Best Stones for Wedding Rings Under $200

Choosing the perfect stone for a wedding ring is an exciting yet challenging task, especially when working within a budget of $200. While diamonds are often considered the quintessential choice for engagement and wedding rings, there are a variety of beautiful and durable alternatives that are not only more affordable but also unique and eye-catching. Here, we explore some of the best stones for wedding rings that fall within a $200 budget, ensuring that you can find a stunning ring without breaking the bank.

1. Moissanite

Moissanite is an excellent alternative to diamonds, known for its brilliance and durability. Discovered in a meteor crater, this gem has a fascinating origin and offers exceptional sparkle. Moissanite is almost as hard as diamonds, scoring 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable option for daily wear.

Why Choose Moissanite?

• Brilliance and Fire: Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamonds, giving it exceptional sparkle and fire.
• Durability: With a high hardness rating, moissanite is resistant to scratches and suitable for everyday wear.
• Affordability: Moissanite is significantly less expensive than diamonds, allowing you to get a larger or higher-quality stone within your budget.

2. Sapphire

Sapphires are traditionally blue but can be found in a range of colors, including pink, yellow, and white. These gemstones are a symbol of fidelity and are a popular choice for wedding rings. Sapphires rank 9 on the Mohs scale, making them one of the hardest and most durable gemstones.

Why Choose Sapphire?

• Variety of Colors: Sapphires come in various colors, allowing for personalization and a unique look.
• Durability: Sapphires are very hard, making them ideal for everyday wear.
• Symbolism: Traditionally associated with loyalty and sincerity, sapphires are a meaningful choice for wedding rings.

3. Amethyst

Amethyst is a beautiful purple gemstone that is both affordable and stunning. It is a type of quartz, scoring 7 on the Mohs scale, making it reasonably durable for everyday use. Amethyst rings can range from deep purple to light lavender, offering a variety of shades to choose from.

Why Choose Amethyst?

• Unique Color: The purple hue of amethyst is striking and unique, setting it apart from more traditional gemstones.
• Affordability: Amethyst is a budget-friendly option, allowing for larger stones within the $200 budget.
• Symbolism: Amethyst is believed to promote calmness and clarity, making it a meaningful choice for a wedding ring.

4. Garnet

Garnet is a gemstone that comes in a range of colors, though it is most commonly known for its deep red hue. This gemstone is durable and versatile, ranking 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. Garnet is often associated with love and passion, making it a fitting choice for a wedding ring.

Why Choose Garnet?

• Rich Color: The deep red of garnet is both classic and bold, offering a distinctive look.
• Affordability: Garnet is relatively inexpensive, allowing for a substantial stone within a limited budget.
• Symbolism: Associated with love and passion, garnet is a meaningful choice for a wedding ring.

5. Topaz

Topaz is a versatile gemstone available in a variety of colors, including blue, yellow, and pink. It ranks 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable option for a wedding ring. Blue topaz, in particular, is a popular choice due to its beautiful color and affordability.

Why Choose Topaz?

• Variety of Colors: Topaz comes in many colors, allowing for a personalized and unique ring.
• Durability: With a hardness of 8, topaz is resistant to scratches and suitable for everyday wear.
• Affordability: Topaz is a budget-friendly option, offering beautiful stones at a lower price point.

6. Aquamarine

Aquamarine is a stunning light blue gemstone that is part of the beryl family, which also includes emeralds. It scores 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a fairly durable choice for a wedding ring. Aquamarine is often associated with tranquility and harmony, adding a touch of sentiment to its beauty.

Why Choose Aquamarine?

• Beautiful Color: The light blue of aquamarine is serene and captivating, perfect for those who prefer a softer color.
• Durability: With a good hardness rating, aquamarine is suitable for everyday wear.
• Symbolism: Aquamarine is associated with calmness and harmony, making it a meaningful choice for a wedding ring.

7. Peridot

Peridot is a vibrant green gemstone that is both eye-catching and affordable. It ranks 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it reasonably durable for a wedding ring. Peridot is believed to bring good luck and protect against negative energy, adding a layer of symbolism to its vibrant beauty.

Why Choose Peridot?

• Vibrant Color: The bright green of peridot is unique and striking, offering a fresh and lively look.
• Affordability: Peridot is a cost-effective option, allowing for a larger or higher-quality stone within a budget.
• Symbolism: Associated with good luck and protection, peridot is a meaningful choice for a wedding ring.

8. Citrine

Citrine is a yellow to orange gemstone that is part of the quartz family. It scores 7 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable choice for everyday wear. Citrine is often associated with happiness and positivity, making it a cheerful and meaningful choice for a wedding ring.

Why Choose Citrine?

• Warm Color: The yellow to orange hues of citrine are warm and inviting, offering a distinctive look.
• Affordability: Citrine is an affordable gemstone, allowing for larger stones within a limited budget.
• Symbolism: Associated with happiness and positivity, citrine is a meaningful choice for a wedding ring.

9. Opal

Opal is a unique gemstone known for its play-of-color, displaying a stunning array of colors depending on the light and angle. While opals are softer, ranking 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, their unique beauty makes them a popular choice for wedding rings. With proper care, opals can be a beautiful and enchanting choice.

Why Choose Opal?

• Unique Beauty: The play-of-color in opals is mesmerizing and unique, making each stone one-of-a-kind.
• Affordability: Opals can be found within a budget, offering a unique and beautiful option at a lower price point.
• Symbolism: Opals are often associated with creativity and inspiration, adding a layer of meaning to their beauty.

10. Turquoise

Turquoise is a distinctive blue to green gemstone that has been valued for centuries. It ranks 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, so it requires a bit more care to avoid scratches and damage. However, its vibrant color and historical significance make it a meaningful and unique choice for a wedding ring.

Why Choose Turquoise?

• Distinctive Color: The vibrant blue to green of turquoise is unique and eye-catching.
• Historical Significance: Turquoise has been valued for centuries, adding a touch of history and significance to your ring.
• Affordability: Turquoise is relatively inexpensive, allowing for larger or higher-quality stones within a budget.

Tips for Choosing the Right Stone

When selecting a gemstone for your wedding ring, consider the following tips to ensure you make the best choice within your budget:

1. Durability: Choose a stone that is durable enough for everyday wear. While diamonds are the hardest, many other gemstones offer excellent durability and beauty.
2. Personal Style: Consider your personal style and preferences. Some people may prefer the traditional look of a diamond or sapphire, while others may be drawn to the unique colors of amethyst or citrine.
3. Symbolism: Think about the symbolism of the gemstone. Many stones are associated with specific meanings and qualities, which can add a personal touch to your wedding ring.
4. Budget: Stay within your budget. Many beautiful and durable gemstones are available for under $200, allowing you to find a stunning ring without overspending.
5. Care and Maintenance: Consider the care and maintenance required for the gemstone. Some stones may need more careful handling and cleaning than others.

Conclusion

Choosing a wedding ring stone under $200 doesn't mean you have to compromise on beauty or quality. From the brilliance of moissanite to the rich colors of garnet and the unique beauty of opal, there are numerous options to suit different styles and preferences. By considering factors such as durability, personal style, and symbolism, you can find the perfect gemstone that represents your love and commitment without exceeding your budget.