October 4, 2023
Gone are the days of rigid traditions; increasingly, couples are making their style choices more personalized than ever when choosing an engagement ring. From ethical and sustainable lab diamonds to less-than-conventional designs to retro-chic and more, we have compiled a list of current and emerging engagement ring trends for your inspiration!
As environmental awareness grows, lab-grown diamond engagement rings are skyrocketing among consumers. Beyond their eco-friendliness, lab-grown diamonds are created in diverse colors, including blue, yellow, and pink. Opting for these ethically and environmentally responsible lab diamonds not only reduces your ecological footprint but also provides incredible savings! Rest assured, they are equally as enchanting as their naturally occurring counterparts. Optically and structurally, they are identical to earth diamonds, with the only difference being their origin. For their production, scientists replicate the natural diamond formation process, subjecting carbon atoms to high temperatures and immense pressure. In this controlled environment, the carbon atoms bond together to create a crystalline structure. These lab-grown diamonds resemble and possess the same qualities as natural diamonds, yet they can be produced in just a few weeks and are equally durable. These diamonds exude the same brilliance and allure as natural diamonds but come at a significantly more affordable price point.
Emerald-cut diamond rings have grown in popularity over the last several years, but more recently, many are seeking something a bit different. As a result, horizontal set stones, also known as 'east to west' settings, are rising in popularity. Emerald-cut diamonds have a distinct appearance, with large, step-cut facets that emphasize clarity over sparkle. These diamonds are renowned for their unmistakable hall-of-mirrors effect, creating bursts of light due to their step-cut facets. To enhance the brilliance of an emerald-cut diamond engagement ring, consider opting for a diamond sidestone band or a halo setting. Since emerald-cut diamonds tend to exhibit more transparency than other diamond cuts, it's essential to choose a clarity grade of at least VS1.
Oval-cut diamonds are rapidly replacing round-cut diamonds as one of the most popular choices for center stones in engagement rings. Like round-cut diamonds, oval-cut diamonds exude a timeless charm and emanate intense brilliance with the added benefit of an elongated silhouette, giving the flattering effect of longer and slimmer fingers. Oval-cut center stones have become such a trend that they're not only all-over social media feeds but also gracing the hands of countless celebrities. While Blake Lively is often credited with igniting the oval engagement ring trend, thanks to her iconic 12-carat oval-cut pink diamond, this style is now the preferred choice for many famous personalities. From Kate Middleton's breathtaking oval sapphire and Katy Perry's striking oval ruby engagement ring to Hailey Baldwin and Kourtney Kardashian's dazzling oval-cut white diamond sparklers, oval-cut engagement rings now rank as one of the most coveted engagement ring styles.
Although the current trend of two-stone engagement rings arose with the engagement of Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly, along with the stunning two-stone engagement rings worn by Ariana Grande and Emily Ratajkowski, and continues to be a popular style, its roots go back a long way. Two Stone Engagement Rings are often referred to as ‘Toi et Moi,’ which translates from French as “you and me.” This particular ring style carries intensely romantic symbolism, representing the devotion of two lovers. Historically, in 1796, the Toi et Moi ring style first rose to fame when Napoléon Bonaparte proposed to his beloved Josephine de Beauharnais with a custom-designed engagement ring. This ring featured a pear-shaped white diamond and a pear-shaped sapphire set in gold, symbolizing their passionate love story. In 2013, Josephine's iconic engagement ring was auctioned in France and fetched nearly $1 million due to its historical importance. The Toi et Moi engagement ring style also famously graced the hand of former first lady Jackie Kennedy. Her ring featured a 2.88-carat diamond and a 2.84-carat emerald, both of which are emerald-cut. Queen Margrethe of Denmark also proudly wears a Toi et Moi ring, gifted to her by her late husband, Prince Henrik.
Vintage-inspired engagement rings are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. These rings take inspiration from bygone eras, blending intricate detailing and craftsmanship with a hint of nostalgia. Whether influenced by the Art Deco movement or featuring Victorian-style filigree, vintage engagement rings are an ideal choice for those who admire timeless elegance. These rings frequently feature distinctive diamond cuts like the marquise, emerald cut, cushion cut and asscher, accompanied by meticulous metalwork. The outcome is a ring brimming with romance and allure, encapsulating the essence of past eras.
Many individuals are now seeking distinctive engagement ring designs that reflect their personal style, fueling an increasing demand for one-of-a-kind engagement rings. Whether it's an extravagant design or an uncomplicated look, what matters are the thoughtful details that define the piece and echo the wearer's personality. While traditional engagement rings still hold their charm, an increasing number of people are embracing adventurous choices, leading to a surge in entirely original and unique styles. The desire for something contemporary and unconventional is growing, moving away from the typical conventions associated with engagement rings. People are seeking pieces that harmonize with their existing jewelry and overall aesthetic. The trend is all about discovering extraordinary, meaningful treasures that resonate on a deeper level. When designing a customized engagement ring, it’s essential to incorporate elements that hold significance for you and your relationship. Your ring should represent your love story and serve as a symbol of your unbreakable bond. It's no longer just about the size of the diamond; it's about epitomizing the essence of your unique partnership in a piece that you'll wear daily.
Do you have a specific engagement ring in mind? Or perhaps you're not sure what you want just yet. Whichever scenario you find yourself in, use our convenient engagement ring customizer tool to choose your favorite details and watch your ring come to life, right at your fingertips!
Interested in creating a unique engagement ring like no other? We specialize in designing one-of-a-kind rings! Contact us today to chat with our customer concierge team, who will help you get started.