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Diamond Birthstone Alternatives

Symbolizing strength, victory, wealth, abundance, and everlasting love, diamonds hold the title of April’s official birthstone. In Sanskrit, diamond is called vajra—meaning lightning—which was the weapon of Indra, the king of the gods. They display brilliance and fire that sparkles throughout jewelry stores all over the world. While their specific sparkle can’t quite be equally matched, there are alternative birthstones that have a beauty all their own and may be more cost effective—which allows you to buy more for your Aries sweetheart!

Two gemstones were traditionally used in different cultures as April birthstones before they were replaced by the diamond. These were the sapphire and the opal, both of which now represent their own birthstone months. The Tibetan calendar, also referred to as the “mystical birthstone calendar,” listed opal as the official birthstone for April. Granted this is well before our current lineup, where opal was crowned the October birthstone, but it can still be used as an alternative for the diamond. Especially white or jelly opals that have a light or translucent backing with fiery displays of a rainbow of color. Sapphires are believed to promote inner peace and serenity, as well as help release mental tension and depression. They are also thought to promote self-expression and spiritual growth. In this way, they have similar psychological benefits due to diamonds similarly stimulating creativity and reducing mental tension and depression.

In modern times, two more alternatives for diamond have been included as secondary April birthstones. These gems are the white topaz and quartz. They were added to the list due to them having many similarities to diamonds from their dazzling sparkle to their transparency. Although they may not have the same level of hardness that diamonds possess, with quartz being a 7 and white topaz coming in at an 8 out of 10 on the Moh’s hardness scale, they are still harder than opals and plenty durable for everyday wear. When it comes to engagement rings, many jewelry companies promote white topaz as an alternative to diamonds since it is significantly less expensive and can have incredible clarity. When cut, white topaz can display a brilliant sparkle that is not far off from that of a diamond, and to the untrained eye may be indistinguishable. For any large setting, choosing a white topaz or quartz will get you more for your money so you can get the matching earrings, bracelet, ring, and tiara to match!

For anyone who has a loved one with an April birthday, don’t fret! The perfect gift doesn’t have to be a diamond. It can be any one of its alternatives, that all have their own sparkle and brilliance and will be sure to impress. If you are looking to create a personalized gift for the Aires in your life, head to Backroom Gems to find dazzling, cost effective diamond alternative gems such as white topaz today!