During these tight times, grooms on a budget are turning more and more to cubic zirconia, a man-made diamond simulant. Costing a fraction of the price of diamonds, cubic zirconia purchased from a reputable dealer is virtually indistinguishable from the real thing without professional-grade tools.
Prior to purchasing a cubic zirconia ring, grooms should casually poll their beloved to find out her personal preference. Some might be appalled and prefer a real diamond -- no matter how small or flawed -- whereas others jump at the chance for an impressive-sized rock, the authenticity of which will likely never be questioned.