7 reasons why fake diamond rings are so popular
1. Guys are buying them for proposals
Once upon a time a traditional marriage proposal typically played out like this. Your partner would bend down on one knee, request your hand in marriage and then present a sparkling diamond ring.
But how’s a guy who knows squat about jewelry supposed to ace the diamond engagement ring choice?
What if you get the decision wrong? How does your bride-to-be tell you that they don’t like it? And yet, you want them to have the ring they would choose for themselves.
In some cases it’s a fail. The internet is awash with forums and message boards where women vent their frustration. They are disappointed over their partner’s choice of diamond engagement ring. In one recent survey 72% of women say they wouldn’t trust their partner to choose their diamond engagement ring.
Enter one raison d’être of a fake diamond ring.It’s a ring for her to wear until the “real” ring is found – ideally together, because only she knows what she wants.
PHOTO 1: Simulated diamond rings can sparkle like crazy and are ideal for use as a placeholder or temporary engagement ring. A placeholder ring or temporary engagement ring looks like the real deal. Its purpose is to act as a “stand-in” ring to make a surprise marriage proposal with. Photo above is of an elegant 1.7 carat kite shaped simulated diamond ring from Luxuria Diamonds.
2. So he can make a surprise proposal
“Will you marry me?” According to the Knot survey (2017) 91 percent of US grooms propose with these words. Those four little words can turn the most level-headed person into a ball of jitters—and who can blame them? To say asking the love of your life to spend forever with you is nerve-racking would be an understatement.
Beyond hoping they’ll say “yes,” there’s pressure to have a great story to tell your loved ones and future family. The key to that is to keep the whole proposal plan a complete secret and a surprise!
One in three marriage proposals in America are a surprise. Even though you’ve discussed getting married, the marriage proposal itself can – and should – be a surprise. Fake diamond rings solve the problem of surprise. You don’t have to give the game away by asking her what style of engagement ring she likes. This is because once she says yes – you can later shop for your “forever ring” together. Trust us, she’ll love that idea! And besides the simulated diamond ring you proposed with can take on a second life as a travel ring. Clever chap!
PHOTO 2:An artificial diamond ring is perfect for a surprise marriage proposal. With less effort expended in buying the ring you can focus your attention on what’s really important. What’s really important is a thoughtful and well-orchestrated marriage proposal! If she says yes you can shop together later for the “forever” ring.
3. What if she says NO!
According to one British survey, nearly one in four women has turned down a marriage proposal! A recent article about marriage by Psychology Today noted that public proposals had a higher rate of rejection than private ones.
Consider for a moment that the guy probably has bought a diamond engagement ring to propose with. It’s a big investment. According to The Knot 2021 Jewelry and Engagement Study, the average cost of an engagement ring is currently $6,000.
What happens to the ring if she says no? A diamond engagement ring typically loses 50% of its value as soon as you leave the jeweller. Not all jewellers will offer refunds.
There is a much smarter way, especially if you are not sure if she’ll yes or really like your $6000 ring. Propose instead with a placeholder ring (temporary engagement ring). It limits your losses if she says no.
Fake engagement rings are perfect for a surprise proposal. Further, high quality fake engagement rings are an exceptionally good substitute for diamond; don’t cost the earth and give you some breathing space after the proposal is accepted to shop for the forever ring together. This way she gets a ring which perfectly suits her hand and her tastes. And if she doesn’t, she can’t blame you!
New data shows an insane number of women have turned down marriage proposals. Nearly one in four women has turned down a marriage proposal!
4. A “Travel Ring” to control potential loss
For all the fun of travel, keeping your valuables safe can be a constant source of stress. You already have to worry about your kids, your phone, wallet and tablet. Why add your precious and sometimes irreplaceable engagement ring to the mix? There are just too many risks while on the road. Examples:
You could attract the wrong kind of attention.
Its easy to leave the ring on a nightstand inside your hotel room.
