There are plenty of options for non-diamond engagement rings, including those made from metals other than gold and platinum. Yellow, rose, and white gold is common metals for engagement rings, but there are many others. A diamond is the most common stone, but there are also rings made of silver and platinum. Mixing and matching metals for a unique, personalized look is possible. While gold and platinum are both durable, platinum tends to dull quicker and is more difficult to restore to its original luster. Also, platinum’s base color is a dull white and will show wear and tear after a while.
If diamonds are too expensive for your budget, consider choosing a gemstone. There is a wide variety of alternative gemstones, from natural crown jewels to man-made imitations. Although many people consider diamonds the most classic option, many women also choose other options. Most non-diamond engagement rings are still beautiful and unique, and the choice is up to you. You can find the perfect gemstone for your special someone.
What are Engagement Rings Without Diamonds?
There are plenty of alternatives to diamond engagement rings. Simply deciding which is best depends on your particular preferences; your engagement ring should express your sense of fashion. Precious colored gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds come to mind when considering non-diamond center stones. (See below for further information on the advantages of sapphires and rubies.) Other than that, semi-precious stones are in style right now, including morganite, tourmaline, quartz, moonstone, topaz, garnet, and opal, to name a few. Another thing to consider when looking at diamond substitutes is synthetic possibilities like lab-created moissanite or other diamond implants, which are affordable and mirror diamonds’ appearance and brilliance.
Considerations Prior to Purchasing a Diamond Alternative
The most crucial consideration when choosing a diamond substitute is that not all gemstones are appropriate for daily use. Montague admonishes choosing a stone with consideration for your way of life in mind. She explains that some jewels are more delicate and should be worn with extra care to prevent harm. “Select a gemstone durable enough to withstand your daily activities.” Make sure to ask a jeweler about this or conduct your independent study to determine your preferred stone’s durability.
Color is another important consideration. Diamonds complement everything since they are transparent and colorless. However, many diamond substitutes are vivid and striking, so they might not be as adaptable. Sassone advises, “Make sure it’s a colour that you genuinely enjoy and won’t get weary of.”
Advantages of Diamond Substitutes
The main benefit of a diamond substitute is that, in general, other gemstones are less expensive. Due to their high price, diamonds turn many prospective consumers off. According to Sassone, when shopping for an alternate stone, you might spend less money and receive a larger stone. Naturally, that depends on the kind of stone that finally calls to you, she continues.
A non-diamond has the additional benefit of making your ring stand out more prominently. Montague says, “it signifies you will have something special and unusual from the traditional-looking engagement ring.”
Finally, a diamond substitute might feel more enjoyable. If you add a splash of color to your jewelry, Montague advises, “you can truly impress everyone who sees your lovely piece.”
Cons of Alternatives to Diamonds
While other gemstones can be incredibly robust, none are as strong as a diamond, which is probably the largest drawback of a non-diamond. Other choices you adore might not be strong enough to endure normal wear and tear. For instance, Sassone points out that pearls and opals are extremely soft and difficult to wear constantly. According to the expert, these stones require more maintenance than reasonable for a ring you’ll never want to take off.
If you’re searching for something more traditional, your best chance is to get something like moissanite because some people might not enjoy a non-traditional selection.
Diamond Engagement Rings Alternatives
1. Aquamarine
Light blue aquamarine gemstones are a classy and modern option that can also serve as your “something blue” for your engagement ring (and an excellent family heirloom). Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family and belongs to the same species as emeralds and morganites. According to Sassone, “they have a hardness value of 7.5-8. Therefore, diamonds and sapphires would scratch them.” “The stone may require periodic polishing over time. Therefore, you should store them apart from your other jewels.
However, aquamarine is a rather robust choice that will undoubtedly become a beloved favorite.
Features:
- STUNNING HALO RING – Peora Aquamarine real gemstone, Cushion Cut, 6mm, 0.75 Carat, Icy Blue color, AAA Quality Grade. A genuine White Topaz Ring creates a magnificent shine. 1.13-carat Aquamarine Ring.
