Alternatives are wonderful, but as someone in the Jewelry industry I STRONGLY recommend NOT getting a pearl, they break so easily and they wither away after wear. I would say get one, but have an everyday piece and just use the piece for occasions.

I think this post is excellent!
I would like to point out though that some choices are more practical than others.
My fiance and I loved a pearl and opal ring, but discussed it with a jeweler and unfortunately pearls do not last very well!
For anyone thinking of a pearl ring, please do some research so you won’t be disappointed! x
Pearls SHOULDN’T be exposed to hand creams or too much water, so taking a pearl ring off every time you wash your hands is a good idea. I work in the medical field, so this simply wasn’t an option for me. I have an heirloom pearl ring as a gift, and two of the pearls needs to be replaced because my Auntie didn’t take it off often and one of the pearls ‘died’- lost it’s lustre, looks worn off. (And she isn’t a hard-working woman with her hands).

My fiance and I chose a diamond and sapphire ring in the end because it’s gorgeous, and sapphires are very hard-wearing, just as much as diamonds! I love it. The reason diamonds are often used is precisely this: they are hard-wearing and long lasting. Consider how much wear your ring will get in terms of choosing an alternative stone x

You forgot about moissanite rings! That is what I have and its wonderful! I wanted a classic look and a durable stone. I have heard of non-diamond stones getting damaged, and I know it would break my heart to have that happen, insured or not. Moissanites are just as hard as diamonds, so I know I don’t have to worry. In fact, they’re so similar to diamonds that jewelers often can’t even tell the difference between them.