Do Engagement Rings Have to Be Diamond? The Truth Behind the Tradition

August 27, 2025

The word engagement ring is often immediately and often linked with one picture: a diamond. Diamonds have been the conventional standard for a number of reasons; the difficulty with diamonds is what leads to the question: engagement rings have to be diamond or simply tradition?

Modern couples are exploring newer choices that represent not only their love, but their personality, lifestyle, and values as well. In today’s dating world, it is not important to use the absolute expensive things to impress your partner, it just needs to be thoughtful and expressive.

Why Are Diamonds The Standard?
Do All Engagement Rings Have to Be Diamond?
The Best Non-Diamond Engagement Ring Alternatives
Pros & Cons of selecting Non-Diamond Engagement Rings
- Tips for Choosing the Right Stone
- Bottomline

Why Are Diamonds The Standard?

Diamonds were valued in society, and they were unique in their strength and brilliance, which makes diamonds a great metaphor for the lifespan of commitment. Eventually the diamond engagement ring became synonymous with engagement.

Do All Engagement Rings Have to Be Diamond?

The short answer is no. While tradition indicates that diamonds are the traditional and customary choice, that does not mean that this is your only option. An engagement ring is ultimately a publicly symbolic vessel of love, commitment, and personal expression. Ultimately, what matters the most is the story it tells of your relationship, not the stone that accompanies it.

The Best Non-Diamond Engagement Ring Alternatives

Sapphires: Called the “royal stone,” sapphires are truly classic. Just look at the sensational sapphire engagement ring worn by Princess Diana—later passed on to Kate Middleton. Who hasn’t dreamt about it?

Emeralds: Emeralds symbolize rebirth, renewal, and growth with their striking green color, making them an excellent option for couples looking for a unique and meaningful selection.

Rubies: Rubies are the faintest gemstone choice for those who want to showcase their passionate love. Rubies symbolize vitality and love, making them a fitting symbol to their love story.

Moissanite: A beautiful and brilliant stone that is a fraction of the price of diamonds- but looks almost identical. These beauties have the wearability of a diamond.

Lab-Grown Gemstones: An option for environmentally-minded couples and couples who wish to be ethical in their diamond selection. They provide a viable option that offers durability and beauty akin to mined gemstones without the negative environmental impact.

Pros & Cons of selecting Non-Diamond Engagement Rings

Pros:

Are original with many unique and distinct designs that can step apart from tradition.

Generally more affordable than mined natural diamonds.

Many eco-friendly and sustainable options while providing gemstone beauty (lab grown gemstones).

Cons:

Some gemstones and options aren’t as durable as diamonds and aren’t well suited for daily wear.

Diamonds still carry a historic and cultural weight that some families consider.

Tips for Choosing the Right Stone

Consider Lifestyle: If your partner will wear the ring every day, you’ll want a good durable stone. For example, diamonds, sapphires, and moissanite are some of the hardest stones.

Set a Budget: Finding a beautiful non-diamond alternative can be incredibly stunning, and also really affordable!

Think About Style & Meaning: Get a gemstone that speaks to your personality and story: sapphire’s timeless elegance vs. ruby’s passionate vibrancy.

Bottomline

You may see diamonds as the most prevalent choice, but they are by no means the only one, or even the best. Engagement rings can be so much more than just diamonds, and can be great tangible pieces of your love, values, and uniqueness! Whether you choose either a classic sapphire, radiant ruby, or a sustainable lab-grown stone, all that matters is that the ring represents your commitment. Shop our extensive collection of diamond engagement rings NZ as well as non-diamond ones at a reasonable price from Stonex Jewellers.

AUTHOR BIO

Utkarsha

Utkarsha is a skilled content writer with over three years of experience in the fashion industry. She currently contributes to Stonex Jewellers, where she has developed a deep understanding of effectively capturing the essence of the jewellery sector. With a versatile background in fashion and lifestyle writing, she brings a keen eye for market trends and audience preferences. A graduate in Journalism and Mass Communication, Utkarsha is adept at conveying the cultural and emotional nuances behind style choices and their timing.