Best Diamond Alternatives for Engagement Rings

Diamonds are treasured for their brilliance, durability, and symbolism — but they’re not the only option. Whether you’re seeking a more affordable choice, a unique style, or a stone with a smaller environmental footprint, diamond alternatives can offer stunning beauty with impressive durability. These gemstones mimic or even rival a diamond’s sparkle while giving your jewelry more variety in color, character, and price.

Top Diamond Alternative Gemstones

Moissanite

Moissanite is a silicon carbide crystal first discovered in a meteor crater, making it a truly cosmic choice. Known for its high refractive index and strong hardness (9.25 on the Mohs scale), moissanite delivers diamond-like brilliance at a fraction of the cost. It’s also available in a variety of colors, from near-colorless to warm champagne tones.

Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and optically identical to natural diamonds but created in a controlled environment. They’re generally 20–40% less expensive than mined diamonds, making them a budget-friendly option without compromising sparkle or durability.

Ruby

Rubies are prized for their rich red hues and exceptional hardness (9 on the Mohs scale). While rubies can be more expensive than other colored gemstones, they provide a bold, romantic alternative to diamonds — especially when set in yellow or white gold for contrast.

Sapphire

Sapphires offer remarkable durability and a range of colors beyond the iconic royal blue. Pink, yellow, and green sapphires give engagement rings a distinctive look while still offering a high refractive index and easy maintenance.

Emerald

Emeralds, a form of green beryl, feature a vibrant green hue with possible blue undertones. With a Mohs hardness of 7.5–8, emeralds require more care than diamonds but make a striking statement. Always ask about oil treatments, as high levels can affect appearance over time.

Choosing the Best Diamond Substitute

The best diamond alternative depends on your style, budget, and desired symbolism. Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are ideal for those who love diamond-like brilliance. Colored gemstones like ruby, sapphire, and emerald bring individuality and character to your engagement ring.

Contact The 1916 Company to explore our curated selection of diamond alternatives and find the perfect stone for your forever piece.

Who This Is For

This guide is for couples seeking engagement rings that balance beauty, durability, and budget. It’s ideal for those open to non-traditional gemstones that still offer sparkle, symbolism, and heirloom potential.

Trust & Concierge

At The 1916 Company, our gem experts carefully source both diamonds and diamond alternatives, ensuring you receive a stone with exceptional cut, clarity, and color. Whether you choose moissanite, a lab-grown diamond, or a rare colored gem, our team provides personalized guidance from selection to setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the most popular diamond alternatives? Moissanite, lab-grown diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are among the most sought-after options.
• Is moissanite better than a diamond? Moissanite offers similar sparkle and hardness at a lower price, but its fire dispersion creates a different type of brilliance.
• Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds? Yes. Lab-grown diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds.
• Which diamond substitute is the most durable? Lab-grown and mined diamonds rank highest in hardness, followed closely by moissanite and sapphire.
• Can colored gemstones be used in engagement rings? Absolutely. Rubies, sapphires, and emeralds are durable enough for daily wear and offer unique color options.