You could lose or damage your diamond ring while engaging in a new activity.
Sometimes rings and / or precious stones are heirlooms. These may have passed down through families over generations. Such rings are simply irreplaceable, so travel insurance is of little comfort.
Leaving your diamond ring secure in a safe or safety deposit box at home ensures none of this will happen. Consider a fake diamond ring for travel instead.
PHOTO 3: Fake engagement rings that look real are a sensible idea for travel. Fake rings for travel effectively control the potential loss from theft, misplacement or damage of a precious diamond ring. Why not go colourful? Above is a 1.4 carat lab created emerald ring from the Luxuria® jewelry brand.
PHOTO 3: Fake engagement rings that look real are a sensible idea for travel. Fake rings for travel effectively control the potential loss from theft, misplacement or damage of a precious diamond ring. Why not go colourful? Above is a 5. To keep creeps at bay
Some women find that faux diamond rings can be useful in the office and elsewhere forkeeping creeps at bay by suggesting that you are already in a serious relationship. For authenticity it was important wear fake diamond rings that look real.
This trend was reported by BRIDES magazine in 2019. Brides noted “There’s a worrying new trend of women wearing a fake engagement ring at work—not as a way to proclaim their love and commitment, but rather as a way to deal with customers and co-workers who won’t leave them alone. And it’s happening a lot.”
Harassment can be a problem in the workplace. Many women have reported that wearing fake rings significantly reduces the number of people who hit on them. It appears that when men sight an engagement ring or wedding ring they back off.
What a sad world!
6. To complete your look
Its Friday night cocktails and with dress on and make up applied you are searching for a bit of bling to complete your look. For those who like to show off the beauty of their rings, a fake diamond ring acts as a great stand-in. Cubic zirconia is the go-to stand-in for traditional diamonds, and many look indistinguishable from the real thing. Fake diamond rings can complete your look without emptying your wallet. Hello beautiful.
VIDEO: Luxuria Diamonds offers exceptionally high-quality diamond simulant engagement rings delivered directly to your door. With many accolades and a huge collection, Luxuria is offering loving couples an incredible alternative to expensive natural diamond jewelry. In the above video we tell you a bit about the Luxuria® brand and why fake diamond rings are the perfect way to pop the question.
7. Simulated Diamond Rings are affordable
Let’s be honest, while diamond engagement rings are beautiful they are hardly affordable. Not everyone has thousands of dollars available to buy a ring.
Some people mistakenly believe that diamonds are an investment that will appreciate in value. In most cases it’s not true. When you buy a diamond, you buy it at retail, which is typically a 100% to 200% markup. Therefore, as soon as you leave the jeweler with a diamond, it has lost over 50% of its value. For this reason, retail jewelers especially the prestigious ones, prefer not to buy back diamonds from customers. This is because the offer they would make would most likely be close to their wholesale cost and be considered insulting.
PHOTO 4: Increasingly, couples consider good quality faux diamond rings or synthetic gemstone rings for engagement. This is a way to contain costs until they can afford the real deal. Photo above of a 1.3 carat halo cubic zirconia ring set from Luxuria Jewellery.
The median budget for a wedding in the USA is around US$20,000. Often at least a portion of that money is borrowed, so married life starts with debt. If money is tight you are probably better off to save it and put it towards an appreciating asset – like a deposit on a house.
Check out our recent blog on affordable engagement rings under 100. Options for cheap engagement rings under $100 include synthetic gemstone, natural semi-precious gemstones and simulated diamond rings. We look at various options available and share our thoughts including pros and cons and how to pick fake diamond rings that look real.
FAQs
What is the most realistic looking fake diamond? ›
Arguably the best faux diamond in existence, moissanite comprises silicon carbide, which means it is almost of the same hardness as a natural diamond. It also has reasonable colorlessness, although the glow is far more colorful than what you would see in a real diamond.
