Many couples hesitantly dream of unique and ethical engagement rings. They will be relieved to discover that the diamond ring is not as traditional as society believes. While engagement rings have been in play since the Romans of the 13th century, diamonds didn't make their way on to that scene until the late 19th century.
Even farther down the line, the seemingly unbreakable "rule" that all engagement rings must feature a diamond front and center didn't begin until the 1930s. History proves that couples can boldly choose alternatives to the diamond engagement ring that won't hurt their wallets, consciences, or personal styles.
Eco-friendly and Conflict-free Engagement Rings
There are several reasons women and their partners are looking for something different. One of the main concerns is ethics. Many diamonds are mined at the expense of human lives. Conflict diamonds come from places such as Sierra Leone, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, and Angola, where the diamond trade business not only employs young children, but also uses their diamonds to fund terrorist groups and illegal operations. Conflict diamonds are sometimes called blood diamonds, to represent the lives lost in pursuit of those shiny gemstones.
Environmental concerns can also turn couples away from purchasing traditional engagement rings. The mining process involves tearing through the natural ground, and the use of harsh chemicals which get left behind in the Earth long after the mining team has left for new areas.
Cheap Engagement Rings
The price tag of a traditional engagement ring could be a deal breaker. Young couples starting their lives together, not to mention planning a wedding, could use all the resources they could get. Some religions even discourage the use of expensive or flashy jewelry.
Strongly feminist women might resent an expensive engagement ring, remembering the days when a man would "buy" his bride with an expensive ring – merely a form of financial collateral. Luckily, inexpensive engagement rings don't have to look cheap, and their sentimental value can easily match that of a giant diamond.
Unique Engagement Rings
Somewhere among all the morals, principles, and budgets associated with alternative engagement rings, there are also women who just want something a little different. Some of the most beautiful and unique engagement rings are diamond-free and proud.
Alternative Engagement Ring Options
- Certified conflict-free diamonds. An engaged couple can talk to their jeweler about diamonds that have been tracked to ensure their origins and environmental impact.
- Rubies. The color red represents passion and love.
- Aquamarines. These light blue gemstones are traditionally given as wedding gifts to ensure a long and happy marriage.
- Pearls. Instead of being mined from the ground of the Earth, pearls are found in oysters and mussels.
- Birthstones. Before diamonds, the giving of birthstones as engagement rings was tradition.
- Recycled rings. Not only are vintage rings classically beautiful, they can be cheaper, unique, and eco-friendly.
- Man-made diamonds or gemstones. These rocks are considerably cheaper and eco-friendly.
- Wooden rings. These symbols of commitment are a growing trend among couples striving for simplicity and an eco-friendly lifestyle
- Ring tattoos. For the more daring, these "rings" can make a statement about wedding rings being about symbolism, not status or money.
- No ring. Opting out altogether, or using the same ring as both an engagement ring and a wedding ring is perfectly okay. Each partner wearing just one ring can represent commitment to gender equality.
Choosing an Alternative Engagement Ring
Whatever ring a couple chooses, it is important to consider not only present day values, but also what might be valued in the future. Engagement rings are meant to be worn forever. Don't pick something today that might be regretted 5, 10, or 25 years from now. Couples should consult each other, think about what the engagement ring really means to them, and consider all their options.
Kristin Wood - K. Wood is a freelance writer from the Southeast who specializes in content about education, health, business, home management, and ...
