However, an increasing number of couples look for alternatives to stand out with something different or add more color. Consider the following options for your own engagement ring.
Moissanite
Moissanite’s profile continues to grow as a diamond alternative. The stone delivers similar hardness and properties, while costing far less due to lack of demand. As such, it’s often presented as a diamond alternative to those mindful about their budget.
As this semi-precious stone made of silicon carbide also is not easy to source, most stones are created through lab-grown methods.
Colored Diamonds
Many people become disinterested in diamonds due to the similar appearance of stones: Clear or nearly clear and cut in a way to accentuate brightness. Those seeking bold color with this degree of brilliance might want to consider a fancy colored diamond.
Colors vary across 12 general shades, with some rarer than others. Yellow and brown are the most common, while red, pink, purple and blue are some of the least abundant, due to how they’re created. You’ll also come across salt and pepper diamonds – nearly white to nearly black in color, with minimal transparency.
Other Precious Gemstones
Look beyond the realm of diamonds to one of the following alternatives:
- Emeralds: Emerald engagement rings tend to go in and out of style, with popularity soaring in recent years. Most people recognize this gemstone for its medium to deep green shade and moderate transparency. Emeralds may be added as a center or solitaire stone or as part of a cluster with diamonds.
- Rubies: Rubies deliver durability similar to diamonds, while ranging in shade from a pinkish hue to deep red.
- Sapphire: We tend to recognize sapphires for their deep blue hue, although the gemstone can be found in other shades.
- Pearls: Sometimes grouped in with precious stones, pearls continue to appear on engagement rings as a diamond alternative offering no transparency and a shade from gray to off-white or pink. While these factors make your ring stand out, pearls are delicate and therefore flake and break easily.
Semi-Precious Stones
Go for something different, unpredictable and oftentimes more budget-conscious with one of the following semi-precious stones:
- Aquamarine, a light blue-green colored stone with a medium harness rating.
- Morganite, a pink stone with diamond-like brilliance and medium-grade hardness.
- Amethyst, a medium to deep purple stone accented with black and gray veins that’s on the medium to softer end of hardness.
- Onyx, a solid black stone that doesn’t let light pass through.
- Jade, another translucent stone that ranges from deep or medium green to nearly white.
- Peridot, known for its bright, yellow-green shade.
Iridescent Stones
The diamond’s fire effect is not for everyone. Iridescence delivers more of a low-key, shimmering shine with medium to no transparency.
Opals and moonstones deliver this effect through a milky-white appearance that appears washed with a rainbow of colors from certain angles.
However, you have to be mindful of construction with opals. While the stone appears solid, it has a soft, porous texture and can react to sudden temperature changes, as well as long-term UV exposure.
Eternity Bands
Not every engagement ring needs a large center or cluster of stones. Eternity bands space out smaller stones over the surface. The stones may sit flush with the metal or use a pavé setting.
Additional Considerations
When thinking about alternatives to diamond engagement rings, keep the following points in mind:
- Stone Hardness: While many diamond alternatives look beautiful and are certainly unique, they are not as durable and scratch resistant. As such, be mindful of where and how you wear your ring. Moisture, snags or accidentally hitting it against a hard object may cause it to crack or shatter.
- Style: The clearness of diamonds means that even elaborate engagement rings match almost anything you wear. In exploring alternatives, ensure any color you select delivers a similar effect or adds an intentional – but not contrasting – pop of color.
Explore traditional and non-traditional engagement rings at Hannoush Jewelers of Connecticut. Start your search online, then visit any one of our stores to take the next steps!
