Diamonds were first used as an engagement ring stone in 1477 and have been the gemstone of choice for those proposing ever since.
Their durability, value and neutral colour make them popular amongst engaged couples of today. But it’s important to note, that they’re not the only gemstone on the block that’s worthy of donning your bride-to-be’s finger.
Here Serendipity Diamonds explains why choosing an alternative gemstone over a more traditional diamond engagement ring is the way to go:
“Firstly, cost is a significant issue. Some feel that the cost of a diamond ring does not work for them. Others opt for one of many alternative stones, including precious and semi-precious coloured stones. When it comes to fancy colour, the cost of a natural fancy colour diamond steps outside most people’s budgets. Some people still feel a certain unease when they look back on the unscrupulous use of diamonds to fund wars in foreign countries…”
Whatever your reason for looking elsewhere for engagement ring inspiration, the following alternative engagement gemstones provide a beautiful look that is certain to be a hit with your partner.
Amethyst
With a vibrant purple colour that’s available in a wide range of beautiful shades, amethyst is a great alternative to the more traditional diamond engagement ring. It’s a member of the quartz family, and is tough and scratch-resistant, making it perfect for the busy, modern-day bride-to-be.
Its elegance speaks volumes, and with amethyst thought to quiet the mind and calm the body, it’s the perfect stone to get your bride through the stressful wedding planning process.
Aquamarine
If blue is more your partner’s colour, an aquamarine stone will be the perfect ring to propose with. This striking gemstone can be found in a plethora of colours, each as beautiful as the last. It’s extremely durable too, meaning it’ll certainly stand the test of time.
Emerald
One of the reasons why people choose another gemstone over a diamond is the price, but if money isn’t the reason behind your alternative engagement ring, emeralds are fantastic options.
These rare beauties are often more expensive than diamonds. In fact, they’re 20 times scarcer than diamonds, which explains their high price points. Their uniqueness is unrivalled, whilst their stunning tone ensures a striking look that’ll last for a lifetime.
Sapphire
Those looking for a deeper blue to impress their partner on proposal day will adore the sapphire stone. It’s a timeless classic that looks incredible and rivals real diamonds with its brilliance, beauty, colour and durability. Spiritually, sapphires are symbols of power, strength, kindness and wisdom.
Sapphires are rare stones and therefore highly valuable, yet they market much more affordably than diamonds.
Moissanite
Moissanite may be a lesser-known gemstone, but it’s a great diamond alternative that’s certain to suit brides who want to embrace a more traditional wedding look.
To the untrained eye, moissanite even looks like a diamond, and this isn’t where the similarities end. Moissanite’s brilliance and beauty ensures a truly spectacular engagement ring. It’s also extremely tough – it’s rated 9.5 on the Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness, which isn’t far off a real diamond.
Morganite
Rose gold has been all the rage for some time now, and there’s no better compliment to rose gold than a naturally pink morganite gemstone. The clarity and brilliance of morganite engagement rings are beautiful to look at, whilst their durability is also high, making it the perfect piece to wear every day.
