Your senior prom only happens once in a lifetime. Sure, you want to remember the experience for the rest of your life, but your wallet certainly doesn't. Below is a list of some faux fabulous interpretations of authentic precious stones and metals for your prom rings.

Precious Metals:

Platinum- Platinum is the rarest of all precious metals, and the price tag shows. Platinum Alternatives: Both white gold and silver are cheaper than platinum while giving a similar mirror-like look.

Gold- Instead of 18K gold, choose 14K gold. It is less pure, but is acceptable in many parts of the world.

Precious Stones:

Diamonds- Nearly everyone's jaw drops when viewing the glitter of diamonds. As a result of the popularity, faux diamonds are regularly sold as an affordable alternative. Choose cubic zirconia, massonite, and even treated diamonds of low grade. You can achieve a believable look, without the cost.

Gemstones- Emeralds, sapphires, rubies, garnets, turquoise, and other gemstones are very popular. Some stones cost more (rubies, sapphires, emeralds), than others. But all offer class and sophistication to any accessory. Go the less expensive route and opt for stones that are treated or synthetic. Remember, even stones marked "low quality" can be perfect to the naked eye and only show inadequacies under a jewelers loupe. Don't forget- Swarvoski crystals are another cheap but luxurious jewelry accessory!

Pearls- Pearls form when a bit of debris is stuck in a mollusk. The mollusk secretes nacre around the debris as a protective mechanism. Today, natural pearls are very rare- and very expensive. However, freshwater (real) and synthetic pearls are more reasonably priced.