Exploring Stunning Colored Gemstones: Sparkling Alternatives to Diamonds

Whether you are shopping for an engagement ring or a special sparkler for yourself or a loved one, diamonds are not your only option—gemstones like aquamarine and emerald are equally impressive.

Today, diamond alternatives for engagement rings are becoming increasingly sought after among those searching for something unique. Even if you aren’t engagement ring shopping, exploring diamond alternatives can open a world of creativity and individuality in your jewelry collection. Here are some of the best and most beautiful stones to consider as alternatives to diamonds.

1. Aquamarine

With its beautiful shade of blue and exceptional clarity, aquamarine is a great diamond alternative. Translated from Latin, it means “Water of the Sea,” and is believed to be a natural healer with soothing and protective properties.

Aquamarine stones are an elegant, contemporary choice that can also make your engagement ring your “something blue.” Whether you’re drawn to its ethereal beauty or symbolic significance, aquamarine offers a timeless allure that transcends trends.

Shop Tiffany & Co. Aquamarine Ring in Platinum 

2. Emerald

Gorgeously green and glowing, emeralds are a colorful take on the traditional diamond. Like diamonds, emeralds boast a highly transparent appearance and are highly durable. They are also said to be twenty times rarer than diamonds, making them a perfect pick for an heirloom.

Shop Harry Winston Classic Winston Emerald-Cut Emerald Ring

3. Ruby

Rubies are the best diamond alternative if you are seeking something classic yet vibrant, bold, and maybe a little romantic. Known as the gemstone of love, ruby comes in a range of shades from deep pink to vivid red. Ruby gemstones make a stunning contrast when paired with platinum or white gold.

With their bold yet timeless appeal, rubies stand as a testament to enduring love and passion, making them the ideal choice for a diamond engagement ring alternative.

Shop David Yurman Emerald Cut Amulet With Indian Ruby

4. Moissanite

One of the most popular diamond alternatives, moissanite strongly resembles a diamond with its durability and incredible sparkle. Moissanite is a mineral made up of silicon carbide that was first discovered in 1893 inside of a meteorite by Nobel Prize-winning chemist Henri Moissan. That is why it is often referred to as the gemstone from the stars.

Shop Luxus Moissanite 18K Gold Plated Silver Moissanite Tennis Bracelet

5. White Topaz

Topaz is a gemstone that comes in a wide variety of colors, from yellow to blue and green. White topaz is becoming a popular choice among people looking for the best diamond alternative.

It looks similar to a natural diamond. Both have a transparent appearance and remarkable shine. While you may not notice a significant difference between white topaz and diamond, white topaz has a lower refractive index, making it less sparkly than diamond. Nevertheless, it is still a luminous gemstone that radiates its own unique charm.

Shop Kiki McDonough Grace White Topaz and Diamond Stud Earrings

About The Author

Debbie Azar is the Co-Founder and President of Gemological Science International (GSI), one of the largest gemological organizations in the world, and a distinguished leader in the global diamond and jewelry industry. As an executive with extensive knowledge of the jewelry and gem lab industries, her entrepreneurial skills and vision have helped GSI achieve rapid and continuous growth worldwide, establishing 13 leading-edge gemological facilities on four continents. She currently serves on the boards of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Responsible Jewellery Council, and Jewelers for Children, and is a member of the 24 Karat Club of New York. She has been featured in Forbes, Daily Mail, Good Morning America, Bloomberg, Bloomberg Businessweek, Fox Business, Fox5, CBS2, BOLDTV, Varney&Co, The Street, and NASDAQ, among others.