Getting engaged is one of the most exciting times of life. There’s the love, the anticipation, and then…the cost. The final one can really weigh a couple down. However, instead of splurging on a high-dollar diamond, think about purchasing clear gemstone engagement rings instead. They’re only a fraction of the cost! So, take a look at our worthy contenders that offer affordable diamond alternatives.
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Every girl knows that diamonds are her best friend, and everyone knows a diamond is forever. But in this day and age, diamonds are also expensive. When selecting an engagement ring, it’s essential to explore all your options. Who says a ring has to cost you three months’ salary?
Diamonds have been the standard for many years. However, there are a variety of clear stones for rings that can be just as beautiful and brilliant. These also have the added benefit of being cost-efficient, eco-friendly, and unique.
Why consider clear gemstone engagement rings?
For most people, the cost is the primary reason for considering diamond alternatives for engagement rings. By making the decision to purchase clear gemstones for rings instead of diamonds, you could save up to 90% on the price.
If that doesn’t interest you enough, maybe the fact that clear gemstone engagement rings are more ethically sourced will.
Diamonds are mined from the earth, which can leave a pretty hefty carbon footprint. It can also put workers in rough conditions.
Some of the man-made gem options below are more sustainable and eco-friendly. Take a look and see which stone you think is the best alternative to diamonds!
4 Affordable Diamond Alternatives to Consider as Clear Gemstone Engagement Rings
What are the best diamond alternatives?
White Sapphire
This may come as a surprise to some, but sapphires are actually rarer than diamonds. This, coupled with the fact that white sapphires are growing in popularity, means that your gemstone will hold its value longer.
Diamonds are more expensive because they are in higher demand. However, sapphires are one of the few affordable diamond alternatives that retain their resale value.
However, white sapphires don’t sparkle as much as real diamonds. Real diamonds refract light back to your eye, leading to more scintillation. This is what happens when diamonds appear to have “rainbow colors” coming off them.
Although white sapphires appear clear, they are denser and not quite as dazzling as a real diamond. They’re still a bright and lovely choice for the bride-to-be.
Ring by Aquamarise on Etsy
Moissanite
This man-made gem is an excellent option for a clear stone engagement ring. Probably one of the best qualities of moissanite engagement rings is their durability.
While a diamond remains the hardest mineral, with a score of 10 on the Mohs Scale, moissanite closely follows behind with a 9.25. This means it is a great choice for everyday wear with minimal risk of damage.
Another pro is that moissanite can have an even more intense shine than a diamond! Your moissanite ring is less likely to collect dirt and grime than a diamond, making it even more dazzling in appearance.
On the other hand, moissanite’s coloring is not always as pure as that of a diamond, which typically has a white and clear appearance. Some moissanite stones can exhibit a yellow, green, or grayish tint when exposed to light.
If color is an essential factor for you, definitely take your time selecting a stone like this. Another thing to consider is that the larger the ring, the more obvious the discoloration.
Ring by Keyzar on Etsy
White Topaz
White topaz is a unique alternative for an engagement ring. Because it rarely has internal impurities, white topaz is often associated with loyalty and genuineness.
What better stone could be used to represent a promise of love? Topaz can shine beautifully in the light and have a glass-like appearance if the right stone is chosen.
The biggest downside of a white topaz stone for your engagement ring is its fragility. This stone can easily get scratched or damaged over time. Therefore, it is essential to keep your ring clean to maintain its appearance.
Try to avoid lotions, soaps, hair products, or other similar items. Why? Because your topaz stone can fade when exposed to certain chemicals.
Ring by Daintybits CA on Etsy
Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are an excellent alternative to natural diamonds for engagement rings, as they closely resemble their natural counterparts. They have equal measures of color, cut, clarity, and carat. Therefore, you cannot tell a synthetic diamond from a real diamond by just looking at it.
Unless you have a microscope to inspect them closely, they appear identical. However, real diamonds are rarer and more valuable, and they will hold their value better than lab-grown diamonds.
Real diamonds are not an endless supply like man-made diamonds because they can’t be made by people. They are mined, then cut, and polished. As lab-grown diamonds become more popular, they become a dime a dozen and lose value.
Also, with synthetic diamonds, you don’t have to worry about how they are sourced. Because people aren’t out collecting rare diamonds, there is no weighty cost that comes with it for the workers.
Ring by Szeki Studio on Etsy
Clear Gemstone Engagement Rings as Alternatives to Diamonds
Picking out an engagement ring is a big event! Some important considerations are your budget and your priorities.
Consider using one of these affordable diamond alternatives for your ring. You can spend a fraction of what you would have on a diamond and still have a beautiful, brilliant, and stunning ring.
