When you get engaged, one of the first things everyone asks is to see your wedding ring. Your family, friends, and coworkers are probably expecting a diamond, but many couples are throwing tradition out the window and going with a gemstone engagement ring instead.
The good news" No stone is off limits! Just imagine a romantic emerald, ruby, or sapphire for your center stone. Check out some of our favorite options below?plus, where you can buy them!

Ruby
Any Wizard of Oz fan knows that rubies are not only popular for their color, but as a classic choice of stone as well. Rubies come in an array of tones, from deep red to pink, and they pair well with white and yellow metals.
The stone itself is super durable, and you?ll pay a higher price for it. Rubies typically have a higher price-per-carat than other colored gems. Of course, rubies are still cheaper than traditional diamonds. Pictured above: 14K white gold Neil Lane ruby engagement ring. $3,999, kay.com

Sapphire
Another classic option is a brilliant sapphire. The stone is a great choice as a diamond alternative, due to its superb durability. It?s perfect for everyday use and requires minimal upkeep.
While your mind probably associates sapphire with the color blue, the stone actually comes in a range of hues, including bright white. Plus, when the light hits the stone just right, it exhibits a natural shift in color. It?s a truly lustrous option!
Pictured above: Isola sapphire and diamond halo 3-stone ring. $2,100, ...