16 Best Diamond Alternatives for Engagement Rings to Consider

If you are seeking the best diamond alternative suggestions, today’s guide is especially for you. We at IceCartel believe that your lifetime special event deserves something beyond special. 

Modern couples are looking for sustainable yet affordable options like moissanite, white sapphire, quartz, emerald, and others. They are now more aware of ethical sourcing as well. This transformation led to the development of other precious gemstones.

The Intel Market research suggests that the global moissanite market value is projected to grow to $64 million by 2032. 

This hike clearly indicates the growing demand for alternative gemstones. Moissanites, sapphires, and zircons are now gaining popularity as glamorous options. 

So, what are diamond alternatives we can choose that also provide value? The popular options are moissanite, lab-grown diamonds, sapphire, emerald, ruby, morganite, and cubic zirconia. There are simulants and alternatives.

But first, we need to understand the difference between simulants and alternatives. They have their own charm enough to make you glow up. 

The greater the love, the bigger the diamond. Almost everyone is a fan of that classic limpid, brilliant stone. Probably, you also wish to treasure one. We suggest choosing those with a high visual similarity. 

Here are our top picks that will meet the goal: 

These are globally unrivaled when it comes to the most identical option to natural diamonds. 

They are created in high-tech lab foundries using CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) or HPHT methods. It is nearly impossible to distinguish natural stones without specialized equipment. 

They are rated 10/10 on the Mohs hardness scale and have a significantly lower carbon footprint. 

However, they have lower resale value than natural diamonds. Sellers typically disclose minimal or no resale value

Many of you, mostly new couples, ask us, “Is moissanite a good diamond alternative?”

Undoubtedly, they are the most affordable and glamorous option compared to the other alternatives. If you are looking for something diamond-like, you can trust the quality. Moissanite’s speciality is its disco ball effect. 

Another reason for Gen Z couples who love to flex high-impact visual glam. They have a higher refractive index than diamond. If you want that crystal shine, undoubtedly, it will complement your look. 

They often show a high fire and rainbow sparkle. They are not preferable for those who want to acquire the perfect colorless effect. Also, D-grade colorless moissanites are less available. 

For men and women who love “quiet luxury,” white sapphire is an ideal stone choice. It offers a cool, silver shine rather than sparkle.

Pure sapphire scores 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale. Perfect for those who want a real gemstone and meaningful ring designs. 

Often, people get puzzled by Cubic Zirconia, but the white zircon has its own, distinct beauty. 

They offer a very eye-catching, multilayered, and sharp sparkle. It creates a majestic, liquid view. The stone is cut specifically to make light bounce twice inside the stone. It scores between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale.

It clearly indicates their lower resistance to heat and chemicals. Hard knocks may dull the edges and make it prone to brittleness.

It has spiritual value in local legends, is safe, and very affordable. However, Zircon is vulnerable to chipping and scratching. 

If you want to save some bucks, these cheapest diamond alternatives below serve you right. 

Surprisingly, this lab-grown gem scores 8.5 on the Mohs scale. Cubic zirconia first came into the market in 1970 and grew popular for its outstanding shine. 

It offers that timeless, colorless diamond-like shine. 

This marvelous chemical creation from Zirconium dioxide lasts more than 5 years, even if you carry it daily. It absorbs oil from your skin. 

To keep a lasting sparkle, experts recommend pairing with a solid, thick metal band such as gold or sterling silver. 

This amazing mineral, lab-made ceration appears like curved water, encased in a thin frame. It often provides colorless shimmer like zircon. 

They are undetectable in normal eyesight. The WT scores 8 on the Mohs scale. This dazzling rock is made of fluorine-aluminum silicate mineral.

It's often considered the birthstone for those born in April. Topaz expresses the symbolic meaning of good luck and prosperity. 

The majority of white topaz engagement rings are gifted as a spiritual and lucky charm. Traditionally, topazes are gifted by elders as an ancestral blessing.  

Glass diamond alternatives are too soft to use as your daily ornament. They lose their facets and shine within a few months. But they are compatible in trend-specific fashion events. 

Love the color and vibrant brightness of gemstones? Your halo or pave finger jewelry draws immediate attention, particularly when the light illuminates that unique crystal hue. 

As natural diamond alternatives, these jewels contribute to achieving a dazzling glam. 

Let’s see a little more of this radiant crystal category.

Currently, this one is ruling as a global sensation among other affordable diamond alternatives. 

The Business Research suggests the current market value may reach $3.29 billion by 2029. 

Emerald’s royal green shade historically influenced so many royal dynasty personalities. Cleopatra, Mughal emperors, and even the Inca civilization previously respected its spiritual value. Colombian emeralds are a global benchmark to measure their quality. 

