Looking for Diamond Alternatives for your engagement and/or wedding rings? We know a lot of you out there are for varying reasons. For many, the cost is prohibitive of getting the stone you want. For others, the environmental and social reasons deter them from choosing a diamond. And for some, they just want to buck the trend and do something different than most. Whatever the reason is, we don’t care. We are here to create YOUR ring. Whatever that may be.
Although diamonds have been the gemstone used most in bridal jewelry, colored gemstones and diamond simulants have become increasingly popular for various reasons. Luckily, there are no rules when it comes to choosing a stone or stones for your engagement ring. The main objective is to create something stunning for you and your spouse, and we are here to tell you that this doesn’t always require a diamond.
Diamond Alternatives
When it comes to engagement rings, diamonds are often the go-to choice. However, there are many alternatives to diamonds that are just as beautiful and meaningful. One popular option is moissanite, a lab-created gemstone that closely resembles a diamond in appearance. Not only is moissanite more affordable than diamonds, but it is also more environmentally friendly as it is created in a lab rather than mined from the earth.
Another diamond alternative is sapphire, which comes in a range of colors including blue, pink, and yellow. Sapphires are durable and have a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them a great choice for everyday wear. They are also often associated with royalty and wisdom, adding a unique significance to the engagement ring.
Finally, for those who prefer a more unique and unconventional option, there are many other gemstones to choose from such as emeralds, rubies, and even pearls. Each gemstone has its own meaning and symbolism, allowing couples to choose a ring that truly reflects their personalities and relationship.
Overall, while diamonds may be the traditional choice for engagement rings, there are many alternatives available that are just as beautiful and meaningful. From moissanite to sapphire to other gemstones, couples can find a ring that fits their style and budget while also making a statement about their values and beliefs.
What Are Diamond Alternatives?
Diamond alternatives are gemstones that are used as substitutes for diamonds in jewelry. They can come in a variety of colors and price points, and can be natural or lab-created. Some popular diamond alternatives include moissanite, cubic zirconia, white topaz, and white sapphire. Softer gemstones like morganites, aquamarines, and amethysts can also be used as diamond alternatives. However, they require more care and are not as durable. Colorless zircon was also used as a lower-cost diamond alternative in the past, but it should never be cleaned with an ultrasonic or steam cleaner due to its lower hardness.
Which Stones Are Closest To A Diamond?
There are several stones that are closest to a diamond in terms of their physical properties. While there are eye-visible differences, these gemstones will the most like a diamond while offering a far more affordable price. These include moissanite, cubic zirconia, white sapphire, and white topaz. Moissanite is the closest in terms of its brilliance and fire, while cubic zirconia is the closest in terms of its visual similarity to a diamond. White sapphire and white topaz are also popular diamond alternatives, but they have slightly different physical properties. They also lack the fire that a CZ or moissanite has.
What Are The Best Of The Diamond Alternatives?
When it comes to diamond alternatives, there are several options available in the market. However, the best alternatives are moissanite and white sapphire. Moissanite is the most durable and closest in appearance to a diamond, if you can live with a man made stone. White sapphire is a natural gemstone that closely resembles a diamond but is less durable than moissanite. As previously mentioned, it also lacks the fire and sparkle of moissanite. Ultimately, the best alternative depends on personal preference and budget.
Most Brilliant of Diamond Alternatives
When it comes to diamond alternatives, there are several options available in the market. However, the most brilliant alternatives is moissanite. Hands down. In fact, it moissanite has even more fire and sparkle than a diamond. This gemstone has a higher refractive index than diamonds, which means it reflects more light and sparkles more. It is aldo doubly refractive, adding to the fire. Additionally, moissanite is more affordable than diamonds and has a similar hardness, making it a durable option for jewelry. Overall, moissanite is a brilliant diamond alternative that offers both beauty and value.
Most Inexpensive Diamond Alternative
CZ takes this price by a mile. You can find large CZ for dollars a carat in most gemstores. However, there is one caveat with CZ. They are known to fade in color sometimes. It usually only happens to low quality stones, but there is no way to know if the stone is low quality just by looking at it. Moissanite is the second most inexpensive diamond alternative. It is a naturally occurring mineral that is often used in jewelry as a substitute for diamonds.
