Celebrity engagement rings have always doubled as a kind of cultural shorthand. But every so often, a handful of them transcend the news cycle entirely and become the rings everyone still references decades later, the way we still talk about Grace Kelly's sapphire or Jackie O's emerald-cut diamond. In 2026, it's becoming clear that several modern celebrity engagement rings are the ones that will come to define the current moment. These are the rings and their respective A-list couples that are so impactful, I can all but guarantee that we'll still be talking about, analyzing, and finding influence from them a generation from now.

Whether it's Zendaya's understated oval stone, Taylor Swift's vintage-inspired setting, Hailey Bieber's pear-shaped diamond, or Meghan Markle's royalty-coded three-stone design, these are the diamonds that are shaping an entire generation of bridal jewelry. Ahead, discover the most jaw-dropping celebrity engagement rings and all the details that define them. These are the nine rings we're willing to bet will still be dissected, screenshotted, and emulated a decade or two from now.

Justin may have proposed to Hailey Bieber back in 2018, but the fact that her engagement ring remains one of the most talked-about, most-referenced, and most-searched of all celebrity diamonds is a testament to its continued relevancy. Her original ring features an oval-cut diamond that's estimated to be around six to 10 carats that sits on an impossibly dainty 18-karat yellow-gold solitaire band.

In 2024, though, Bieber upgraded with a newer ring when the couple celebrated their five-year anniversary with a vow renewal in Hawaii (and coincidentally also when they announced their pregnancy). The new stone was designed by Lorraine Schwartz, who is also responsible for Beyoncé's and Blake Lively's rings, and was noticeably larger thanks to its more elongated oval shape. Although Bieber confirmed in an interview that the diamond is only one carat larger than her original. Now, she's a fan of wearing her original ring on her pinky finger while she pairs her new one with a pavé V-shaped wedding band in a single stack.

Designer: Solow & Co. (2018); Lorraine Schwartz (2024)

Cut: Solitaire oval (2018); Elongated oval (2024)

Size: Estimated 6 to 10 carats (2018); estimated 7 to 11 carats (2024)

Setting: Thin yellow-gold band (2018); four-prong solitaire on a gold band (2024)

If Bieber's ring set off a years-long movement of minimalist style designs with dainty bands and barely there settings, then Taylor Swift's engagement ring is igniting a brand-new chapter in ring trends that's exactly the opposite. Hers centers an antique old-mine diamond set on a yellow-gold band with one-of-a-kind engraving that the jeweler Kindred Lubeck does all by hand. "Taylor’s ring stands out immediately; it feels bold, vintage-inspired, and very much like her," NYC-based bespoke jeweler Steph Mazuera shared with Who What Wear.

Designer: Kindred Lubeck of Artifex Fine Jewelry

Cut: Antique old mine

Size: Estimated 8 to 10 carats

Setting: Bezel setting featuring vintage-style engraving

On the heels of Dua Lipa's wedding to Callum Turner this summer, many are casting a renewed lens on her epic engagement ring, and now we have all the official details, courtesy of her ring designer EÉRA. Hers is a round brilliant-cut diamond of approximately two to three carats, and most notably, it's centered within a thick gold cigar band that feels bold and modern.

"As a long-standing friend of the brand, Dua has championed our designs throughout her Future Nostalgia tour, often wearing our signature statement earrings," says Romy Blanga, cofounder of EÉRA. "In creating this ring, we sought to reflect her distinctive blend of strength, confidence, and timeless elegance, resulting in a piece that feels both powerful and enduring.”

Designer: EÉRA

Cut: Round brilliant cut

Size: Estimated 2 to 3 carats

Setting: 18-karat yellow-gold cigar band

While fans had been speculating about Zoë Kravitz's engagement to Harry Styles since the spring, it wasn't until more recently that the actress and director gave her ring a proper debut. With several recent outings, we've finally gotten a better look at the stunning diamond, an elongated cushion-cut stone that's set in a low-profile yellow-gold bezel. In fact, all signs point to Kravitz's dainty bezel setting becoming the next major trend in bridal jewelry with hers no doubt serving as the blueprint. While the jewelry designer behind her creation remains unconfirmed, many are attributing her ring to British fine jeweler Jessica McCormack, which calls Kravitz its "first brand ambassador, collaborator, and muse."

