Diamond Alternative Engagement Rings

Know someone who just got engaged? Don’t be surprised if they flash an engagement ring with stones other than diamonds. While diamonds are still the most popular choice, other gemstones are gaining popularity for a variety of reasons, including the sagging economy, personal taste, and sentimental value. Let’s look at the first reason: the economy. Unemployed and in dept, people still fall in love and get married. That usually means an engagement ring. You can get an emerald or sapphire that’s three times as big as a diamond for half the price – now that’s a deal! Some brides-to-be simply don’t like diamonds as much as other stones. Maybe she has topaz-colored eyes and has always had an affinity for the golden gems. Likewise, some stones simply have more sentimental value for couples than diamonds – like the bride-to-be who receives a garnet engagement ring from her intended because the first piece of jewelry he ever bought her was a garnet bracelet. With so many gorgeous gemstones available, why confine yourself to just one option for an engagement ring?