- SUPERIOR QUALITY – Each Peora Aquamarine is hand-selected by our skilled Craftsmen from the finest materials and meticulously polished to enhance its color and beauty. Peora beautiful jewelry is authentic and high-quality. Jewelry marked 14K is hallmarked.
- Each piece of Peora jewelry comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and a satisfaction guarantee.
- Comfortable and durable, this Aquamarine Halo Ring is designed for elegance. Peora Aquamarine
- Cushion Cut Ring is 3.80 Grams of 14k White Gold. Convenient comfort. Sizes 5-9.
- This halo Aquamarine ring is a stunning present. This Peora Aquamarine ring is a great gift for birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, graduation, and more. Gift-boxed.
2. Emerald
Emeralds are a timeless choice that will significantly enhance your jewelry collection with their stunning green tint. Montague points out that they come in several shapes that may be easily altered to fit into your ideal ring.
Because emeralds are roughly 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, similar to aquamarine, they may need extra care and attention when worn or preserved. The most desirable emeralds, according to Montague, will be a stunning green with a highly clear aspect. The ideal emerald shade is clear, medium in intensity, and neither too deep nor too light.
It’s also very important to find out how much oil was used to cure your emerald, as the appearance of stones treated with a lot of oil would probably deteriorate over time.
Features:
- 18K Rose Gold, nickel-free. Ring sizes 4-12 US. 10mm x 7mm Pear Gemstones in a 3-Prong setting.
- Perfect gift: This lovely necklace would make a great present. Gifts for daughters, women, moms, wives, aunts, best friends, love, etc. Ideal birthday, anniversary, Christmas, graduation, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, etc. gifts, or to show someone you care!
- Events: Promise, wedding, or engagement ring. This ring symbolizes dedication and milestones.
- Surprise your loved one on their anniversary, sweet 16, or birthday.
- 18K Rose Gold ring is precious jewelry that easily oxidizes; avoid corrosive agents, including skincare and cosmetics.
3. Morganite
Morganite is a fashionable alternative to diamonds right now. It is a feminine pink stone that resembles the ultra-luxurious pink diamond. The stone’s light tint makes it wearable and flexible, and there are many different ways to use it.
According to Sassone, morganite and aquamarine are very similar because they belong to the same family. Since they both have a hardness of around 7.5, morganite can be worn frequently but still requires more care than diamonds.
Features:
- AN-0032A
Rose gold, 14K (Available Also in 14K Yellow Gold or 14K White gold – No Extra Charge)
AJC (Ayala Jewelry Certificate)
6.5 Size Ring (4-9 US sizes)
US$4100 - PREMIERE
Morganite-natural
1.28ct
Circular
Pink-light
Vs - STONES
Natural diamonds
0.18 carats round brilliant
SI color/clarity
Good
4. Ruby
Because they can be both traditional and daring at the same time, rubies make a great alternative to diamonds. They are the gemstone of love, as Montague notes, and range in color from deep pink to red. When combined with white and yellow metals, they provide a stunning contrast.
The strength and suitability of rubies for everyday wear are unquestionably a benefit. They aren’t quite as affordable as some other possibilities, though. According to Montague, rubies cost more per carat than any other colorful gem. When purchasing, she advises seeking out the more coveted deep red rubies and ensuring the stone is eye-clean.
Features:
- PEORA-QUALITY 3 Carats Cushion CREATED RUBY Pigeon Blood Red 8mm with superb glitter. 29 White Topaz stones.
- REAL SOLID 14K GOLD – 3 grams Solid 14 Karat Gold with 14K stamp, Rhodium-coated for longevity and rich finish. Nickel-free is hypoallergenic for sensitive skin.
- STUNNING RED STONE RING – Designed by Peora to dazzle from all angles. Stylish everyday wear.
