Diamonds might be the classic choice for engagement rings but they sure aren’t the only one.
As customary as it may have become, the truth is that not every bride prefers to go the traditional route. Plus, no matter what the size might be, diamonds are not always a feasible option for many.
Above all, why go for the pricey diamond rings when there are several other less expensive yet equally, if not more glamorous options available in the market?
If you have seen the engagement rings of celebrities and other famous personalities like Kate Middleton, you very well know that there are better and brighter alternatives to diamonds.
Why follow the norm when you can make your own style statement with a non-diamond engagement ring that doesn’t compromise on glamour and elegence?
So, before you head to your local jeweler or start looking for exclusive engagement rings on online jewelry stores, give the following article a read.
Here are the top diamond-alternative gemstones that will certainly make a one-of-a-kind engagement ring.
1. Amethyst
Amethyst is by far one of the best alternatives to diamonds but is often overlooked when it comes to showy jewelry items. This is because its soft lilac shade might not make the bold statement that most women usually want to make with fancy gemstones.
Nonetheless, amethyst is a great choice if you are looking for an engagement ring that will make you stand out from the crowd with grace and elegance. You can pair it with gems of contrasting colors for an eccentric engagement ring or simply embed the light purple stone on a silver or rose gold band to make a style statement through sheer simplicity.
2. Turquoise
This incredible gemstone that has been named after the stunning color that it features, has been used in fashion jewelry for a really long time. However, while it was traditionally hailed as a cabochon (i.e. a solid polished mineral stone without any fancy cuts), it is now being adopted into luxury fashion designs after refining it into a highly faceted aquamarine crystal.
If you prefer something low-key, go for the conventional oval or dome-shaped matte stones that are nothing more than a small, naturally turquoise-colored pebble. But if you want to make the most out of its cool blue-green hues, then it’s best to opt for the fancier versions that reflect light off in all directions, making them noticeable from afar.
3. Sapphire
Scoring 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphire is hands down the best alternative to diamond in terms of hardness and durability – with the added advantage of affordability!
Sapphires typically come in blue or indigo tones but it’s not hard to find these ornate stones in a wide assortment of colors ranging from pale pink and peach to dull yellow, light green and even pure white.
Whether you need a ring for yourself or want to gift a lavish fashion accessory to a friend, a well-cut and well-polished sapphire can give you almost the same amount of bling as a diamond (shh, no one has to know!).
4. Emerald
Truly extravagant and incredibly impressive, emerald is a gorgeous gemstone that can never go out of fashion.
From Cleopatra to Princess Diana, some of the most renowned and powerful women in history picked emerald-based jewelry as their go-to fashion accessories.
Whether you call it the ‘jewel of kings’ or the ‘king of jewels,’ emerald fits both titles equally well. No matter what your style and preference might be, you are sure to fall in love with an engagement ring in any design as long as it features an emerald.
However, note that while it’s quite hardy, emerald does require special care and maintenance. Handle jewelry items containing emerald with care and never clean them with regular jewelry cleaners as it can stain or even permanently damage the stone.
5. Morganite
Morganite is a delicate baby pink colored gemstone that is becoming an increasingly popular choice for engagement rings and other wedding accessories. It’s simple, dreamy and oh-so-pretty.
If you or your bride-to-be prefers minimalism, a plain morganite ring is an ideal choice. Or if you would like to jazz things up a little, try setting the rosy crystal amidst red rubies for a striking effect.
You can find morganite rings at most online jewelry stores but keep in mind that their price of tends to vary significantly depending on the size and cuts in the gemstone. Research well beforehand in order to get the best deal for your money.
6. Ruby
Featuring a rich red color, rubies make a sizzling statement regardless of what jewelry item they are set in. They tend to be pricey at times, especially if you go for the larger ones or the ones that have a tint of purple making their blood-red hues all the more dramatic.
Rubies look best when set on a gold band all by themselves although you can place a couple of small white stones to highlight the color all the more.
7. Garnet
Garnet is pretty much like ruby except that it’s slightly browner in appearance. It’s a good choice to consider if you are looking for vintage style engagement rings.
8. Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli refers to a dark, royal blue colored cabochon stone. It has a plain and smooth surface and is not faceted like a diamond. But what makes it truly spectacular is the deep navy blue color that demands attention to the ring.
Lapis Lazuli looks really chic when paired with white sapphires or any other gemstone in faded blue tones that accentuate its bold blue color.
Note that this mineral stone has a relatively shorter lifespan and might have to be replaced after about ten years or less. However, this isn’t really an issue because the stone is commonly available and quite inexpensive.
9. Labradorite
Labradorite rings are best-suited for the sporty bride as this stone symbolizes strength and power. It is quite different from other gemstones as it is neither too glittery nor has the fragile look that is characteristic of crystals.
Basically, it’s an opaque, iridescent stone that usually appears in a dark grey-brown shade.
10. Citrine
With its bright yellow crystal, citrine comes close to resembling the canary diamond. So if you wanted that sparkly gem for your engagement ring but couldn’t afford to buy one, look for citrine instead as its luster will make you forget about the iconic shine of the real diamond.
Whether you let a single gemstone take the center stage or go for articulate designs with a combination of different crystals, the precious stones discussed above are the best options for a truly attractive engagement ring that you will cherish forever.
About Author: Jon is a digital entrepreneur and marketing enthusiast who loves writing on a wide range of topics. Whenever he has time to spare, he prefers to go on a hike, lounge at the beach or grill some juicy barbeque in his backyard.