What fake stone looks most like a diamond? ›What Is Moissanite? Moissanite is an interesting gemstone, because it is both synthetic, and a diamond simulant. It is not, however, a synthetic diamond. It is a diamond simulant because it is made to look like a diamond.
What is the name of fake diamonds that look real? ›Simulated diamonds are also known as diamond simulants and include things like cubic zirconia (CZ), moissanite, and YAG. They can also include some natural clear gemstones like white sapphire, white zircon or even clear quartz.
Are there fake diamonds that look real? ›You are not the only one! In today's market, synthetic diamonds such as cubic zirconia and moissanite make very convincing fakes. These synthetics are so real-looking, you and those around you may never realize that the diamond is actually fake.
What is the most sparkly fake diamond? ›Unfortunately, Moissanite has a non-diamond like sparkle that has more color than white light. Natural Moissanite is very rare and most Moissanite in the market place is lab-made. If you are looking for the best fake diamond ring, Moissanite might be the answer.
Does fake diamonds reflect light? ›The way that diamonds reflect light is unique: the inside of a real diamond should sparkle gray and white while the outside should reflect a rainbow of colors onto other surfaces. A fake diamond, on the other hand, will have rainbow colors that you can see inside the diamond as well.
What stone looks like a diamond but is cheaper? ›Moissanites or white sapphires are most comparable to a diamond. While there are visible differences, these gems will look the closest to a diamond while offering a more affordable price. These stones are also high on the Mohs scale of relative hardness, making them suitable for everyday wear.
What is the cheapest stone that looks like a diamond? ›cubic zirconia. Cubic zirconia is a type of simulated diamond that is not a natural stone but a man-made replica. It's the cheapest alternative to a diamond but does not compare in quality to the real thing. A cubic zirconia stone costs $30 or less on average and is often used in costume jewelry.
Will moissanite pass a diamond tester? ›Unlike faux diamonds and other gemstones, moissanite is also an effective conductor of heat. For this reason, when using a diamond tester that detects thermal conductivity, moissanite will pass as a diamond.
Do fake diamonds sparkle like real diamonds? ›Unfortunately, some people are not aware that their diamond is not genuine. Light affects the way a stone sparkles, whether manufactured or genuine. However, synthetic stones can only imitate the brilliance of a genuine diamond. Diamonds reflect light in a way that is unique.
Can you tell the difference between simulated diamonds and real diamonds? ›
Diamond simulants such as moissanite or cubic zirconia (CZ) are physically, chemically, and optically different from lab diamonds. They are visually distinguishable from lab diamonds with the naked eye due to their fiery sparkle and rainbow refractions.
Do fake diamonds still sparkle? ›A fake diamond will have rainbow colors that you can see inside the diamond. “People have a misconception that diamonds sparkle like a rainbow, but they don't,” Hirsch said. “They do sparkle, but it's more of a gray color.
Do fake diamonds float or sink? ›The Floating Test
Drop the diamond into the water. True diamonds have high density and should quickly sink to the bottom of the glass. Fake diamonds are not as thick, and therefore, more likely to float in water.
Moissanite. Currently, the most sought-after fake diamond stone name in the industry is the moissanite. Moissanite has developed a reputation for being the best alternative to natural diamonds since they can rival them in brilliance.
How do you test a diamond with water? ›Test your diamond using the water test
Separate the stone so that it is loose, and drop it into the water. Diamonds are highly dense and a genuine gem will sink to the bottom – every time. If it hovers to the surface or only partially sinks, then it is a replica.
The tk316 imprint means the ring is made from highly corrosive resistant Grade 316 stainless steel.
What is the name of the cheapest diamond? ›What are the least expensive/most affordable diamond Cuts? Carat-per-carat, emerald and Asscher cuts are the least expensive. Because they are step-cut, there is less waste when these diamonds are cut off of the rough stone, which is going to cost the same no matter how it gets cut.
