Be Totally You with a Nontraditional Engagement Ring

In our social media-driven world, it can sometimes be difficult to separate what you want from what everyone else around you wants. And while 86% of engaged couples opt for a traditional diamond engagement ring, that doesn’t mean you have to, too.

Advantages of choosing an alternative engagement ring

There are some important pros to choosing a ring that marches to the beat of its own drum, including:

• Price. Opting for a sapphire, ruby, gemstone or even pearl ring rather than a diamond gives you the opportunity to really manage and embrace your budget. Because these stones tend to come in at lower prices than diamonds, you can elect for a bigger size, more room for sparkle, or a unique setting without having to worry as much about the cost.

• Uniqueness. Who really wants to be the same as everyone else, anyway? Forgoing the traditional ring styles gives you the opportunity to choose a ring that is truly one-of-a-kind. Whether that means adding lots of color, keeping it simple and sleek or drawing from your own well of inspiration, you can be sure your ring will stand out from the crowd.

• Sentimentality. The thing about an engagement ring is that it’s more than just a piece of jewelry – it’s embedded with so much meaning, it can sometimes seem daunting to decide on the perfect one. Choosing something non-traditional means you can create a ring that speaks to you and your relationship with your partner completely.

• Fun. Let’s face it: picking a ring that may seem “unusual” to everyone else is just plain exciting. Not only will you have a beautiful piece, but you get an amazing story to tell all your friends. Whether they like your ring or not, don’t worry! It’s your memory (and jewelry) to treasure as long as your love.

Our favorite picks

Need some inspiration? These nontraditional rings will have you leaving your diamonds at the altar.

This Citrine and Diamond Ring in 14k Rose Gold is vibrant and eye-catching, with a gorgeous sunrise-inspired citrine gemstone and our signature shade of rose gold. The blush and orange combination will stand out on any skin tone.

Love a dark finish? This Black Sapphire and Diamond Ring provides subdued sparkle from twelve brilliant round diamonds and three bezel-set black sapphires. The vintage-inspired style and crafted milgrain detailing is sure to bring out your inner cinema star.

Hand-selected London blue topaz takes center stage in this Pear-Shaped Ring. Quality sterling silver creates a contemporary looped design to add an element of modern style while showcasing the gorgeous 2.75 carat topaz gemstone.

This Mother of Pearl Ring in Sterling Silver highlights iridescent mother-of-pearl along with a risen bead-like outline for a truly unique look. Made from our quality sterling silver, this elegant style shouldn’t be overlooked.

If you love to embrace high-fashion trends this Vintage Halo Light Purple Amethyst and Diamond Ring is for you. With diamond accents, milgrain details and one center light purple amethyst, this 14k rose gold ring will look absolutely stunning on your finger.

For a romantic and retro look, this Vintage Red Garnet and Diamond Ring sparkles beautifully in high-quality 14k yellow gold. One bezel-set garnet gemstone is surrounded by six round diamonds, creating a unique style that’s all your own.

Ready to propose?

These 8 unique proposal ideas will go perfectly with a non-traditional engagement ring! To see more beautiful options, head over to ShaneCo.com and explore our fashion rings or design your own engagement ring, starting with the perfect setting and complemented by your favorite center stone.