Over the past 10-15 years, the wedding industry has seen a continuous shift towards personalisation in every aspect, from dƩcor and destination to preferences in rings.
Although timeless traditions and classic styles remain popular, this increase in individuality and looking for that āpersonal touchā now has an impact on every choice made on the journey to marriage ā starting with the all-important engagement ring.
Throughout the jewellery world, many designers and vendors have seen a significant movement towards rings that feature colourful gemstones rather than conventional diamonds. In fact, itās a major upcoming trend for 2020, as more and more couples are leaning towards alternative stones such as rubies and sapphires.
According to a recent blog post by London DE, a leading UK supplier of certified diamonds and coloured gemstones, the market for diamond alternative engagement rings is now seeing significant expansion. While diamonds accounted for more than 95% of the market at the end of the 20th century, it would appear that the tides are now beginning to turn!
Sean Gilbertson, CEO of Gemfields (a world-leading supplier of responsibly sourced coloured gemstones) also highlighted this ongoing trend back in early 2019:
“The swing toward precious coloured gemstones is overwhelming, with robust demand prompting double-digit growth in many countries.”
Why diamond alternative engagement rings?
Why is this? Well, as mentioned before, many people enjoy the personalisation aspect of a more unique ring. Although diamonds remain symbolic of commitment and enduring love ā in part due to their unparalleled durability ā alternative stones to diamond engagement rings carry their own unique connotations and symbolism, making them attractive to certain couples and/or individuals. Picking your favourite gemstone ā especially when incorporated in a bespoke design ā means that your ring comes with additional meaning and originality.
Another reason is the price. No one wants to skimp on their engagement ring, considering itās a piece of jewellery that youāll treasure for the rest of your life, but there are gemstones out there that will also last a lifetime (especially with the right care) while offering a more budget-friendly option. A 2016 study revealed that men were spending, on average, Ā£537 on their partnerās engagement ring ā while two to three monthsā wages was often considered the norm in the past.
With all this in mind, weāre keen to explore the advantages of the different diamond alternative engagement rings out there. For example, what are the most durable gemstones for engagement rings outside of the classic diamond? So if youāre on the hunt for your own engagement ring and leaning towards a more unique and colourful option that reflects your personality, style and relationshipā¦read on!
1. Ruby
With a Mohs hardness rating of 9, the ruby is nearly as durable as a diamond. Its durability makes it an ideal choice for an engagement ring, but its rich history, fiery hues and rarity are what makes it so desirable.
Renowned across the world as the gemstone of love and passion, itās the perfect symbol for those who want their ring to capture those powerful, romantic feelings associated with taking a relationship to the next level. From a spiritual perspective, it is also believed to inspire confidence and harmony while protecting the wearer from sorrow.
Many were awed by the floral engagement ring of Katy Perry in 2019, featuring a purplish-pink ruby surrounded by a cluster of large, round diamonds. If youāre searching for a ring that will reflect your bold and colourful style and personality, then this is the diamond alternative engagement ring for you!
Pictured: Joshua James Precious 9ct White Gold with Ruby & Diamond Cluster Ring
2. Sapphire
This stone holds an impressive reputation as a stone of royalty, the most recent memorable example seen in the solitaire engagement ring of Kate Middleton. The ring consisted of 14 solitaire diamonds surrounding a 12-carat oval sapphire set in 18k white gold and was passed down from Princess Diana. Following the engagement announcement in 2010, sales of sapphire engagement rings went through the roof, and the jewel remains a popular choice today for a princess engagement ring.
With a Mohs hardness rating of 9, it matches the ruby in scratch-resistance and long-term durability, and can actually be found in a variety of hues such as yellow, purple and green. In another royal engagement, Princess Eugenie of York received a ring featuring a pink sapphire ā also known as a padparadscha, or a ālotus blossomā sapphire.
For a precious, long-lasting ring that echoes regal style, sapphire offers the perfect choice ā and with the option to select an uncommon shade such as pink or green, it can make a uniquely fascinating piece of jewellery.
Pictured: Joshua James Precious 9ct White Gold with Sapphire & Diamond Pave Deco Ring
3. Emerald
With a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs Scale, the emerald falls just behind the sapphire and ruby but is still incredibly scratch-resistant. Due to their natural inclusions (materials/characteristics trapped inside the gemstone during formation), they can be prone to chipping or cracking, therefore experts would advise selecting a quality emerald with any inclusion at the centre of the gem ā rather than near the sides ā and to always buy from a reputable jeweller.
Despite any concerns over durability, the green emerald is another popular choice for diamond alternative engagement rings, in part due to its vivid, versatile colour. The gemstone can be found in a multitude of shades, and many claims that there is one to suit every skin tone: for example, if you have an olive complexion, a vibrant emerald is said to boost your skinās radiance.
In addition, the emerald is attractive due to its positive symbolism. It is historically a symbol of truth and love, and perhaps even more importantly, a symbol of new beginnings. For those embarking on the first step of their journey as a married couple, this can make it especially meaningful!
Pictured: Joshua James Precious 9ct White Gold with Emerald & Diamond Cluster Ring
4. Amethyst
This stunning variety of quartz is seen frequently throughout fashion and fine jewellery and can be found in shades ranging from light lavender to dark purple.
