Stunning But Impractical Alternatives to Diamond
Numerous exquisite gemstones present themselves as viable options for engagement rings. A simple internet search readily uncovers a diverse selection of alternative gemstones suitable for this purpose. Nevertheless, many gemstones lack the requisite durability to endure the constant wear and tear of daily life, owing to their inherent fragility or softness. Consequently, despite their limitations, many of these gemstones are promoted as suitable alternatives for engagement rings, even when they are not the most appropriate choice for long-term use.
Finding a Good Alternative to Diamond
Several factors warrant consideration when selecting an alternative gemstone for an engagement ring. The following characteristics are recommended for consideration when choosing a gemstone for an engagement ring:
Gemstone Hardness
Cubic Zirconia
Source: Gregory Phillips – CC BY 3.0 – via Wikimedia Commons
The Mohs scale, developed by Friedrich Mohs in 1822, functions as a measurement tool for gemstone hardness, evaluating relative scratch resistance among various minerals. Diamonds, recognized as the hardest natural substance, achieve a score of 10 on the Mohs scale. Sapphires, conversely, are assigned a rating of 9. It is essential to note that the scale’s purpose is to compare the hardness of gemstones in relation to one another, and not to establish an absolute hardness in relation to its position on the scale. For example, while sapphires exhibit a hardness of 9, diamonds possess approximately four times greater hardness. Quartz, which ranks at 7 on the Mohs scale and is the most abundant mineral on Earth, constitutes a significant component of common household dust. Gemstones with a Mohs hardness below 7 are likely to experience scratches from typical, everyday use.
Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness
| Mohs Hardness | Mineral | Absolute Hardness |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | Diamond | 1500 |
| 9 | Corundum (Ruby, Sapphire) | 400 |
| 8 | Topaz | 200 |
| 7 | Quartz | 100 |
| 6 | Feldspar | 72 |
| 5 | Apatite | 48 |
| 4 | Fluorite | 21 |
| 3 | Calcite | 9 |
| 2 | Gypsum | 3 |
| 1 | Talc | 1 |
Gemstone Toughness
When making a decision about a diamond alternative for an engagement ring, it is important to understand that gemstone hardness should not be the only factor considered. The hardness of a gemstone only indicates its resistance to being scratched. However, it’s important to note that some gemstones, despite being quite hard, can still be easily broken or fractured. Even diamonds, the hardest natural substance, can be damaged if they are not set properly or if they are subjected to a forceful impact. Consider, for example, the gemstone Topaz, which has a Mohs scale hardness of 8. Despite this high hardness rating, Topaz can fracture quite easily when struck with force against a hard surface.
Reasons Why You May Not Want a Diamond Engagement Ring
Several compelling reasons exist for selecting alternatives to diamonds for engagement rings.
Diamonds Are Expensive
Given the financial constraints faced by some individuals, there are more affordable alternatives to diamonds that offer a comparable aesthetic, or one could opt for a completely distinct style.
Don’t Like the Look of Diamonds
While diamonds may appear flashy, most natural diamonds available today often lack vibrant coloration. Consequently, there is no requirement to select a diamond for an engagement ring if the aesthetic is not to one’s liking, even though they remain a popular choice.
Diamonds Are Not Tradition
While many believe that a diamond engagement ring represents a timeless tradition and is an essential choice, this notion is not accurate. The popularity of diamonds in engagement rings did not emerge until the 1930s. Marketing efforts have consistently perpetuated the perception of diamonds as a traditional choice.
Diamonds Are Not Rare
In comparison to other gemstones, diamonds are, in fact, not particularly rare. While it is true that high-quality, flawless diamonds are rare, modern technologies, such as laser drilling, now allow for the enhancement of lower-quality diamonds to achieve a near-flawless appearance.
Are Not a Good Investment
Diamonds are generally not considered a sound investment. Attempting to sell a diamond engagement ring often results in recovering less than the original purchase price. Frequently, pawnshops undervalue the diamond, assessing the ring’s worth based solely on the precious metal’s melt value.
Diamonds are Used to Support Illegal Activities
Blood or Conflict Diamonds are sometimes used to finance terrorist activities and are used by rebel groups to fuel conflicts and civil wars.
Diamonds Are Not Always Colorless
The Aurora Diamond Collection: The most comprehensive natural color diamond collection in the world.
Source: Waerloeg – CC BY 3.0 – via Wikipedia
If the color of diamonds is a concern, numerous colored diamond options are available, including black, grey, purple, pink, red, orange, brown, yellow, olive, green, and blue. Diamond coloration can result from inherent impurities or artificial treatments.
Lab-Created Gemstones are “Genuine” Gemstones
Lab-created gemstones exhibit the same properties and chemical composition as their natural counterparts, frequently misidentified as “real” or “genuine.” Nevertheless, they are not “natural” and generally possess a lower value compared to natural gemstones. This differentiation is especially pertinent for high-quality, untreated natural gemstones, which are rare and command higher prices. When acquiring gemstone jewelry, it is advisable to substitute the inquiry “Is this ruby real?” with “Is this ruby natural and untreated?”.
