Gold Sapphire & Diamond Flower Pendant is equally romantic. The floral design feels wonderfully appropriate for a wedding, while the combination of diamonds and deep blue sapphires creates a look that’s classic rather than fashionable – exactly what most brides hope for when choosing jewellery they’ll keep forever.
Aquamarine – Light, Fresh and Effortlessly Elegant
If sapphire feels a little too bold, aquamarine offers something altogether softer.
Its pale blue colour is often compared to clear tropical water, making it a particularly lovely choice for spring and summer weddings. It complements white and ivory dresses beautifully and sits comfortably alongside almost any colour palette, from blush pinks to sage greens and soft neutrals.
The 9ct White Gold Oval Aquamarine & Diamond Pendant is a perfect example. Featuring a striking 1.06ct aquamarine accented by diamonds, it brings just enough colour to catch the eye without overpowering your bridal look. Pair it with a chain that suits your neckline and it’s a piece you’ll reach for again and again.
Aquamarine also offers another lovely opportunity. If you’d like to honour more than one wedding tradition, consider choosing a pre-owned piece as your Something Old. Zelley’s Platinum Oval Aquamarine & Diamond Cluster Ring has already lived part of its story and is ready to begin another. It’s a romantic way to embrace sustainability while wearing something truly exceptional on your wedding day.
Blue Topaz – Bright, Modern and Great Value
Blue topaz deserves far more attention than it sometimes receives.
Its bright, lively colour makes it ideal for brides who want their “Something Blue” to be a little more noticeable, and it offers exceptional value compared with many other gemstones.
The 9ct White Gold Blue Topaz & Diamond Drop Earrings are particularly elegant. The movement of drop earrings naturally draws attention to the face, while the combination of blue topaz and diamonds adds sparkle without feeling overdone.
Already planning to wear family earrings or a treasured heirloom? A bracelet is an equally lovely way to include your blue. The Silver Blue Topaz Open Circle Bracelet is modern, understated and easy to wear long after the wedding celebrations are over.
Tanzanite – For Brides Looking for Something Different
Not every bride wants to follow tradition completely.
Tanzanite offers something just a little unexpected. Found only in a small area of northern Tanzania, its remarkable colour shifts between rich blue and soft violet depending on the light, giving it a character all of its own.
The 9ct White Gold Tanzanite & Diamond Cluster Stud Earrings are an elegant choice if you love timeless styling with a subtle twist. The surrounding diamonds bring extra sparkle while allowing the beautiful colour of the tanzanite to remain the star of the show.
For brides who prefer a necklace, the 18ct White Gold Round Tanzanite Halo Diamond Cluster Pendant provides a classic silhouette with a gemstone that’s guaranteed to stand out from the crowd.
Why White Gold Works So Beautifully for Bridal Jewellery
You’ll probably have noticed that many bridal jewellery collections feature white gold, and that’s no coincidence.
Its cool tone complements white, ivory and champagne-coloured dresses effortlessly. It also pairs beautifully with platinum engagement rings and allows diamonds and blue gemstones to really shine. Whether you choose sapphire, aquamarine, blue topaz or tanzanite, white gold provides an elegant setting that never goes out of style.
A Few Styling Tips
Choosing the right jewellery isn’t about wearing more – it’s about wearing the right pieces.
If your dress has a sweetheart or V-neckline, a pendant naturally follows the shape of the neckline. High-necked dresses often look best with beautiful earrings and a bracelet instead of a necklace. If you’re wearing your hair up, it’s the perfect opportunity to show off drop earrings, while loose waves tend to suit classic studs or smaller clusters.
Above all, resist the temptation to over-accessorise. Your engagement ring, wedding band and “Something Blue” are already telling a story. Sometimes, that’s all you need.
A Keepsake You’ll Wear Again
Perhaps the nicest thing about choosing jewellery as your “Something Blue” is that it doesn’t stop being special once the wedding is over.
Years from now, you’ll fasten the same bracelet for a family celebration, wear the same pendant to dinner on your anniversary, or pass those earrings on to someone else beginning their own story.
That’s something a blue ribbon can never do.
Find Your Perfect Something Blue at Zelley
Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of sapphire, the delicate beauty of aquamarine, the vibrant sparkle of blue topaz or the distinctive colour of tanzanite, Zelley has a carefully chosen collection of fine jewellery to suit every bridal style.
Visit our showroom in Bishop’s Stortford or browse our collection online to discover a piece that’s beautiful enough for your wedding day – and meaningful enough to wear for a lifetime.
