When most people think about engagement rings, they instantly think of diamonds. That’s because they remain the strongest natural material on earth. Diamonds symbolize love, commitment, and status due to their beauty, sparkle, and price tag. Although there are some affordable diamond engagement rings, more couples are interested in unique engagement rings.
The tradition of diamond engagement rings can be traced back hundreds of years, but that doesn’t mean you can’t step outside the box. There are endless affordable engagement rings alternatives, like natural gemstones, lab-grown diamonds, and tattoos.
Finding the perfect engagement ring can be tough, considering all your options. Whichever route you choose, here are a few affordable options to consider.
Why Choose a Diamond Alternative?
Although diamonds are forever, they come with a hefty price tag. Diamond alternatives are generally more affordable with an expensive look. You can get a bigger stone with delicate detailing for a better price than most diamond engagement rings.
Another reason why more couples are choosing alternatives is due to the uniqueness of it all. We’re not saying that every diamond ring looks the same, but with an alternative gemstone, it’s rare to see something similar.
Quick Tip:
When choosing any engagement ring, it’s important to consider your partner’s lifestyle. Some gemstones require extra upkeep and are not fit for everyday wear. You should choose an alternative that fits daily activities and complements your partner’s style.
Moissanite
It’s not hard to see why moissanite has become one of the most popular alternatives. These stones look incredibly similar to and sparkle like high-quality diamonds. The best thing about moissanite rings is that they won’t break the bank with a relative durability measurement. These stones are also lab created, meaning they’re more ethical and sustainable than diamonds.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
With the same chemical compound and appearance of a diamond, lab-grown diamonds are increasing in popularity as an affordable ring choice. These stones are produced in a laboratory environment that mimics the earth’s crust. This cuts down on the time it takes to grow and mine one. A lab-grown diamond is a conflict-free choice to get an authentic diamond at a lower price.
Family Heirlooms
Another great affordable engagement ring alternative is to use your family heirlooms. While this type is associated with royals, it’s not rare for relatives to hold on to precious jewels. Using these jewels will save you money, and this ring will have much more sentimental value. If the ring isn’t the right size, no worries! You can always resize it or reconstruct the ring using stones and metals.
Colored Gemstones
More modern newlyweds are choosing colored engagement rings over traditional looks. This is because selecting a gemstone over a diamond is typically more affordable and offers a unique style. These stones are more than birthstones—they symbolize love and elegance.
Some gemstone options to consider are:
- Emerald
- Sapphire
- Aquamarine
- Morganite
- Ruby
- Amethyst
- Opal
Eternity Band
For those with a more minimalist look, ditch the diamonds and stones and opt for a band instead. An eternity band is a great option for everyday wear and costs less than most engagement rings. You can engrave your initials and wedding date later to make the ring even more special.
Tattoos
You may have heard of diamonds lasting forever, but so do tattoos. If you and your partner have ever considered getting matching tattoos, now is your chance! Symbolize your love and commitment through inked artwork. This is a creative and unique option for those who want to step outside the box.
Considering all your options and price points, finding the perfect engagement ring can be tough. Whether you get a diamond ring, a ruby ring, or matching tattoos, the love and commitment behind it are what matter the most.
