Growing numbers of couples seeking engagement rings are turning to coloured, lab-grown or semi-precious stones, as well as ethically sourced metals, for their jewellery. Online marketplaces such as Pinterest, Instagram and Etsy have helped consumers move away from the traditional diamond ring, disrupting the gemstone industry as they go. As well as offering a wider choice, "alternative" jewellery costs less; a one-carat grey diamond costs $up to $4,000, compared with 1,000 for its brilliant-cut counterpart.
Growing numbers of couples seeking engagement rings are turning to coloured, lab-grown or semi-precious stones, as well as ethically sourced metals, for their jewellery. Online marketplaces such as Pinterest, Instagram and Etsy have helped consumers move away from the traditional diamond ring, disrupting the gemstone industry as they go. As well as offering a wider choice, "alternative" jewellery costs less; a one-carat grey diamond costs $1,000, compared with up to $4,000 for its brilliant-cut counterpart.