The tradition of using diamonds in engagement rings dates back to the 15th century, but more and more couples have chosen alternative stones for their engagement rings in recent years. Whether it’s for ethical or personal reasons, there are plenty of attractive alternatives to diamonds that can be just as breathtaking. For example, you can buy a black opal engagement ring. The following points explore the top 5 alternative stones you can use for an engagement ring.
Sapphire
One of the most popular alternative stones for engagement rings is sapphire. These gemstones come in various colours, from classic blue to vibrant pink, and are known for their durability, making them an excellent option for everyday wear. Sapphires are also said to symbolise wisdom, truth, and faithfulness, making them a meaningful choice for an engagement ring.
Moissanite
Moissanite might be a perfect choice if you’re looking for a diamond alternative with a similar sparkle. These lab-created gemstones have a higher refractive index than diamonds, which means they sparkle more brilliantly. Moissanite is also more affordable than diamonds, making it an excellent choice for couples on a budget.
Emerald
Emeralds are a popular choice for those who love the rich green hue of this gemstone. They are known for their lush colour, which ranges from light to dark green, and is caused by chromium, vanadium, and iron in the stone. Emeralds have been associated with various meanings throughout history, including love, rebirth, and growth. They are often thought to bring the wearer balance, harmony, and tranquillity.
While emeralds are stunningly beautiful, they are not as durable as diamonds. They have a hardness of 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale, which means they are more prone to scratches and chips than diamonds, which have a hardness of 10. Therefore, if you choose to go with an emerald for your engagement ring, you will need to take extra care to protect it. This includes avoiding activities that could damage the stone, such as wearing it while doing household chores, gardening, or participating in sports.
Black Opal
If you’re looking for a black opal engagement ring to make a bold statement but don’t know much about the stone properties. These gemstones are known for their mesmerising play of colours, ranging from deep blues to vibrant greens. Black opals are also said to symbolise emotional healing and protection, making them a meaningful choice for an engagement ring.
Black opals are unique because of their dark background, which makes the play of colours even more striking. These gemstones are found almost exclusively in Lightning Ridge, Australia, and are highly prized for their beauty. Black opals can come in various colours but are often characterised by their deep blues and greens, creating a mesmerising effect when the stone is moved.
Ruby
Finally, if you’re looking for a stone symbolising passion and love, look no further than the ruby. These gemstones are known for their vibrant red colour, which has long been associated with romance and desire. Rubies are also quite durable, making them an excellent choice for an engagement ring. While natural rubies can be expensive, lab-created rubies are more affordable and still offer the same stunning beauty.
Conclusion
While diamonds have long been the traditional choice for engagement rings, plenty of alternative stones can offer just as much beauty and meaning. Whether you opt for a colourful sapphire, a sparkling moissanite, a lush emerald, a mesmerising black opal, or a passionate ruby, your engagement ring will surely be a stunning symbol of your love and commitment.