Step away from the bling: Why the diamond is out and the gemstone is in.

The thing about trends is that they never, ever stay still. For decades, engagements have always been about the diamond, darling.

It was tradition, of course. Everybody did it. We were expected to fork out more than three months’ pay on a single ring that often (arguably) looked just a little bit like everyone’s else’s.

But diamonds aren’t the only rocks out there. Yes, many of us have been convinced they’re all about tradition – a super savvy PR campaign even made us think we were buying a little bit of history.

So as more of us clue onto the idea that diamonds may be on their way out, and that there are a wealth of other beautifully crafted gemstones at our disposal, engagements are starting to become a lot more colourful, a lot brighter and a lot more creative.

But more importantly, engagements are getting cheaper. Brides and grooms-to-be are starting to realise that the easiest way to make an engagement their own is to buck stereotypes, step away from the status quo and wear things that are unique. Gemstones, it seems, are the way to go.

Not everyone is looking for a diamond anymore. Cash Converters knows this, alongside the already existing 150 stores around Australia, there is also Webshop , their online store with over 40,000 jewellery pieces available online. Right now, with just the click of a button, you can start browsing.

And the best part? They have over 8000 nine-carat gold rings starting from $35. Yep, from $35, furthermore Cash Converters boasts a range of classic, vintage and contemporary pieces that you won't find elsewhere. And if you're worried about quality assurance, rest assured, most come with third party valuation certificates, so you know this baby is a good one.

So with that in mind, it might be time to bid farewell to the diamond and say hello to a hell of a lot more savings...or an upgraded honeymoon.

These are just some of the gemstones making waves in the engagement scene:

Emerald.

If May is your birth month - or even if it isn't - the deep green of an Emerald may be the perfect, colourful engagement ring for you. Most emeralds have "inclusions" (or in human speak, "imperfections") that make each stone one of a kind. Because why wouldn't you make sure your ring is as unique as your relationship?

Furthermore Cash Converters offer a 3rd party valuation certificate with every purchase giving you peace of mind knowing you are getting what you pay for. So to avoid any surprising discoveries later on in the marriage...

Morganite.

Morganite isn't as well-known as its more flamboyant gemstone friends, but it's a beautifully subtle stone. Naturally, and like many other gemstones, it can range in shade from pale pink to a soft violet.

Morganite is proving to be a rising engagement ring trend for a couple of reasons: Firstly, it bucks the diamond protocol subtly, and secondly, it sits well in a rose gold band. The latter works well considering how in-vogue rose gold is at the moment. Morganite and rose gold might be your ultimate match.

Aquamarine.

Aquamarine is the birthstone for March and the gem of the 19th wedding anniversary. So, if you propose with this bright spark, it may mean you've locked in at least 19 years of marriage, which in 2017 is a solid number.

And if it doesn't, at least you've proposed with a ring that, according to the Gemological Institute of America, "is thought to enhance the happiness of marriages", meaning those 19 years may be some of your best! If you're browsing on screen and unsure if an aquamarine gemstone will work in your ring, you can simply check out the item in-store at any Cash Converters before making the purchase. You can't muck it up.

Ruby.

Ahh, the ruby, long-held as one of the more popular gemstones of our time still isn't going anywhere. The fiery red stone has a long history of symbolising love, courage and passion and for this reason is a popular gemstone for engagements and seen as a constant fashion favourite.

Coloured Sapphires.

As one of the "big three" when it comes to gemstones, it's hard to lose when it comes to Sapphires. They come in a wide range of colours, and according to GIA, the more intense the colour, the more valuable the stone.

Coloured diamonds.

And after all this time, if you're still sitting here convinced you want a diamond, why not try a coloured one? It might be a win-win. You hold onto the idea that an engagement should involve diamonds and you're able to make your mark on your own engagement with something unique.

Let the online window shopping begin!

What stone would your dream engagement ring have? 

This content was created with thanks to our brand partner Cash Converters.