Ever since diamond giant De Beers began marketing diamonds as an engagement necessity back in the 1930s and promoting their iconic slogan A Diamond is Forever, using a very expensive rock to pop the question has been the standard. But the truth is that this was all a pretty elaborate marketing scheme orchestrated by big corporations, and — like the diamonds it shilled — it was downright brilliant.

De Beers and fellow diamond industry behemoths created campaigns perpetuating a whole bunch of myths that are now commonly mistaken as fact. Nope, diamonds are not actually a good investment*, they’re not actually rare** and they’re certainly not the only way to ask the big question.

*While diamonds might be forever, their value is not. In fact, that dazzling little gemstone loses over 50 percent of its value the second you waltz out of the jewelry store. Diamonds are beautiful and cherished, but they are undoubtedly a depreciating asset (kind of like a car).

**Unfortunately, the clear little stones are not actually very rare. According to the International Gem Society, diamonds are likely the most common gem in nature. So why are diamonds so expensive then? It’s all about the marketing!

There are many different kinds of affordable engagement rings, from diamond alternative rings to free-to-you antiques passed down in the family. The truth? They’re all just fine. But some will last longer than others. If you choose an option made with high-quality materials, your ring can quite literally last a lifetime and be passed along to future generations.

So which materials are best for your affordable engagement ring? If you love the classic look of a real diamond, you can’t go wrong with handmade simulated diamonds. These brilliant stones are literally flawless and made to the highest quality standards for cut, color and clarity. Not only are they gorgeous and affordable, but they’re also remarkably durable. Bonus: Simulated diamonds are conflict-free.