The Many Colors of Sapphires
Sapphires, a variety of corundum, present a diverse array of colors beyond the well-known blue, including colorless, black, pink, purple, brown, green, and orange. Padparadscha, a highly valued light salmon-colored variety, is exclusively sourced from Sri Lanka. Color-change sapphires display varying hues under different lighting conditions, while star sapphires exhibit asterism, a star-like effect resulting from internal inclusions. Natural sapphires often undergo heat treatment to enhance their color and clarity, while lab-created sapphires, possessing identical chemical properties, are frequently used in mass-produced jewelry. With a Mohs hardness of 9, sapphires offer exceptional durability and toughness, making them a desirable choice for engagement rings.
Rubies Beautiful Alternative for Engagement Rings
Rubies, as a variety of corundum, share several properties with sapphires. Nevertheless, the primary distinction between rubies and sapphires lies in their coloration, with geographical origin potentially serving as a secondary differentiating factor. To be correctly designated as a ruby, corundum must exhibit a specific, vivid red color within a defined spectrum. The most esteemed and desirable hue in the ruby realm is commonly termed “Pigeon Blood Red,” characterized by a rich, deep red tone subtly incorporating a hint of a bluish undertone, which contributes to its unique appeal.
It is essential to acknowledge that a substantial portion of naturally occurring rubies currently available on the market have undergone heat treatments specifically designed to enhance their color and overall clarity. Consistent with trends observed in the sapphire market, the majority of rubies found in mass-produced jewelry, commonly encountered in numerous local stores and department establishments, are lab-created gemstones. Therefore, if one is specifically seeking a natural, untreated ruby for engagement rings or other jewelry pieces, it may be necessary to explore options offered by specialized and reputable jewelers, who frequently possess expertise in sourcing authentic and ethically obtained gemstones.
Chrysoberyl and Color Changing Alexandrite
To prevent any confusion with Beryl, it is important to note that Chrysoberyl exhibits a Mohs hardness of 8.5 and possesses excellent toughness. Chrysoberyl typically presents a yellowish-green coloration. Within the Chrysoberyl family, a highly valued variety is known as Alexandrite. Alexandrite is a color-changing variety of Chrysoberyl and is the traditional birthstone for those born in June. Given the high cost of natural Alexandrite, the majority of Alexandrite available in the market today are lab-created gemstones.
Cubic Zirconia, an Inexpensive Alternative to Diamond
Cubic Zirconia commercial production began in 1976. It has a Mohs hardness of 8-8.5 however it has a relatively low fracture toughness and strength. Cubic Zirconias or CZ’s for short can come in many colors although it is most often sold as colorless. The most common colors are pink, pink rose, lavender, amethyst, dark amethyst, violet, canary yellow, yellow, champagne, orange, red, garnet, Peridot, and olive Peridot.
Emeralds, The Fabulously Green Alternative to Diamond
Low cost, natural emeralds, frequently exhibit fractures and imperfections, rendering them unsuitable for engagement rings. In contrast, lab-created emeralds present a more durable and viable option.
Although emeralds possess a Mohs hardness ranging from 7.5 to 8, they are frequently deemed unsuitable for engagement rings due to the presence of natural fractures and inclusions. Consequently, the utilization of only high-quality natural emeralds is recommended, even which necessitates protection from exposure to extreme temperatures and impacts. Given the elevated cost and diminished toughness associated with natural emeralds, lab-created emeralds have emerged as the predominant selection within the contemporary jewelry industry. These synthetic stones exhibit a reduced susceptibility to fracturing, thereby establishing them as a more viable option for engagement rings.
The Diamond Alternative Moissanite
Moissanite, initially identified in 1893 by Dr. Henri Moissan during the analysis of meteor remnants from Diablo Canyon, is a gemstone that naturally occurs in microscopic crystal forms. Introduced to the public in 1998 through lab creation by Carles & Colvard, Moissanite exhibits a hardness of 9.25 and robust toughness. While not entirely colorless, it boasts exceptional brilliance, surpassing that of diamonds. Furthermore, Moissanite is available in shades of green and yellow, and it is an environmentally conscious choice as a lab-created gemstone, avoiding the need for mining.
Exploring the Alternatives
As the provided information clearly illustrates, a noteworthy selection of exceptional alternatives to conventional diamonds is available for engagement rings. Individuals contemplating the acquisition of an engagement ring in the near future are strongly encouraged to engage in a comprehensive and open discussion with their prospective spouse regarding the diverse possibilities that exist beyond the customary diamond. Investigating these alternative gemstones could result in a truly unique and meaningful selection, and your prospective spouse may greatly appreciate the thoughtfulness and consideration inherent in such a significant decision.