Thinking Outside the Diamond: A Guide to Alternative Engagement Ring Stones

When it comes to engagement rings, the diamond has long reigned supreme—and for good reason. A diamond’s unmatched durability makes it the ideal choice for a piece of jewellery that’s worn every single day. On the Mohs hardness scale, diamonds rank a perfect 10, making them resistant to scratching, cracking, and fading over time. If you're after a ring that will truly stand the test of time (and life’s daily wear and tear), it’s hard to beat a classic diamond.

That said, we know some couples are drawn to alternative options—whether it's for budget reasons, ethical considerations, or simply a desire to express personal style. While there’s room to explore, it’s important to do so with care, especially when it comes to longevity and practicality.

Diamond Lookalikes

If you love the timeless sparkle of a diamond but want something more budget-friendly, lab-grown diamonds are a smart choice. They are chemically and visually identical to natural diamonds and offer the same durability, making them a safe and ethical alternative. Other options like moissanite may offer sparkle at a lower price point, but they don’t match a diamond’s hardness or light performance over time.

Want to Add Colour? Here's How to Do It Right

For those craving something a little more unique, adding colour to your engagement ring is a beautiful way to express personality. Coloured diamonds are a premium option that blend the best of both worlds—colour and resilience. Think emerald green, yellow, or even fancy pinks and blues, all without sacrificing durability. Whether you want a subtle hint of hue or a bold centrepiece, coloured diamonds are an elegant and lasting way to personalize your ring while keeping the strength and sparkle diamonds are known for.

Harder gemstones like sapphires and rubies are also excellent alternatives. Ranking just below diamonds on the Mohs scale, they can handle daily wear far better than many other coloured stones. Available in a wide range of hues—including classic royal blue, soft peach, and vibrant pink—these gemstones allow for creative customization without compromising on strength.

Love a Certain Colour? Here's What to Consider

If you’ve fallen for a specific colour, there are ways to bring that hue into your engagement ring without compromising on durability. Here are a few popular colour preferences and our top recommendations:

• Love Emerald Green? Traditional emeralds are beautiful, but they’re also soft and prone to chipping. Instead, consider a green diamond or a teal sapphire. Both offer similar rich tones with far better durability for daily wear.

• Drawn to Deep Blue? You can’t go wrong with a sapphire. Classic royal blue sapphires are timeless, durable, and available in a variety of cuts and sizes.

• Prefer a Soft, Light Blue? A light blue sapphire is your best bet. It offers the delicate shade of aquamarine but with far more resilience. For a more unique choice, blue diamonds in lighter tones are also an option, though they tend to be rarer and more premium in price.

• Obsessed with Pink? Pink sapphires or pink diamonds are the way to go. Both provide beautiful colour and excellent durability—just choose based on the intensity and price point you’re comfortable with.

• Want Something Sunny and Yellow? Skip citrine or topaz, which can fade or scratch. Instead, go for a yellow diamond or yellow sapphire for a vibrant and lasting pop of colour.

What to Avoid

While the idea of a dreamy aquamarine or an opal might be tempting, many gemstones simply aren’t suited for everyday wear. Stones like emeralds, amethysts, and morganite may be beautiful, but they are prone to scratching, fading, and even chipping over time. An engagement ring is an investment in your future—both emotionally and financially—so it’s worth choosing a stone that will last as long as your love.

At Silveri Jewellers, we’re here to help you choose a ring that reflects your style and stands up to life’s everyday moments. Whether you’re going for classic sparkle or vibrant colour, we’ll make sure you don’t have to choose between beauty and durability.

Looking to explore alternative engagement rings? Visit us in-store or book a consultation to find your perfect match.