Once Dated, This Antique Jewelry Trend Is Now Defining the Most-Wanted Pieces of 2026

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Collage of different georgian-set diamond jewelry.
(Image credit: Steph Mazuera; Dorsey; Jessica McCormack; Ring Concierge)
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Ever since I got engaged last year, I've become a jewelry snob. I'm Who What Wear's unofficial fine jewelry reporter, and my Instagram and Pinterest saves are all kinds of wacky jewelry trends I write about and shop for myself.

Lately, though, I've found myself gravitating toward diamonds that aren't demanding all of your attention. You know the kind—less blinding sparkle, more of a soft, candlelit glow that feels quietly expensive. That's exactly the appeal of Georgian-set diamonds, a centuries-old style that's suddenly back on my radar and, honestly, my wish list.

The technique dates back to the Georgian era in the United Kingdom, when jewelry was designed to be worn in low light (read: dinner parties lit by chandeliers, not LEDs). Instead of the super-precise, ultra-exposed settings we see today, diamonds were set into gold collets in the 18th and 19th centuries throughout the Georgian period. The setting is reminiscent of a modern-day bezel but has a bit more structure. There's usually a slightly raised rim and chunkier prongs holding everything in place, which gives the stones this moody, glowing effect rather than a sharp, high-watt sparkle. It feels softer, more handcrafted, and knowingly intentional.

Steph Mazuera model wears Georgian-set diamond earrings.

(Image credit: Steph Mazuera)

Just like old mine–cut diamonds, antique settings like Georgian-set diamond jewelry are having a moment. What's really pushed them back into the spotlight is the current wave of effortlessly cool jewelry placement. Zendaya's engagement ring from Jessica McCormack basically sealed the deal for me. Her signature blackened-gold and button-back Georgian settings make the whole look feel modern instead of costumey. And then there's Zoë Kravitz, a Jessica McCormack ambassador, who wears these pieces in that undone, layered way that makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about antique jewelry.

Below, shop the rising "Georgian-set diamond jewelry" trend set to dominate your For You page this year.

Georgian-Set Diamonds on Celebrities

Zoe Kravitz stars in Jessica McCormack jewelry campaign.

(Image credit: Jessica McCormack)

Zendaya wearing Georgian-set engagement ring.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Shop Georgian-Set Jewelry

Ana Escalante
Ana Escalante
Associate Features Editor

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.