Is a white sapphire a suitable alternative to diamonds? Professional answers only please!?

Question

So just like everyone else who's asked this question, I am displeased with the diamond industry and it's takeover of the institution of marriage. I don't buy into the marketing hype they've been pushing for a century, but since so many people do, I'm finding it rather difficult to find someone who actually knows something about the alternatives. I've read about how white sapphires are similar in appearance and strength to diamonds, but my main concern is that they appear cloudy and don't "sparkle". Perhaps it's bad photography, but that's my problem. They're so hard to come by, I have no idea where to start looking for one in person to see the difference myself, and I am certainly NOT ordering one online. I've seen the technical analysis of the differences, but that means nothing. Does anyone with experience with them know if they are all cloudy like that or if they can actually look like great stones?

A white sapphire does suit me, since it's my birthstone, it's been my favorite stone since I can remember, and I appreciate the qualities of strength and variety it offers. Also, apparently it stands for commitment, so what other stone to have as a wedding signature?

Also, I thought the white sapphire would be good because it IS a precious stone but it's still clear. My personality is all things classic and elegant, so a clear stone is really the best match for me. That's why I don't want a colored sapphire.

Answer 1

A white sapphire should not appear "muddy", at least not one of any quality. However, a white sapphire will not sparkle, either. The sapphire does not have the light refracting qualities diamonds do. They are certainly beautiful stones in their own right, but if you want a sparkly, clear stone, sapphire will not do what you want it to.
If you want a sparkly clear stone that will not fade or become cloudy over time, get a moissanite. CZ will cloud up rather quickly, and neither sapphire nor topaz have the proper reflecting capabilities. A moissanite is harder then a sapphire, so it is just about as durable as a diamond, and is well-known for it's fire and brilliance.
Hope this helped!

Answer 2

If you're unhappy with the diamond industry and don't like what it represents, why not get something totally different that totally suits you? If a white saphire is similar (I do not know; I don't know jewls) to a diamond, you might send the subtle message that you approve especialy if people don't know the difference.

I wasn't keen on diamonds either. I'm still not. However, my husband proposed with a full carat one. I thought it was too flashy and too ostentatious. (Then I found out the cost. Ugh.) The ring is nothing but overpriced metal and rock. Yet, I didn't refuse and the personal symbolism is much more valuable.

Anyway, I can understand from where you're coming. I hope this has been of some help.

Answer 3

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RE:
Is a white sapphire a suitable alternative to diamonds? Professional answers only please!?
So just like everyone else who's asked this question, I am displeased with the diamond industry and it's takeover of the institution of marriage. I don't buy into the marketing hype they've been pushing for a century, but since so many people do, I'm finding it rather difficult...

Answer 4

White sapphires are NOT diamonds in every sense of the word. I, also do not like whats going on in the diamond industry. However, white sapphires are not a suitable replacement for diamonds because of their "muddy" appearance and cut. Nothing captures and displays the light like a diamond! If you want the diamond look and you are not seeking diamonds for a wedding engagement ring, consider "Absolutes"! If you are wanting a stone for an engagement ring and you are steadfast against diamonds, consider a precious stone. It revolves around what you believe anyway.