There is often debate around the subject of the āgreen amethystā, which you will also see in a variety of jewellery: technically speaking, this is a separate variety of quartz (called prasiolite) that is produced after the purple amethyst undergoes heat treatment.
With a Mohs hardness rating of 7, the amethyst is a hard gemstone that is resistant to everyday hazards and will stay stunning for years with the correct care. Making it a great option for alternative diamond engagement rings.
Perhaps the most interesting thing about the amethyst is its name, derived from Greek to mean ānot drunkenā. In the past, it was believed to prevent intoxication, and over time has come to be associated with calming energies and general contentment. While at first, this may seem an odd choice for your engagement ring, to some it is the perfect indicator of a love that is ready for a fulfilling relationship that will endure the test of time.
Pictured: Precious 9ct Yellow Gold with Amethyst & Diamond Pave Ring
5. Garnet
Everything about the garnet is varied and colourful, from its eventful history to its rich colour palette. Although generally, it is the red garnet that first pops into everyoneās head, it actually exists in a rainbow of colours, including green, orange, purple and even blue. Found throughout ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, the garnet has been used in jewellery for thousands of years.
Throughout history, the garnet has remained a symbol of love and friendship, making it the ideal choice for an engagement ring. It is also particularly meaningful to couples who may have to spend periods of time apart for whatever reason, thanks to a Greek myth about Persephone and Hades: according to this story, the garnet symbolises a swift and safe return to your lover.
Ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 in hardness, certain garnets will be more prone to common wear and tear ā anything under 7 can be scratched by everyday hazards such as household dust ā but donāt let this put you off! A high-quality garnet will remain beautiful for years, and will generally make one of our more affordable diamond alternative engagement rings than the other gemstones mentioned previously.
Pictured: Joshua James Precious 9ct Yellow Gold & Garnet Celtic Ring
6. Aquamarine
The obvious choice for any lovers of the sea, the aquamarine has evolved over time to become more than just a protective stone for sailors. Today, it is used to symbolise the overcoming of stormy waters in more than just the physical sense, and can therefore offer a meaningful choice for certain couples as an engagement stone. A symbol of faithfulness, courage and clear communication, it is brimming with positive energy.
As a further bonus, it has a hardness rating of 7.5 to 8, meaning that it will last a lifetime with proper care and servicing.
Many people are drawn to aquamarine due to its unique sea-green colouring, which is considered flattering for many skin tones as well as eye-catching. Lighter varieties of this gemstone can even be seen as one of the most comparable diamond ring alternative engagement rings!
Pictured: Joshua James Precious 9ct White Gold with Aquamarine & Diamond Pave Ring
7. Pearl
Once considered old-fashioned, the pearl has made an impressive comeback over recent years, and is now seen frequently throughout contemporary fashion trends. This trend stretches to modern-day engagement rings, as more and more people are considering the pearl as their chosen gemstone.
This is partly due to the vast range of options available, from saltwater to freshwater, meaning there is a pearl for every price tag! While the most popular colour of pearl for an engagement ring is white, there is actually a myriad of colours available, with black coming in second place. You can also select from a variety of shapes, although the most favoured (and valuable) is a pearl which is perfectly round.
Known historically as the āstone of sincerity, the pearl is often associated with loyalty, integrity and faith. Due to this, in the past, it was one of the highly desired diamond alternative engagement rings across Europe and America, before the discovery of diamonds.
Many people are put off by the hardness rating (2.5 to 4.5), which admittedly makes this stone more susceptible to scratching and discolouration. However, with the correct care ā including a gentle wipe down after every wear ā a pearl ring can stay looking lustrous for years!
We fell in love with Emma Stoneās engagement ring, an antique-style piece consisting of an 8mm untreated Akoya pearl surrounded by 0.37 carats of diamonds.
Pictured: Joshua James Precious 9ct Yellow Gold with Mabe Pearl & Diamond Pave Ring
8. Morganite
Super elegant, alluring and eye-catching: this is the stone to watch out for in the coming year. This pretty pink gem can be found in a variety of shades, from light peach to vibrant magenta. It presents the obvious choice for the woman with a very feminine style, and its rosy shades will complement any complexion.
This rising star does not hold much of a history to date as a choice for alternative engagement rings with no diamond, in part due to the fact that it was only discovered in 1910 ā relatively recently in comparison to the more traditional stones mentioned so far. For this reason, it actually makes a very attractive choice for many women, as it offers something new and unique.
On top of this, it has a hardness rating of 7.5 to 8 ā on par with the emerald ā and unlike the emerald, morganite is relatively free of inclusions. This can make it more attractive to the naked eye and easier to care for in the long term.
Finally, this gemstone is believed to increase patience, alleviate stress, and improve communication skills. Although it might be lacking the passion of the fiery ruby, these things are arguably more important for a lifelong relationship!
Pictured: Joshua James Precious 9ct Rose Gold with Morganite & Diamond Pave Teardrop Ring
Let us know what you think…
We want to know your thoughts! Let us know if you prefer the classic style of the traditional diamond engagement ring, or if you’re leaning to something a little more alternative in the form of a colourful gemstone ring.
