According to experts, these are the 5 engagement ring trends that will be ubiquitous this year
For those of us who are slightly weak at the knees for diamonds, there’s nothing more exciting than the world of engagement rings.
But, as tradition dictates, it’s often rare that the person who actually buys the ring ends up (hopefully!) wear it for the rest of their lives.
That’s why, if you know what you like and think you might be in the market for one in the next few weeks/months/years, it doesn’t hurt to hint …… Subtle or not.
Getting it from someone who sent a couple of hints – one in the form of a bulleted list detailing the exact cut, clarity, setting, and metal she’d like someday (he was very graciously allowed to decide on the claw setting; you can choose the buttons if you’re interested) – -If you have a strong vision, you’d better share it. No one should have to face an even slightly disappointed face behind a carefully planned proposal.
- Antique diamonds
WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY: “More and more customers are asking for old cut diamonds,” Lucy Crowther of Minka Jewels revealed to GLAMOUR UK, “and we think that antique gemstones are the perfect choice for those who are environmentally conscious, but don’t want lab-grown stones. We think antique gemstones are perfect for those who are environmentally conscious but don’t want lab-grown stones. There is something very special about old cut diamonds; the beauty and mystery of these stones is very seductive; the fact that they have survived many eras and have been hand cut gives them a unique character, with larger facets allowing light to reflect differently inside the stone, creating a beautiful warm candlelight.
Sidney Neuhaus, co-founder of Kimaï and GIA Certified Gemologist, agrees, explaining, “Customers are increasingly attracted to rings that exude old-world glamour with intricate detailing, filigree work, and ornate settings reminiscent of a bygone era. This trend captures the essence of nostalgia and romanticism, paying homage to the past while creating a unique and ornate symbol of commitment for modern couples seeking a touch of grandeur in their love story.
- Platinum
WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY: “I’m getting more requests than ever for engagement rings in white metal,” says Jessie Thomas. “This is especially true when clients choose colored gemstone rings because they complement the neutrality of white.”
“I often set diamonds in white gold, even if they are predominantly yellow gold, because it showcases the diamonds more fully. It’s a cool, practical look that I find people are looking for. I also often black rhodium plated white gold; it gives a modern look and really makes the diamonds pop.
- Oval-cut diamonds
What the experts say: Emma Clarkson Webb explains: “The oval cut diamond has always been popular and we still think it’s a great choice for an engagement ring. It’s super flattering and elegant due to its shape, and is often set on its own in a striking single stone design, or we like to pair it with a pear cut diamond or tapered baguette cut diamond. The proportions and proportions of the oval cut are key to getting it right to avoid the so-called “bow tie” effect – a black shadow cast in the center of the stone that resembles a bow tie.
- Colorful gems and diamonds
What the experts say: “Our clients can’t get enough of colored gemstones, whether it’s pink, blue-green, green or blue sapphires, emeralds or rubies, or colored yellow diamonds,” reveals Emma Clarkson Webb. If you put colored gemstones together with diamonds, they always look more expensive, which really helps them catch on.
The diamond store revealed that they “have also noticed a trend of customers choosing gemstone engagement rings that coordinate with their or their partner’s birthstone, primarily emeralds.
Rachel Boston agrees, explaining, “As timeless as the classic white diamond is, more and more of our customers are asking for alternative diamonds, two of the most popular being light yellow diamonds and champagne colored diamonds. With subtle colors ranging from canary yellow to amber browns and peach, these diamonds have the sparkle of traditional diamonds with a soft butterscotch tint. Each diamond has its own unique color and characteristics that we love. Champagne-colored diamonds are particularly suited to those who are drawn to the classic elegance of diamonds, but who still want something different: they are subtle but striking.
- Pearl details
WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY: “Smiling Rocks has launched a new ‘Moti Bridal’ collection featuring freshwater pearls as a side stone for bridal rings,” explains the in-house team. “Pearls elevate the femininity of engagement rings as a new side stone option for brides in combination with lab-cultured diamonds. Traditionally, pearls are primarily used as the main stone of engagement rings, so we decided to go the other way and our brides love them.