When it comes to an engagement and its paraphernalia, we want only the best of everything - the perfect location, the perfect experience and the perfect symbols of this exciting stage in life. In line with this reasoning, a perfect engagement ring should always sport a diamond, the bigger the better. Or should it, actually?
Modern fashion has a big advantage in that it lifts off many unwritten rules and prohibitions that have been long guiding couples in their search for an appropriate ring. Today, there is no such thing as the only one appropriate ring style or stone - you can go for anything you like.
To help you navigate this endless sea of gems, we’ve put together a guide to finding an engagement ring with a diamond alternative that will make a ring a real star of the show. What’s more - this ring will cost much less than a ring with a diamond of equal size. With this advantage in mind, let’s dig right into the topic!
Why Should You Consider Diamond Alternatives?
Yes, why should you consider a diamond alternative stone if the price does not matter to you? Actually, for many reasons.
- Diamond is a default option by force of tradition, but not everyone likes diamonds exactly because of their, well, colorlessness and because they may have some unwanted ethical connotations. To avoid the doubt and to get a colored stunner of a ring, you do have to look for non-diamond centerpieces.
- Next, colored gems have their significance as birthstones and spiritual and lucky stones. To some brides, this point comes first.
- Rings with colored gems are totally unique in look, let’s admit it. They can double as cocktail rings and as a chic jewelry accessory. So this ring will be all-in-one, which is quite nice.
- Diamond alternatives - even colorless - can be grown in labs, so you don’t have to question their origin. Besides, they can go in different sizes and shapes, so you can pick and choose.
- And, last but not least, the price, often the point that seals the deal. Even with a limited budget, you can get an impressive boulder for a ring with a price tag that would fetch you only a very modest diamond.
So let’s reframe the question: why shouldn’t you choose a diamond alternative for an engagement ring?
- Well, a diamond is a diamond, after all. It is very durable and great for everyday wear. And, basically, engagement means a diamond ring in all its sparkle and glory. Getting a non-diamond ring may ruin an occasion for her, so learn her preferences first, of course.
Pros
- The price of colored gems. It is a decisive point for many, and that's okay. For a budget of about $500, you can buy a dream of a ring that will impress your loved one and will be worn proudly for many years to come.
- Color options. Colored gems always look stylish and fresh, and no matter what fancy color a fiancee may want, she can find it in one of the precious stones.
- Spiritual meanings. If you want to add to this ring even more meaning and energy, pick a stone that matches a wearer’s birthstone or has some special qualities. Some stones bring calm and serenity, others energize and boost the mood in colder months, yet other stones bring passion into family life and abundance into your house.
- Uniqueness. Diamond rings are familiar and traditional, and rings with some interesting stones are always eye-catchers. They start a conversation, exude oohs and aahs from observers, and in general feel like an heirloom piece. Many celebrities and even the royal family opt for colored gems, and, as the fashion saying goes, we’re obsessed.
- Pros of a diamond: it’s a diamond, the name says it all. Plus, the toughness and resistance to daily tear and wear.
Cons
- Colored gems (except the big 4) do not have that big ‘diamond’ brand name.
- Some stones are not as hard and durable as diamonds, so careful wearing is recommended.
- Not all colored gems are as versatile as diamonds in jewelry sets and styling.
- Cons of diamonds: the price. Modest price can bring you a comparatively modest stone only.
What Stones Can Make A Stunning Ring For $500
Diamonds
Let’s start with diamonds. If we aim at the budget of $500 with regular prices in mind, the stone for the ring will be rather small, far below 1 carat. So a ring will be dainty and paired back. A smaller stone will require an equally delicate and slim setting not to overpower the stone. However, it does not mean that the ring won’t be beautiful. Look at these interesting designs - slim art deco, cluster or pave rings with real diamonds. They all feature several good quality stones and an elegant design and cost below $500. If in doubt - go for diamonds, even small ones.
Moissanite
Moissanite is the closest diamond alternative you can get, it was designed in a lab specifically to provide cheaper kinds of diamond without losing its properties. It rates 9.5 on the Mohs scale almost like diamonds, and its sparkle and clarity can even surpass those of diamonds. Only very experienced jewelers can tell the difference with the help of tools, a naked eye won’t distinguish between the two. The best point is the price. For under $500, you’ll get a real boulder, a 1-carat stone with megawatt sparkling that will make all her friends envious (a little bit). So, moissanite is the first option to choose if you don't plan to buy diamonds. Consider these stunning solitaire, art deco, and halo rings for a starter and let your imagination run amok. Your wallet will safely survive it.
Sapphires
Sapphires are noble stones that belong to the big 4 top-class gems. They have been on the go-to list for royalty and nobility for many centuries, and today the stones of high quality can cost more than diamonds because of their rarity. Sapphires are usually imagined as deep navy blue with mesmerizing play of light inside, but they can also be yellow, pink, and even black. It is the birthstone of September, and its hardness is 9 on the Mohs scale.