- Engagement, anniversary, promise, or cocktail ring. Sizes 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 fit well.
- GIFT-READY – July birthday gifts include Ruby jewelry. Great for mom, sister, grandmother, daughter, wife, best friend, girlfriend, niece, aunt, and yourself! It comes in a distinctive Peora Gift Box excellent for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, engagements, bridal parties, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, graduation, or, to say, “I Love You.”
- Peora is an American jewelry manufacturer recognized for its gemstones. Every Peora jewelry piece is created by our trained Craftsmen using the finest materials, each cut and polished to enhance the stone’s color and beauty. Each artwork comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for quality assurance.
5. Sapphire
Another classy and attractive alternative that comes in various hues is sapphires. These colorful gemstones are perfect for daily wear and are one of the toughest stones other than diamonds. Sassone asserts, “You can wear a sapphire your entire life.” “These stones require less maintenance,”
Sassone advises using a reliable source when buying a sapphire because the market for colored stones isn’t as well controlled as the market for diamonds. She says that the ability of the stone to transmit light at the molecular level is what makes a good crystal. “Sapphire shine can be significantly reduced by irradiation, so you want to consider how much sparkle the stone has.”
On the other hand, sapphires frequently undergo heat treatment, which is perfectly appropriate. Pure heat treatment without adding chemicals or other materials can enhance the color and clarity of many sapphires.
Features:
- Infinite Elements Cubic Zirconia Accent Ring A size seven ring A must-have piece for any jewelry collection
- Each Cubic Zirconia has diamond-like qualities in brilliance and clarity, making it an affordable alternative widely used in jewelry.
- Imported
6. Amethyst
Amethyst is the ideal stone for the unusual bride because of its deep violet color. You can purchase a large amethyst for a price that is considerably lower than that of a diamond.
Despite the color’s beauty, it’s vital to remember that amethyst is not as durable as some other colorful gemstones. Because it rates a seven on the Mohs scale, Montague advises against wearing it frequently. It is more brittle and susceptible to injury. Amethyst can still be your pick if you’re prepared to take care of it and be extra cautious.
Features:
- 2 Carats Cushion PEORA QUALITY GENUINE AMETHYST 8mm Royal Purple with amazing shine. 28 White Topaz stones.
- REAL SOLID 14K GOLD – 3 grams Solid 14 Karat Gold with 14K stamp, Rhodium-coated for longevity and rich finish. Nickel-free is hypoallergenic for sensitive skin.
- STUNNING GEMSTONE RING – Designed by Peora to dazzle from all angles. Stylish everyday wear.
- Engagement, anniversary, promise, or cocktail ring. Sizes 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 fit well.
- GIFT-READY – February’s birthstone is amethyst. Great for mom, sister, grandmother, daughter, wife, best friend, girlfriend, niece, aunt, and yourself! It comes in a distinctive Peora Gift Box excellent for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, engagements, bridal parties, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, graduation, or, to say, “I Love You.”
- Peora is an American jewelry manufacturer recognized for its gemstones. Every Peora jewelry piece is created by our trained Craftsmen using the finest materials, each cut and polished to enhance the stone’s color and beauty. Each artwork comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for quality assurance.
7. Opal
According to Montague, opal gemstones can help you attain an heirloom aesthetic or a more vintage-inspired look. These lovely milky white stones are quite adaptable and have a fascinating iridescence.
Opals are not the strongest stones available, though. Opals are very permeable and soft, according to Montague. Chips and scratches will likely appear with continued use, and the stone’s color may alter over time. However, because they are fragile and porous, opals are not recommended for daily wear because they might not respond well to unexpected temperature fluctuations or extended exposure to the sun.
Features:
- Style yourself. Flaunt this ring with oval & pear opal, round-made white sapphire, and 18K yellow gold over 925 sterling silver.
- L:18.3, W:19.5, H:23.1
- All jewelry comes in a nice box. 30-day return policy.
