Diamonds are the go-to choice for many, and as Marylin Monroe sang, they are a girl’s best friend. Psychologists point to the idea that buying diamonds signifies to a lady that her potential suitor is a good provider. But what other choices are there?
Diamonds are not everyone’s taste, and that’s completely fine. After all, there are other ways for someone to show that they are a good provider, and anyway, who needs a provider anyway?
For some people, the look of diamonds isn’t for them, while others are just happy to have a cheaper alternative that gives the same look, without the price tag. Everyone has their own taste and style. So if you like your bling or your understated classic beauty, there is a gemstone that suits your needs.
Synthetic Diamonds
Lab created diamond rings offer a great alternative to mined diamonds. There are many reasons that people choose not to buy mined diamonds. Although the Kimberely process has helped stop the trade in conflict diamonds; many people morally object to the treatment of diamond miners in some countries. Added to this are concerns over the environmental impact of mining the stones.
Created under great heat in a controlled environment, these diamonds go through an intense replica of natural conditions. They look and feel exactly the same as naturally formed diamonds. After all, they are actually diamonds.
Cubic Zirconia
A very common man-made alternative to diamonds, cubic zirconia is significantly cheaper while having a similar appearance. Though commonly regarded as low budget, better quality cubic zirconia is available with carbon lining.
Emeralds
John F Kennedy proposed to Jackie Kennedy with an emerald engagement ring. If it’s good enough for the first lady, it’s good enough for anyone else. Emeralds are quite soft, though, so it’s something to consider when it comes to choosing the right setting.
Moissanite
You’ll not find a great deal of moissanite about because it is generally not naturally occurring on this planet. The ultimate romantic gesture is to get a ring made from pieces of the universe. Moissanite literally fell from the sky, because it is made from a meteorite. It’s pretty rare, and extraordinary stuff.
Sapphire
Sapphires offer beauty at a fraction of the price of diamonds. Most commonly found in blue, you can also get peach, yellow, pink, green, and white. Although lacking in the sparkle of diamonds, white sapphire can make a very good alternative, and it has an excellent cut.
Ruby
For some people, the color of the stone is an important aspect. With its bright charm, rubies are a very popular choice. They are pretty tough and can be as expensive as diamonds. But they are stunning.
Onyx
Sleek and black. Onyx has an aesthetic that oozes opulence. The color gives a sense of mysticism while maintaining a great deal of style.
Peridot
While gemstones generally come in a variety of colors, peridot is exclusively green. Traditionally a symbol of love, Napoleon famously gave his wife, Josephine, a peridot ring.
While diamonds might not be a girl’s best friend any more, there are certainly fabulous options to replace them with!
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