We bet you think of a diamond as soon as someone mentions an engagement ring. That’s the tradition. Isn’t it?
Oval-cut, round-cut, heavy, or perhaps smaller, delicate diamonds – all arranged intricately and beautifully on a complementing metal band. That’s what you visualize. Don’t you?
Well, we have a piece of good news for you. Over the last few years, the engagement ring trends have changed a bit. And people are now exploring other gemstones as well. This new trend has particularly been on the rise over the last two years as diamonds became too out of reach for many people economically.
Here are a few popular stones:
Amethyst
Amethyst is an ancient novelty. The stone features shades of purple. You’ll find it in light purple as well as deep, dark purple.
After diamonds, amethyst engagement rings are amongst the preferred rings. That’s because the stone is vibrant and entrancing. Its bright purple feels royal and majestic.
It ranks seven on the Mohs scale, and hence it is not as durable as diamond. However, it is durable enough to withstand everyday wear and tear. Plus, it doesn’t cost as much as diamonds. It’s amongst the cheapest gemstones you can get (yet the most arresting!).
Sapphire
Sapphire is the royal choice for engagement rings. It particularly gained popularity when Princess Diana carried a sapphire on her fingers. And later, when Kate Middleton carried the legacy.
Blue Sapphire is more popular as compared to other color variants of sapphire, which include orange, brown, black, and white. It’s even available in light and unique blends of orange and pink. Most sapphire fans express that it’s a perfect balance between the contemporary and classical fashion.
Emerald
Emerald engagement rings are a classic choice. The rich, vibrant color of this stone is simply enchanting.
Despite its captivating looks, it’s not the most common engagement ring choice. It’s popular but not common. That’s because only a select few individuals can carry a ring so bold.
If you find yourself one of such people, check out this list of enticing emerald engagement rings. We hope you find one that wins your heart.
On the Mohs scale, it ranks 7.5-8, which is less than both Sapphire and rubies. And hence, emeralds are delicate as well.
Morganite
Morganite is one of the subtle stone choices that’s gaining popularity. The stone’s color ranges from soft pink to purplish and orangey pink.
This low-cost yet pretty stone is a refreshing alternative to diamond. It doesn’t jump when worn and pairs well with most colors (both in terms of outfits and metal bands). But it looks best with rose gold metal bands as well as gold. On Mohs scale, it ranks 7.5-8.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is amongst the newest gemstones as well as the rarest stone found on earth. It was discovered back in the 1960s in the Merelani Hills in Tanzania. The American Gem Trade Association recognized the stone in 2002 and added it as a birthstone of December.
It’s a popular choice amongst about-to-be couples because of its symbolism, rarity, and properties. This bluish-purple stone represents mystical powers and positivity. They say it transforms negative thoughts and energies into positive ones. And hence, births healthy energy between couples.
It is also amongst the rarest stones to have been discovered. The pink tanzanites are the rarest.
Final Words
Well, there you go. Those are the five most popular diamond alternatives for engagement rings in the current times. Amethyst engagement rings happen to be most popular, as compared to the rest for obvious reasons.
But again, don’t let trends (like that of diamond-only engagement rings) rule your choices. Know all your options and go with the stone that compels your heart and soul.