Cut: Elongated cushion cut

Size: 6 to 10 carats

Setting: Yellow-gold bezel on a slim band

Everything about Meghan Markle's engagement ring is imbued with British royal heritage. Her ring is comprised of three stones—one larger center stone flanked by two smaller side diamonds—and each one tells a meaningful story. Prince Harry sourced the center one in Botswana, and the two smaller diamonds on either side are from Princess Diana's personal collection. When Prince Harry proposed in 2017, the ring featured a solid yellow-gold band, but two years later, Markle quietly updated the band to feature a thinner pavé design comprised of dozens of tiny diamonds.

Cut: Cushion-cut center stone

Size: Estimated 3-carat center stone and 0.75-carat side diamonds

Setting: Originally on a solid yellow-gold band, Markle updated her ring to a pavé band in 2019.

When Selena Gomez announced her engagement to Benny Blanco, she did it with the caption "forever starts now" and an unforgettable ring. Hers made waves across the internet for its unique marquise-cut diamond set on a yellow-gold eternity band. The choice felt refreshingly unique and true to her, especially at a time when ovals and rounds are dominating. The shape has since become something of a full-circle moment for Gomez, who essentially predicted her own ring back in 2015 when she sang, "I'm in my marquise diamonds, I'm a marquise diamond," on "Good for You." Talk about meaningful.

Designer: Abril Barret

Cut: Marquise

Size: Estimated 6 to 8 carats

Setting: Yellow-gold pavé band

In true Zendaya fashion, the screen star got engaged to fiancé Tom Holland in secret and then, only when she decided it was time, officially debuted her engagement ring on the 2026 Golden Globes red carpet. Experts immediately got to work analyzing the ring, which is an approximately five-carat, elongated cushion-cut natural diamond in an east-west setting with a Georgian-inspired, button-back style on a yellow-gold band, widely believed to be by British jeweler Jessica McCormack. The design pairs 18-karat white and yellow gold for a subtle two-tone effect, giving the ring both warmth and an antique sensibility. Fittingly for a couple that's kept nearly every detail of their relationship private, the ring reads like a family heirloom, which only adds to its mystique and sense of timelessness.

Cut: Elongated cushion cut

Size: Estimated 5 carats

Setting: East-west Georgian-inspired setting

Sofia Richie Grainge's engagement ring is quiet luxury in diamond form. Designed by jeweler Stephanie Gottlieb, the ring is a solitaire emerald-cut diamond set on a platinum band, and the center stone measures approximately six carats. Emerald cuts trade the typical brilliance of a round or cushion stone for flashes of light off their long, linear facets, an effect jewelers call the "hall of mirrors." It's a fitting choice for Richie Grainge, whose entire aesthetic runs toward the polished and understated rather than the maximalist, and it's a ring that will likely age the way the best vintage pieces do: even better over time.

Designer: Stephanie Gottlieb

Cut: Solitaire emerald

Size: Estimated 6 carats

Setting: Platinum band

Devon Lee Carlson's engagement to actor Duke Nicholson came with a ring that felt like a return to old-world glamour. It features a large round brilliant-cut center diamond flanked by two smaller round diamonds, creating a classic three-stone silhouette. The design taps into a style with real staying power. Three-stone rings have long symbolized a couple's past, present, and future, and on Carlson, an It girl known for her off-duty, lived-in style, it reads as effortlessly timeless rather than fussy. Expect this one to spark plenty of reproductions in bridal mood boards for years to come.

