When it comes to engagement rings, diamonds have been the go-to center stone for decades. However, if you’re looking for something more unique and unconventional, there are plenty of other options to choose from when selecting engagement ring center stones.
From the vibrant red of a garnet to the calming purple of an amethyst, each of these stones has its own personality and symbolism. A tanzanite can evoke a sense of mystery, while an aquamarine can bring feelings of tranquility and relaxation. Topaz and sapphire come in a variety of colors, each with their own unique sparkle and shine. And for those who want something truly uncommon, alexandrite or opal can provide an iridescent and magical touch.
By choosing a non-traditional center stone, you can create a ring that reflects your individuality and style, and tells a story that’s uniquely yours. Here are 13 non-traditional center stones for engagement rings that will make your ring stand out from the crowd.
1. Moissanite
Moissanite, a lab-created gemstone, boasts a comparable brilliance and hardness to diamonds, making it an excellent choice for those seeking the diamond look without the hefty price tag. In fact, due to its cost-effectiveness, moissanite has grown increasingly popular in recent years as a diamond alternative.
Moreover, the manufacturing process of moissanite involves recreating the conditions that create natural diamonds. The result is a gemstone that exhibits a striking fire and brilliance, similar to that of a diamond. This makes moissanite an attractive choice for engagement rings, as it offers a budget-friendly alternative to traditional diamond rings without sacrificing the aesthetics.
It’s worth noting that while moissanite and diamonds share similar optical properties, they have a few differences. For example, moissanite is typically heavier than a diamond of the same size and has a slightly different color hue. However, these differences are often difficult to discern with the naked eye.
2. Morganite
Morganite, a gemstone with a soft and romantic pink hue, is a popular choice for those seeking a feminine and subtle center stone. The gemstone’s delicate shade of pink, coupled with its excellent clarity and durability, makes it a sought-after option for jewelry lovers.
Furthermore, morganite belongs to the beryl family of minerals, which includes emeralds and aquamarines. Like its relatives, morganite’s color is due to the presence of trace elements. In this case, manganese impurities are responsible for the gemstone’s signature pink hue.
In addition to its physical properties, morganite is also valued for its symbolic significance. It’s believed to represent unconditional love and compassion, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other romantic jewelry.
3. Aquamarine
As a light blue gemstone, aquamarine is a perfect choice for jewelry enthusiasts who love beachy vibes and oceanic themes. Its tranquil hue induces feelings of serenity and relaxation, making it a stunning addition to any ring design.
Belonging to the beryl family, which includes emeralds and morganite, aquamarine’s blue color is a result of trace amounts of iron present during its formation. The gemstone boasts excellent clarity, making it a popular option for designers who prefer a clean, unblemished appearance.
While aquamarine is relatively hard and durable, proper care is necessary to maintain its beauty. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals and high temperatures, and consider removing it before engaging in activities that may cause damage. With its unique color and exceptional clarity, aquamarine is a valuable addition to any jewelry collection.
4. Emerald
An emerald is an ideal center stone for an engagement ring that exudes elegance and sophistication. Ranging from light and airy to deep and rich green hues, emeralds are a type of beryl with striking color and natural beauty that make them a popular choice for engagement rings. With a hardness rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, emeralds are resistant to scratches and chips, making them practical for everyday wear. Additionally, the unique inclusions and fractures found in natural emeralds add character and charm to each stone, making them one-of-a-kind.
To create a stunning and eye-catching engagement ring, pair an emerald center stone with a complementary setting and accent stones. Consider a classic solitaire setting to highlight the beauty of the emerald or opt for a halo setting with sparkling diamonds to add more glamour and sparkle. An emerald center stone exudes timeless beauty and durability, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a unique and elegant engagement ring.
5. Tourmaline
Tourmaline is a gemstone with a unique and varied color range, making it a favorite of jewelry designers and collectors alike. The gemstone’s name is derived from the Sinhalese word “turmali,” which means “stone with mixed colors.” Tourmaline is known for exhibiting a wide range of colors, from pink to green, blue to black, and everything in between. Its versatility and distinct appearance make it a popular choice for creating one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. Additionally, tourmaline is often associated with healing and protection, making it a meaningful and symbolic gift.
6. Opal
With their unique play of colors and shimmering appearance, opals are a popular choice for those seeking a center stone with personality. These gemstones can be found in a range of colors, from milky white to fiery red and deep blue, making them a versatile option for jewelry designers.
One of the benefits of opals is their relatively low cost compared to other gemstones, despite their captivating appearance. However, it’s essential to note that opals are relatively soft and can be vulnerable to scratches and chips. As such, it’s important to take proper care of them to maintain their beauty.
