Top 5 Alternatives Stones to Traditional Diamond Engagement Rings (Mohs Rating 8+)

When searching for the perfect engagement ring, many couples today are opting for diamond alternatives that offer beauty, durability, and value while still being ethically sourced. Below are the top alternatives, all with a Mohs hardness rating of 8 or higher, ensuring they can withstand everyday wear

What does the Mohs Scale of Hardness measure? Why does stone hardness matter?

The Mohs Scale of Hardness measures a mineral's resistance to scratching, ranking them from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest). For gemstones, hardness is crucial because it determines the stone’s durability in everyday wear. A higher Mohs rating means the stone is less prone to scratching or damage, making it more suitable for frequently worn jewelry like engagement rings. For example, diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs scale, making them the hardest and most durable gemstone, while softer stones may require more care or less wear.

Best Alternatives to Traditional Diamond Engagement Rings, Ranking of the Best Gemstones 

1. Colored Diamonds (10): Colored diamonds offer the same brilliance and durability as traditional white diamonds, but with the added allure of vibrant hues. These rare and stunning gems come in a variety of colors, from blues and pinks to yellows and greens. Both natural and lab-grown colored diamonds are available, making them a popular choice for those seeking a unique, statement-making piece. Like traditional diamonds, they are exceptionally hard, making them a durable option for everyday wear while offering an elegant and eye-catching alternative.         
2. Moissanite (9.25): Known for its unmatched sparkle, moissanite is a great option for those comparing “moissanite vs diamond for engagement rings.” Lab-grown, it’s an ethical and budget-friendly choice, offering excellent brilliance and durability. Moissanite has a unique rainbow-sparkle that some find more fiery than a diamond. 
3. Sapphires (9): Sapphires, known for their rich blue hues, are a timeless and elegant choice for engagement rings. Ranking 9 on the Mohs scale, they offer exceptional durability, making them ideal for daily wear. Beyond blue, sapphires come in a variety of colors such as pink, yellow, and white, offering versatility and personal expression. These gems are part of the corundum family, known for their brilliance and resilience, making sapphire one of the best gemstones for engagement rings, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated, colorful, and durable alternative to diamonds. 
4. Ruby (9): A gemstone of fiery red color, rubies are cherished for their bold beauty and incredible durability, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale. Part of the corundum family, like sapphires, rubies have been symbols of passion, love, and power for centuries. Their intense color comes from trace amounts of chromium, making each ruby unique. Rubies are highly sought after for non-diamond engagement rings due to their striking hue and resilience, capable of withstanding daily wear. Their timeless appeal ensures they remain a top choice for couples seeking a bold, symbolic ring. 
5. Alexandrite (8.5): Known for its rare color-changing properties, Alexandrite is one of the most fascinating gemstones available. Shifting from greenish hues in daylight to red or purplish tones under incandescent light, it offers a truly unique experience. With a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, it's both durable and suitable for everyday wear, making it an excellent option for gemstone engagement rings. Its rarity and color-shifting brilliance make Alexandrite a stunning, eye-catching choice for those seeking a distinctive and personal gemstone.
   

    

*Bonus Gemstone*

Emerald (7.5-8): Emeralds are slightly softer than diamonds and other gemstones, meaning they require extra care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Due to their natural inclusions (or "jardin"), emeralds are more prone to chipping or cracking, especially with daily wear. To protect your emerald, it’s recommended to choose protective settings like bezels and avoid wearing the stone during strenuous activities. Emeralds are also often treated with oils to enhance their appearance, so avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures that may compromise their clarity over time. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional professional check-ups can help keep your emerald looking its best. 

Each of these non-diamond gemstones offer a perfect balance of beauty, individuality, and strength, making them the ideal choice for couples looking to explore popular alternatives to diamond rings or seeking ethical alternatives to diamonds. While exploring colored gemstone options, remember that durability and ethical sourcing make these gemstones the best center-stone choices for your forever piece.