Looking for an engagement ring alternative or an alternative engagement ring?ย
I’m a big fan of couples jewellery because it’s an excuse to incorporate personal stories and hidden messages. Of course the cruel irony is that my partner refuses to wear any jewellery at all. This got me thinking. If you’re celebrating something very personal like an engagement for example, why wouldn’t the symbol of that also be very personal and unique to each individual?
Furthermore, my partner and I probably won’t be getting married but why should we miss out? Does there have to be an excuse to make a grand gesture with something shiny (literally or figuratively)?
Alternative Engagement Rings
Now some of us actually like rings so let’s not throw that idea over a cliff, maybe just reconsider the diamond and gold band. For one thing, a dirty great gemstone is impractical for everyday wear so if you want to keep the symbol of your love close to you at all times why not consider something low profile and comfortable? And remember that rings get lost or scratched and broken so maybe spending thousands of dollars on something you never intend to sell isn’t a great investment.
Now forget what society has told you to want and think about what would make you and your partner happy. A ring with a monogram of both your initials? A signet ring with a new family crest you’ve devised? A poison ring with a keepsake inside? A flip ring that can be worn as a necklace as well for practical reasons? A story ring with panels depicting aspects of your relationship? Even a simple band with engraved text inside is a classic for a reason.
Other Jewellery Alternatives
And for those who work with their hands but still like a bit of bling? I personally love a locket because you can keep secret messages inside and hang it up on display as a miniature piece of art when it’s not being worn. I had a customer commission a lockable locket with a detachable key as an engagement gift. They hid a message inside which their partner couldn’t read until they were given the key separately at the wedding. Gotta love a bit of mystery!
A jewellery box can be both useful and beautiful. For the same reason you might like a watch, pocket watch, lighter/cigar case, pill box, money clip, cufflinks, or chatelaine.ย
And what about more traditional couples jewellery like a pair of necklaces, bracelets, or pins which interlock when brought together?
If you wanted to carry something on your person everyday but don’t feel comfortable in jewellery, what about a metal medallion in your wallet engraved with relevant symbols, text or dates? You know it’s there but it’s not showy, it’s just for you and your partner.
Non Jewellery Alternatives
Maybe your partner disdains any kind of accessory? No problem, you can personalise anything they may be into. Maybe you commission an artwork, set of crockery, a tapestry, rug, piece of clothing or furniture? You could plant a tree to grow in conjunction with your relationship. Thinking long term, it would provide the ideal place to bury/scatter ashes (that one’s for my Goth friends).
If you’re into my work you’re probably the kind of person who would have a book custom bound or even have one written! If time is limited perhaps a short poem instead?
The number one absolute most exceptional gift I have ever received from my partner which never fails to make me emotional was a song. He had it written just for me and it’s worth a thousand times what it cost him.
Basically it doesn’t matter so much what the thing is, but that it was made specifically for that one partnership.
The most important thing is not to be held back by expectations. You don’t have to be getting married to show someone how much they mean to you and you don’t have to bankrupt yourself to do it either! Get creative and think about what you associate with your relationship alone.
If you do want to explore the jewellery path fill out a custom request form and we can discuss your ideas and the glorious possibilities!
