Non-Diamond Engagement Rings: These Gem Alternatives Are Stunning

Who said every engagement ring has to be the same?! For decades, diamonds have reigned supreme as the engagement jewel, but we think it’s time to get a little more creative. There are plenty of non-diamond alternatives that can fit your personal style better, and the best part is — many cost less than a diamond! Scroll through the gallery below to see some of the fresh gem options to signify your everlasting love.

Just because these gems are unique, doesn’t mean it’s completely weird to opt for a non-diamond engagement ring. “A recent survey we conducted supports that gemstone engagement rings are becoming increasingly popular, finding that 1 in 5 adults (20%) would prefer an engagement ring featuring a sapphire or other colored gemstone, and 22% of millennials are open to the idea of diamond simulants like moissanite,” explained Kathryn Money, VP of Strategy and Merchandising for Brilliant Earth. “This survey also found that roughly half (46%) of adults don’t think an engagement ring needs to feature a diamond.” We couldn’t agree more!

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As a matter of fact, different kinds of rings are becoming more popular in recent years because they offer so many possibilities. “Customers are increasingly seeking products that express their individuality and are drawn towards uniqueness,” explained Kathryn. “Brides want a ring that isn’t like everyone else’s. This is manifested in many different ways, such as choosing a distinctive ring setting, using a fancy (non-round) diamond, or opting for a colored gemstone, such as a sapphire, in lieu of a diamond. Because gemstones are available in every color of the rainbow, couples can select a favorite hue, the most flattering tone for a bride’s skin, or a ring to match the bride’s eyes – creating an incredibly personalized and meaningful engagement ring.”

But the best part? These gems are often even cheaper than your typical diamond sparkler. “Many couples love that they can purchase a non-diamond ring at a lower price point and get a larger gemstone and more look for less,” said Kathryn. “Opting for a colored gemstone allows couples to maximize size without sacrificing rarity or a more elaborate setting design.” Sign us up! Scroll through the gallery below to see some of our favorite options for non-diamond engagement rings.

Morganite Engagement Ring

This peachy gem is absolutely stunning. It’s not as hard as diamond, but should stand up to daily wear just fine, and you can get a large crystal for way less than a diamond. “Morganite is showing particularly strong interest among consumers, growing five times faster than overall gemstones over the last six months – apparently the millennial pink trend is still going strong!” said Kathryn.

Sapphire Engagement Ring

“The Royals have always been big fans of gemstone engagement rings – Most recently, Princess Eugenie got engaged with a brilliant Padparadscha sapphire. Most famously, the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, wears Princess Diana’s sapphire ring that features a halo of 14 diamonds and is set in white gold,” the jeweler explained. Okay, so maybe you can’t get one as big as the royals, but the average person can still get a pretty great deal on a sapphire ring, and they’re beautiful to boot.

Emerald Engagement Ring

How can we talk gems without mentioning emeralds?! These striking green gems are absolutely mesmerizing, and can sometimes be even rarer than diamonds, despite the fact that they’re a way better value. The Diamond Authority explains, “Emeralds average out at around $500 per carat. The average carat value of a diamond is around $3,250.”

Moissanite Engagement Ring

“For customers that love the look of a diamond but are deterred by price point, gemstones like moissanite and white sapphire, which are priced substantially lower than diamonds, can be good alternatives,” said Kathryn. While most moissanite is made in a lab, the compound was first found in a meteor from space, so it’s the perfect gem for your ~ mystical ~ partner, and has more of a rainbow reflection than a clear diamond.

Ruby Engagement Ring

Nothing beats the stunning red of a ruby, though these classic gems also come in pink. “Celebrities that have opted for gemstone engagement rings include Katy Perry,” said Kathryn who explains that “her ring appears to feature a 2-2.5 carat ruby or vivid pink diamond surrounded by a floral halo of eight round diamonds.”

Opal Engagement Ring

Who can deny the rainbow beauty of a white opal? These stunning gems are super gorgeous and cost-effective, but are the softest crystals on this list, so they’re more likely to get scratches. Still, if this is the look you’re going for, just be extra careful!

Would you consider a non-diamond engagement ring? Leave your answer in the comments!