15 Raw Diamond Engagement Rings as a Beautiful Budget Ring Option

Truth be told, if I could do it all over again I would totally opt for a raw diamond engagement ring. These stunning stones are a little rough around the edges (just like me) but when set in a beautiful, rustic ring, there is nothing more captivating.

Don’t get me wrong – I love the engagement ring and wedding band set I have. But my traditional sparkly white halo ring is a bit cookie-cutter, and if I’m honest, I love the unique flair of an unpolished rough stone. Plus, I like the idea of supporting a small jewelry business on Etsy rather than a large retail jewelry store, especially since there are probably thousands of other women who have the same engagement ring as I do since we shopped at a national chain.

I digress.

For nature lovers, alternative folks, or anyone who wants to reject the traditional aspects of matrimonial customs, a raw diamond engagement ring is definitely the way to go.

Should I Buy a Raw Diamond Engagement Ring?

Wondering whether a raw diamond is right for you?

(Hint: the answer is probably yes).

Read on to learn more about these diamonds in the rough. Literally – that’s what they are!

So what is a raw diamond, anyway? Think the exact opposite of those shiny, sparkly diamonds in the fancy ring case at the jewelry store. Raw diamonds are uncut, unpolished diamonds, mined from the earth and left unfinished. They evoke a sense of wild nature and edginess, but can also have a soft, feminine feel.

Raw diamonds are perfectly on-trend, looking equally dazzling on the fingers of boho beauties and hard rock hotties. Or anyone who is looking for something a little outside of the box, really. These eye-catching stones are guaranteed to be conversation starters, and they certainly won’t be mistaken for another “normal” diamond engagement ring from a jewelry store!

Not to mention, these rough diamonds are tough. Like, way tougher than other cut and polished gemstones. Whether finished beautifully like a round brilliant or left in the rough, diamonds are the most durable stones around, making them perfect for daily wear.

The only con in my mind is that rough diamonds don’t have the same sparkle as a beautifully cut diamond. You won’t see any “fire” or a rainbow of colors reflecting off of these gemstones, since they are often lower-quality and full of inclusions and natural flaws. But honestly, we all have our flaws – and that’s what makes us truly beautiful. Just like these raw diamonds. (Okay, I can feel you cringing, dear reader. Enough of that, I suppose. Moving on.)

Also, because these diamonds aren’t cut, they can’t be inspected or graded according to the 4 C’s (cut, color, clarity, carat) like most diamonds. This means that there is really no way to tell if you are getting a good deal or not, and your stone won’t come with any type of certificate. Up to you to determine whether that is a deal-breaker.

Some might also worry about the “trendiness” of raw diamonds – just because they are in fashion now doesn’t mean they will be forever. But honestly, if it suits your tastes now, I say go for it. Some people get tattoos they regret, and those are emblazoned upon their skin forever!

If you decide down the road that you really don’t love your ring anymore, you could always see about replacing the stone, or getting an anniversary ring. But in my mind, if you are the type of unique gal to pull off a rough diamond ring, I doubt you care too much about following the trends, anyway. You do you!

Our Favorite Raw Diamond Engagement Rings

Raw Diamond Engagement Ring FAQs

Are raw/uncut diamonds more expensive?

As mentioned before, raw diamonds are uncut, unpolished, and often of lesser quality than a cut diamond. This is because diamonds selected for cutting can’t have any major flaws or inclusions, or else they might break during cutting. Or they will just be obviously flawed and the light won’t pass through the stone properly.

Therefore, raw diamonds are often cheaper than cut diamonds, because they are lower quality and less time is put in by the jeweler in preparing the stone for setting. Of course, the setting, metal type, and any other stones adorning the ring will impact the price as well. But generally, you will save some money by opting for an uncut diamond.What are Polki diamonds?

Polki diamonds are a unique version of uncut diamonds, traditionally produced by the skilled artisans of the Rajasthan and Gujarat regions in India. These diamonds (and other precious gemstones featured in Polki jewelry) are left uncut like all raw diamonds and are set in gold or silver settings or precious metal foils for a distinct look.Are Herkimer diamonds real diamonds?

No – Herkimer diamonds are actually quartz crystals mined in Herkimer, New York. These quartz crystals are still unique and beautiful, and resemble natural diamonds. But they are more like the “fool’s gold” of the diamond world. While they are naturally formed by the earth and are millions of years old like real diamonds, Herkimer quartz crystals fall at a 7.5 on the Moh’s scale, where diamonds are a 10.

Time to Find Your Diamond in the Rough

If you want an engagement ring that will turn heads and be truly unique to you, a rough diamond ring is definitely the way to go.

Raw diamonds are available in a stunning array of settings, from coppery rings that resemble twigs to understated gold bands or vintage numbers accompanied by other complementary gemstones. Rough diamond engagement rings are versatile enough to flatter a delicate boho style or a one-of-a-kind edgy look, all at a fraction of the price of traditional cut diamonds.

What are you waiting for? It’s time to go engagement ring shopping!

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