Unique Gemstone Engagement Rings - Beyond Diamonds

Published
10/16/2023

Diamonds are the conventional option for engagement rings, but a transition is beginning due to increasing ethical and environmental problems. Luckily, there are many stunning alternatives to consider.

Morganite, for instance, is a beautiful ring option that looks like a diamond and offers the durability of one. Or choose a spinel, a fascinating black, blue, pink, green, and grey gemstone.

Sapphire

Sapphires are the perfect gem to symbolize the strength and loyalty of your relationship. The September birthstone also represents wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune – qualities any couple could hope to have in their marriage.

Like diamonds, sapphires come in various colors and cuts to fit any engagement ring style. They also work well in the bezel, cluster, halo, and three-stone styles.

Another blue semi-precious gemstone that's found its footing as a fashionable alternative to diamonds is aquamarine. It's a color of calming waters favored by those who love the sea.

Aquamarine

Diamonds are the most popular center stone, but that doesn't mean other gems don't make stunning engagement rings. For instance, a gorgeous aquamarine engagement ring showcases a blue hue that's both cool and romantic. The gem is a member of the beryl family and shares a striking look with emeralds.

For a nontraditional yet elegant engagement ring, choose an organic vine motif of marquise diamonds that encircles a round aquamarine in this 14-karat white gold beauty. The diamond-encrusted band adds extra sparkle for an heirloom-worthy piece.

Unlike many gemstones, peridots appear in only one bright olive-green color. Also known as olivine, this gem can be found throughout the US and other regions and has long been a symbol of admiration. It's hardier than emeralds at 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale.

Garnet

Garnets are found in various colors and are especially striking when set in a warm metal like gold. For those who want a more unique, emerald-like color, try the rare and beautiful spessartite or tsavorite garnets (which range from dusty rose to brilliant green shades).

If you're looking for a more traditional red garnet engagement ring, this simple 14k solid gold solitaire is perfect. Garnets have a rich history as treasured gemstones used by nobility in ancient Egypt and Rome, and their symbolism of love and loyalty makes them an excellent option for couples.

Amethyst

Amethyst is a beautiful, deep purple semi-precious gem symbolizing trust and truth. It evokes grace and serenity and was used by Leonardo da Vinci to inspire clarity of mind. It pairs well with a wide range of metals and can be elevated to a unique look by adding colored gemstone accents or a mixed-metal band.

Another gem that is finding a new place in jewelry is onyx. This dark, dense mineral carries the weight of wisdom and is a very stylish choice to pair with diamonds for an elegantly unique ring.

Tourmaline is also a fascinating option in many colors, from vibrant green to deep red. Some varieties, like the aptly named watermelon tourmaline, display two or three zones of distinct color and are sometimes gently heat-treated to improve their color.

Peridot

Peridot is a gorgeous green gemstone that can look dazzling in a bohemian or baroque-style ring setting. A cousin to emeralds, these semi-precious stones can be found in Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Arizona. Representing beauty, love, fidelity, and healing energies, peridot rings are ideal for a special occasion.

Labradorite has become quite fashionable in fine jewelry over the last few years and is a stunning choice for a unique gemstone engagement ring. Representing mystical qualities and a connection to the stars, this mineral is ideal for couples who are into feng shui or astrology.

When searching for a gemstone ring, like with any other ring, it is critical to buy from a reputable jeweler and independently assess the quality of your stone. A ring made with a high-quality natural peridot will be cherished and worn for generations.