Cut: Old-mine round brilliant-cut diamond

Size: Estimated 2 to 3 carats

Setting: Low-profile Georgian-style three-stone setting

There is a particular kind of engagement ring that has taken over the internet: the impossibly photogenic oval diamond, the elongated cushion, the whisper-thin band, the ring held just so against a perfectly manicured hand. Scroll through Instagram after a proposal announcement, and you may find yourself playing a familiar game: Wait… haven’t I seen this ring before? The answer, increasingly, is probably yes.

In an era of over-the-top proposals, hypercurated Pinterest boards, and viral “core”-ified aesthetics, engagement rings have developed their own version of “Instagram face”—a shared visual language where the same silhouettes, stones, and settings rise to the top again and again. Every era has its It ring. Taylor Swift’s old-mine cushion is currently having a very public cultural moment, inspiring countless romantic, vintage-leaning interpretations (and, inevitably, a few rings belonging to people you haven’t spoken to since high school). Before that, Hailey Bieber’s elongated oval diamond had its reign, sending brides-to-be everywhere searching for that same sleek, modern silhouette.

The internet—and our increasingly suspiciously accurate algorithms—only tell part of the story, though.

Beneath the seemingly universal language of the IG engagement ring lies something far more local: taste. Zoom out from the feed, and a different picture emerges. Engagement rings still have regional accents and dialects. In reality, they reveal where someone lives, what kind of architecture surrounds them, what communities they move through, and even what version of luxury feels most natural in their world.

To understand what’s actually happening beyond the algorithm, I spoke with jewelers and designers across the country, asking them a deceptively simple question: What are your clients really buying? Their answers—combined with client data, purchasing trends, and years of firsthand experience designing rings—revealed that geography plays a much larger role in engagement ring choices than many couples may realize.

A New Yorker might commission a sculptural, never-before-seen design; an Angeleno might choose a champagne diamond that feels more fashion accessory than family heirloom; a San Franciscan might prioritize a low-profile setting that can survive a weekend hike; a Dallas buyer might search for a stone that looks as though it already has a history. The differences are subtle but unmistakable.

Much like the idea that dogs start to resemble their owners, people often choose rings that resemble themselves and, increasingly, the circle they surround themselves with. While social media may have created a shared visual language around engagement rings, cities continue to write their own versions of the story. The places we live shape what we consider beautiful, what we define as timeless, and what kind of luxury feels authentic. A ring may sit on one finger, but the culture, landscape, and personality of an entire city can often be found sparkling back.

Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C.’s engagement ring aesthetic is the jewelry equivalent of a perfectly tailored suit: polished, precise, and intentionally understated. In a city where discretion often carries as much weight as status, buyers tend to favor rings that signal refinement rather than demand attention. According to New York City–based designer Steph Mazuera, D.C. clients consistently gravitate toward classic designs, with platinum and white gold among the dominant choices. The preference is less about chasing the latest trend and more about selecting something that feels established, elegant, and built to last.

Frank Darling cofounder Kegan Fisher notes that D.C. buyers often lean toward smaller, more practical center stones compared with flashier luxury markets, reflecting the city’s more conservative approach to fine jewelry. While some engagement ring trends may ebb and flow with the cultural moment in Washington, the broader aesthetic remains remarkably consistent: thoughtful proportions, timeless settings, and a quiet confidence that doesn’t rely on excess.

New York

New York has never been a one-ring town. There are arguably two distinct engagement ring aesthetics at play: one that's polished, timeless, and quietly luxurious—think handcrafted solitaires and classic settings that wouldn't look out of place on the Upper East Side—and another that's decidedly more downtown, where sculptural silhouettes, unexpected gemstones, and custom details feel like extensions of the wearer's personal style rather than the latest trend. It's perhaps no surprise that multiple jewelers describe New York clients as some of the most adventurous in the country.