- All Jewelili Diamonds and Gemstones are conflict-free and made of high-quality materials. We offer inexpensive fine jewelry with unmatched quality and customer service.
- Self-gifting: Ideal. Also a terrific birthday, graduation, anniversary, Valentine’s day, or Mother’s day gift for your wife, girlfriend, or love partner.
8. Moissanite
It’s easy to understand why moissanite has become one of the most well-liked diamond substitutes in recent years. Not only does moissanite closely resemble a diamond, but it is also far less expensive and nearly as durable as the latter. According to Montague, moissanite gemstones are currently the second-hardest gemstone used in jewelry. Even the busiest bride-to-be can use them because they are so sturdy.
They have a clear hue, which makes them highly adaptable. They also have an incredible sparkle that even the best diamonds find extremely difficult to match. Montague notes that they are also made in a lab, making them a more moral and environmentally friendly alternative to many diamonds.
Features:
- Designed, created, and shipped by Kobelli USA. 7×5 mm Emerald Lab-Created Moissanite (1.05 Carat DEW), 2/5 Carat TDW Lab-Grown Diamond Side Stones 14k Gold Prong Cathedral Setting.
- Eco-friendly products made from real materials and stones that have been sustainably obtained.
9. Alexandrite
A stunning substitute for a diamond in an engagement ring is alexandrite. Alexandrites also referred to as chameleon stones, can appear anywhere from bluish-green and reddish purple, depending on the lighting. Because alexandrite engagement rings rate an 8.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, they are a sensible option for daily wear. Additionally, they are among the rarest gemstones, making them the ideal option for the kind of woman who seeks an unusual engagement ring that (nearly) no one else has.
Features:
- PEORA-QUALITY CREATED ALEXANDRITE – 3 Carats Princess Cut, 8mm, blue-green to purple color-changing hues, stunning glitter. 12 round brilliant cut genuine diamonds total 0.06 carats.
- REAL SOLID 14K GOLD – 3 grams Solid 14 Karat Gold with 14K stamp, Rhodium-coated for longevity and rich finish. Nickel-free is hypoallergenic for sensitive skin.
- Elegant cathedral-style ring designed by Peora to glitter from all perspectives. Stylish everyday wear.
- Engagement, anniversary, promise, or cocktail ring. Any jeweler may resize the size seven ring.
- Alexandrite jewelry makes a great June birthday present. Great for mom, sister, grandmother, daughter, wife, best friend, girlfriend, niece, aunt, and yourself! It comes in a distinctive Peora Gift Box excellent for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, engagements, bridal parties, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, graduation, or, to say, “I Love You.”
- Peora is an American jewelry manufacturer recognized for its gemstones. Every Peora jewelry piece is created by our trained Craftsmen using the finest materials, each cut and polished to enhance the stone’s color and beauty. Each artwork comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for quality assurance.
10. Lab Grown Gemstones
It might not be enough to get her a non-diamond engagement ring if she wants a conflict-free stone. Like diamonds, mined gemstones can still have detrimental social and environmental effects. Fortunately for you, the majority of well-known gemstones have lab-created equivalents. Lab-created gemstones are an ethical and reasonably priced alternative to diamonds if she must have an ethical stone.
Feature:
- All genuine lab-grown diamonds and moissanite Halo Moissanite and Diamond Engagement Ring Solid 14k White Gold Cathedral Head Setting Proposal-ready ring box included
Alternative- Engagement Bands
Some wedding bands forgo using any stones at all. We believe beautifully carved, and elaborately designed wedding bands make stunning engagement rings. You might add monograms to an engagement ring or even sculptural embellishments to enhance depth and character. Customers can always alter their rings to generate a unique symbolic meaning. Although the typical center stone for engagement rings is frequently a diamond, other gemstones can also be used. Colored gemstones or even elaborate bands without gems can be seen in non-diamond engagement rings. As an ethical center stone that provides a clear substitute for the more expensive diamond, colorless sapphires or moissanite may also be used in place of the diamond. Create a stunning engagement ring on a budget by combining gemstones and moissanite stones with halos, side stones, or as a straightforward solitaire.
