Before diamonds, it was customary to pick a stone of importance, like a birthstone, or favorite color. Some gemstones are thought to give good luck, help you sleep better. If you can think of a problem, the ancients thought of a gem to cure it.
The first real diamond engagement ring was in 1477. Given by Archduke Maximilian of Austria, to his bride. Just like us all wanting the jewelry we see on stars today, it sparked a huge trend. So, if you decide diamond's are not for you, you aren't alone.
If you are not a fan of diamonds, but also don't want a colored stone as your center, you could get some of the clear alternatives.
First up, I suggest white sapphire. On the hardness scale, it ranks as a nine so it's great for everyday wear. It's pretty and stronger than a clear quarts, but does lack the fire diamonds are known for.
The second best is moissanite. Moissanite is a man made diamond. And honestly they look great. Most jewelers have a hard time telling them apart from diamonds. As a jeweler who sells this, they all have kind of a greenish-yellow hue. Yellow is normal in diamonds, but the green is the give away. There are so no such thing as a colorless moissanite (at least not yet).
Ultimately, I am a fan of you getting what you want, you are the one who has to wear the ring.