What gemstone sparkles like a diamond? ›Basically, moissanite is a gemstone that looks like a diamond but shines even brighter! When looking at your gemstone, its brilliance is simply the amount of light reflecting out of the crown of the stone to your eye.
What is the next best thing to a diamond? ›Currently, lab-made cubic zirconia (CZ) is the most popular diamond lookalike. At a fraction of the price, it can rival diamond in brilliance (the light it reflects) and dispersion or fire (the colorful flashes that seem to come from within the stone).
Does moissanite sparkle like a diamond? ›It's durable, affordable, and has a colorful disco-ball effect due to its double refractive index. Technically speaking, Moissanite is a diamond simulant. This means it simulates the look and sparkle of a diamond.
What is the most beautiful stone that is not a diamond? ›
If you want a diamond alternative but don't want to lose out on sparkle, moissanite will be your best bet. Moissanite has a refractive index from 2.65 – 2.69, which is higher than a diamond. These stones exhibit a fiery, rainbow brilliance, making for superior sparkle.
How long does moissanite last? ›Moissanite will also last a lifetime, while you'll be lucky to get a year or two out of cubic zirconia. Final answer: Moissanite is a beautiful gemstone that looks great in engagement rings and other fine jewelry and will stand the test of time.
Can a jeweler identify moissanite? ›Using a jeweler's loupe for magnification, moissanite can be identified by the doubling of junction facets. In layman's terms, facets are flat surfaces cut into gemstones in order to best reflect light, and facet junctions are where these surfaces meet.
Do jewelers know moissanite? ›Yes, moissanite looks very similar to a diamond. It's near-colorless, has a similar refractive index to a diamond and the GIA deems moissanite the closest diamond imitation. Many jewelers consider moissanite a diamond alternative, not an imitation, though you will find plenty of that language on the internet.
Does moissanite get cloudy? ›We've got good news for you: moissanite does not get cloudy! However, chemical buildup and dirt can start to dull its shine; same as with diamonds and other precious stones. If you keep your moissanite clean, it'll be crystal clear forever.
How can you tell if a diamond ring is real with a flashlight? ›By holding a diamond close to a source of light, such as a flashlight, you can tell whether or not it's real. Watch closely for the shimmers of light that shine from the stone. A real diamond will reflect light easily, and provide you with a disco ball or rainbow-like display.
What is the easiest way to tell if a diamond is real? ›If you have a loose diamond to test, fill a regular glass about ¾ of the way full with water. Gently drop the diamond into the glass. If the diamond sinks to the bottom, it's real. If it floats at the surface or just underneath, it's likely a fake.
Do real diamonds shine in the dark? ›The only time a diamond has the potential to look like a glow stick on your hand is if it has medium or more fluorescence and is under a big black light, then let the glow begin!
Can simulated diamonds pass a diamond test? ›Yes, lab diamonds have the same carbon composition as natural diamonds. Therefore, they have the same thermal conductivity. The test results are positive when exposed to the diamond tester, since the diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds.
Do simulated diamonds get cloudy? ›Lab-made diamonds typically have good clarity. Like a high-quality natural diamond, lab-made diamonds won't get cloudy.
How long do simulated diamonds last? ›
Lab diamonds really do last forever, and there's nothing that will dull the shine or interfere with the brilliance of synthetic diamonds. It's not for nothing that they say it's impossible to tell the difference between a natural diamond and a man-made one.
Do fake diamonds turn yellow? ›It will never turn yellow or change color over time. So why do some stones look a bit yellow or blue? Like mined diamonds, lab-created diamonds can have slight tints. They get it during their growth process, so it doesn't mean their color has changed.
Do fake diamonds change color? ›Our clients are occasionally told by other jewelers that a lab diamond may change in appearance over time. This is not true for lab grown diamonds. A lab diamond sold by Ada Diamonds will never get cloudy, fade in brilliance, or change color.
