Engagement Ring Trend Guide
Has the diamond in an engagement ring become so “common” that anything else would seem unusual? According to Elle Magazine, the modern bride tends to be more adventurous with her ring choices. This has led to some new alternatives to the traditional diamond engagement ring.
A number of different designs and stone options have risen to the top of bridal wish lists. So which of these trendy, alternative, modern engagement ring designs have risen to the top of list?
The engagement ring is one of the most exciting and share-worthy aspects of your upcoming wedding. But if you’re looking for something as unique as the love you share with your partner, one of these trends might be the perfect fit for you.
Raw Diamonds
Diamonds come in a variety of cuts and can be shaped in many ways. From the princess cut to the classic pear cut, diamonds have been a staple for generations. The prismatic angles create radiant rainbows of color and glints of light every which way. This beautiful clear-cut style is the undisputed choice for brides around the world.
However, diamonds don’t start out so polished. In fact, raw diamonds may look more like jagged pieces of glass rather than precious jewels. Still, many brides are embracing a more, “earthy” approach to wedding jewelry by leaving the diamond in its natural state. It gives your ring a one-of-a-kind look and an edgy feel.
Sapphire Engagement Rings
The sapphire engagement ring trend began in 1981, when the late Princess Diana became engaged to Prince Charles. Back then, it was not viewed as a popular choice, with the press often calling it “the commoner’s ring”.
The September birthstone has experienced something of a renaissance recently. Known for their rich, vibrant, velvety color, sapphires serve as the ideal counterpoint to the sleek radiance we’ve grown accustomed to with diamond engagement rings.
Mixed Metal Engagement Rings
Mixed metal rings feature any two or more distinct, contrasting precious metals. White gold, yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, and platinum are the metals that are most frequently used to create stunning pieces of fine jewelry.
You have a variety of options when crafting a mixed metal ring. For a more traditional approach, you can pair white gold with yellow gold to create a timeless feel. Pairing rose gold with white gold is also a popular option because of its romanticized and feminine look. Mixing metals is a beautiful and easy way to introduce a new look to an old tradition.
The Rose Gold Trend
A huge trend in engagement rings is rose gold. Rose gold is a subtle option for those who want to skip the traditional platinum or yellow gold engagement rings. The rose hue also complements an array of skin tones. Rose gold is a versatile option, offering beauty in a variety of settings. It pairs well with a vintage setting with an array of etchings and floral diamond designs.
The Black Diamond Engagement Ring
What Are Black Diamonds?
Black diamonds are still diamonds and have three different variations.
- Natural Black Diamonds – Natural black diamonds, also known as carbonados, are simply diamonds that have many inclusions. These inclusions are mostly graphite that prevents the diamond from reflecting light. As a result, a black diamond appears black to the naked eye because the diamond is absorbing all the light that hits it.
- Treated Black Diamonds – Black diamonds can also be formed from low-value diamonds. The diamonds are deemed low in value because they have a high number of inclusions, but are not quite opaque. To make them appear black, they are heated or irradiated. These are the most budget-friendly option.
- Manmade / Lab Grown / Synthetic / Simulant Black Diamonds – These are black diamonds that have been created artificially. This method of creating black diamonds is quite uncommon because it is much cheaper and easier to simply make black diamonds from low-value diamonds.
Black Diamond Engagement Ring Styles
Single Black Diamond
Black diamond stones make a statement in themselves. What more could a trendy bride want?
Black Diamond Halos
Sometimes a black diamond halo is enough to make a statement, as shown by these rings. They are beautifully detailed with a black diamond halo, adding a touch of flair to a traditional ring.
Black Diamond Accents
In other cases, a black diamond accent is just what’s needed to give the ring a unique sparkle. These black-accented rings pair perfectly with a matching wedding band.
Black Diamond with Black Gold
Different colored engagement rings are definitely in style. If you’re looking to go with a style that is totally unique and out-of-the-box, then a black diamond with black gold will definitely be the best choice.
Find your perfect engagement ring at Brittany’s Fine Jewelry
Now that you are familiar with all the engagement ring trends it’s time to come into Brittany’s Fine Jewelry and see all these beautiful styles in person. Whether you are looking for a traditional diamond ring or a special gemstone engagement ring we have it all!