Cost of Non-Traditional Diamond Rings
Depending on your setting type, carat weight, and other characteristics, non-traditional diamond rings can cost anywhere between $1,200 to $25,000. Non-traditional engagement rings cost around the same as traditional ones, but they may cost more depending on the complexity of the design and the diamonds used.
For instance, a conventional platinum pavé ring from Blue Nile weighing 0.70 carats costs $2,786. Blue Nile’s unconventional ring costs $4,673 and has the same carat weight as a platinum setting with a twisted vine design (much more).
Another comparison is this 0.9-carat traditional halo ring from Blue Nile, priced at $4,381, and this 0.9-carat unique pavé ring from James Allen, priced at $3,890, both with a J color and a higher clarity grade (slightly less).
Although numerous elements affect an engagement ring’s price, conventional and non-conventional styles can generally be found in any price range.
An engagement ring costs, on average, between $5,000 and $7,500 for a pair. Instead of paying more for a diamond, choosing a non-traditional engagement ring is more about your style.
Alternative Designs for Engagement Rings
Three-stone settings and vintage styles are only two examples of non-traditional engagement rings. You can better understand which setting is ideal for you or your partner by taking a closer look at several unconventional styles. Next, evaluate related rings to select the one you’ll adore for years.
Here is a list of styles for you (click on the style to get directly to the one in which you are most interested):
- Split shank rings
- Two-tone designs
- Floral motifs
- Baguette settings
- Vintage or antique settings
- Rings with gemstone side stones
What Stone is the Most Exquisite that is Not a Diamond?
Sapphire White
Blue is a hue that sapphire is infamously linked to, but it’s not the only one. White sapphire, a popular natural diamond substitute, is far less expensive than blue. But remember that synthetic white sapphire is also a possibility.
What are Some Ethical Substitutes for Diamonds?
An alternative to diamonds is ruby and sapphire.
Because they are affordable, available in a wide range of gorgeous, brilliant colors that complement any style, and nearly as durable as diamonds, sapphires and rubies make excellent diamond substitutes. In actuality, they are the second-hardest gemstone after diamonds.
A few other stones that have the same look and value as a diamond are tourmaline and ruby. Both are considered to be 7.5 on the Mohs scale and can range in price. You can consider onyx and garnet if you don’t want to go with a diamond. Both stones are available in various colors and are often used in antique settings. While rubies tend to be the most expensive gemstone, they can be less expensive than diamonds.
What is a Starter Engagement Ring?
As a sign of commitment to a monogamous relationship and as a predecessor to an engagement ring, a pre-engagement ring—also known as a friendship ring or promise ring—is presented to a love partner. It is advisable only to offer it after a relationship has lasted between six and twelve months.
What should the Carat Weight of an Engagement Ring be?
How many carats the ring should have is one of the choices to be made when thinking about buying an engagement ring. The Knot, a research firm and website dedicated to all things wedding, states that the average is between one and two carats. There isn’t a law. A smart place to start is always by creating a budget.
Conclusion
Many non-diamond engagement rings have special meanings and symbolic value. They have been used for centuries to represent love and special occasions. And while diamonds are still the most common stone for engagement rings, other gems and stones have become increasingly popular. In the Victorian era, sapphires were the most common gemstones used in engagement rings. Other popular stones used in engagement rings during this time period include citrine, amethyst, moonstone, and opal.
In addition to diamonds, many other alternatives are equally attractive. One of the best alternatives to diamonds is Morganite, a natural stone that comes in various colors. The pink-orange tone of Morganite is stunning, and the ring is custom-made for the bride-to-be. Another great alternative to diamonds is aquamarine. Sapphire rings come in various sizes, and emerald-cut sapphires make them appear larger than they are.
