Although most people think of diamonds when discussing engagement rings, you might want to consider a few alternatives when it comes time to pick out your rings.  If you are on a tight budget and you don’t mind breaking away from having a “real” diamond ring, you might want to consider a couple different synthetic substitutes.

Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings

When it come to synthetic diamonds, one of your options is to buy a cubic zirconia ring.  Although cubic zirconia has been around since the 70s, it didn’t start to gain popularity until recently.  Now, a growing number of budget-conscious couples are looking into getting rings with these stones rather than diamonds.  Not only do they retain a highly polished shine, they are also flawless and colorless.  Although cubic zirconia is not as hard as real diamonds, they are heavier and are easier to care for in many ways.

Mossianite Engagement Rings

Mossianite has only been around since the late 90s, but this synthetic diamond also has many benefits over the real deal.  For example, mossianite is more reflective than diamonds, which means they have more shine.  Although diamonds are harder than mossianite, this synthetic diamond is harder than cubic zirconia.  On the down side, mossianite sometime has a slightly green tint.  Therefore, just as when viewing diamonds, be sure to look at a mossianite engagement ring against a black background. That way, you will be more likely to notice any color imperfections before you buy.

Just as with natural diamonds, mossianite and cubic zirconia can both be shaped in a variety of different ways.  Nonetheless, if you are a man trying to impress your lady with a beautiful engagement ring, you better make certain a synthetic diamond is okay with her.  Otherwise, you may find yourself in a whole lot of trouble when you present her with something other than the real deal.