The Rise of Gemstone Engagement Rings: Why Couples Are Choosing Alternatives

For decades, diamonds have been marketed as the ultimate engagement ring stone. But in today’s world, couples are rewriting tradition. More and more people are choosing alternative gemstone engagement rings—from colorful sapphires to sparkling moissanite—as a way to express their individuality, align with ethical values, or simply save money.

Let’s explore why gemstone engagement rings are on the rise, what options are most popular, and what you should know before buying one.

Quick Facts

• 💍 Diamonds aren’t the only choice—gemstones are becoming the new “it” engagement ring.

• 💎 Sapphires, emeralds, and morganite lead the list of favorites.

• 💸 Moissanite, white sapphire, and aquamarine are among the cheapest alternatives.

• 📈 Couples are choosing alternatives for individuality, affordability, and sustainability.

• 🪨 Not all gemstones are equally durable—Moh’s Hardness Scale matters for daily wear.

Why Couples Are Choosing Gemstones

The modern bride (and groom!) wants a ring that tells a story. While diamonds remain timeless, colored gemstones allow couples to highlight:

• Personal meaning – choosing a birthstone or favorite color.

• Symbolism – sapphires for loyalty, emeralds for renewal, garnet for passion.

• Uniqueness – standing out from the crowd with a non-traditional choice.

Celebrities and social media trends have only fueled the movement, making colored stones more desirable than ever.

A Look Back: The History of Alternative Engagement Rings

Believe it or not, diamonds weren’t always the go-to stone. Historically, royalty often chose sapphires, rubies, or emeralds. One of the most famous engagement rings of all time—Princess Diana’s sapphire ring, now worn by Kate Middleton—cemented sapphire as a top diamond alternative.

It wasn’t until the 20th-century De Beers campaign that diamonds became the universal engagement standard. Today, couples are circling back to history’s roots, rediscovering the beauty and significance of colored gems.

The Most Popular Alternative Engagement Ring

If we had to crown one gemstone as the most popular alternative, it would be the sapphire. With a Moh’s hardness of 9, sapphires are nearly as durable as diamonds, making them perfect for everyday wear. Their rich blue hue symbolizes loyalty and trust—qualities every marriage is built upon. But it is important not to forget that sapphires also come in different colors – perfect to express every personality.

From royal rings to Instagram feeds, sapphires remain the front-runner for those who want something timeless, durable, and meaningful.

The Cheapest Gemstone Engagement Ring

For couples on a budget, the best option is moissanite. Known for its fiery brilliance (often more sparkly than diamonds), moissanite costs a fraction of the price while ranking 9.25 on the Moh’s scale—making it more durable than sapphires and rubies.

Other affordable options include:

• White sapphire – budget-friendly with a subtle, diamond-like appearance.

• Aquamarine – soft blue tones that radiate elegance.

• Garnet – a bold, passionate choice available in deep reds and greens.

These gemstones prove that “affordable” can still be beautiful and meaningful.

The Pros and Cons of Alternative Engagement Rings

✅ Pros

• Unique expression – No two gemstones are alike.

• Affordable choices – Beautiful options at a lower price point than diamonds.

• Ethical appeal – Many gemstones can be lab-grown or responsibly sourced.

• Color variety – Endless hues to match personal style.

⚠️ Cons

• Durability varies – Some stones may scratch or chip easier.

• Maintenance needs – Softer gems may require protective settings.

• Resale value – Diamonds generally hold higher resale demand.

Durability Matters: Moh’s Hardness Scale

When it comes to daily wear, hardness matters. The Moh’s scale measures how scratch-resistant a stone is. The scale ranges from 1 to 10, with talc at 1 (the softest mineral, easily scratched by just about anything) and diamond at 10 (the hardest natural substance, able to scratch all other materials).

Gemstone Hardness Chart

Tip: If you choose a softer stone, consider bezel settings or protective designs to extend its life.

Shopping Tips for Alternative Engagement Rings

• Ask about durability and care needs before purchasing.

• Choose protective settings for softer gems like emerald or opal.

• Always buy from a jeweler who provides clear disclosure and education on gemstones for daily wear.

• Consider your lifestyle—daily wear vs. occasional wear—to make the right choice.

Designing Your Own Alternative Engagement Ring

Just like with diamonds, you can design your own custom alternative engagement ring. Whether you choose a sapphire, emerald, moissanite, or another gemstone, jewelers can help you create a setting that reflects your personal style and love story.

From vintage-inspired halos to sleek solitaires, gemstone rings can be tailored to fit your budget, lifestyle, and aesthetic. Custom design ensures your ring isn’t just beautiful—it’s uniquely yours.

Final Thoughts

Alternative engagement rings aren’t just a passing trend—they’re a celebration of individuality and meaning. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of a sapphire, the brilliance of moissanite, or the romantic glow of morganite, there’s a gemstone that can perfectly capture your love story.

💎 Looking for an alternative engagement ring that’s as unique as your love?
At Arnold Jewelers, we offer sapphires, moissanite, emeralds, and more—expertly set and designed to last a lifetime.