Do Engagement Rings Have to Be Diamond?

When you think of the classic engagement and wedding rings, what do you think of? Most people would probably imagine a classic white diamond as the center stone surrounded by a band of white gold, with a wedding ring to match.

However, just because one particular engagement ring style remains the most popular, it doesn’t mean it must be the perfect ring for your soon-to-be fiancé. Other gemstones and precious metals could be a better fit based on their style and jewelry preferences.

So, does an engagement ring have to be a diamond? Not at all. And if you also are wondering why are engagement rings diamond to begin with, you’re in the right place. Here’s what you need to know about why engagement and wedding rings have evolved in the way they have, as well as potential diamond ring alternatives to consider.

How a Diamond Engagement Ring Became a Popular Choice

The tradition of presenting an engagement ring with a marriage proposal can be traced back to Ancient Rome. But the first known diamond engagement ring dates back to the 15^th century when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy.

However,   with the tagline, “A diamond is forever” that portrayed a diamond engagement ring as the ultimate symbol of eternal love. The campaign was so wildly successful that, today, an engagement ring that features any other jewels beyond a diamond is typically seen as unusual or out of the norm.

Engagement Rings Should Be More about Personal Preference

When considering “does an engagement ring have to have a diamond,” the short and easy answer is “no.”

Unless it’s very important to you that your engagement ring and wedding bands are very traditional, there’s no reason whatsoever to stick to an expensive engagement ring with one stone that happens to be a diamond. And there’s no need to run to James Allen or Tiffany’s to buy the standard solitaire diamond with a white gold band.

In fact, the only significant meaning attached to the diamond engagement ring comes from a creative marketing campaign launched almost a hundred years ago.

No matter the stone or style, at its very essence, an engagement ring symbolizes your love and commitment, so it’s best to pick wedding and engagement rings that suit your and your fiance’s personal preference and unique style.

Maybe you want a simpler ring that’s ideal for everyday wear. Or, perhaps you prefer yellow gold to white gold and want your birthstone in the engagement ring instead of a diamond. Whatever you like, it’s entirely your choice.

What about Wedding Rings? Does a Wedding Ring Have to Be a Diamond?

We’ve established that engagement rings do not have to be diamond, but does a wedding ring have to be diamond?

Here, too, the answer is no. The bands exchanged during the wedding ceremony on the wedding day are often simpler than the engagement ring, so you may opt for a plain band with no gemstone.

4 Alternatives to Diamond Engagement Rings

Now that you know your engagement ring doesn’t need diamonds, you can begin shopping for other alternatives to place on your fiance’s left hand. If you’re unsure where to start, we have a few suggestions.

1.    Moissanite

Moissanite is a popular alternative, but it does highly resemble a classic diamond — so if you want to skip a diamond engagement ring because you don’t like the look, this might not be the best alternative for you.

That said, if the one major thing holding you off from buying a diamond engagement ring is the cost, then moissanite is worth considering. Not only does it have a similar appearance, but the stone is very durable and affordable.

2.    Morganite

Morganite has also become a very popular diamond alternative, partly thanks to its romantic, light pink hue. Morganite is fairly durable (though not as durable as a diamond) and suitable for everyday wear.

Do consider, though, that morganite is a bit of a trend (much like rose gold was for a while, replacing plain gold as a top band choice). So, if you think your fiancé-to-be may fall out of love with this gemstone as it falls out of vogue, you might want to pick something more classic.

3.    Rubies

For a gemstone that pairs well with a yellow band, look to the ruby. It’s a classic gemstone prized for centuries but still unique enough to stand out as an engagement ring choice. Rubies come in an array of shades, not just the typical “ruby red,” and may include notes of lighter pink to deeper, dark red. While rubies are durable, note that they can be pricey — but you will get what you pay for.

4.    Pearl

Pearls can give an engagement ring a classic, elegant appeal and are a perfect complement to wedding day bridal attire, particularly if you opt for a classic white rather than one of the many other colors that pearls come in.

Just keep in mind that pearls require a lot of care and maintenance, so a pearl engagement ring won’t be suitable for everyday wear. If you know your fiancé-to-be isn’t much of a jewelry person, though, and they might not wear their engagement ring daily anyway, this might not be an issue.

Suggested Read: How to Tell if Pearls Are Real

Diamond Engagement and Wedding Ring FAQs

Does an Engagement Ring Have to Be Diamond?

No! Neither engagement rings nor wedding rings have to include a diamond. While it’s traditional, there is no specific symbolism associated with including a diamond in either ring style.

Where Do You Wear an Engagement Ring?

You wear the engagement ring on your left-hand ring finger.

What Are the Pros to Buying a Diamond Engagement Ring?

A diamond engagement ring is a classic. Many diamond engagement rings are also fairly durable and suitable for everyday wear (though all jewelry requires some maintenance and care).

What Are the Cons of Buying a Diamond Engagement Ring?

Some may find that diamond engagement rings are a bit boring; everyone seems to have one! Diamond engagement rings are also more expensive than other styles that may feature more affordable gemstones.

What Should You Consider When Picking a Gemstone for an Engagement Ring?

Consider, first and foremost, your budget, then your fiancé-to-be’s personal preference and unique style, as well as their lifestyle, as you’ll likely want to pick a gemstone that will be durable enough for their daily wear.

Protect Your Engagement Ring, Diamond or Otherwise

Whatever kind of engagement ring you buy, whether a classic diamond or one of the many other options, be sure that it’s protected with comprehensive and specialized jewelry insurance.

BriteCo can help ensure that you’re covered in the case of loss, theft, damage, mysterious disappearance, and more. Get your engagement ring insurance quick quote now!

Also Check:

Black Diamond Engagement Ring Meaning
How Many Carats Is the Average Engagement Ring?
How to Insure Engagement Ring Purchases
How Often to Clean Engagement Ring

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