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
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Twig and Leaf Raw Diamond Ring
- Whimsical and natural design
- A delicate option
- Beautiful details are eye-catching
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Organic Raw Blue Diamond Ring
- Conflict-free diamond
- Rustic setting is one of a kind
- Multiple metals to choose from
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Rose Gold Herkimer Diamond Ring
- Solitaire stone is elegant
- Rose gold band is feminine
- Quartz is a gorgeous alternative to diamonds
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White Sapphire Accent Diamond Ring
- Chevron diamonds are trendy yet classic
- Unique shape is one-of-a-kind
- Can be used as an engagement ring or wedding band
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Vintage Inspired Raw Diamond Ring
- White sapphires add extra bling
- Perfect for the girl that loves glam
- Choose the black diamond for an alternative spin
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Eternal Love Rustic Black Diamond Ring
- Vintage vibes
- Simple and elegant
- Also available in sterling silver, yellow gold, or rose gold
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Round Cut Halo Raw Diamond Ring
- Intricate setting
- Black stone is edgy
- Add a matching band for a complete set
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Rare Salt and Pepper Diamond Ring
- Halo setting highlights rough diamond
- Multiple stone and metal colors available
- Customization available
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Boho Romance Brown Diamond Ring
- Solitaire diamond is classic and elegant
- Choose your diamond and band for a truly custom option
- Tablet cut is specific to this retailer (aka super unique!)
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Delicate Understated Chic Ring
- Understated and elegant
- Timeless design
- Option to choose your own diamond
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Aquamarine Raw Stone Twig Ring
- Twig-like band is perfect for nature-lovers
- Choice of center stone
- Elegant, boho design
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Double Band Brown Diamond Ring
- Double band is so unique
- Brown diamond creates a warm design
- Choice of metal and personalization
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Aquamarine Chevron Wave Ring
- Aquamarine gives a hint of color
- Option to add a matching band
- Three different finishes to choose from
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Gold Pearl Boho Bridal Ring
- Pearl adds another level of dimension
- Option to add a matching necklace
- Art deco style is classic yet stunning
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Hexagon Triangle Ring
- Add a matching band for a complete set
- A more traditional way to wear a raw diamond
- Salt and pepper diamond is unlike any other
Rings with leaf embellishments are featured quite a bit on L&L – and for good reason! They add a fun and whimsical tone to a more traditional polished band and are guaranteed to set the wearer apart from the rest.
This specific raw diamond ring from doronmerav is a particularly gorgeous piece, as the detailing shows an unbelievably high level of craftsmanship. The two-toned metal makes it look like it’s plucked straight from nature!
In a blend of feminine and rustic, this raw blue diamond ring is set with course cut prongs that eccentuate the raw finish of the diamond. The band is textured to match the prongs and the result is a ring that is one of a kind. / The blue diamond is conflict-free so you don't have to worry about where it came from. And the color is sure to stand out!
This is the ring that initially got our attention and inspired us to take a deeper look into raw diamonds! While rough gemstones tend to have a wild edge about them, this piece is just as soft and sweet as your more traditional cut stone. The beautiful pink tone that reflects off of the rose-gold band actually makes it even more delicate and feminine.
You really have to do a double-take to see that this is actually a raw diamond! The white sapphires really make up for any polish or sparkle the center stone may lack, making it look like a precisely cut stone at first glance.
One other thing we particularly love about this pick is the ability to mix and match your stone and metal color! If your bride-to-be has an alternative streak, the black diamond may be exactly what you’re looking for!
Looking for something a bit more dainty? Maybe try the white diamond with a white or rose gold band. Either way, you’ll be able to make sure it is absolutely perfect for her!
Inspired by vintage styles, this throwback by ASecondTime is the perfect fit for the woman who loves all things retro! It’s somehow understated yet totally eye-catching, vintage yet right on trend, and completely unique yet totally accessible.
A true winner in our book!
If you look at this ring and are unsure about whether or not your partner will like it, then maybe don’t take the risk. However, if you saw this and immediately thought of her strength, confidence, and overall badassery, then there is truly no other ring for her! It’s edgy, it’s rustic, and it’s completely unlike anything she’s seen before. What’s not to love?
Surrounded by a halo of sparkling sapphires, this ring by GoldandSilverCo is really letting this raw diamond have its moment!
Not allowing itself to be outdone by its shiny neighbors, this rough stone is perfectly juxtaposed by the traditional clean-cut setting. We especially love the black diamond option, as it somehow looks even more sophisticated and expensive.
Pick the right salt and pepper diamond and then watch yourself get lost in all of that speckled detail! There a number of different diamonds to choose from and you can choose from 6 different kinds of bands, which means you’ll get to customize this unique ring for your fiance to be!
This pick by MothandFlameJewelry looks like it’s come straight out of a fairytale! While you can also choose this design in gold or silver, the copper band in particular makes this ring look like it was plucked directly from the earth, making it a perfect pick for your boho queen.
While the main gemstone is actually smoky quartz, it is accented with raw diamonds which adds a perfectly rustic touch.
Without a doubt the daintiest ring on this list, this delicate solitaire by BluWaterJewels proves that great things come in little packages. This is truly a timeless piece that happens to be right on-trend. While other unique styles and settings may come and go, this raw diamond ring has staying power.
How precious is this soft shade of blue!? This sweet hue juxtaposed against the asymmetrical accents and the twig-like textured band makes this a perfect pick for the woman who loves reinventing herself and her wardrobe.
Whether she’s in an alternative mood and feels like rocking ripped jeans and a leather jacket or decides on that floral country-inspired sundress, this ring is going to be the perfect addition!
Putting an alternative twist on a feminine design, this rustic, double band ring by eMerakiStudio is truly one-of-a-kind! The center stone is actually a raw brown diamond but the warm-toned band brings out red undertones to create quite a feminine aesthetic.
And just take a look at that double band! We have never seen this feature on an engagement before but are now completely obsessed with it. This is a ring fit for the future!
If you're looking for a diamond with just a hint of color, this ring is absolutely beautiful. The aquamarine color gives just the right amount of dimension to separate this ring from a typical engagement ring. The raw stones ensure each ring is unique. Plus, you can choose to get a matching wedding band as a set.
The contrast of textures makes this ring pop. A raw diamond is paired with a pearl for a bit of rough and smooth. The raw diamond can be personalized by choosing the size and color, but I think the black next to the pearl is particularly jaw-dropping. This ring is made-to-order, so customizations are welcome.
Offering a more classic spin on a raw diamond, this gorgeous ring features a hexagon salt and pepper diamond with natural side stones. Sophisticated and unique, this ring is a showstopper.
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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They are all just wonderful,Have always loved raw Diamonds And particularly the black ones.
Absolutely love the leaf ring ,it is something I have been looking for for ever but could not find ,and this morning there it is in all it’s glory WOW