Alternative Engagement Rings

A classic diamond solitaire may be just perfect for some brides, but it's not for everyone, and that's OK. If the traditional ring isn't your thing, you're in luck because there are so many alternative options available now.

You can have a ring that reflects your personal style and is still symbolic of your love. Onyx, ruby, opal, sapphire, and aquamarine engagement rings are just a few non-diamond engagement ring options. But the alternative possibilities are practically endless.

Non-Traditional Engagement Rings

When opting for an alternative engagement ring, you have two basic choices: an alternative stone in a traditional setting; or a completely non-traditional ring. The former involves choosing between a single stone on a plain band-the quintessential solitaire-a large stone with smaller accent stones on the band, or multiple large stones, usually three to represent the past, the present, and the future.

Instead of a diamond, you make your engagement ring a unique expression of yourself with an emerald, sapphire, ruby, aquamarine, amethyst, or even a pearl. Then surround that gemstone with diamonds, or other stones you love.

Non-traditional engagement rings can be just about anything that goes around your ring finger. They don't need to have stones. In fact, they don't even need to be made from metal.

• Claddagh: A traditional Irish fede ring which symbolizes love, friendship, and loyalty. Worn on the ring finger of the left hand, with the point of the heart toward the fingertip when engaged.
• Gimmel: Two or more bands that fit together like a puzzle. A gimmel ring can be separated so that one band is used for engagement,and the other for the wedding ceremony.
• Knots: This can be a single band with one knot, or two bands with two interlocking knots. Some have a nautical style, while others are Celtic in appearance.
• Wood: Many styles of bands have wood settings, which may be created from one or more types of wood. They may be made from wood alone, or contain a wood inlay in a metal band. You can choose wood from a locale special to you, such as Hawaiian Koa wood.
• Bone: Like wood, these rings can be made purely from bone, or bone laid into a metal band. The bone may be carved, raw, or polished.
• Hair: Historically used in mourning rings, you can find antique rings made from human hair, or commission one made from your own hair.

Not a Ring at All

Of course, no hard and fast rule says you must have an engagement ring. It could be an object meaningful to both of you, something engraved or personalized. If you really want to stray from tradition, you could use a marker to draw rings on each other's fingers. Some couples even go so far as to have rings tattooed on their fingers, a true symbol of forever.

Most engagement rings are designed for women, but if you're proposing to someone who doesn't wear rings, some other type of jewelry might be the best choice. A vintage bracelet or vintage necklace could be the perfect piece for your proposal.

Whatever item you choose as your alternative engagement ring, whether it's a guitar pick, your grandfather's watch, or an antique teapot, be sure it's something that will last a lifetime, the same way a diamond ring would.

Shop our beautiful collection of aquamarine engagement rings to find an alternative ring as unique as your true love.

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