Beyond Diamonds: Exploring Diamond Alternatives with the Same Stunning Effect

While diamonds have long reigned as the ultimate gemstone for jewellery, there's an expanding world of diamond alternatives that provide brilliant and cost-effective options for the discerning consumer. Whether for engagement rings or tennis bracelets, these alternatives offer unique qualities and characteristics, still allowing you to make a distinctive statement. I also wanted to leave you with my best suggestions for trusted jewellers which specialise in each gem. So let's explore some popular diamond alternatives these days, where you can get them and what makes them such a captivating choice.

1. Moissanite: The Sparkling Superstar

Moissanite is one of the most popular diamond alternatives for engagement rings, due to its remarkable brilliance. This lab-grown gemstone has such a high refractive index it actually sparkles even more than a diamond! Moissanite also boasts exceptional hardness, making it resistant to scratches and ideal for daily wear. Its colourless and near-colourless options provide a captivating alternative to traditional diamonds without the premium price.

Charles & Colvard has an exceptional range of moissanite engagement rings which you can view online here. Etsy is also full of independent sellers with beautifully creative designs!

2. White Sapphires: The Subtle Elegance

White sapphires, often chosen as a diamond alternative, offer understated elegance. These gemstones have a similar appearance to diamonds but may have a subtle difference in brilliance. White sapphires are durable and come in a range of sizes and shapes, making them versatile for various jewellery designs. They are particularly popular in engagement rings and wedding bands for their affordability and clean, timeless look.

Glamira is an e-based jeweller which has a huge range of customisable options for white sapphire rings and pendants which you can see here.

3. Lab-Grown Diamonds: Ethical and Environmentally Friendly

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. But are gaining popularity due to their ethical and environmental advantages, since they do not involve the harmful mining practices associated with natural diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds offer the same quality and beauty as natural diamonds but at a more affordable price point. This is the closest you will get to a natural diamond without the scary price! I've written a more in-depth article on this for you guys which you can find here.

Brilliant Earth is another online jeweller which offers natural diamonds but specialises in lab-grown. You can click here to compare prices, its shocking!

4. Cubic Zirconia: Affordable and Attractive

Cubic zirconia (aka. CZ) is a popular and budget-friendly diamond alternative. Although not as durable as diamonds, CZ is known for its brilliance and clarity. In my opinion, it's your best bet if you're primarily interested in fashion jewellery. If damaged, it can be replaced easily, making it a practical choice for those of us who switch their jewellery frequently.

H Samuel is one of my favourite jewellers because of their range of cubic zirconia jewellery. Pictured above is the ring I have worn every single day since it was gifted to me 4 years ago! It is sterling silver with a slither of 9ct yellow gold and 3 stunning CZ stones. It is so so so precious to me and shows that sentimental value doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag!

Making the Right Choice

The choice of a diamond alternative ultimately depends on your personal preferences and price range. Whether you opt for moissanite's incredible sparkle, lab-grown diamonds' ethical appeal, or the vibrant simplicity of cubic zirconia, these alternatives provide endless opportunities for crafting unique, beautiful pieces that can be a part of your own beautiful history and identity.

Whether in diamonds or something else,

Stay shining!

Grace xx