The History of Engagement Rings Why Diamonds Aren’t the Only Option

Engagement rings have long been a cherished symbol of love and commitment. While diamonds are the most popular choice today, history shows that other gemstones were once the preferred options. With changing trends, ethical concerns, and a growing desire for individuality, many couples are now looking beyond diamonds for their perfect ring. This article explores the history of engagement rings, their cultural significance, and why diamonds aren’t the only option when choosing a symbol of love.

A Deeper Look into the Evolution of Engagement Rings

The Renaissance Era: The Emergence of Sentimental Rings

During the Renaissance (14th–17th centuries), engagement rings became more personalized and artistic. Rings were often engraved with romantic messages, a style known as posey rings. Popular gemstones at this time included:

• Garnets, symbolizing deep love and devotion.

• Pearls, representing purity and wisdom.

• Turquoise, believed to bring happiness to marriage.

One of the most famous engagement rings from this era belonged to Mary, Queen of Scots, who was gifted a ring with a heart-shaped ruby—one of the earliest examples of a heart-cut gemstone in jewelry.

The Victorian and Edwardian Eras: The First Engagement Ring Trends

During Queen Victoria’s reign (1837–1901), engagement rings reflected her love of sentimental and floral-inspired designs. Diamonds were sometimes used, but colored gemstones, particularly opals, garnets, and sapphires, were more common. Victoria’s own engagement ring featured a serpent design with an emerald, symbolizing eternal love.

By the Edwardian era (1901–1910), platinum became a popular metal for engagement rings. Delicate, lace-like filigree designs were paired with gemstones like aquamarine, topaz, and pearls. Diamonds were still considered a luxury item, and engagement rings often included multiple gemstones rather than a single diamond centerpiece.

Breaking the Diamond Monopoly: Changing Preferences in Modern Times

The Influence of Pop Culture on Non-Diamond Rings

While De Beers made diamonds the standard choice for engagement rings in the 20th century, modern pop culture has played a significant role in shifting preferences. Celebrities, royal figures, and influencers have revived interest in alternative gemstones:

• Princess Diana’s sapphire engagement ring (now worn by Kate Middleton) is one of the most famous non-diamond rings in history.

• Jackie Kennedy’s engagement ring featured a combination of emerald and diamond.

• Meghan Markle’s trilogy ring included two diamonds from Princess Diana’s collection alongside a central ethically sourced diamond.

These high-profile engagements have contributed to a growing interest in unique, meaningful, and colorful engagement rings.

The Rise of Lab-Grown Diamonds and Ethical Gemstones

Ethical concerns surrounding diamond mining, including issues related to conflict diamonds and environmental destruction, have led to an increased demand for sustainable alternatives. Lab-grown diamonds, which have the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds, have become a preferred choice for many eco-conscious couples.

In addition, ethically sourced gemstones like fair-trade sapphires, moissanite, and recycled vintage jewelry are gaining popularity. According to a 2023 industry report, the lab-grown diamond market is projected to grow by 9.4% annually through 2030, reflecting a significant shift in consumer preferences.

Customization and Personalization: A Growing Trend

Engagement rings are no longer one-size-fits-all. Many couples now prefer rings that reflect their unique love story. This has led to an increase in demand for:

• Bespoke rings with custom designs and engravings.

• Birthstone engagement rings, where the gemstone represents the birth month of one or both partners.

• Mixed gemstone rings, combining different stones to symbolize aspects of a relationship.

For example, a couple might choose a ruby and sapphire ring to represent passion and loyalty or a moonstone ring to signify intuition and emotional connection.

Comparing the Durability of Alternative Gemstones

One of the reasons diamonds have remained a top choice is their durability. Diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them the hardest known natural material. However, other gemstones also offer excellent durability for engagement rings:

Gemstone Mohs Hardness Rating Symbolism

Diamond 10 Eternal love & strength

Moissanite 9.25 Radiance & clarity

Sapphire 9 Loyalty & wisdom

Ruby 9 Passion & courage

Emerald 7.5–8 Growth & renewal

Aquamarine 7.5–8 Tranquility & harmony

Topaz 8 Love & affection

Amethyst 7 Balance & spirituality

While softer stones like opals and pearls require more care, they remain a beautiful and meaningful choice for engagement rings.

The Psychological and Emotional Impact of Choosing a Non-Diamond Ring

Choosing a gemstone other than a diamond is not just about aesthetics or cost—it often carries deep emotional significance. Many couples feel that selecting a gemstone based on personal meaning rather than societal norms makes the engagement ring even more special.

A 2022 survey by WeddingWire found that:

• 35% of millennials are open to choosing a non-diamond ring.

• 22% of couples prefer rings that incorporate multiple gemstones.

• 40% of respondents said they value uniqueness and personalization over tradition when selecting an engagement ring.

These findings highlight the growing shift toward meaningful, customized engagement rings that tell a personal story.

The Emotional Value of Choosing a Non-Diamond Engagement Ring

For many couples, an engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewelry—it’s a deeply personal symbol of their relationship. Choosing an alternative gemstone allows for greater personalization, whether it’s selecting a birthstone, a gem with cultural significance, or a color that holds sentimental value. Unlike diamonds, which are often chosen due to tradition, alternative gemstones offer a unique way to express individuality and love. A moonstone ring, for example, can symbolize emotional balance, while an opal engagement ring might reflect creativity and passion.

Alternative Gemstones in Vintage and Antique Rings

Many antique engagement rings feature alternative gemstones, as diamonds weren’t always the standard choice. Victorian-era rings often included colorful gems like amethyst, garnet, and turquoise, reflecting the romanticism of the period. Art Deco rings from the 1920s and 1930s frequently incorporated sapphires, emeralds, and rubies in bold geometric designs. Choosing a vintage ring not only offers a unique piece of history but also supports sustainability by reusing existing gemstones instead of mining new ones.

Breaking Free from the “Diamond is Forever” Mentality

The idea that a diamond is the only acceptable choice for an engagement ring stems from marketing rather than tradition. De Beers’ famous 1947 campaign—“A Diamond is Forever”—created the perception that a diamond ring was the ultimate symbol of love. However, as more people become aware of the ethical issues surrounding diamond mining and the availability of stunning alternatives, couples are redefining what an engagement ring should be. In today’s world, love isn’t defined by a single gemstone—it’s about choosing a ring that best represents your unique story.

Conclusion: The Future of Engagement Rings

The engagement ring has evolved over centuries, influenced by cultural, economic, and social changes. While diamonds remain a dominant choice, history proves that they are not the only option. From the ancient use of iron and braided reeds to sapphires, rubies, and moissanite, engagement rings have always reflected the values and preferences of the times.

Today, with ethical considerations, budget-friendly options, and a desire for individuality, more couples are exploring alternative gemstones. Whether it’s a vintage-inspired sapphire, a bold ruby, or a sustainable lab-grown diamond, the perfect engagement ring is ultimately one that resonates with the love and commitment it represents. You can also find some of the best engagement rings from TrueGether, the best eBay alternative.

Would you consider a non-diamond engagement ring? Share your thoughts and favorite gemstone choices below!