Combination of sapphires and colorless stones, whether diamonds or cubic zirconia, is a timeless classic. This dark blue color goes well with the majority of other stones and ring styles, so it can be as versatile as diamonds. Just look at this big stone in a halo of moissanites - it is simply amazing, reminiscent of famous heirloom pieces. Or this interesting art deco ring with split-shoulder shank - it will look elegant alone or in combination with other rings.
Cubic zirconia
This stone was specifically developed by scientists to provide a cheaper alternative to diamonds in jewelry, so zirconia stones are somewhat ‘softer’ than diamonds. They rank 8.5 on the Mohs scale, so they're sufficiently sturdy, but not exactly as durable. Other than that, they look beautiful in rings and other jewelry because they can be colorless or come in various tones and shades. Their sparkle is more of warm fire and sunlight, while diamonds give this pristine icy cold white sparkle when the light hits their facets.
The biggest plus of zirconia is the price - they are very cheap, and you can get a very impressive rock or a cluster of stones that will just pop off in a ring for a totally affordable price. The bigger portion of the bill will go towards the setting, if you choose white, yellow or rose gold. Just be sure to bring it to a jeweler for maintenance and polishing every couple of years. Need examples? Look at this gorgeous pear-shaped solitaire in gold or an impressive art deco ring - they will please even the pickiest bride.
Topaz
Topaz (the birthstone of November) is usually known for its icy blue color and glass sparkle that looks amazing in fine jewelry. But there exist colorless and yellow varieties of topaz as well. Its hardness is 8 on the Mohs scale, so it comes close to diamonds in durability and suitability for daily wear.
Topaz is a rather widespread mineral, so you can get a reasonably large stone on a limited budget. Yet even a 1-ct stone will make a stunning engagement ring, especially paired with small diamonds or moissanites. Its clean blue color will blend well into any jewelry collection, so it can be mixed and matched with other rings and still look amazing. Just look at this pear-shaped beauty (and its price) or at this white topaz halo ring! Buy any of them and you are ready to pop the question!
Aquamarine
One more blue-colored stone you should consider is aquamarine. Its blue tone is unique in that it resembles sea waves, this blue color is warm and cool at the same time, with a ting of greenishness. It differs from topaz or blue zirconia and looks particularly well in warm settings - yellow or rose gold. Aquamarine is a birthstone of March, has hardness of 7.5 - 8 on the Mohs scale, and is highly affordable. That’s why it is traditionally viewed as a diamond alternative, and that's why you should consider it, too. It will look great alone or in sets, so your only task is to pick the setting you like. Look at this constellation ring or this art deco ring and you’ll understand what we are talking about!
Opal
Opals are rather brittle, that's true (6.5 on the Mohs scale), but if you or your loved one does not engage in very active sports or handwork-intensive crafting hobbies, opal can be a viable option. Its color is milky with fiery sparkles playing inside. It looks almost magical, when all rainbow colors emerge and mix together in the depth of the stone. It is neutral in tone and rich in sparkle at the same time, and this fact makes it a popular diamond alternative.
Opals were very popular at the beginning of the 20th century, so opal jewelry has these special vintage or even antique connotations. Opal is the stone of October, and it will look perfect in white or yellow-toned settings. Its price is very reasonable, so rings with large stones like this minimalist solitaire and this pear-shaped opal ring won’t go beyond the budget that we set.
Engagement Rings from YourAsteria
As you see, it is completely possible to find a glorious engagement ring under $500, especially if you choose a diamond alternative. Yet you can even have diamonds if you do a bit of search across shops and agree to have smaller ones. The jewelry market abounds with cool options you can explore.
However, if you want to be sure about quality and ethical sourcing of stones and in general be comfortable in your search and purchasing process, we suggest that you connect with a reputable jewelry shop you can trust. YourAsteria has been out there for many years, offering high expertise and passion of its jewelers and absolute clarity about quality and sourcing of stones. If you want your peace of mind and a wide choice of stylish designs - start your ring search here.
Moreover, if you have a specific vision of what you want and you don’t see it on display, you can work with our team from scratch and get the custom ring you want. Get a special stone, a unique and beautiful setting, create a perfect engagement ring and multiply the happiness of your loved one manifold!
Afterword
All in all, it is your love and commitment that matter the most, we all know it. Yet if you can go the extra mile (without breaking a budget) and give your sweetheart a ring that will feature a unique stone that reflects her personality or matches her tastes - why not do it? With YourAsteria, you can find a perfect ring on a limited budget or build it from scratch with our experienced designers and craftsmen. All options are open to you, so start your journey to a perfect engagement ring with a diamond alternative (or a diamond) right now. We’ll gladly support and guide you along the way!
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