Tradition has made many of us believe that there is only one way of doing things right. When it comes to a marriage proposal, it has to be a perfectly romantic moment, from the setting to the most stunning diamond engagement ring. That particular part of the tradition has made us wonder, does it have to be a diamond engagement ring? Are non-diamond engagement rings tacky, or acceptable? Let’s find out as you read on for our take on the subject!
Are Non Diamond Engagement Rings Tacky?
The simple answer? Not at all. While tradition may suggest that the perfect engagement ring features a diamond as the main stone, many other equally beautiful alternatives exist. While some stones may not be as hard as a diamond, other gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are excellent choices for an engagement ring. Many women would still prefer to stick with the traditional diamond ring. However, many are warming up to the idea of other precious stones.
If you’re looking to make a statement, then you’ll love the wide range of hues and sizes that gemstones other than diamonds can provide. With diamonds, statement rings can be exceptionally pricey. As for the colors of diamonds, there are just a few variations, such as pink or yellow. However, you’d have to work extra hard to find one, as they are extremely rare.
While there is nothing wrong with diamonds when choosing an engagement ring, choosing a different gemstone can make the ring even more special and meaningful. To select the right ring, you’ll need to have a clear idea of what the person who will wear it forever prefers.
Thankfully, the alternatives are plentiful. For instance, you can choose between a bold statement ring or something more delicate and dainty. You can select platinum or gold mounting, bold shades or neutral colors, the gemstone cut, and so on and so forth. But when picking an engagement ring, you always need to consider the following pros and cons of a non-diamond one.
Pros of Non-Diamond Engagement Rings
- You can make your bride-to-be’s ring truly unique. Instead of choosing a random gemstone with a limited color selection, you can pick her birthstone. Every month of the year has a specific gemstone and deep symbolism behind it. Choosing a ring that you’ve put that much thought into will make it even more meaningful.
- As we’ve mentioned, diamonds are one of the most expensive gemstones available. On the other hand, sapphires, rubies, and amethysts are budget-friendly, especially if you’re looking for a statement ring.
- If your bride-to-be follows the latest trends, then you’ll have made an excellent choice going for a non-diamond engagement ring. Many celebrities, such as Kate Middleton, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Katy Perry, have chosen them over diamonds in the last few decades, so non diamond engagement rings are certainly in.
Cons of Non-Diamond Engagement Rings
- The main con of a non-diamond engagement ring is its durability. Many gemstones are hard, but none of them are as hard as a diamond, which is a 10 on the Mohs scale. This means that the durability of the non-diamond stone will be compromised through the years. Some stones may not withstand daily wear. If your fiancée has an active lifestyle, removing the ring might be the best alternative for certain activities.
- Non-diamond rings still have the misconception of being “tacky,” regardless of their price. You can ignore this kind of comment, but if you can’t, you may not want to acquire a piece of jewelry that some people might think looks cheap.
Examples of Non Diamond Engagement Rings
To probe our point that non-diamond rings can be equally mesmerizing as diamond ones, here we’ll introduce you to some of our top choices.
Amherst Ring
The Amherst ring centers on a 1.16-carat Asscher-cut sapphire with deep blue saturation. Surrounding the center stone is a diamond halo. The triple-wire platinum mounting has a fleur-de-lis motif on each shoulder.
Nyons Ring
Sapphires can be found in a wide range of hues, and the Nyons ring is the perfect example of that. It features an oval-cut yellow sapphire weighing 5.46 carats. The ring features a diamond halo set in prongs in a unique floral design.
Capulet Ring
The Capulet ring centers on a GIA-certified 4.47-carat pink sapphire. The oval-cut stone is surrounded by a floral-designed halo created with single-cut and pear-shaped diamonds. The total diamond weight is 2.31 carats.
Tulip Ring
The Tulip ring features a 1.26-carat natural Burma ruby. The stone is oval cut and set in an 18k yellow-gold bezel. Surrounding it is a floral-designed halo of old European cut diamonds. The mounting is 18k yellow gold on platinum and each shoulder presents an open work cluster with diamonds.
Brentford Ring
The Brentford ring is an antique piece from the Edwardian era, circa 1905. The center stone is a bezel set emerald-cut emerald weighing 1.90 carats. A halo of old mine-cut diamonds with an approximate weight of 2.75 carats surrounds the store. The mounting is platinum on 18k yellow gold. It features fine milgrain decoration and an openwork detail on the under gallery.
Rhine Ring
The Rhine ring is the perfect example of a dainty non-diamond engagement ring. It is a platinum solitaire ring featuring a 1.58-carat aquamarine set in prongs. The under gallery and each shoulder of the mounting is decorated with small, round brilliant-cut diamonds.
Vivant Ring
The Vivant ring shows us that amethyst is also a good alternative for a non-diamond engagement ring. The center stone is 5.69 carats and emerald cut. It’s set in 18k white gold mounting. Each shoulder features round brilliant cut diamonds weighing approximately 0.36 carats.
Talk to a Jewelry Expert
If the time has come and you’re looking for an engagement ring, then feel free to fill out our form below so you can talk to an expert about the best options available. Whether you decide to go for a traditional diamond ring or a non diamond one, a qualified jeweler will explain each stone’s characteristics in detail so you can make an informed purchase decision.
