5 Diamond Alternatives For Engagement Rings
Diamonds might be synonymous with engagement rings, but it does not mean that they are the only available option. In fact, there are many gems out there that make for a stunning engagement or wedding ring.
So, whether you are looking for a budget-friendly stone or something truly unique, you have a ton of options and engagement ring styles available to you. First, let’s explore why diamonds are still the top choice for engagement ring, then we’ll talk about the alternatives.
In the regards to durability, not all stones can withstand daily wear. In 1812, a scale to determine the hardness and durability of mineral was invented by Fredrich Mohs, it’s basically a 1-10 scale on hardness of a material.
Diamonds rate at 10, the idea that “last a lifetime”. Wasn’t a marketing “scheme” it’s the fact the stone can be worn for decades daily and show almost no wear. It’s also several times as hard as a ruby or a sapphire.
The diamond has the most dense atomic configuration of any mineral known to mankind and displays its transparency over the largest number of wavelengths. The combination of these attributes create unrivaled brilliance.
Though diamond as mineral, is not incredibly rare, gem quality, large, colorless with few inclusions are extremely rare.
Here are the top 5 diamond alternatives for engagement rings:
1) Sapphire
Sapphires are believed to symbolize faithfulness and promote tranquility, which makes them the perfect choice for a ring that signifies that you will put up with the same person forever.
Sapphires are typically blue, but they can also come in pink, white, green, and yellow. When it comes to durability, they are incredibly durable, which makes them an excellent option for those who want an unusual, classic blue stone that can hold up with time.
Due to multiple option colors, sapphire is the top alternative stone for engagement ring. The sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale and though it can show some signs of abrasion on facet junctions those be can be re-polished and as the wearer deems necessary.
2) Rubies
High quality rubies can be just as expensive as diamonds, which makes them one of the best diamond alternatives for engagement rings. Rubies are said to symbolize love and passion with their rich red color.
The other great thing about them is that they are incredibly tough and can survive the rigors of everyday living. There are also from the corundum mineral family and a score a 9 on the hardness scale, so just as the sapphire this stone will last. If you are still not sold on the idea of using rubies, you should know that Mark Zuckerberg actually proposed with a 3-stone ring with a ruby at its center flanked by a diamond on either side.
3) Emeralds
Emeralds are one of the 4 precious stones along with diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. They are the birthstone for May, have a lovely green color, and are a lesser chosen option for your engagement ring.
It is important to remember that emeralds are not as hard as diamonds, rubies, and other stones, which is why you must be careful about the setting you choose and the care that it required.
They have quite a difficult time holding up to the daily wear of an engagement ring. Emerald comes the beryl family of gemstones, it’s softer and rates an 7.5-8 on the moss hardness scale.
Most emeralds are oiled and with time, hand washing and daily wear, that oil can leech out and it will need to be retreated. High heat cleaning cleanings can also pull out the oil and leave the stone with a milky surface that isn’t as pleasing as you once remembered.
Most jewelers can retreat the emeralds to bring back the rich green that you know and love.
4) Pearls
Though the pearl seems like a lovely stone to choose for an engagement ring, note that this gemstone may not be the best for that use. It is organic, simple, and looks exactly the same in an engagement ring as it does in its raw form.
If you want a pearl for an engagement ring, ensure that you choose one with high luster and a beautiful bright reflection, also know that pearls won’t last with daily wear. Though this is chosen as an engagement ring alternative, it is one of the least durable materials in the gem world.
The pearl has a nacre shell which gives the luster effect that we all love. This nacre will come off with extensive wear and exposure to everyday chemicals such as lotions, hairspray, perfumes, soaps or even acidic skin.
Pearls are precious and magnificent but they are organic and need to be well taken care of. Pearls with lost nacre cannot be repaired, only replaced.
5) Synthetic Gemstones
If you are looking for an environmentally-friendly option to traditional gemstones such as diamonds, ruby or sapphire, you can consider getting a synthetic version of your favorite gemstone.
Synthetic gemstones basically have all the same physical, optical, and chemical characteristics of the actual gemstone. It means that you get the look of the gem you love but reducing the use of natural resources and by choosing an alternative material.
The value is not the same as a natural gemstone, but only you and jeweler will know the difference.
Final Thoughts
Diamonds are not your only option when it comes to engagement rings and as you can see here, there are numerous other good alternatives.
Whatever your reasons might be for going down the non-traditional route when it comes to engagement rings, it is always advisable to explore the different options available to you.
Are you searching for the perfect ring to start forever? You'll find an incredible selection online and for locals, be sure to visit Windsor Fine Jewelers store at 2635 Washington Rd, Augusta, GA 30904 or give us a call (706) 738-7777.