When paired with a complementary setting and accent stones, an opal center stone can create a unique and eye-catching engagement ring or other piece of jewelry. Consider a minimalist setting to showcase the opal’s beauty or a vintage-inspired setting for a touch of nostalgia. With their captivating beauty and versatility, opals are an excellent choice for those seeking a distinctive and charming gemstone.
7. Garnet
Garnets are a popular choice for those who desire a center stone that exudes a sense of romance and passion. This gemstone family comes in a range of colors, but the deep red variety is the most sought-after due to its bold and intense hue. Notably, garnets are known for their impressive hardness, ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them a durable choice for everyday wear.
Another benefit of garnets is their affordability, making them an accessible choice for those on a budget. They’re a versatile gemstone that can be paired with a variety of metals and setting styles to create a unique and personalized ring design. Whether you prefer a classic solitaire or a more intricate halo setting with diamond accents, garnets can be the perfect addition to any engagement ring.
8. Topaz
Topaz is a popular gemstone that is highly prized for its brilliance and clarity. It’s a type of silicate mineral that is available in a range of colors, from light and airy to deep and rich. In addition to blue, pink, and yellow, topaz can also be found in other hues such as green, purple, and red.
One of the unique features of topaz is its ability to produce pleochroism, which means it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. This characteristic adds a unique depth and complexity to the stone, making it an excellent choice for jewelry designers who want to create a one-of-a-kind piece.
Another benefit of topaz is its excellent hardness and durability, which makes it a practical option for everyday wear. However, it’s still essential to care for your topaz jewelry properly to maintain its beauty and shine. Avoid exposing it to high temperatures and harsh chemicals and clean it regularly with mild soap and warm water. With its versatility and durability, topaz is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a center stone with a lot of sparkle and shine.
9. Tanzanite
Tanzanite, a rare gemstone, boasts a mesmerizing blue-violet color that’s truly one-of-a-kind. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a center stone that stands out and makes a statement. Tanzanite is a relatively new discovery, having been found only in Tanzania in 1967, which adds to its uniqueness. Its color is caused by the presence of vanadium and other trace elements, giving each stone a distinct personality. Additionally, tanzanite is relatively soft and requires extra care to avoid damage, making it a great option for special occasions.
10. Amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of quartz that comes in various shades of purple, from pale lilac to deep violet. Its striking color and unique crystal formations make it a popular choice for engagement rings. Moreover, Amethyst is known for its healing properties and has long been associated with spiritual and emotional balance. It’s a great option for those who want a center stone with a lot of meaning and symbolism. Keep in mind that while amethyst is relatively durable, it’s still essential to take care of it properly to maintain its beauty.
11. Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a rare and exotic gemstone that’s becoming increasingly popular as a center stone for engagement rings. Its unique color-changing properties make it a one-of-a-kind choice for those who want a ring that’s truly special. Alexandrite is known for its greenish-blue hue in daylight and a purplish-red hue in incandescent light. This fascinating color shift is due to the presence of chromium and iron in the gemstone.
In addition to its stunning color, Alexandrite is also quite durable, with a hardness rating of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a practical choice for everyday wear. When paired with a complementary setting and accent stones, an Alexandrite center stone can create a truly mesmerizing and unforgettable engagement ring.
12. Sapphire
Sapphires are an excellent option for those seeking a center stone that boasts durability and versatility. Available in a range of colors, including white, blue, yellow, and pink, sapphires offer a variety of options to fit any style or preference. As a member of the corundum mineral family, sapphires are one of the hardest gemstones, making them ideal for everyday wear. A white sapphire center stone can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any engagement ring design, while a blue sapphire can symbolize loyalty and commitment. Whether you prefer a classic solitaire or a more intricate halo design, a sapphire center stone can create a timeless and stunning engagement ring.
13. Ruby
Ruby is often confused with garnet due to their similar red color. However, rubies are actually a type of corundum mineral and have a higher hardness than garnets. Rubies are a great option for those who want a center stone that symbolizes love and passion and stands out with its vivid red hue.
As a center stone for engagement rings, it adds a bold and romantic touch. Rubies come in various shades of red, ranging from bright and vivid to deep and dark, making them an excellent option for those who prefer a bold and striking look. Additionally, rubies are durable and have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them an excellent choice for everyday wear. Paired with a classic setting or accented with diamonds, a ruby center stone creates a timeless and elegant engagement ring.
Choosing a non-traditional or unique engagement ring center stones will provide several benefits, including affordability and uniqueness. These stones often come at a lower price point than traditional diamond engagement rings, making them a great option for those on a budget. Additionally, they offer a unique and personalized touch to the ring, allowing the wearer to express their individuality and style. Overall, non-traditional center stones can provide a stunning and meaningful alternative to traditional diamond engagement rings.
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