The marketing departments at diamond retailers have been telling us for decades that diamonds are the go-to gemstone for engagement rings. However, today’s free-minded couples have increasingly decided to go a different way, instead choosing stones that have a special meaning or present a picture of individuality. Let’s look at some of the drivers of the diamond alternative trend.
Personality
Today’s couples are all about individuality and demonstrating that they are unique. Women are not looking to have the same engagement ring their girlfriends may be sporting. Because many couples are marrying when they are older, they know more about themselves and their personal style rather than just going with the accepted norm.
Price
Diamonds, although the most durable option, are also usually the most expensive option. Other precious gemstones may offer the same amount of beauty and sparkle at half the price. Plus, if celebrities and royals such as Kate Middleton are choosing non-traditional rings even though they can afford diamonds, why wouldn’t any couple feel free to make the same choice? Couples may be choosing to spend less on their wedding jewelry and more on their wedding, the honeymoon or even the purchase of their first home.
Other Options
Precious gems such as sapphires, emeralds and rubies are some of the most popular diamond alternatives. Sapphires are nearly as hardy as diamonds and come in a surprisingly wide variety of colors. Some women might be particularly fond of their birthstone, such as a garnet or peridot, and these gems offer a striking visual effect when used in a non-traditional way. All of these alternatives may require special care because they aren’t as durable as diamonds, but lots of brides are perfectly willing to take on this extra task.
Colored Diamonds
For couples that would still prefer a diamond, but at a lower price, an increasingly popular option is a colored diamond. Readily available gems come in colors such as chocolate, yellow, and champagne and are often paired with small white diamonds as an accent.
Settings
Not only are solitaire diamonds dropping in popularity, the actual single-stone, high-set format is losing ground. That’s because women are recognizing that a large-profile ring is likely to catch on things. They also prefer a look that’s a bit more conservative and less ostentatious. Bezel set and flush set rings are now hugely popular and selling well at jewelers.
In many cases, diamonds are still a girl’s best friend, but luckily consumers today have more choice than ever when choosing an engagement ring.
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