Short answer: Yes, with the right care and craftsmanship.
While diamond engagement rings remain a timeless favorite, more couples are turning to alternative engagement rings for their color, symbolism, and individuality. Whether you're drawn to non-diamond engagement rings for personal reasons, sustainability, or just style, gemstone rings are more popular than ever, and they're full of meaning.
1. Emerald: Romance, Growth, and Loyalty
Rich green emeralds have long been associated with love, rebirth, and fidelity. They're elegant, earthy, and instantly eye-catching. But because emeralds are softer than diamonds, you'll want to work with a jeweler who can help design a protective setting, especially if you're wearing the ring daily.
Great for: symbolic thinkers, vintage lovers, and spring birthdays
Custom tip: Consider a bezel or halo setting for added protection
2. Sapphire: Wisdom, Strength, and Trust
Not just blue, sapphires come in a range of colors, from peach to teal to classic royal blue. They're one of the most durable gemstones (second only to diamonds), making them a popular choice for alternative engagement rings that can stand the test of time.
Great for: everyday durability, royalty vibes, and a pop of color
3. Aquamarine: Calm, Clarity, and Communication
With its oceanic, icy-blue hue, aquamarine has a soothing quality and a more subtle sparkle than other stones. It’s softer than sapphire, so it’s best worn with care, but perfect for someone with a modern, minimalist style.
Great for: water signs, beach lovers, and soft color palettes
Custom tip: Pair with white gold for a sleek, clean look
4. Morganite: Compassion and Sweetness
A favorite among fans of blush tones, morganite offers a romantic, pastel pink glow and pairs beautifully with rose gold. It’s a softer stone, so it may need extra care, but the payoff is a dreamy, feminine look with a unique touch.
Great for: romantics, soft aesthetics, and rose gold rings
Note: Requires regular cleaning to keep its subtle sparkle
5. Ruby: Passion, Protection, and Power
Bold and dramatic, rubies are one of the most traditional precious stones, and they’ve symbolized love and power for centuries. They’re also quite hard and durable, making them a stunning yet practical alternative to diamonds.
Great for: statement-makers, vintage glamour, and July birthdays
6. Tourmaline: Creativity, Healing, and Joy
Available in just about every color, tourmaline is a favorite for artistic, one-of-a-kind rings. Pink and green shades are especially popular in non-diamond engagement rings, but this stone is a bit softer, so setting style and stone shape are key.
Great for: color lovers and completely custom ring seekers
Custom tip: Try an east-west setting for a fresh look
Choosing a Gemstone Ring That Lasts
While gemstone engagement rings are beautiful and deeply meaningful, they’re not all created equal when it comes to daily wear. Hardness, setting style, and stone shape all factor into how your ring will age over time. That’s why trying on different options and working with an expert on design is so important.
At Ethan Lord, we help you compare stones, settings, and styles in person, so whether you choose a custom emerald engagement ring, a moody sapphire, a vibrant ruby, or of course, a diamond, it’s designed for your life and your love story.
Thinking about going custom? Contact us to see your favorite stones up close.