When it comes to engagement rings, or any type of ring for that matter, the end-all-be-all is diamonds. Why is this? They are expensive, ethically dubious, and not as rare as we are made to believe. While diamonds are beautiful, there are plenty of alternatives that are just as pretty. Whether you want a large stone reminiscent of a diamond or a simple gold band, there are plenty of options that you can buy for a piece of jewelry that go way beyond diamonds. With so many different markets, it can be tough to know what’s what. Read here to find five alternatives to traditional diamonds.
Moissanites
Moissanites are one of the best alternatives to diamonds because they look a lot like them. Not only are they cheaper than diamonds, they are more ethical. Moissanite engagement rings are perfect because you can buy a large stone that impresses your significant other without breaking the bank. They are stronger than any stone but diamonds and are nearly just as durable. Moissanites last for years. You won’t have to worry about scratches and breaking the stone. While moissanites won’t hold as much value as diamonds, these lab-produced alternatives are a great option for anyone looking for a beautiful but affordable ring.
Lab-Produced Diamonds
Like moissanites, there are also other lab-produced diamonds that are cheaper and more ethical than the standard natural diamond. Most diamonds mined from the earth come from conflict zones, often where a civil war has broken out for control of the precious stones. When you’re buying a diamond you are likely funding a war of sectarian conflict. Instead, go for a lab-produced or “fake” diamond. There is virtually no difference beyond the fact that this product is more affordable and ethical. Nowadays there’s a large distinction between organic diamonds and ethical ones.
Conflict-Free Gems
Another alternative to diamonds are gems produced in a conflict-free zone. While diamonds are often unethically sourced, so are a lot of other gems. If you make sure to buy from a seller that promotes the fact that they deal with only conflict-free stones and gems, you will be able to buy a beautiful one for a piece of jewelry. It’s important to make sure that whoever you are buying from is clear about where and how they get their gems. If you don’t know or they won’t tell you, it’s probably because they were bought from a war-torn place. Still, if you find the right seller and the right ethical stone, you can find yourself with the perfect piece of jewelry.
Recycled Gold
Whether you’re buying a wedding ring or another piece of jewelry, instead of buying a diamond go for recycled gold. Gold, like the other materials found in jewelry, can be questionably mined, sourced, and sold. If you instead choose recycled gold, you will have the ability to buy a valuable and beautiful wedding band or earrings without worrying about where the gold came from. You can’t account for the various pieces of gold that were used to make your piece of jewelry, but you can rest easy knowing that you have done your part to avoid unethical gold production.
Synthetic Gems
Finally, a fifth option is to go for synthetic gems. This is a lot like lab-produced diamonds, but instead of making a diamond they are making an emerald, ruby, or sapphire in the lab environment. These will be a lot cheaper than other stones and diamonds. You also won’t have to worry about the ethics of the gem. If you are buying a synthetic one, you will likely be buying it from scientists who get paid well for their work.
The world of jewelry is difficult to navigate. There are a lot of monetary and ethical concerns. Whatever you are buying, it is pivotal to keep in mind where the stone came from and how it was produced. If you keep the ethics and money in mind, you will be able to strike the balance and find the right piece. When it comes to buying engagement rings, you want the most beautiful ring possible but you want it for the right price. Don’t sacrifice your morals to get a nice ring. With a little research and due diligence, you can find the perfect piece of jewelry.
