Why You Should Choose an Alternative to Diamonds

The controversy that surrounds diamonds has been an issue that has remained in the public eye for decades. Many individuals have expressed concern over the conditions under which diamonds are obtained in South Africa. Other individuals chafe at the thought of how jewelers are able to influence and control the price and availability of diamonds. Then, there are couples who simply desire an alternative to the ordinary.

Despite an individual or couple’s reasoning behind their decision, there are numerous reasons why other gemstones should be considered for engagement rings, promise rings, and other forms of fine jewelry. The first, and most obvious reason, is the expense. Diamonds are expensive. This is an undisputed fact. The size of the diamond, the setting it is placed in, and the use of other diamonds or gemstones in a ring can often drive the ring’s price into the thousands of dollars.

Secondly, as the green lifestyle becomes the lifestyle choice of increasing amounts of people, the monetary value of a diamond is seen as less and less important. More individuals begin to view the use of diamonds as a depletion of a natural resource and as source for the destruction of natural habitats. Concern for the environment also gives way, for many people, for the methods in which diamonds are mined. Unfortunately, in many unstable countries, controls of diamond mines are used as a means of funding illicit terrorist activities. Similarly, there are couples who view the purchase of diamond jewelry, engagement or otherwise, as more of a societal expectation, rather than a personal choice.

Engagement and wedding rings are most commonly made of a gemstone set in a precious metal. However, they can be constructed from a variety of different natural materials, such as jade, coral, or even wood. If a couple decides that they would like to have a traditional ring though, they may wish to purchase an antique ring or to purchase a secondhand ring from a pawn shop or estate sale. Popular alternatives for traditional wedding rings include the use of rings that have are significant of a cultural heritage. For example, the use of Celtic jewelry is a popular alternative for those who have Irish ancestry. There are even couples who choose to get tattoos around their ring fingers in lieu of a wedding ring. Regardless of the type of engagement or wedding ring that a couple chooses, it is meant to be a symbol of their lifelong commitment to one another.

Product Spotlight:

The 2.5 carat Asscher Petite solitaire features a 2.5 carat asscher inspired center stone with a single row of pave` set rounds accenting the slopes of the shank. The shank measures 3mm at the widest point. The total carat weight is approximately 3 carats.

Price: $450.00

Synthetic Diamonds: The Affordable Option to Natural Diamonds

Synthetic diamonds have increased in popularity in recent years as an alternative to traditional diamonds. Although they do not increase in value, as a true diamond will, they are a much more financially affordable alternative to the traditional diamond. To the naked eye, a synthetic diamond is almost indistinguishable from its authentic counterpart. With the use of a jeweler’s glass; however, an individual can distinguish a synthetic diamond from the genuine item. Furthermore, synthetic diamonds tend to be slightly more susceptible to damage than true diamonds. If the diamond in question contains nicks or scratches, it is probably a synthetic diamond.

Synthetic diamonds are generally constructed from one of three different types of materials. The most popular material in the construction of synthetic diamonds is cubic zirconia. These types of synthetic diamonds are distinguishable from the genuine item by its considerably heavier weight and a noticeable lack of flaws in the diamond. Cubic zirconia diamonds are available in a wide range of colors, and they are well known for their durability. The second commonly used type of synthetic diamond is constructed from moissanite. Although it does occur naturally in the wild, the substance is rather hard to obtain. Therefore, the vast majority of moissanite diamonds are manufactured. Its appearance resembles that of a colorless diamond.

The third type of substance commonly used to create synthetic diamonds is rose quartz. This material can be treated through heat processes in order to more closely resemble a true diamond. Quartz rings most closely resemble pink and yellow colored diamonds.  Although its appearance will never resemble a colorless diamond, it is the most economical and affordable option for a synthetic diamond.

In order to ensure that one’s synthetic diamond closely resembles an authentic diamond, it is important to have the synthetic diamond set in a high quality band. Although there are couples who opt to have the synthetic diamond placed in a cheap setting, this can actually undermine the appearance of the stone. Synthetic diamonds can also be placed in setting where they are accentuated by authentic diamonds or other gemstones. Synthetic diamonds are more affordable than true diamonds; however, if a couple wishes to upgrade to authentic diamonds at a later date, they can always do so. The upgrade could be performed on a significant date in their history, like a fifth or tenth wedding anniversary.

Product Spotlight:

The Ziamond Suspended Princess Solitaire. A 1 carat princess cut stone is suspended and hovers above a river of channel set princess cut stones. It has a total carat weight of 2 carats.

Price: $325.00