The rules that you need to purchase a diamond-centered engagement ring are not set in stone. There are more than a few non-diamond rings that you should consider for your engagement. But that may not make your search for the perfect piece any easier.
While they are often popular, some non-diamond stones are not suitable for adorning your future fiancée's finger. To help you recognize the real thing, this article provides you with twelve of the best options. No matter which gemstone catches your eye, you should always consider your significant other's preferences.
- Aquamarine Engagement Rings
- Sapphire Engagement Rings
- Emerald Engagement Rings
- Cubic Zircon Engagement Ring
- Ruby Engagement Rings
- Pearl Engagement Rings
- Amethyst Engagement Rings
- Blue Topaz Engagement Ring
- Centered on your birthstone
Round Double Halo Aquamarine Engagement Ring
A light blue color and excellent clarity make aquamarine the choice of many future spouses. The clarity itself makes the ring and stone seem more expensive. But aquamarine is a gemstone that won't burn a hole in your pocket.
Not only that, but it's also a very hard gemstone - between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs hardness scale. In addition, aquamarine is a close relative of emerald, and the two share some of the same properties. What's more, they are considered lucky stones.
This is one of the reasons why emeralds and aquamarines are popular choices for engagement rings. However, the minimal hue and extremely high clarity of aquamarine make the stones more subtle. As such, it's a good choice for future brides who want a less ornate piece.
Aquamarine is also a gemstone that looks stunning in a platinum or gold setting. With that in mind, yellow gold is probably the best choice, but it's just a matter of personal preference.
Buy aquamarine engagement rings.
Sapphire engagement ring with baguette diamonds
Did you know that Kate Middleton and Princess Diana's engagement rings were encrusted with sapphires? Yes, this gemstone has been one of the most popular choices for celebrities and royalty. But what's so timeless about this stone?
First of all, sapphires are suitable for a variety of settings. The most common is a gold halo with a blue sapphire; the gold color is usually white. If you want a more minimalist look, you can combine the sapphire with a halo made of small diamonds.
Secondly, sapphires come not only in blue, but also in yellow, pink, red and green. What's more, some colors are rarer than blue. Sapphires are the second hardest gemstone, ranking 9th on the Mohs scale of hardness.
All of this makes sapphires perfect for everyday wear and perfect for different styles. Additionally, if you prefer a vintage look, there are many estate sapphire rings available. You'll have no trouble finding a more modern piece to commemorate the most important moments in your life.
Shop for sapphire engagement rings.
Diamond Halo Square Emerald Engagement Ring
Ranging in color from light to dark green, emeralds exude a unique style and special mystique. There are also pieces with a hint of blue luster, although they can be difficult to find. Additionally, emeralds are the only gemstone that has a cut name as its inspiration.
However, you can choose any form of cut you like to get this gemstone, not just the traditional emerald step cut. Emeralds have a hardness rating of 7.5. This is less compared to rubies and sapphires, so be sure to love your emerald ring.
But don't get us wrong, a lower hardness rating doesn't detract from a ring's delicacy or appeal. However, emeralds usually come with some inclusions, and flawless emeralds are extremely rare.
With this in mind, if you choose a gold and emerald combination, you may be able to offset some of the inclusions. This classic contrast brings the natural characteristics of the stone to life.
Choosing an emerald engagement ring.
Square Crystal Zircon Engagement Ring
Lab-Grown Diamond Machine
Cubic zirconia (or CZ for short) are lab-grown stones. As such, they are cheap, easy to find, and come in a wide range of colors that match their natural colors. Assuming your answer is no, it's best to steer clear of CZ. similar to moissanite, zirconia comes from mass production facilities. Their country of origin is usually China or Russia. Some Chinese manufacturers have made a name for themselves with CZ.
Learn more about CZ rings.
White and Yellow Gold Buccellati Ruby Cocktail Ring
While pigeon's blood red is certainly hard to miss, rubies are a veritable diamond alternative for several reasons. Like sapphires, rubies have a Mohs hardness rating of 9. This means that the stone is less susceptible to scratches and will not lose its luster even after years of daily wear.
Because of its color, rubies really stand out in rose or yellow gold settings. That said, the latter may be too vintage for most brides-to-be. However, the combination of white gold and rubies allows the natural characteristics of the stone to really shine through.
If you think you need a huge ruby to make a statement, you're wrong. With these gems, even a smaller piece can make a lasting impression. This is because most rubies don't have any inclusions, which is reflected in their price.
However, if you have your heart set on a larger ruby ring, then it is well worth the investment. You'll get a gemstone that is unlikely to depreciate in value and remain attractive for years to come.
Shop for ruby engagement rings.
Art Nouveau Pearl and Enamel Rings
From luxurious antique rings to chic modern styles, pearl engagement rings will never go out of style. These are sure to put a smile on your future spouse's face, but there are some things you should know.
First of all, calcium carbonate is the main component of pearls, which makes them somewhat fragile. Typically, they have a Mohs rating between 2.5 and 4.5. This means that you may easily lose the luster or scratch your pearls, so it is recommended that you take off your ring while doing chores.
However, this doesn't necessarily harm the long-term value of the gemstone. As long as you give it all the care and attention it needs, you should have a piece fit for eternal happiness. And it is advisable not to skimp, so you should opt for saltwater natural pearls.
Since saltwater pearl gathering is a dying craft, they are becoming harder and harder to find. As a result, their value and appeal is on the rise.
Gold and Diamond Amethyst Ring
If you are looking for a good balance between price and gemstone characteristics, then amethyst may be right up your alley. The stone has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, but that doesn't mean it's fragile.
However, it is recommended to be careful not to expose the stone to harsh chemicals. You should take it off when working out. But that's a small price to pay considering the romantic lavender hue of the stone.
This non-diamond beauty is perfect with white or rose gold settings. Also, it's not uncommon for large amethysts to be paired with intricate halos of other gemstones. Nonetheless, amethyst is sure to wow you as a gemstone in a minimalist engagement ring design.
Best of all, amethyst is a great choice for those who are on a tight budget but want to wear it for a lifetime. Keep in mind that regular maintenance and professional cleaning are a must for these rings.
Choosing an amethyst engagement ring.
Blue topaz gold ring with diamonds on the shoulders
Gaze upon a blue topaz and you may be captivated by its depth and brilliance. Not only that, but it is one of the hardest non-diamond gemstones you can find. In most cases, topaz has a Mohs hardness of about 8.
However, instead of being blue, pure topaz is colorless. Blue, red, green, or orange hues indicate some defect in the gemstone. In any case, this is not a flaw, quite the contrary. The light to medium blue color in the stone makes this piece even more striking.
For this reason, topaz is one of the few gemstones that seem suitable for a gold setting. This also applies to both contemporary and traditional gold settings. On the other hand, if you prefer white gold or platinum, topaz would not be the wrong choice.
Either way, the affordable price of the stone allows you to splurge on the metal. Or, you can opt for a sophisticated accent underneath your kitchen.
Learn more about this December Birthstone.
Your fiancée's birthstone is a great choice for a center stone. Many of the stones on this list are birthstones. For example, rubies are appropriate for those born in July and sapphires for those born in September.
In fact, there is a whole range of non-diamond gemstones for all zodiac signs. But what do you need to keep in mind if you decide to buy a birthday stone? First of all, you need to check the hardness of the stone. Rubies and sapphires top the list in this regard.
Apart from that, consider the cut and setting that will emphasize the natural features of the stone. And don't forget to have it professionally cleaned every few months to keep the parts in pristine condition.