How to Go Non-Traditional with Your Wedding Ring

17th November 2022

When it comes to wedding rings, there have been a few traditional designs that have stood the test of time. While these designs remain popular, we’ve been seeing more uniquely designed rings in recent years. If you’re looking for a way to do something unique with your engagement ring, here are a few different ways to go non-traditional.

Stones

Diamond Alternatives

Diamond alternatives have become increasingly popular in recent years. There are several different ways you can achieve the look of a diamond without the high price tag. Here are a few of the most popular diamond alternatives:

Moissanites: Moissanites are one of the most affordable diamond alternatives. While generally similar in appearance, they still have one main visual difference to a traditional diamond: a moissanite’s brilliance gives the stone a fiery, rainbow sparkle when the light hits it. While this attracts some people to this alternative stone, it can be a giveaway if you want your stone to pass as a diamond.
White Sapphires: A white sapphire is an excellent diamond alternative. It’s incredibly durable, with a hardness of nine on the Mohs scale, and is highly similar in appearance to a mined diamond, making it one of the best alternatives on the market.
Lab-Grown: Lab-grown diamonds are virtually indistinguishable from mined diamonds but come at a much lower price point; only specialized equipment can tell the difference between the two. You can also find lab-grown diamonds in all the same cuts, shapes, and colors as mined diamonds. These make a great alternative for someone who wants a larger stone that’s ethical and sustainable.

Gemstones

If you’re not married to the idea of a diamond, gemstones have become a popular way to do something non-traditional with your engagement ring. When it comes to choosing a gemstone for your ring, you want to consider each stone’s durability. Because most wear their wedding rings daily, ensure your stone can handle the wear and tear of everyday use. Here are some of the best gemstones to use for an engagement ring:

Aquamarines: These pale blue semi-precious gemstones make lovely engagement ring stones for anyone who feels connected to the sea. Aquamarines have a 7.5-8 rating on the Mohs scale, so they’re durable enough to wear daily. That said, you’ll want to avoid doing anything too rough with your stone.
Emeralds: Emeralds are another excellent gemstone option for a center stone. They’re harder than aquamarines but are also rarer, making them a bit more expensive. You should consider how much time you’ll spend wearing your ring in the sun. Over time, sun exposure can fade the color of your emerald. If you see this as an issue, an emerald may not be for you.
Rubies: Coming in at the same hardness level as sapphire, a ruby is a durable stone that looks striking at the center of an engagement ring. However, like the case with an emerald, a ruby’s color will fade over time if you spend a lot of time in the sun.

Raw Stones

Mined diamonds can be used in their raw form on an engagement ring; this is a unique and natural way to distinguish your ring from more classic designs. While you won’t have as much control over the shape, cut, and brilliance of your stone, raw stone rings are just as beautiful as stones that have been prepared.

Settings

Cluster: If you want a larger ring but not necessarily a larger stone, consider a cluster setting. This setting combines multiple stones in place of one large center stone. These stones can all be the same size and arranged uniformly, or they can be different sizes arranged abstractly. This setting also allows for different colored stones to be combined if you want something truly unique.
East-West: The east-west setting refers to a traditionally cut stone being rotated on its side in place of a traditional vertical setting. If you choose an oval or emerald cut stone, try setting it on its side to completely change the look of your ring.
Double Stones: This setting was recently made popular when Ariana Grande received her diamond and pearl engagement ring. As in the name, double stones feature two stones side by side, with both of them featured equally in the design.

Conclusion

There are many different ways to get creative with your engagement ring design. Don’t be afraid to do something that embodies your unique personality.