If diamond engagement ice leaves you cold, try these cool ways of marking the occasion.
Engagement is a special time for any couple. There are few things more exciting than finding someone to spend your life with, but the traditional way of going about it leaves some people cold. If you're not a 'get down on one knee and Tiffany and co rings ' kind of couple, here are some alternative ways to get engaged that you'll remember forever.
Engagement necklace/bracelet
A necklace is a really great alternative for couples who love the idea of engagement jewelry but are less keen on wearing rings. Depending on their job, your fiancée may not be allowed to wear a gemstone ring while at work; a necklace is a practical and beautiful solution. You could also include extra personalizations such as your initials, extra gemstones, and engraving. You could also opt for a locket with a photo of you both inside.
Charm bracelets are another great choice for couples who want to stick with jewelry but avoid a traditional ring. People have been using charms to mark life milestones for decades, and the best thing about an engagement charm is that you can add more as time goes on - like one for your wedding!
Down payment
Some people might not find this one romantic, but we do! Buying a house together is a huge commitment, so why not mark your engagement by putting money that would have been spent on an expensive engagement ring into a savings account for a down payment? The average down payment is in the tens of thousands, so every amount saved will help.
Travel fund
Traveling is one of life's great pleasures, so if you and your partner have the travel bug, mark your engagement by starting a fund toward your next adventure. Sit down together and make a list of all the places you want to visit together, and set up the account with those goals in mind. It doesn't have to be traveling, either - perhaps you want to skydive or learn a new skill. Whatever it is, it's a shared experience you'll remember forever.
Tattoo
Lots of couples who dislike the idea of an engagement ring opt for a different kind of ring finger adornment - a permanent tattoo. The most popular ring tattoos feature a partner's name, or perhaps their wedding date. Just be aware that if you tattoo your engagement date, it will be out of date as soon as you get married! Tattoos are a permanent sign of your commitment to each other. You can't easily update it, so consider the design carefully.
Alternative engagement ring
If you do want an engagement ring but don't want a diamond, check out alternative gemstones for a unique and colorful option. Sapphire, emerald, and ruby stones all make a great statement that will set you apart in a sea of 'white diamond in a gold band' rings. Some couples also choose to wear plain bands, similar to wedding bands, for the duration of their engagement. These can be customized or engraved, and are an excellent way for men who might not want to wear a gemstone to commemorate being engaged.