Mazuera says her New York clients "allow [her] to create [her] most experimental work,” commissioning sculptural, fully custom rings while remaining exacting about the details, from high-polish finishes to perfectly executed prongs. That appetite for originality shows up in the stones themselves, too. According to Los Angeles–based label Orianne Jewelry, roughly 42% of its New York City engagement ring clients have chosen gemstone-forward designs this year, with emeralds leading the pack. But New Yorkers haven't abandoned diamonds altogether: L.A. designer Sofia Kaman's 2025 client data shows buyers continue to gravitate toward substantial three- to five-carat, mostly lab-grown diamonds, particularly in cushion and marquise cuts. And as one of the country's fashion capitals, what happens in Manhattan rarely stays there.

Miami

Miami prioritizes maximum sparkle and visual impact, gravitating toward larger center stones in yellow-gold settings that feel equal parts timeless and attention-grabbing. While solitaire settings remain a favorite, they're rarely understated—designers say even the most minimalist rings are chosen with brilliance in mind. Kaman's 2025 client data found Miami shoppers overwhelmingly favor three- to four-carat, colorless lab-grown diamonds across a diverse mix of shapes and styles, suggesting there's no single "Miami ring" beyond a love of shiny, sparkly, oversize center stones.

Given its status as a fast-paced, trend-driving city, Miami shoppers are also among the quickest to embrace changing engagement ring trends—looking to of-the-moment styles favored by influencers and celebrities. According to The Clear Cut's Olivia Landau, Miami saw the most dramatic shift of any market analyzed, with cushion cuts doubling in popularity as emerald cuts rapidly fell out of favor—a reflection of how closely South Florida buyers watch celebrity engagements and social media when shopping for rings of their own.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles has always been a city where reinvention is part of the culture—and engagement rings are no exception. Here, fashion and fine jewelry collide, with buyers embracing what's next while still searching for something that feels deeply personal. Non-white diamonds are starting to reign supreme with both the natural- and lab-diamond crowds, with creamy shades of butter yellow or champagne taking charge. Kaman’s 2025 client data reflects that anything-goes sensibility. Los Angeles buyers typically choose two- to four-carat diamonds, with roughly 70% opting for colorless or near-colorless stones and 30% choosing champagne, brown, or other fancy-colored diamonds.

The typical Los Angeles ring isn’t defined by one aesthetic, though. Mazuera says West Coast clients tend to favor a more relaxed approach to luxury, gravitating toward bezel settings, softer silhouettes, and unexpected pops of color from gemstones like rubies and emeralds. The mood is less “traditional bridal” and more effortless individuality—pieces that feel collected, personal, and styled rather than simply purchased.

There’s always something that feels a bit off, in the best way, explains Frank Darling’s Fisher. Whether it be east-west bezel settings, chunkier bands, tilted stones, imperfect engravings, or something else, the typical Los Angeles engagement ring completely takes the notion of a “traditional” look and throws it out the window.

San Francisco

San Francisco’s engagement ring aesthetic is less about making a statement and more about creating something that can keep up. In a city where a morning meeting can turn into an afternoon hike and a weekend adventure is never far away, Bay Area buyers are gravitating toward rings that feel as functional as they are beautiful. According to Orianne Jewelry, San Francisco clients typically choose two- to 2.5-carat center stones, smaller than the brand’s global average, and often opt for low-profile, comfortable settings designed for an active lifestyle.

That connection to the natural world also shows up in the design itself. Fisher notes that San Francisco clients are often drawn to nature-inspired details, from whimsical, branch-like settings to floral motifs that echo the region’s landscapes and biodiversity. It’s an aesthetic that feels distinctly Northern Californian: organic, personal, and a little unexpected.

The city’s embrace of innovation extends to the diamond itself. Kaman’s numbers show San Francisco shoppers overwhelmingly favor lab-grown diamonds, which account for 85% of purchases, with nearly all clients choosing colorless stones. Marquise cuts lead the market, followed by cushions, ovals, and pears, while overall designs tend to skew more delicate and understated.

Chicago

Chicago’s engagement ring aesthetic is rooted in quiet confidence: classic, polished, and built to last. While coastal markets often use rings as a form of self-expression—experimenting with unexpected stones, sculptural settings, or fashion-forward details—Chicago buyers tend to return to the styles that have defined engagement rings for generations, with an emphasis on proportion, craftsmanship, and a truly exceptional center stone (which, according to both Mazuera and Kaman, are often old-mine cuts, dubbed the Taylor Swift effect).

