Diamonds are the most expensive part of an engagement ring, so you can save a lot of cash by using a diamond alternative as the center stone. “Consider a white sapphire, which is hard enough to withstand daily wear and has a similar color,” says jeweler Jennifer Gandia. “Other traditionally popular gemstones are blue sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Depending on quality, these can be slightly less than a diamond, though truly rare and high-quality stones can sometimes cost more.”
Other non-traditional stones that are getting more popular by the minute? Green tourmaline, peachy-pink morganite, ice-blue aquamarine, and Herkimer diamonds. “These are all great options for clients looking for a lower-priced alternative to a diamond that will still really shine,” adds Gandia.