Moissanite has a similar appearance to diamonds, but it is much less expensive. It is also more durable than other diamond alternatives, such as cubic zirconia or even white sapphire. Additionally, moissanite is a sustainable and ethical choice, as it is not mined from the earth like diamonds. Overall, moissanite is a great option for those looking for a diamond alternative that is both affordable and high-quality.
Pros Of Diamond Alternatives
Diamond alternatives offer several advantages over traditional diamonds. First, they are more affordable, making them accessible to a wider range of consumers. Additionally, they are often more environmentally friendly, as they are often created through sustainable and ethical practices. Finally, they can offer unique and customizable options, allowing for more personalized and creative jewelry designs. If you go with a diamond alternative, you will be in the minority, so your ring will be special compared to others’. One more thing that many like about diamond alternatives is that they are trendy. Tons of celebrities have been spotted with engagement rings sporting diamond alternatives.
Cons Of Diamond Alternatives
There are several cons to using diamond alternatives. One major drawback is that they are not as durable as real diamonds and can scratch or chip easily. This is especially true of CZ’s. Additionally, some diamond alternatives may not have the same level of brilliance or fire as real diamonds, which can make them less attractive to some buyers.
Another potential issue is that some people may view diamond alternatives as less valuable or desirable than real diamonds, which could impact their resale value. This is something to consider. A CZ will have no resale value. A moissanite will be worth a fraction of what you paid. Also, some diamond alternatives may not be as widely recognized or accepted as real diamonds, which could limit their availability and appeal. This is especially true if you want the classic engagement ring look. While a moissanite will give you the look, some just demand that an engagement ring should have a diamond as DeBeers has brainwashed the public to think.
Popular Natural Diamond Alternatives
1. Lab Grown Diamonds
Lab grown diamonds were first produced in the 1950s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that the technology improved enough to produce gem-quality stones. Since then, the lab grown diamond industry has grown significantly, with major advancements in technology and production methods. Today, lab grown diamonds are a popular alternative to natural diamonds, offering a more sustainable and ethical option for consumers.
While it is a bit misleading to call Lab grown diamonds a diamond alternative, we still include them as they are a totally different product than natural diamonds. Lab diamonds are created in a controlled environment using advanced technological processes that mimic the natural conditions required for diamond formation. These diamonds have the same physical, chemical and optical properties as natural diamonds, but are more affordable and ethically sourced. Lab grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular due to their affordability, sustainability and ethical production.
Lab grown diamonds’ price range varies depending on several factors such as size, color, clarity, and cut. Generally, lab-grown diamonds are priced at a 20-30% discount compared to natural diamonds. For example, a 1-carat lab-grown diamond can range from $800 to $8,000, while a natural diamond of the same size can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $20,000. It’s important to note that lab-grown diamonds are not “cheap,” but rather a more affordable and sustainable alternative to natural diamonds.
2. Moissanite
Moissanite is a mineral that was first discovered in a meteorite crater in Arizona in 1893. It is composed of silicon carbide and is known for its brilliance and fire. Moissanite is a popular alternative to diamonds due to its affordability and visual similarity to diamonds. It is also a sustainable and ethical option for those who are concerned about the environmental and social impact of diamond mining.
Moissanite has a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones available. It is also highly resistant to scratches and abrasions, making it a durable choice for everyday wear. Moissanite is available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be used in a range of jewelry designs.
Moissanite is a great option for those who want a beautiful and high-quality gemstone without breaking the bank. Its unique properties make it a popular choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other special occasion jewelry. Whether you are looking for a sustainable and ethical alternative to diamonds or simply want a stunning piece of jewelry, moissanite is definitely worth considering.
Moissanite is a popular alternative to diamonds due to its affordability. The price range for moissanite varies depending on the size and quality of the stone. On average, a one-carat moissanite can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000. However, larger stones or those with higher quality can cost upwards of $2,000.
It’s important to note that moissanite is not a diamond and should not be priced as such. While it is a durable and beautiful gemstone, it is not as rare as diamonds and therefore should be priced accordingly. When shopping for moissanite, be sure to compare prices from different retailers to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.
Overall, moissanite is a great option for those looking for a beautiful and affordable alternative to diamonds. With its wide range of prices, there is a moissanite option for every budget.
