Believe it or not, but diamonds haven't always been the cornerstone of engagement jewelry. They took the jewelry scene by storm at the beginning of the 20th century, leaving couples no choice but to get a clear sparkling stone as a symbol of ‘happily committed’ status.
Yet the story of tokens of love and devotion - aka engagement rings - is much more diverse and colorful (pun intended). So it’s high time we revisit the treasure trove of gems available for ring making. This exploration will let you decide when a diamond is a must and when you’re free to get a unique engagement ring with the beautiful stone of your choice.
Why Consider Non-Diamond Engagement Rings?
It is not the first year that couples show a growing interest in non diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, and the jewelry market picks up the cue and creates more and more interesting ring collections. The more enticing options are out there, the more couples are willing to consider diamond alternatives and choose something special. The demand fuels the supply, and vice versa. So now it’s a full-scale fashion trend that is set to stay.
And we don’t see anything wrong with this trend because the fashion changes are long overdue. People should be free to choose for their proposal moment whatever stone they want without getting curious looks. Whether it’s about reducing the costs, getting something really unique, or following the gut feeling about the birthstone, every reason to go diamond-free is totally valid (of which a bit later).
Celebrity examples also boost the desire for rings with colored stones. The dazzling glamorous pieces shining on the hands of celebs nudge people to explore what else is on the market.
Fortunately, the coveted colored stones prove to be not that expensive. On the contrary, they are rather affordable and have tons of additional symbolism and styling possibilities. What’s not to love about them?
Add cultural ideas about traditional bridal jewelry or the particular family traditions and lore, and it becomes obvious why rings with non-diamond centers are becoming almost as traditional as rings with diamonds.
Pros of Non-Diamond Engagement Rings
Getting non-diamond jewelry has its own significant advantages, and they are quite relatable for anyone planning a wedding.
1. Affordability.
Many colored gems make more affordable stone options without compromising on looks and glamour. For the same price that you’d pay for a small diamond, you can purchase an impressive colored stone that will stand out in a ring and on the finger. The more money you can allocate, the bigger - and the more sublime - gem you will get. Such a ring will make a perfect heirloom piece in terms of looks and money.
2. Uniqueness of looks and endless styling options.
Diamonds are cool, no doubt, but their charm can get lost among other similar jewelry pieces, even when the detailing is different. Diamonds on your hand create a dazzling spot of light and fire, but so do diamonds in the rings of other people.
Colored gems, on the other hand, stand out from afar and immediately catch the eye. Unique gemstone types and setting details work in harmony without overpowering or dimming each other.
That’s why when someone spots a sapphire or emerald ring, the first question is whether it’s a new or a vintage heirloom piece. It immediately adds a new layer of meaning and luxurious feel to a ring (the effect we are striving for, let’s be honest).
Sapphire, emerald, ruby, and moissanite all make excellent ring centers with their deep color, historical fame, and sufficient durability and hardness. Moissanite also doubles as an ethical diamond alternative, but that’s a whole separate story to tell.
3. Color choices and personalized symbolism
It’s all in their name: colored stones. If you (or your loved one) prefer something bright, with rich shades and delicate color nuances, colored gems are the perfect solution. They are not as loud as diamonds, but they attract attention in a more subtle way.
Although you may think that it will be harder to incorporate them into daily looks and jewelry sets, the classic Big Four of gems are welcomed in any style and ringscape. They are the ones to set the tone of the whole composition, so to speak. Just give it a try, and you’ll see how neatly other rings will complement your sapphire or emerald ring.
Symbolism is another important matter, although sometimes overlooked. An engagement ring can carry a whole lot of messages, like a birthstone charm, a spiritual token, or a reminder of other significant moments or events. Match the month or spiritual meaning to the colored gem and you'll immediately know what stone to choose.
4. Ethical and environmental aspects
With all their beauty, fame, and high valuation, diamonds can stir this whisper of doubt because we’ve all heard about bloody diamonds and poor mining practices. Although many things have changed in the industry, a slight doubt is still there, because it’s not always possible to pinpoint exactly where the stone comes from and how it was mined. Lab diamonds do not have this cloudy past, but they have their own peculiarities.
Colored gems, on the other hand, are mined in more sustainable ways and are not tied to conflicts or negative environmental impact. It’s probably one of the key benefits of non diamond rings for many people. So if you want the engagement ring to be flawless in ethical respect, go for colored gems. It’s even more sophisticated and considerate if you want to recycle the precious stone from some heirloom item, thus updating it to a contemporary stylish piece. It’s like ‘something old’ and ‘something new’ being blended into one.
Cons of Non-Diamond Engagement Rings
Colored gems have their downsides, although they are few. However, to make an informed choice, you’ll need to learn about them first.
