Contrary to popular belief diamonds aren’t the only gemstone options when it comes set of rings for couples.

 Millions of marketing dollars are responsible for the huge popularity of mined stones. De Beers is the one responsible for this slick marketing campaign. 

 The well-known diamond company worked together with an advertising agency to create the public perception that diamonds represent wealth, royalty, and prosperity.

 What did they do? Good question!

 They created a brilliant plan "to create a situation in which almost everyone pledging marriage felt compelled to purchase couples jewelry sets."

 Their campaign strategy clearly worked because diamonds are today one of most desired gemstones. Engagement rings and wedding bands, as well as countless matching necklaces for couples, are made from diamonds.

 There are plenty of engagement rings that don't have diamonds. They are still beautiful, and are the perfect choice for those who prefer something different.

 The center stone of an engagement ring need not be a "traditional" gemstone. Instead, it can be a different type. You have a wide variety of stones available for engagement rings. The best part is that many gemstone engagement rings are cheaper than diamonds. They're a good choice for people on a budget. You can choose from a wide range of engagement rings with unusual designs, including those made out of lab diamonds and gemstones.

 If you're looking for non-diamond rings, then you've come to the right spot. You can read on to find out what are the best options on the market for non-diamond rings.

 Moissanite Engagement Rings

 Henri Moissan was the French scientist who first discovered Moissanite. Moissanite may look like diamonds to some, but there are many differences between them. Moissanite is twice as sparkly as diamonds and has a similar appearance to disco balls.

 Like diamonds, they are quite hard. Moissanite gems are a solid 9.5 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.

 Why should Moissanite Mohs be important to you? The harder a gemstone is, the more unlikely you are to damage it accidentally. A moissanite ring is a great diamond alternative for brides that want a ring with extra sparkle but are on a budget.

 Sapphire Engagement Rings

 You are looking for a colored stone engagement ring as an alternative to the traditional white diamond ring. Then sapphires might be the right choice for you. Sapphires are another of the most powerful gemstones. They're perfect for women in a hurry. They were popularized in modern culture by the British Royal family. Kate Middleton, as well as Princess Diana, both wore sapphires on their wedding day.

 Sapphires' beauty and value should be evident by the mere fact that the royal family uses them. This is especially true for brides who don't prefer the traditional diamond engagement ring.

 Sapphires can be found in a wide range of colors. The most common is dark blue. Sapphires exude elegance and class, making them the perfect choice for brides with a more conservative style who want a subtle look.

 Fun fact: sapphires only appear in red.

 Ruby Engagement Rings

 Both sapphires, and rubies, are made of corundum. The sapphire and ruby are soul sisters. They are both symbols of love and passion.

 Rubies can be given to people of high status or royalty as a gift. Although they may not be the cheapest choice, rubies are strong and durable gemstones.

 If you're worried about your budget, lab-grown diamonds can be more affordable. A ruby engagement ring is a good option for couples that love the color of red.

 Fun fact: Mark Zuckerberg is the founder of social media. He proposed to Priscilla Priscilla Priscilla Priscilla Priscilla Priscillia Chan using a ruby.

 Topaz Engagement Rings

 Topaz gems are a good alternative to diamonds because they're affordable and come in different colors. A blue topaz ring set in white-gold is popular with many couples. Comparing blue topaz with aquamarine, the blue topaz engagement ring is less expensive and still stunning. It's classy without being too over the top.

 Topazes are known to lose their shine with time. The upside is that they are extremely resistant to scratching, which makes them ideal for brides-to-be on the move.

 Topazes are the only gemstones to actually decrease in value with increasing size. You can now buy an engagement ring of a higher caliber at a cheaper price.

 Fun fact: originally, the Braganza diamond that is part of Portugal's Crown Jewels (hence the name) was believed to have been a diamond. The massive topaz stone was found to be a topaz, not a real diamond.

 Emerald Engagement Rings

 Emeralds are the most popular member of beryls and one of the oldest gems ever mined. This precious gem has been around for over 5000 years.

 Despite what you may not have known, emeralds can be more expensive than diamonds. However, they can be more affordable.

 The bottomless green color of emeralds offers harmony and natural beauty. It is beautiful and a favorite of brides who enjoy the outdoors. It is said that the color of these precious stones has a calming influence, so they are a great choice for couples that value peace and serenity.

 A one-carat emerald will cost you 1/4th the price of an equivalent one-carat diamond. Emeralds that are made in a laboratory can be even cheaper, making them a great choice for engagement rings without diamonds.

 Fun fact: Cleopatra was a fan of emeralds.