Does an engagement ring have to be a diamond?

Answer 1

definitely not
but saphire ( stone is dark blue ) is real nice

Answer 2

NO! The idea that an engagement ring has to be a diamond originated as a marketing slogan. The De Beers company started it long ago. That's not necessarily problematic, but if you look at the history of diamond mining and distribution, you'll find some scary stuff. Most of the diamond mines are located in Africa. Many of the civil wars fought there are for the control of the production and distribution of these precious stones. There have been efforts by the U.N., politicians, etc., to certify that these "conflict diamonds" do not enter the market, but there is no way to know that the diamond you buy didn't cause misery somewhere on the other side of the world. Just google "conflict diamonds" to get some more info. Here's a good website:
http://tinyurl.com/jjsv2
hope this helps!

Answer 3

My engagement ring is a beautiful round purple sapphire (or ruby depending on who you ask) in a classic prong setting. I don't like diamonds and was very specific about it. I told my husband when we were talking about getting married, before we got engaged, that I DID NOT want a diamond. Again, I was very specific, but most women DO want a diamond. Every jeweler my husband talked to tried to talk him into a diamond. Talk to your girl and see what she thinks. Bring it up casually if you want it to be a surprise. Princess Diana's engagement ring was a blue sapphire surrounded by smaller diamonds. You could mention that a girl you work with has a colored engagement ring and see what her reaction is. Good luck.

I see that some people have mentioned tanzanites, emeralds, pearls, and opals for engagement rings. All of these stones do not make good engagement rings for different reasons. Tanzanites should not be worn during the day, their color fades from exposure to sunlight. Emeralds are too brittle to be worn every day. Pearls are too delicate for everyday wear. Opals can shatter, if they are hit just right with the least bit of pressure. You really want to talk to a jeweler before you choose a stone, they can guide you regarding the stability of different gems. Corundum (rubies and sapphires) comes in a gazillion different colors and is the second hardest gem so it makes a good engagement ring. An engagement ring has to be able to stand up to everyday wear and tear.

Answer 4

Traditionally and typically thy are diamonds-- but they don't have to be. Think of all the 'colored diamonds' that celebs are getting-- that translates into other precious gems for us non-millonaires.

If its something she likes that's all that matters.

It might be best though to compromise (if you have the budget) and get a diamond center stone and then other gems on the side to add some color.

But in truth-- if you buy it from your heart-- and she loves you, it won't matter what the ring looks like. --you can always 'upgrade' it later if moneys the problem---its the wedding band that's blessed during a ceremony and that shouldn't change-- the engagement ring can be changed if both people agree (you or she may not want to for sentimental reasons-- in that case-- anniversary bands can add on.

Answer 5

no, but it depends on the girl. some girls are really adamant about having a diamond. me, not so much. i'm not even going to have an engagement ring, we just picked me out a wedding band with a white sapphire in the middle of it, so it will be kinda like an engagement ring, but it will be my wedding band.

talk about jewelry to your chick and feel out her reaction to diamonds and not diamonds, she will let you know.

Answer 6

Traditionally it is, but I don't see any reason why it can't be anything else! I know someone who has a gorgeous sapphire engagement ring, and it is totally unique. If you are a guy, just make sure that this is her idea otherwise you may seem like you are cheaping out.

Answer 7

No, it doesn't but that is what most females expect an engagement ring to be. It could just be a platinum band with both of your initials in it. Just get something that means something to you and that you know you will be pleased with as well as her.

Answer 8

Of course not. My Future sister in laws ring is tanzinite and tiny diamond accents. It's beautiful! The only bad thing is that colored rings sometimes offset outfits. Unlike diamonds, which traditionally are white, colored stones are akward with certain outfits. It's up to you and your future fiance.

Answer 9

No, as long as the person you are asking you to marry Wants something different from a diamond
Hey Mary My Grandma had a cigar ring wedding band for awhile until my grandpa could afford to get her a real ring!

Answer 10

no! it does not have to b, a diamond. it can b. what ever u want to buy for the engagement ring!! also it does not have to b. too cost too much,jest as long as u 2 love each other that's all that matter's... oooo!! and good luck !!!

Answer 11

No. More and more people are getting unique about their engagement/wedding rings. Go with what the bride wants.