What’s in a Ring? Breaking the Rules of Engagement . . .

So it’s the big moment women dream of. The one that comes when she least expects it, and he drops down on one knee and asks her to be his partner in this crazy, uncertain, beautiful world of ours. And most of the time, once the knee has dropped that is, he pulls a ring from his jacket pocket and slips it onto her finger. (These are usually the first pics to make it onto Facebook, btw.) Tears fall, friends cheer, a photographer waves from behind the bush he’s been hiding under for the past twenty minutes, and  . . .  well, diamonds sparkle.

Or do they?

Blame it on the economy, blame it on Kate Middleton, blame it on the uncanny ability women (and couples) have grown over the past few years to think outside the box, but diamonds aren’t the only stones that shine, and more and more couples are opting for engagement jewelry that ventures outside the tradition of gifting shiny, polished carbon.

Diamonds are beautiful of course. This is by no means a diamond bashing party. But sapphires are really pretty too. Again, just ask Kate Middleton.

In recent years artisan engagement rings have become increasingly popular. Sure, the price can be a little easier for guys to handle in this uncertain economy, and that’s probably definitely a contributing factor. But now more than ever, our culture seems to be embracing diversity in all its forms, engagement jewelry being no exception.

Just check out this gallery of absolutely gorgeous artisan engagement rings by Bario Neal here. From rough, unpolished diamonds, to precious stones, to artfully plied and twisted metals, the rings are unique and gorgeous. As gorgeous as any diamond in my opinion.

TurtleLove.com has an even larger selection of diverse vintage and artisan engagement and wedding sets, many of them with a distinct, well, indie quality to them, that in many ways is more original and romantic than the traditional solitaires that have been the norm for so many years. Bride’s personalities actually have the opportunity to be reflected in the ring they’re going to be wearing around for the rest of their lives.

So if you haven’t thought about it, maybe think about it.

What’s your opinion? Tell us in the comments, lovelies!