1. Durability may be lower for some types of stones
Pretty and meaningful as they are, some colored gems may be too soft for daily wear, so think twice before opting for them. Opals, moonstones, pearls, corals, and, to some extent, emeralds score not very high on the Mohs scale. So if you decide to choose them for your engagement ring, take care to set them in a secure and protective setting. Also, remove the ring from your hands when doing some intensive handwork or exercising.
2. Concerns of lower resale value (if you see the stone as an investment)
We’re not quite sure if it should matter for the engagement ring, but let’s tackle this point. Some precious stones hold their value for resale better than others.
If you consider this idea theoretically:
- mined diamonds lose the least of their initial value over time (and some diamonds even increase their valuation),
- rubies, sapphires and emeralds go next in terms of losing value,
- finally, there come lab diamonds that depreciate more than mined diamonds and colored gems.
3. Diamonds still have a higher status as ‘engagement stones’
Whether we like it or not, diamonds still hold this exclusive position of the ‘proper engagement stones’. So when someone says they got this special ring from their loved one, it’s usually assumed that the ring features a diamond. The perception of the only ‘right stone’ is changing slowly, but not too fast to spare you some additional questions when people see a non-diamond engagement ring.
You’re within your rights to choose whatever stone you want (or go for a ring without a stone, for that matter). So if such questions don’t put you off too much, design or buy a jewelry piece that is truly ‘you’. Yet if you want to avoid the process of explaining to everyone why it's not a diamond, then a traditional diamond solitaire (or a moissanite) is the best choice.
4. Maintenance issues for softer stones
Since some colored gems are prone to chipping and scratching, they will need some TLC now and then. It means that you bring them to a jeweler for maintenance like polishing and the setting security checkup, and then enjoy their newly restored, flawless look.
Larger chips and scratches on stones may not be easy to fix, so you’ll have to take care and not subject your ring to strong impacts or hard abrasive surfaces. While sapphires and rubies are almost as hard as diamonds, some other colored gems are not. So among the drawbacks of non diamond rings that’s their most essential downside for us as professional jewelers.
Popular Alternatives to Diamonds
So what alternative stones should grace your ring finger on the special day? Here’s the list of the most coveted stones for bridal jewelry.
Moissanite: affordable sparkle
Moissanite stands apart in this list of diamond alternatives because it looks exactly like a diamond, but it is lab-made and more affordable than diamonds. Otherwise, it’s like a diamond on steroids, if that’s possible, because its sparkle and fire often surpass the properties of many cheaper types of diamonds on the market.
Moissanite’s hardness is 10 on the Mohs scale, so the ring will last a lifetime without additional efforts on your part. You can choose a completely clear stone or go for tinted moissanites. With its hardness and fire, the stone can be cut into any shape you prefer, and its rich brilliance and sparkle will attract attention immediately. You can set it in white, yellow, or rose gold, and its beauty won’t be diminished.
Moissanite is like a non-diamond diamond (if that makes sense), and so it’s a valid alternative that looks like the forever stone itself. Without special tools and experience, no one will tell a moissanite vs diamond ring if you choose not to explain the stone type.
Sapphires: royal and durable
When we speak of engagement rings with colored gems, what stone comes to your mind immediately? Yes, it is a sapphire. This stone has long been the symbol of engagement rings until diamonds won over. And when you look at this rich velvety blue you understand why this stone is so appreciated.
It's almost as hard and durable as diamonds, and it can come in a variety of types, from light blue to navy blue to almost black ‘star’ sapphires. This stone is excellent in both cut and cabochon forms, so you’re welcome to design a ring that really speaks to yourself, there are no technical limitations to it.
Sapphires belong to the famous Big Four of precious stones, the most important and valuable ones. So in a comparison of sapphire vs diamond engagement ring your sapphire jewelry won’t feel or look any less glamorous or cool. Deep blue color is perfect for styling, as it fits well into any modern combination of styles and it also sets the upscale stylish mood for building a ringscape on your hand.
So if you want a colored gem as a viable diamond alternative in your ring, sapphire is the first stone to consider.
Emeralds: timeless but delicate
Emeralds are one of the oldest known gems used for top-class jewelry, but now they have a true comeback moment. If earlier the sapphires were holding the title of the most coveted engagement gems (as a nod to the Princess Diana and later Princess Catherine’s ring), then today emeralds are confidently claiming the spotlight.
According to fashionistas, the year 2025 sees the emerald jewelry skyrocket in popularity; emeralds are very of the moment, as they say. That's why you'll see more emerald ring options than ever before, so you can get the fanciest engagement ring out there.
Yellow gold and emeralds give this unique antique vibe that nevertheless feels timeless and amazingly beautiful. From the royal jewelry of Spanish kings to important pieces owned by the European nobility, emeralds have always had their place in the crowns, rings and brooches. You can have this aristocratic gem, too, and not for all the money in the world.
