Why Millennials Should Opt For Alternate Diamond Engagement Rings
Some people resent getting stuck with the ‘millennial’ label because it’s often used in a negative context.
Millennials are blamed for this and that, when really we’re just trying to survive in a world that was far kinder to past generations. The truth is, being a millennial means having to make tough choices. We can help you make one of those choices a little bit easier by showing you why, as a millennial, you don’t need a flashy and expensive diamond engagement ring.
The real question anyway is: Do you really need an overly expensive white gold or yellow gold wedding ring? Sure, they look nice, but are they really worth it when you can find reasonably priced alternatives that look just as good?
Financial Reasons
Ring: The Sofia
The first consideration comes down to finances, which you were probably expecting. Millennials have around an average of $28,000 in debt, and this doesn’t even include a mortgage (which most can’t afford). They work hard for low wages, and spend most of their money on ridiculously high housing costs. Then, when you meet the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, you have to look at a dwindling bank account and figure out where you’re going to pull $1,000+ for an engagement ring from.
Do people really care how many carats are on your ring? Maybe they do, maybe they don’t. Should they though? No. Who cares? If you’re going in over your head in debt to have a diamond solitaire ring on your finger, is it really that impressive anyway?
Rings: The Olivia
Is that ring really worth your future savings and your foundation to start a new life together? Most would agree that it’s not. If you want to go on a memorable honeymoon, buy a house or start a family, you have a better way to spend that money.
This doesn’t mean you have to settle for an unattractive ring, though! These days, alternate engagement rings are just as beautiful as their counterparts, sometimes even more so. Modern Gents offers everything from extravagant simulated diamonds to simple rose gold plated bands.
Memories > Material Items
Rings: The Zoey and The Scarlett
If there's one thing us millennials love, it's experiences. Music festivals, flight tickets around the world, new restaurants and installments, there are a million activities we'd book in a heartbeat if we managed to scrape up enough money. So why spend money on something as trivial as an expensive diamond engagement ring?
Save the extra cash and book that ticket to Greece or put it on the down payment of that music festival your favorite artist is headlining. Memories hold much more weight than some silly diamond. Few things are better than singing your heart out with your best friends front row of that amazing band who never tours, or watching a gorgeous sunset on a Thailand beach with your significant other.
With the materials and resources we have access to in present day, alternative engagement rings are just as beautiful as the ones that come in blue boxes. They look and shine like a real diamond – for less than a round-trip ticket to your dream destination.
Ethical Reasons
Rings: The Grace and The Forever
Diamonds have been mired in controversy ever since the term “blood diamonds” made its way to consumers. Blood diamonds are diamonds that have been mined in war zones and then sold to pay for those war efforts. Also called conflict diamonds, these diamonds are banned but still make their way into the market, representing an estimated four percent of all diamonds sold (though it’s understandably difficult to get an exact figure).
Even so-called “conflict free” diamonds are flawed and can include blood diamonds due to inconsistencies in certification. By avoiding diamonds altogether, you don’t have to be concerned about that pretty little diamond having ties to bloody conflict. Is a diamond center stone ring really worth rolling the dice on ties to conflict?
Just Having Something Different
Millennials often get a bad rap for being into unique and custom experiences. While it’s not an unfair label to give millennials, who said that was a bad thing? Is Etsy bad for offering unique and handmade items? Who’s making that case? Why go with the norm when you can get colored gemstones or birthstones on your ring — or even a modern take on the classic gold band?
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with classic gold or sterling silver, but there’s no reason to feel bad for wanting something that’s unique to you. Why stick to the status quo when you know you want an opal engagement ring? Go for it!
Unique engagement rings aren’t just a symbol of your love. They’re also an expression of your personal style. Yes, gold rings look great, but why not think outside of the box? Engagement ring designs are exploding with diverse options so take your time and find something that speaks to you. Want a sapphire engagement ring? Why wouldn’t you? Something more minimalist? Go for it! With so many types of non-traditional engagement rings that won’t cost a fortune, why should you rush into something you don’t love? Your wedding band is a way to stand out for the rest of your life!
If you want even more options, consider a ring set. With a ring and a band that fit together, you’ll have even more style choices. You’ll still have choices of ring styles and popular choices like princess cuts and round cuts to create a unique and stylish piece.
Ring: The Aurora
Have we convinced you to consider a non-traditional engagement ring?
Diamonds have had their time, but new generations are realizing that the hype is exactly that — hype. Diamonds are just a stone. They’re not forever. But you know what is? Love.
When going for inexpensive and ethical, you don’t have to compromise. You can still get the prong setting you love, the perfect bezel or the emerald cut you’ve been eyeing or even that art deco ring with timeless style. You’ll just feel better and save a ton. Sounds like a fair trade.
Whether you're fully on board or still on the fence, why not browse the full collection of Modern Gents rings? We guarantee it'll change your mind!