What’s more beautiful than a single, dazzling gemstone on a gorgeous ring? How about two dazzling gemstones? Enter the ‘Toi et Moi’ (pronounced “twa et mwa”) ring. French for “you and me,” this style is uniquely alluring and carries deep meaning and symbolism. Read on to discover the meaning behind Toi et Moi rings, their origins and evolution, iconic examples and helpful tips for choosing the perfect Toi et Moi ring.
What is a Toi et Moi ring?
A Toi et Moi ring features two stones, typically set side by side, symbolizing two people coming together. While the two gemstones are often diamonds, other colorful, symbolic stones may be used, such as sapphires for fidelity, emeralds for prosperity, and rubies for passion.
The gemstone shapes and overall setting can vary significantly from one Toi et Moi ring to the next. Both gemstones may be featured in prong settings or tucked into a bezel setting for a more minimal, modern design. The two gemstones can also share the same cut, or you may opt for two differently cut stones for a unique, asymmetrical look.
These unique double-stone rings have been gaining popularity recently, likely fueled by high-profile Toi et Moi celebrity engagement rings. While they make excellent, meaningful engagement rings, Toi et Moi rings aren't just for the betrothed. These stunning rings also make a fantastic option for anyone looking for a statement piece that showcases multiple gemstones.
Toi et Moi meaning
The two stones often symbolize the love, partnership and devotion of two individuals (including the wearer). However, this partnership or devotion to one another is not a requirement for owning a Toi et Moi ring. Maybe you want to treat yourself but can’t decide which gemstone type or cut you like best. Why choose just one? With a Toi et Moi ring, you can get both!
The “you-and-me" symbolism of a Toi et Moi ring can also commemorate other significant milestones aside from marriage, like the arrival of a new child. These rings also serve as the "all grown up" version of a friendship bracelet. Instead of crafting DIY bracelets to exchange, some friends may opt for matching Toi et Moi rings to represent their lasting friendship.
History of Toi et Moi rings
Toi et Moi rings originated in the 18th century. They became popular in France during the Enlightenment—an intellectual and cultural movement that emphasized individualism, science and the pursuit of knowledge. Toi et Moi rings were perfectly suited to this era, reflecting the period’s growing interest in self-expression, personal relationships and symbolic gestures of love and partnership.
These rings were typically set with diamonds and other precious stones, often given as tokens of engagement or deep affection. In the 1930s, designers began mixing gem types, cuts, and colors in Toi et Moi rings. In the 1980s and 90s, these rings evolved toward bigger and bolder styles, with more intricate settings and an even broader range of gemstones.
Famous Toi et Moi rings
Unique, beautiful jewelry catches the eye—even more so when worn by a notable individual. The following famous Toi et Moi rings made headlines when first introduced to the world by these notable individuals:
Napoleon and Josephine: In 1796, Napoleon Bonaparte proposed to his future wife, Josephine, using one of the first well-known Toi et Moi rings. This simple gold-banded ring featured two pear-shaped gemstones: one diamond and one blue sapphire. The design was modest, but its profound gesture and symbolism of love and unity influenced engagement rings for centuries.
- Jacqueline Kennedy: First Lady and fashion icon Jackie Kennedy received her Toi et Moi engagement ring from future President John F. Kennedy following their engagement. The ring, rumored to cost $1 million at the time of purchase, consisted of a 2.88-carat diamond and a 2.84-carat emerald, both emerald-cut. The ring’s bands were adorned with baguette-cut diamonds and emeralds until Jackie remodeled the piece years later, replacing the baguettes with more formal marquise-cut gems. The iconic ring now resides at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.
- Emily Ratajkowski: In 2018, people were very excited when model and actress Emily Ratajowski posted a photo of her newly received Toi et Moi engagement ring. The ring featured a gold band with two diamonds, one princess-cut and the other pear-cut. After divorcing in 2022, Emily Ratajkowski “un-married” the two gemstones from her Toi et Moi ring, creating two new “divorce rings.”
- Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly: Toi et Moi rings may not be considered traditional, making them a perfect design choice for edgy couples like actress Megan Fox and rapper/singer Machine Gun Kelly. Megan Fox’s gold-banded ring features two torn-shaped bands that magnetize together. Each band contains a pear-cut stone: one diamond, one emerald, that form a heart shaped setting when worn together. Or, as MGK puts it, “two halves of one soul,” which perfectly sums up Toi et Moi rings.
Tips for picking a Toi et Moi ring
Looking to pick out a Toi et Moi ring for yourself or your partner? Consider the following tips:
Choose stones with personal meaning. To create a ring that is both beautiful and deeply personal, consider selecting stones that have personal meaning to you and your partner. This might include your birthstones, favorite gemstones, or stones with a shared sentimental value.
- Consider personal style. Whether you are buying for yourself or someone else, consider personal style. Do you prefer a more classic style? Does your partner's overall aesthetic lean more minimalist? Is a more elaborate, intricate design more appropriate, or are you looking for something more modern? Especially if the ring is intended for daily wear, you'll want to make sure it fits the wearer's day-to-day style.
- Balance the stones’ sizes. Try to gain harmony and balance between the two stones. You may want both stones to be of similar size, or perhaps you (or your partner) would prefer a less symmetrical look, allowing one gem to be slightly larger than the other. However, it's recommended not to get too carried away with the size difference, as doing so may lead to one gem completely overshadowing the other. This size balance can help represent equality, with each stone having its unique role, but both are equally important.
- Purposefully choose gemstone types. Some popular Toi et Moi gemstone pairings include diamonds and sapphires or diamonds and emeralds. Whichever you decide, ensure the two stones complement each other in shape, color and maybe even meaning. To enhance the contrast between your two gemstones, consider pairing a warm-toned gem, such as a ruby, with a cooler-toned gem, such as a diamond.
- Pay attention to the metal setting. While the gemstones of a Toi et Moi ring garner most of the attention, the ring’s metal shouldn’t be overlooked. Metal plays an important role in a ring’s appearance. There’s the timeless allure of platinum, the soft warmth of rose gold, and the modern sleekness of white gold, to name a few. There are also practical implications to consider, such as durability. Metals like platinum, palladium, tungsten carbide, white gold and titanium are durable and great options for regularly worn rings. You may also want to consider the metal types already in your (or your partner’s) jewelry collection and select metals that complement the other cherished or often-worn jewelry.
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