Utilitarian Alternatives to a Diamond Engagement Ring

There is a reason why a diamond engagement ring continues to be one of the staples of any engagement ceremony; there is simply something about the luxuriant sparkle of this type of stone which strikes a chord in the heart of most human beings. This is why most brides and grooms choose to profess their love through the purchase of a jewel of this kind, and why the majority of significant others are absolutely over-the-moon when they receive them.

The majority but not all. The shifts in collective mentality experienced by Western society in recent years have allowed a new type of no-nonsense, practical-minded bride and groom to rise to the forefront. While this type of person almost certainly existed in periods such as the 1950s, it was not the ‘done thing’ at the time to reject the offer of a diamond engagement ring from your beloved. As a result, most independent-minded men and women chose to conform to the ideal and kept the stone. Present-day society has no such qualms, however, and this type of individual has finally been allowed to stand up and state that he or she would prefer something a little bit more practical than the shiny sparkly rock.

Bear in mind, we are not telling you to get your partner thousands of pounds’ worth of appliances; there are a few solutions in which practicality and potential enjoyment meet comfortably in the middle, and it is that type we have included below.

A Holiday

Holidays are great; romantic holidays are even better. And unless you are heading to one of the ‘playgrounds of the rich’, taking a one- or two-week break with your significant other is highly unlikely to set you back three months’ pay. If you are still willing to spend that amount, why not put it towards a longer holiday, where you and your partner can really explore and enjoy your location of choice, while maximising the potential for romantic and intimate moments? There will be no sparkly rock on anyone’s finger, but the dozens of photographs and even higher number of memories will almost certainly make up for it.

Down Payments

True, acting practically somewhat negates the magic, fairy-tale-like quality of an engagement; the fact remains, however, that sooner or later it will be time to start thinking about building a life together. So, if your partner is willing to forgo the diamond engagement ring, why not use that money to secure a nice house or flat, or even a car? Again, these may seem like stolid and dull options for spending money, not to mention unromantic, but they may come to be very appreciated by both you and your partner in future years.

A Pet

Finally, nothing says ‘romance’ like a fuzzy puppy or kitten, and even an old toothless shelter mutt, a veteran of the street wars, can have its charm to the right couple. So why not do the right thing and spend the money you would invest in a sparkly rock to pamper a new lifelong companion and welcome it into your soon-to-be family? The animal will be thankful, and in time, so may you.

So, a shiny stone need not be the be-all, end-all of romance; with a little imagination, there are plenty of good alternatives to a diamond ring for couples to choose from!

Laura L Bolick is the founder of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From a diamond engagement ring to princess cuts and engraved bands, we have ideas and opinions covering all the options. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose that perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.