The only concern is that emeralds are not as hard and durable as diamonds or sapphires. Yet with a bit of care and in a secure protective setting, an emerald can decorate your ring finger (or the finger of your loved one) literally forever.
Rubies: bold and passionate
It’s hard to count all praises sung to rubies through history because of their amazing rich red color and inner glow. They have been compared to roses of June, precious wines, flame in a stone, blood and passion, sunrises and sunsets. It’s totally unsurprising because rubies are wonderful, without exaggeration. If we were to name the stone for diamond alternatives engagement rings that looks like a symbol of love, we’d name rubies.
They can feature various degrees of redness, from pink to dark red, and the most valued ones are the stones with excellent transparency and natural rich red (but not too red) coloring. Think of ripe pomegranate seeds - deeply saturated but still translucent, they are a sight to behold. So are the high-quality rubies.
Rubies have sufficient hardness close to that of a diamond, so they can easily withstand daily wear and tear. If you want a ring that immediately speaks of love and passion you share, choose rubies. Their bold, deep color will never get overshadowed by other jewelry, and so you’ll be able to mix and match your ringscape as much as you want. Rubies will always fit in.
How to Choose the Right Non-Diamond Ring
Now that we’ve discussed the pros and cons of non diamond engagement rings in detail, it’s time to sum up other essential pieces of advice on how to choose the ring that’s truly yours.
Consider your lifestyle and daily wear needs
Some stones are just better for everyday use than others. Hardness and durability do matter, and if your lifestyle is very hands-on and active, choose the stone carefully. Sapphires, rubies, moissanites, and alexandrite, aquamarine and topaz, for that matter, are excellent for engagement rings due to their toughness and durability.
Other gems that are fragile may need more attention and work, so you will collaborate with a jeweler to create a secure, fail-proof setting. But in no way should the hardness mark stop you from getting the stone you want.
Factor in the budget and stone properties
It’s a great piece of news that colored gems are oftentimes cheaper than diamonds of comparable size. So either you can save some money and still get an impressive stone or spend generously and get a spectacular one-of-a-kind ring that will dazzle and mesmerize anyone seeing it.
Additionally, unlike diamonds, colored gems have certain imperfections as features, not bugs. Gardens of emeralds, deep darkness of sapphires, varying tones of rubies - what is a big no-no for diamonds is a part of the appeal of colored stones.
So yes, colored gems have their grades of carats and cuts, but clarity and ‘color’ in the sense of colorlessness are not fully applicable here. So it’s easier to choose a great colored stone, especially when you team up with a trusted jewelry house and its experienced team.
Customization and ring settings
The big plus of colored gems is that they add interest to every - even the simplest - design. You can play with ideas of solitaires, halos, clusters, or more ornate vintage and antique styles. Look at different stone and metal combinations until you feel it’s the one. Colored stones will fit into the setting of your choice nicely and add a special touch of glamor and elegance to it. The ring you’ll get will be unique and reflective of your vision and tastes.
The only reservation is the hardness and durability of stones, as more delicate stones will require more robust and protective settings. Durable stones can be set even in the minimal slim setting, if you prefer. But some basic caution and care while wearing them are still recommended.
Consider other unique gemstones
Although gems of the Big Four are the first to come to mind, there are plenty of other interesting and unusual stones ready to shine in your engagement ring. From serene blue aquamarine and topaz to mysterious alexandrite, moss agate, and moonstone, the available options are inspiring and suitable for any design. Each stone has its significance as a birthstone or a spiritual token, and you can mix and match meanings and looks until you arrive at a perfect combination.
If you want to be sure that you get the best stone for your money and want help in choosing or designing a ring, team up with a trusted jewelry house. That's the main secret.
YourAsteria welcomes everyone looking for a special ring, and you can explore our ready-to-wear collections of handcrafted rings or start from scratch and design the ring of your dreams with our expert jewelers. We have a wide choice of unique gemstones and styles to pick from, so you’ll definitely find what you are looking for. That’s what matters most.
Final Thoughts: Are Non-Diamond Rings Worth It?
Whether with diamonds or with other gems, engagement rings are so special that their meaning may overpower any other consideration. But once the first tide of emotions recedes, the look also becomes important. So if you really like a pop of color on your finger, go for colored gems. They are no less precious and beautiful than diamonds. The reputation of diamonds as forever stones is what fuels the fashion, but other gems are no less durable and elegant.
Yet if you want a classic ring that will immediately declare ‘engagement’, go for diamonds. They are still the staple, and no one will ask questions about the meaning of the ring. Diamonds today are perfectly acceptable for all sorts of outfits, so you won’t have to worry about special styling of the ring.
So it all depends on what you want and how you two envision your engagement and special meanings and rituals associated with it.
Your love and commitment to each other matter the most, so whatever stone for the ring you choose, we’re always here to help you find the ring you like or make it come into reality.
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