Do fake diamonds have bubbles? ›If you've found bubbles, it's certainly an imitation. The processes to create cubic zirconia and glass often create bubbles within the structure. If you've identified imperfections, it could be a diamond, but it could also be another stone.
How do you test diamonds with ice? ›Put a diamond-like stone to the test, testing it on a lighter for 30 seconds. After heating it, drop the stone in a glass of ice-cold water. The heat from the lighter contrasted by the water's sudden coldness is too much to take for a fake stone.
How can you test a diamond at home? ›The dot test: Draw a small dot with a pen on a piece of white paper and place the stone over the center of the dot. Look directly down on it. If your stone is not a diamond, you will see a circular reflection in the stone. You won't be able to see the dot through a real diamond.
Can a fake diamond scratch glass? ›While it's true that diamonds are hard enough to cut glass, some synthetic gems can also scratch glass.
Is diamonique the same as cubic zirconia? ›Diamonique is the brand name used by television shopping network QVC for their cubic zirconia simulated colorless diamond, simulated colored diamond, and simulated colored gemstone jewelry (cubic zirconia is a common type of gemstone substitute).
Is cubic zirconia or moissanite better? ›Mineral hardness is judged by the Mohs scale. At the very top of the scale is diamond, which is a perfect 10. However, moissanite comes in quite close at 9.25. Cubic zirconia is an 8.5, which isn't quite as good.
Is moissanite a fake diamond? ›WHAT IS MOISSANITE? Moissanite is a diamond simulant made of silicon carbide. A diamond simulant is a stone that has a similar appearance to a diamond but is not a real diamond. It is very difficult to tell apart a diamond & moissanite, making moissanite a common diamond alternative.
What stone is better than cubic zirconia? ›
Moissanite is harder and more durable than cubic zirconia, so it is less likely to chip and crack when in a ring setting. Choose cubic zirconia if you are shopping for earrings or a pendant, as this type of jewelry is less likely to be damaged. People are less likely to get a close-up look at earrings or pendants.
Does zirconia sparkle like diamond? ›Does Cubic Zirconia Shine Like a Diamond? No, cubic zirconia does not shine with the same brilliance as a diamond. Diamonds shine with pure white light, while CZ diamonds give off rainbow colors. They are also more prone to becoming dull and scratched over time, and are thus not the best option for daily wear.
What are fake diamonds called cubic zirconia? ›A cubic zirconia is not a diamond. It is merely a diamond simulant, meaning that it looks similar but not exactly like a diamond. In fact, a cubic zirconia contains zero carbon, whereas diamonds (mined and grown) are made entirely from carbon.
What is the best type of fake diamond? ›Moissanite. Currently, the most sought-after fake diamond stone name in the industry is the moissanite. Moissanite has developed a reputation for being the best alternative to natural diamonds since they can rival them in brilliance.
What looks better moissanite or diamond? ›Moissanite disperses light very well and has higher light refraction than Diamond and will appear more brilliant.
Do fake diamonds float in water? ›The Floating Test
True diamonds have high density and should quickly sink to the bottom of the glass. Fake diamonds are not as thick, and therefore, more likely to float in water.
Yes, some diamond simulants can pass a diamond tester.
For example, moissanite, a man made gem, may pass as a diamond on a standard tester pen. This is because moissanite also has very high thermal conductivity! Other diamond simulants, such as CZ, will not pass the tester.
Forever One Moissanite is widely recognized as the most premium brand of Moissanite in the market. Created by Charles & Colvard, a US-based company, it stands as the original creator of Moissanite gems, with a wealth of experience in creating and faceting Moissanite gems that is unparalleled.
What is the best fake ring material? ›Cubic Zirconia a.k.a C.Z is one of the most commonly used materials to make fake diamonds. The best fake diamonds are lab made and Cubic Zirconia is one of the best ones. Also known as faux diamonds, Cubic Zirconia are also known to as fake diamonds, imitation diamonds, or simulated diamonds.