Natural emeralds are rare and require a specific condition for beryllium and chromium to combine to green color. Emeralds are surely a regal selection that serves as a thoughtful alternative to diamonds. 

This pink variety of beryl, first discovered in 1910, was named after global financial icon JP. Morgan. Deep pinks are the highest carat grade, but lighter shades are more affordable. 

Premium Morganites score 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale. It's prone to scratching and can’t withstand much pressure, but it can maintain shine for a lifetime if properly handled. 

Unlike other affordable diamond alternatives, this one is the most time-consuming jewel. It takes more than (millions of years to form naturally. Mined from the earth’s crust, this crystal rock scores 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale.

Iron is the primary element that contributes to forming its unique sea blue color. Aquamarine represents the cool, sea adventure, considered a meaningful choice for sea lovers. 

Ruby engagement rings serve as a wise, romantic choice within the diamond substitute realm. It is a red variety of aluminium oxide. 

Top-tier versions may cost over $1,000,000 per carat. Ruby needs to be secured with comparatively easy ring settings, because complex mounting tends to dull its brightness. 

Princess Diana’s 12-carat sapphire stone is still remembered as the most iconic jewel in modern ring history. 

Even Javier Bardem proposed to Penelope Cruz with an exquisite sapphire ring. 

This jewel scores 9 on the Mohs scale, only second to diamond in durability standard.

Sapphire offers a rich color spectrum. 

This one is perfectly suited for hairloom adornments that symbolize eternal bonding. 

Garnet stone has its own historical significance. They are often found in ancient Egyptian royal necklaces. Moreover, the knights of the crusades tend to wear garnets as a symbol of divine protection. 

Its price mostly depends on clarity and the rarity of its shades. Garnet requires frequent professional cleaning and safe handling to maintain its shine for a lifetime. 

Let’s get into the ethical sides.

Only created under gem experts and requires different chemicals and minerals to take form. This sourcing approach is 100% ethical and does not even require animal testing. 

Beyond the eco-friendly creation process, lab-grown gemstones offer hypoallergenic benefits. They are an ideal choice for people with sensitive skin. 

This category offers the most sustainable options. Many of them offer historical value, an inherited legacy. 

You need to match the brilliance of diamonds while seeking budget-friendly fire for your loved ones. Beyond mere brilliance, they mirror your soul’s rhythm. It entirely depends on how you intend to carry them.

Many people ask, "Is a gemstone a diamond?” Honestly, they are not. 

However, to preserve lifetime memory, moissanites and emeralds assure “main character energy” for your wedding glam. 

White sapphires rank 9 in the hardness scale, making them the best daily wear option. 

In our experience, this offers the “quiet luxury” touch. Sapphires shimmer gracefully, a perfect choice, durable alternatives to diamonds. 

For entry-level shoppers, High-Grade Cubic Zirconia (CZ) or White Topaz provides colorless shine. Their light reflection is almost identical to that of diamonds. Both of them are the most affordable options for stones similar to diamonds. 

Lab-grown crystals and moissanites, or beryl variations, are the most ethical diamond substitutes. You get the 10/10 hardness and prestige without environmental baggage. Their "conflict-free" status and lower carbon footprint empower a peaceful purchase.

Many of you frequently ask us, “How to choose a diamond alternative?” or “What things should I consider before buying gemstones?” As a certified jewelry retailer, we recommend learning about the material. Moreover, consider longevity and ethical sourcing factors too.

Let’s walk through the most crucial facts that you must check.

White zircon, colorless moissanites, and cubic zircons are suitable alternative stones similar to diamonds. A few of them often outshine a diamond’s luminosity in the same carat. 

The higher the stone’s hardness score, the more expensive it will be. Plus, superior hardness can resist pressure, scratches, and chemicals admirably. For daily wear, select smaller stones with a solid metal band that score between 7.5 and 9. 

This strategic approach will cost less than large stone-based rings.

Follow the Mohs scale of hardness to find the most durable diamond alternatives. Avoid anything with a score under 7. They are prone to brittleness, tarnish over time, and require frequent professional cleaning. 

High-carat and crystal-clear stones are always expensive. We recommend choosing from colorful options to save the maximum budget. 

Garnet, emerald, and sapphire are wise choices when it comes to ethical alternatives to diamonds. These stones offer you a conflict-free engagement ring segment and peace of mind. 

Now you are fit to advise your friends and others on how to choose the best diamond alternatives. 

Are you ready for fierce jewelry that genuinely represents your couple bond? Check IceCartel’s Exclusive Moissanite Collection and find your best match.