5 Stunning Alternative Gems for Engagement Rings

While diamonds have traditionally been a popular choice for engagement rings due to their strength and symbolic representation of forever love and commitment, they may not be the best fit for everyone. If you are seeking a more affordable or unique option for your engagement ring, there are plenty of other beautiful gemstones to choose from. Celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Halle Berry have chosen non-diamond engagement rings, and the British royal family is known for their preference for colorful gemstones as well - just take a look at Kate Middleton's stunning sapphire engagement ring.

Things to Keep in Mind

If you are considering alternative gemstones for your engagement ring, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, consider the durability of the gemstone. While diamonds are known for their strength and ability to withstand almost anything, other gemstones may be more prone to chips or scratches. However, this does not mean that you have to completely rule out softer gemstones – just be aware of their maintenance needs and choose a setting that will protect the stone.

Another important factor to consider is the color of the gemstone. While diamonds are colorless, other gemstones come in a wide range of hues, allowing for endless options to match your personal style. Consider choosing a gemstone that matches your wardrobe or incorporates your birthstone.

Finally, it's important to keep in mind the symbolism associated with different gemstones. Some gemstones are believed to have specific properties or meanings. Consider what kind of message you want your engagement ring to convey, and choose a gemstone that aligns with that sentiment.

Overall, the choice between a diamond and a non-diamond engagement ring ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. With these tips in mind, you can confidently choose the gemstone that best fits your needs and style. Here are our top alternative gems for engagement rings.

Black Diamond

Black diamonds are a unique and rare type of colored diamond that is formed by a high number of inclusions. Unlike other fancy-colored diamonds, which are typically created by chemical impurities, black diamonds are more similar to white diamonds in their formation.

A distinctive gemstone, black diamonds are an elegant and unique choice for engagement rings.

Moissanite

Moissanite has gained widespread popularity as a diamond alternative in recent years, and it's not hard to see why. These gemstones closely resemble diamonds in appearance but are more affordable and almost as durable. In fact, moissanite is the second hardest gemstone used in jewelry making and is suitable for even the most active wearers.

Moissanite has a clear color and a sparkling appearance that can be difficult to achieve with diamonds. They are lab-created, making them an ethical and sustainable choice. Overall, moissanite is a versatile and attractive option for those seeking a diamond alternative.

Aquamarine

Light blue aquamarine stones are a stylish and modern choice for an engagement ring, and can also serve as your “something blue” on your special day. These gemstones, which are part of the beryl family along with emeralds and morganites, have a hardness rating of 7.5-8, making them slightly softer than diamonds and sapphires and more prone to scratching.

It is important to store aquamarine rings separately and to have them polished periodically to maintain their beauty. Despite these considerations, aquamarine is a fairly durable gemstone that is sure to become a treasured heirloom.

Amethyst

Amethyst is a gemstone that is sometimes overlooked for engagement rings due to its bold purple color, but it is actually quite durable, with a Mohs hardness scale rating of 7. It is also a cost-effective choice, offering a lot of value for your money.

While raw, uncut amethysts are often associated with homeopathic healing, well-cut amethysts in shades ranging from deep purple to soft lilac can be quite striking when set in an engagement ring, especially when paired with a diamond or emerald halo.

Blue Topaz

Topaz is a gemstone that is available in a range of colors, including blue, which can be further divided into three color families: sky blue, Swiss blue, and London blue. Each of these hues offers its own unique and mesmerizing beauty, making topaz an eye-catching choice for an engagement ring.

In addition to its beauty, blue topaz is also an affordable gemstone, especially compared to diamond engagement rings. Its attractive price point allows many couples to afford a larger and more glamorous ring within their budget. Additionally, blue topaz is highly durable, ranking 8 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it a practical choice for an everyday ring such as an engagement ring.