You’re going to propose – maybe this Christmas or on Valentine’s Day, and you’re on the hunt for the perfect engagement ring. Display windows are filled with so many choices that you’re experiencing sensory overload. Have no fear: we’re going to make picking the ring of her dreams a little easier for you.
Just like new car models come out every fall, new engagement ring styles tend to debut in the spring and summer. So we’ve done some advance work, walking trade show floors and scouring social media to find styles that are trending. Take a look at what we’ve discovered, and maybe you’ll spot the perfect ring for your bride-to-be.
Floral Motifs
Flowers have long been used as tokens of romantic love. Floral-themed jewelry extends the timeless tradition to the finger. Not surprisingly, we’ve been seeing engagement rings that capture the delicate beauty of the flower.
Erika Winters sets off a 0.98 ct old mine cut diamond in her 18K rose gold Iris Halo ring. She takes on the floral motif with a geometric and modern flavor, but still has the charm of the countryside. Courtesy of Erika Winters Fine Jewelry, erikawinters.com
Antique Rings
Antique engagement rings are in, and particularly suited to those looking for something out of the ordinary. This mid-Victorian (circa 1850 – 1870) will flatter the finger of any new bride. It also has a timeless beauty that says, “Our love will last against the passing years.”
A 0.45 ct cushion cut emerald is framed by a halo of 0.40 carats of rose cut diamonds. Delicate scroll work adorns the band. Courtesy of EraGem.com
Colored Center Stones
The diamond is the undeniable queen of the engagement ring. But colored stones have been tugging at her gown for a good few years. The trend still continues, with some brides opting for colored stones instead of diamonds.
A two carat sapphire is the star of this 18K white gold engagement ring. There are are a total of 0.56 carats of diamonds in the halo and in the shank. Courtesy of EraGem.com
Split Shanks
Rings with split shanks are enjoying their moment in the spotlight. Perhaps it’s because the single shank has been in style for so long. Perhaps the split shank offers a larger palette for designers to add touches of elegant detail. Whatever the reason, it’s popular with brides-to-be.
Jewelry designer Sylvie’s use of a split shank creates more canvas, giving space for a total of 0.20 carats of diamonds to flatter the one carat center stone in platinum. Courtesy of Platinum Guild International, USA
Stack It
Look at pictures from any red carpet event, and you’ll see that stackable rings are hot. The style has now spilled into the bridal category.
Why have one ring when you can have four? Sandra Biachi’s Dreams Collection Quatrain Bridal set includes a 14K white gold engagement ring, wedding band, an anniversary band and a 14K rose gold ring. Courtesy of Sandra Biachi Fine Jewelry
Mixed Metals
Engagement rings featuring a halo mounting (a center stone encircled by smaller diamonds) have become a classic. Inventive designers are now playing with the design by using two different metals in the ring.
Two different metals in the ring, rose gold in the halo, 18K white gold in the shank, add a bit of visual drama to this engagement ring set with a 0.91 ct Asscher cut diamond.
Pear Shaped Diamonds
Pear-shaped diamonds are en vogue. They are a charming alternative to the ever-popular round brilliant. They can be stunning.
This double halo ring has a 0.36 ct pear-shaped, Fancy Light pink center diamond encircled by two rows of single-cut colorless diamonds. This engagement ring would have wowed Cupid. Courtesy of Eragem.com
Some social media outlets are touting that engagement rings with mixed-metal prongs and square bands are trending. We haven’t seen this, but that doesn’t mean these rings aren’t beautiful or fashionable choices.
Round Brilliant Diamond
Of course, you can always buck the trends and opt for the iconic round brilliant diamond mounted in a six-prong setting. Simple, classic, and the ultimate way to showcase the beauty of diamond, you can be sure this style won’t go out of style any time soon.
Classic 6 prong round brilliant cut diamond set in platinum. Courtesy of Platinum Guild International, USA
Now that you know what’s trending in engagement rings, you might be able to narrow down your choices. Have no fear – the ring of her dreams is out there, just waiting to be found.
Curious about the history of the engagement ring? We have a fun infographic that tells its story.
