Did you know the idea of an engagement ring specifically being a diamond ring is a new one. It was only due to an extremely shrewd and persistent marketing ploy launched by the De Beers company in the 1930s that the idea of a diamond engagement ring became accepted as the social norm. Before that, a diamond was just one of many choices available to couples.
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The decades long Mad Man style publicity campaign sought to associate diamonds with love and romance — a sentiment that certainly seems to have stuck. The campaign sought to convince the public that diamonds were not just a good choice for an engagement ring they were the only choice. This is of course not true, there are many wonderful alternatives to the diamond available.
So, if bling is not your thing, and you’d prefer a non traditional engagement ring, consider these beautiful alternatives to the traditional diamond.
Gemstone
A gemstone is a great alternative choice. You can choose a gemstone that is of particular significance to your girlfriend such as her birthstone or any stone that you know that she particularly likes. Ruby, sapphire, emerald, there are plenty of wonderful choices to pick from.
Image via: KL Diamonds
Image via: gattea jewellers
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Pearl ring
The only organic gem in the world pearls are one of natures little gifts. Pearl engagement rings are beautiful and elegant and make a wonderful alternative to diamonds.
Image via: aelida.com
Image via; aelida.com
Family heirloom
Handing down a ring that has sentimental value is a lovely and touching idea. Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton with his mother Dianas engagement ring. If you want to roll old school style handing down a family heirloom is certainly a great idea.
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A knot
Perfect for a women of simple tastes.
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