2024 Trending Diamond Alternatives

It’s 2024 which means it’s a new year with new diamond alternative trends for engagement rings right? Well, you might be surprised that this is not the case as it is expected that the same trends that were hot last year transfer on to 2024.

First of all, being that we are talking about your engagement ring you def shouldn’t start by researching what is trending as your engagement ring will be with you for many years to come, trends change and limiting yourself to what is “in” will not be the best idea long term. I recommend being honest with yourself as to what is your style, your aesthetic, and your overall authentic self when it comes to choosing the center stone for your engagement ring.

Having that said, here is a list of classic diamond alternatives starting with the harder/tougher options and down to the softer & delicate choices:

Sapphires:

Sapphires are an amazing alternative to diamonds as not only are they the next gem after diamonds that are the hardest but they also come in a huge range of colors to choose from. When we hear sapphire the first color to come to mind is blue, right? Well, you would be surprised that they also come in green, pink, yellow, purple, and pastel color hues to choose from! As far as durability goes we highly recommend any color sapphire as an alternative to a center diamond for your ring.

Rubies:

Same as sapphires, rubies are extremely tough gems and another great alternative! The most prized color for rubies would be that “blood red” color but you can also find some lighter shades of red as well if that intense red color is not your thing and/or you have a tighter budget. Fun fact: rubies and sapphires are the same gem “species”, corundum, so they are a family.

Emeralds:

Emeralds are one of my favorite colored gemstones with that luscious green hue that leaves you mesmerized but they are equally very soft and fragile. Emeralds, as beautiful as they are, are not for everybody. If you are very rough with your hands I would recommend you stay away from choosing an emerald as your engagement ring center stone because it will scratch and chip fairly easily. But if you are very careful and aware of the fact that you will be using a softer gemstone for your ring I think it’s an amazing choice especially when set in 18k yellow gold, that yellow and green color combination is so classy and timeless! If you still want a green center stone for your ring but are a bit tough on your hands and handling things I would recommend you look into green sapphires as different hues are not exactly like an emerald but equally amazing and unique.

Morganites & Aquamarines:

Morganites and aquamarines are of the same family as emeralds which means that they are also a softer option but one that many choose to go with! Morganites have that peachy pink/rose color which they are known for and are usually a bit light in terms of saturation, it’s a very popular option without a doubt.

Aquamarines are known for their greenish-blue to blue-green color and make for an excellent option if you are more into light blue-colored stones. Fun fact: Aquamarines get their blue color from iron impurities within the gem.

Same as emeralds, if you think you would like a more durable stone you can always explore colored sapphire options that will get you somewhat close to morganites & aquamarines.

Pearls, Opal and Moonstones:

These three options are trending very steadily and each has its own magical properties that make them so unique but I would recommend you do a deeper dive when it comes to durability to see if you are ok with using them long-term in an engagement ring. There is absolutely nothing wrong with choosing any of these softer alternatives for your ring, all the contrary, they are so unique that it makes them that much special but I have always thought that an informed decision is the best decision.

Needless to say salt & pepper and black diamonds are still holding on very strong and are the favorite ones of our clientele at Iz&Co.

If you are undecided on which gem to choose you can always set a free consultation with our graduated gemologist that will guide you and answer any and all questions that you may have, they love answering questions so please do feel free to reach out by clicking here!

You guys take care and till next time,

-Iz-