An engagement ring is a tangible symbol that celebrates the love between two people. It is also an ornament worn on one of the most active parts of your body – your hands. So when considering your center stone, it’s important to choose carefully, as this factor can affect the overall look of the ring as well as your comfort for everyday wear.
Diamonds are the top choice for many couples when choosing a center stone, because of its historical significance. The first diamond engagement ring dates back to 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy. Years later, diamonds gained popularity and continued to celebrate and commemorate a union.
Despite the popularity of diamonds, many couples choose alternative gemstones, such as moissanite, sapphire, emerald, ruby and morganite, as there are many options available today. While many different gems can be stunning and unique, there are some important differences to consider when making a decision.
In this article, we’ll learn how diamonds compare to other popular gemstones and offer tips for choosing the perfect engagement ring for you or your loved one.
Why Are Diamonds Popular?
- Sparkle: The way diamonds reflect light creates a unique and stunning sparkle that many people find irresistible.
- Symbolism: Diamonds have come to symbolize everlasting love and commitment, making them a popular choice for engagement rings.
Why Do Some Couples Prefer Alternative Gemstones?
While diamonds are undoubtedly beautiful, there are some downsides to consider. They can be expensive, from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands or more.
Additionally, some people may have ethical concerns about purchasing diamonds, as diamond mining and trade has been associated with conflict and exploitation in some parts of the world. Although this conflict can be avoided by choosing lab-grown diamonds, many couples choose alternative gemstones based on their color or other attributes that they find attractive.
If you need help deciding between diamonds and alternative gemstones, it can be helpful to speak with a reputable jeweler like Alexis Gallery, who can guide you through the process with their extensive knowledge and industry experience. can guide Their custom engagement ring design process allows for one-on-one guidance and communication to help couples make informed choices. Their team not only allows you to work with the design, but also provides extensive education in choosing the best gemstone for your ring and lifestyle. They can help educate you about mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, moissanite, sapphires, and other gemstones.
Diamonds vs Other Gemstones
Understanding the similarities and differences between diamonds and other gemstones is important to make an informed decision when choosing a center stone.
Colourless vs. Colour
Diamond color is the most important of the 4Cs of diamonds, as color grade affects the physical appearance of the stone. The best grade diamonds lack color, known as ‘colorless diamonds’. Diamonds with visible color or poor color grade may appear slightly yellow compared to colorless or near-colorless brilliant white.
If you are looking for a colorless diamond, you can choose a mined or lab-grown diamond. Mined and lab-grown diamonds are similar, as they have the same visual, molecular and chemical properties. The only difference between them is their origin.
Another great alternative to diamond is moissanite – this gemstone has very similar properties to diamond. High-quality moissanite can be nearly colorless and free of visible inclusions.
For couples wanting a colored diamond, exploring alternative gemstones can be valuable in your research. Colored diamonds are one of the most expensive options, and it’s possible that the color you want is available in different materials such as sapphire (blue, violet, pink, etc.), emerald (green), ruby (red) and morganite (peach). ). Each gemstone is found in different colors, and they are all unique in their own way. When choosing a gemstone, it’s important to consider your or your partner’s style, as it can significantly affect your final purchase.
Hardness & Durability
The quality of a gemstone is determined by its hardness and durability. A gemstone’s hardness refers to its resistance to scratching and scratching. Durability is a gemstone’s ability to withstand wear, heat, light, household chemicals, and low or high humidity. Learn more about the strength and durability of each popular gemstone to streamline your decision.
Picking The Ideal Gemstone Ring
The ideal gemstone looks different for every couple. Some prefer a traditional look, while others prefer trends. For many couples, durability and durability are top concerns, while budget is a more important deciding factor for others. Since there are many things to consider when choosing a diamond vs. other gemstones, this article can streamline the decision-making process and help you choose the diamond that best suits your partner. Be a symbol of your commitment.