Elizabeth Hurley, Emma Stone, and Kate Middleton are just a few who broke with tradition and had a non-diamond engagement ring. While the tradition of a diamond engagement ring goes back to the 15^th century, it has come in and out of fashion many times. For a few decades after World War I, for example, diamond engagement rings were not the norm. The biggest factor then was the cost, as the world was plunged into The Great Depression. New fashions with art deco designs and intricate metalwork also prevailed.

Today, it’s a matter of choice. Any ring can be an engagement ring, and many couples are choosing to stray into the unexpected. Gemstones like sapphire, emerald, and morganite have been gaining in popularity with celebrities and trendsetters alike.

Here are some of our favorite non-diamond engagement rings.

Sapphire

A sapphire engagement ring is a solid choice (quite literally). Sapphires land a 9 out of 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, a rating used by gemologists to rank a mineral’s ability to withstand scratches. In fact, the only way you can scratch a sapphire is with a diamond. These gems are tough. If you have an active lifestyle or don’t like a lot of maintenance, this is a great choice.

Kate Middleton’s engagement ring, which was originally worn by the late Princess Diana, has that traditional deep royal blue color most associate with sapphires. But your color options are actually quite wide. Sapphires can be found in yellow, white, pink, green, teal, peach, and red. White sapphires are a popular choice because they share a bright white brilliance of a traditional diamond, with their own unique chemical and optical look. 

Oval Sapphire Three-Stone Three-Halo Engagement Ring

This striking engagement ring has 3 rich blue sapphires, surrounded by a halo of diamonds. The gems are set on a 14k white gold ring and boasts a total carat weight of 3.45.

Antique-Style and Art Deco Engagement Rings

Taking a page out of the past, new rings are being inspired by vintage settings. In the Victorian era it was common to find sapphires and other colored gemstones as the focal point. As fashions changed at the beginning of the 20^th century, the Art Nouveau era ushered in a trend of found dreamy center gems such as moonstone, amethyst, citrine, opal, and pearl. The elegant curves of Art Nouveau would give way to Art Deco’s sharper angles and geometric shapes. As couples are looking for new ways to show their love, these “old” trends are new once again. 

Mozambique Ruby and Diamond Double Halo Ring
This ring is a great example of early 20^th century fashions. A deep red Mozambique ruby is made even more striking surrounded by two rows of diamonds. The 14k white gold ring has three rows of diamonds running the entire circumference with a total carat weight of 3.13.

Diamond Bands as Engagement Rings

A great option for those who still want a diamond, but without the prominent center gem. Diamond bands have multiple diamond accents, but no large center diamond. You’ll often see these types of bands worn by people who stack their rings, or add rings for special occasions like anniversaries, children, and grandchildren.

L'Amour Crisscut Diamond Anniversary Band
An unforgettable band with a crisscut design from L’amour Christopher. 3 main diamonds are surrounded crosscut with smaller diamonds on 18k white gold.

Non-Diamond Rings with Diamond Accents

As you can see, there are many options when it comes to engagement rings. If you still want a bit of the traditional without diamonds being the star, you can choose something with diamond accents. Having a center gemstone surrounded by a halo of diamonds is a fantastic way to highlight the gem. You can also choose a three stone setting for a timeless look with sparkle.

Platinum Sapphire Diamond Three Stone Ring
A platinum ring with a robust blue sapphire flanked by two diamonds. The total carat weight of this ring is 3.76.

The Benefit of Affordability

Aside from the uniqueness, non-diamond engagement rings come with the added benefit of being an excellent value. But the money you save won’t impact the dazzling beauty at all. We have great options that will make a big splash for any proposal.

You have more choices than you know when it comes to choosing an engagement ring. The traditional diamond is always a classic look, but non-diamond rings are becoming more popular by the day. From Kate Middleton’s royal sapphire, Olivia Wilde’s Art Deco emerald stunner, Jessica Simpsons’ three stone ruby ring, and Zoe Saldana’s pear cut emerald…non-diamond engagement rings are a brilliant choice.

Stop by any of our stores and see your outstanding options!