7 of the Best Diamond Alternatives

Traditionally, engagement rings are white gold, yellow gold or platinum with a colourless, solitaire diamond gleaming in the centre. However, you may be looking for something a bit more unique. That’s why we’ve comprised a guide on the 7 best diamond alternatives to help you find something exciting and new.

Diamond Alternative Engagement Rings

1. Sapphire

When you imagine a sapphire, you probably picture a deep, rich blue stone. However, many people do not realise that sapphire appears in a range of hues including peach, yellow and grey. A white sapphire would make a great diamond alternative if you’re looking for something that has similarities. But with their hardness and durability, a sapphire of any shade makes a great centre stone for your loved one’s engagement ring.

2. Emerald

The emerald gemstone, found in the beryl mineral, is one of the most vibrant stones you could come across. The vivid green hue, which comes from the chromium and/or vanadium, has caused emerald to become one of the most popular diamond alternatives. Traditionally associated with companionship and loyalty, proposing with an emerald is the perfect way to start a life together.

3. Ruby

As one of the ‘Big 3 Gemstones’ (sapphires, rubies and emeralds), rubies are a very popular alternative to diamonds. Their colour can range from anything from a light pink to deep red with the most valuable ruby appearing slightly purplish. Additionally, a ruby is one of the most popular diamond substitutes because it has very similar properties – rubies are particularly hard with a 9 on Mohs scale.  

4. Tanzanite

Tanzanite, although it naturally occurs in a range of colours, is most famous for its vivid blue hue and transparent appearance. The gemstone is thought to be linked with positive energy and is the perfect diamond alternative stone for those proposing to someone known for their bright, optimistic outlook on life.

5. Aquamarine

If you’re looking for a more subtle diamond alternative, try looking at aquamarine engagement rings – their sky-blue hue adds a touch of colour to the standard colourless engagement ring. Aquamarine gets its name from the Latin ‘aqua marinus’ which literally translates to ‘water of the sea’. An engagement ring set with this stone would be perfect for seaside proposals or soon-to-be-fiancés who crave summer holidays.

6. Morganite

The champagne pink tones of morganite makes this stone particularly popular as an engagement ring centrepiece in recent years. The stone’s blush colour is symbolic of love and comes from the presence of manganese – it is very pale and complemented best by a rose gold wedding band. This is the best diamond alternative engagement ring for pink lovers looking for something simple!

7. Lab Grown Diamonds

People often think of lab diamonds as alternatives to “real” diamonds, but this is not the case. Lab grown diamonds are the same chemical make up as regular diamonds – meaning technically they are 100% real diamonds. If you like the colourless appearance and exquisite sparkle of a diamond but you’re looking for an eco-friendlier alternative, a lab grown diamond is perfect for you.

Decided on the perfect diamond substitute? Visit us at our Hatton Garden showroom to browse our extensive range of diamond alternative engagement rings available on diamond finance. Alternatively, make use of our free sample service today.