So you’re ready to pop the question and get engaged this Spring (congratulations!), but your vibe isn’t a traditional diamond engagement ring. No worries—there are tons of non-diamond engagement ring options that will wow your partner when you propose!
Why Choose a Non-Diamond?
Why choose a non-diamond? Well, there are lots of reasons, and fortunately, lots of beautiful alternatives to a diamond engagement ring. Maybe you are looking for something unique or more affordable. Perhaps it’s the ethical or sustainability factors that have you questioning other gemstones. Or you simply want a symbolic meaning behind the ring that doesn’t fit the bill with traditional, popular choice diamonds.
The Story Behind the Diamond Engagement Ring
It all began in the 1400s when Archduke Maximillian of Austria commissioned the very first diamond engagement ring on record for his future bride, Mary of Burgundy. Before that, anthropologists believed the tradition of engagement rings originated from the Romans, where wives wore rings attached to small keys to indicate ownership. Yikes!
During the Victorian and Edwardian eras, rings with mixed metals, gemstones, and details like flowers were used for engagement rings. These pieces of jewelry were very ornate and featured lots of delicate filigree metalwork. This became the go-to look for engagement rings all over Europe and America.
It wasn’t until 1940, though, that diamond engagement rings became popular in the United States. The slogan, “a diamond is forever” was launched by the major diamond mining company, DeBeers, and diamonds became the go-to stone to signify marriage.
Consider a Non-Diamond for an Engagement Ring
Non-diamond rings offer a modern perspective on engagement jewelry. Instead of following tradition, choosing an alternative stone makes a statement about individuality, creativity, and the willingness to do things differently.
But it’s ultimately about finding something that feels right for you and your partner when you begin your journey together. And luckily, there are tons of options!
5 Non-Diamond Gemstones to Consider for an Engagement Ring
So, if you’re leaning away from traditional diamonds, what are your options? We’re so glad you asked. Here are our 5 favorite non-diamond gemstones to use in engagement rings.
#1. Sapphire Gemstone
Available in every color of the rainbow and cut in every shape, sapphires are a stunning, durable choice for an engagement ring. They’re also harder than many other gemstones (second in hardness to diamonds), making them a great option for a ring that can handle daily wear.
And if ethics and sustainability are important to you, then choosing a high-quality, lab-grown sapphire fits the bill as well. Lab-grown blue sapphires are much less expensive than their mined counterparts.
The only downside to lab sapphires is that they may look ‘too’ perfect! Since the process is controlled, man-made sapphires tend to all look alike.
#2. Emerald Gemstone
Known for its vivid, deep green hue, May’s birthstone, the emerald, can be a stunning, eye-catching, beautiful choice for a nondiamond engagement ring.
Emeralds were first mined in Egypt as early as 330 BC, but some historians estimate that the oldest emeralds are 2.97 billion years old. In fact, Cleopatra was said to cherish emeralds and even claimed ownership of all emerald mines in Egypt during her reign.
Today, couples may use emeralds as a symbol of loyalty, new beginnings, peace, and security.
However, natural emeralds require a bit more caution and care due to the natural inclusions (called “le jardin”), which are quite fragile. Fortunately, lab-grown emeralds can be a beautiful, affordable option for an engagement ring.
#3. Ruby Gemstone
Rubies are called the “king of colored stones” – and for great reason! Rubies symbolize passion and love with their rich red color. They’re also quite durable, making them suitable for everyday wear.
Ruby is also the red variety of the mineral corundum. All other colors of corundum are called sapphires, so the color is key for this royal stone!
As for ruby’s symbolism, this gemstone is the birthstone for July or is often used to celebrate a 15th or 40th wedding anniversary. Mined rubies come in all shades of red and are hearty enough to wear every day.
#4. Pearl Gemstone
While a bit more delicate, pearls have become a very popular option for a vintage style, non-diamond engagement ring. Widely known as June’s birthstone, pearls offer a soft, bespoke elegance for someone who wants a more neutral color as their gemstone.
Pearls are also the only gemstones made by living creatures. Marine animals, called mollusks, make pearls by depositing layers of calcium carbonate around microscopic irritants that get lodged in their shells. They quite literally make something beautiful from a problem!
Pearl engagement rings are not recommended for everyday wear, but on the upside, most pearls are not very expensive, so replacing them in your engagement ring isn’t too hard on the wallet when they get damaged
#5. Metal Only Engagement Rings
Sometimes, the best option for a non-diamond is…nothing!
Choosing to propose with a metal-only band is great for those who don’t want the fuss or upkeep of a gemstone engagement ring. But a metal band can still be filled with special details.
Multi-roped style bands (maybe signifying the joining together of the couple), fancy engraved bands, or even rings with special phrases embossed on the outside (and inside) can make this a very romantic, meaningful engagement ring. Plus, they can be worn without worrying about the gemstone!
Non-Diamond Engagement Rings: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to get a non-diamond engagement ring?
Yes! Non-diamond engagement rings are becoming increasingly popular as couples look for unique, personal, and budget-friendly alternatives. Gemstones like sapphires, moissanite, and emeralds offer stunning beauty and durability, making them excellent choices for engagement rings.
What is a good alternative to a diamond engagement ring?
Popular diamond alternatives include moissanite (brilliant and affordable), sapphires (durable and colorful), emeralds (vintage elegance), and morganite (romantic blush tones). Some couples also opt for lab-grown diamonds or recycled gemstones for an eco-friendly choice.
What engagement ring is good for people who don’t like diamonds?
For those who don’t like diamonds, consider colored gemstones like sapphires, rubies, or emeralds, which offer rich hues and durability. Minimalist gold bands, signet rings, or eternity bands are also stylish, non-traditional choices for engagement rings.
What is the 3-month rule for engagement rings?
The 3-month rule suggests spending three months’ salary on an engagement ring. However, this is outdated—modern couples prioritize budget, style, and ethical considerations over arbitrary spending rules. The right ring is one that fits your partner’s style and your financial comfort.
Get Gorgeous Non-Diamond Engagement Rings at Scott’s Custom Jewelers
Find unique, non-diamond engagement rings that truly reflect your love story. We love to craft stunning alternative engagement rings with moissanite, sapphires, emeralds, and other brilliant gemstones. We create custom designs to match your style—from vintage to modern. Let’s dream up your perfect engagement ring today!