3. Sapphires
Sapphires are a precious gemstone that belong to the corundum mineral family. They are typically blue in color, but can also be found in a range of other colors such as pink, yellow, and green. Sapphires are known for their durability, with a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them a popular choice for jewelry.
The most famous sapphire is the Star of India, which is a 563-carat star sapphire that is currently on display at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. Sapphires are also associated with royalty, with the British Crown Jewels featuring several large sapphires.
Sapphires are found in many countries around the world, including Australia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. They are often used in engagement rings and other fine jewelry due to their beauty and durability. Overall, sapphires are a fascinating gemstone with a rich history and lasting appeal.
Sapphire is a precious gemstone that is highly valued for its beauty and durability. The price range of sapphires can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. The most important factors that influence the price of sapphires are the color, clarity, and carat weight.
The most valuable sapphires are those that have a deep, rich blue color. However, sapphires can also come in a range of other colors, including pink, yellow, green, and purple. The more intense and vivid the color, the higher the price of the sapphire.
In addition to color, the clarity of the sapphire is also an important factor in determining its value. Sapphires that are free from inclusions and have a clear, transparent appearance are the most valuable. Finally, the carat weight of the sapphire also plays a role in determining its price. Generally speaking, the larger the sapphire, the higher the price. Overall, sapphire prices can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars depending on these factors.
4. Rubies
Rubies have a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The first recorded use of rubies was in India, where they were considered to be the king of precious stones. The Sanskrit word for ruby is “ratnaraj,” which means “king of precious stones.”
Rubies were also highly valued in ancient Rome, where they were believed to have magical powers. The Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder wrote that rubies could cure diseases and protect the wearer from harm.
In the Middle Ages, rubies were associated with royalty and were often used to adorn crowns and other regal objects. Today, rubies continue to be highly prized for their rich red color and durability, and are often used in high-end jewelry.
Rubies are one of the most valuable gemstones in the world. The price of rubies varies depending on their quality, size, and color. The highest quality rubies are known as pigeon blood rubies, which are deep red in color and have a high level of clarity. These rubies can sell for as much as $1 million per carat.
The price of rubies has been steadily increasing over the years, due to their rarity and high demand. In 2019, a 10.04-carat Burmese ruby sold for $10.2 million at an auction in Geneva, Switzerland. This set a new world record for the highest price ever paid for a ruby at auction.
Despite their high price, rubies continue to be a popular choice for jewelry, especially for engagement rings and other special occasions. With their rich color and timeless beauty, rubies are sure to remain a sought-after gemstone for years to come.
5. Emeralds
Emeralds are a precious gemstone that have been highly sought after for centuries. They are a variety of the mineral beryl and are known for their deep green color, which is caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium. Emeralds are typically found in countries such as Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil.
One of the most interesting things about emeralds is their history. They were used as far back as ancient Egypt, where they were believed to have healing powers. The Incas and Aztecs also prized emeralds, using them in their jewelry and religious ceremonies. In more recent times, emeralds have been popular with royalty and celebrities, with famous emerald pieces including the tiara worn by Princess Grace of Monaco and the necklace worn by Elizabeth Taylor.
Emeralds are one of the most expensive gemstones in the world when they high quality. The price of emeralds is determined by a variety of factors, including the size, color, clarity, and cut of the stone. The most valuable emeralds are those that are deep green in color, with few inclusions and a symmetrical cut.
The price of emeralds can vary greatly depending on their quality. Low-quality emeralds can be purchased for as little as $10 per carat, while high-quality stones can fetch prices of $10,000 or more per carat. The most expensive emerald ever sold was a 18.04 carat stone that was auctioned off for $5.5 million in 2011. Out of the 5 diamond alternatives we have listed, this is the most fragile stone. It needs to be cared for more than a diamond.
Despite their high price, emeralds remain a popular choice for jewelry. They are often used in engagement rings and other special occasion pieces. Whether you are looking to invest in a high-quality stone or simply add a touch of elegance to your jewelry collection, emeralds are a timeless choice that will never go out of style.
Give Us A Chance!
You can view our portfolio of custom engagement rings or custom pendants to look for ideas. Or you can contact us with your own idea for diamond alternatives or custom jewelry. Why waste your time at the big box stores with ring and stones that everyone has? We can make exactly what you want and many times, for less than the retail stores. You will also have far more options to choose from as we make everything to order.