Chicago and the broader Midwest consistently favor clean, minimalist solitaire settings anchored by larger, high-quality diamonds. These are rings that are immediately recognizable as engagement rings but elevated through the details: a beautifully cut stone, refined materials, and thoughtful proportions rather than excessive ornamentation. Although, bespoke details such as slightly custom settings with interior engravings or birthstones are still highly regarded as ways to make a ring feel unique to a couple rather than something more cookie cutter.

Dallas

Dallas has a very particular relationship with the engagement ring: bigger, yes, but never without meaning. Think Texas-size glamour with a sense of history behind it. Here, the dream ring isn’t necessarily the trendiest stone of the moment; it’s the exceptional diamond that feels like it could become a future heirloom. Large, colorless center stones, classic silhouettes, and vintage-inspired details define a market that values presence without tipping into excess. Stones and settings here can often be inherited all together, with nearlyweds focusing on timeless elements or styles that have been passed down from generations in their families, either left as is or melted down and reworked into slightly more modern, yet still charming, styles.

According to The Clear Cut, Dallas is one of the few major markets charting its own course, with antique-inspired old-mine cuts surging 206% to become the strongest regional preference for vintage-style diamonds. Unlike other cities where cushion cuts have dominated recent trends, Dallas actually saw cushion cuts decline by 33%, suggesting buyers here are less interested in following the crowd and more drawn to stones with character and history.

Congratulations are in order for Devon Lee Carlson! The model, influencer, and entrepreneur just announced her engagement on Instagram, where her comment section was quickly filled with high-profile well-wishers like Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Emily Ratajkowski, Lila Moss, and others. That kind of star power is expected for someone who models for Burberry, Chanel, and Ralph Lauren, but Carlson's connections aren't limited to the fashion industry. Her fiancé, Duke Nicholson, has one of the most famous last names in Hollywood, courtesy of his grandfather, Jack Nicholson.

With one larger round diamond flanked by two smaller ones, Carlson's engagement ring is so classic. Oval solitaire rings, like those worn by Selena Gomez, Sofia Richie Grainge, and Hailee Steinfeld, are not going anywhere, but they're far from the only popular style. "Carlson's ring is very much on trend," Olivia Landau, founder of The Clear Cut, told Who What Wear. "Many celebrities, including Taylor Swift, are leaning into antique cut diamonds and vintage-inspired settings. The diamond also appears to have a beautiful, warm candlelight color to it. Another big trend in natural diamond engagement rings is embracing diamonds with warmer color grades."

Landau also shared her expert analysis of the ring. "It looks like an Old European cut three-stone ring set in a Georgian button back bezel setting with a yellow gold band," Landau told Who What Wear. "The center stone appears to be around 3 to 4 carats."

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With Zoë Kravitz's latest outing, a new engagement ring trend has officially bloomed. Moving beyond the era where colourful jewels and particularly delicate styles adorned every cool-girl's hands, I've noticed that suddenly all the best dressers are committing to this arguably chicer style.

Spotted on a walk this week, Zoë’s casual outfit was complete with a not-so low-key addition. Debuing a sizeable oval diamond, set low into a slim yellow gold band, Zoë languidly signalled that vows with Harry Styles are offically due to be exchanged.

Speaking to a wider shift in jewellery trends, Madeleine Sangster, Creative Director of Heavenly London, noted that "Zoë’s ring feels like a real shift away from the ultra-delicate styles we’ve been seeing for years. It’s confident without being overly flashy, and that balance is exactly where I see modern engagement rings going.” Not dissimilar to the elegant style debuted by Zendaya not long ago, expect to see this elegant ring top many a fashion girl's jewellery stack soon.

With its subtle vintage feel and clean, unfussy lines, this emerging trend is polished, easy and crucially timeless. Whether nuptials are on your horizon or not, read on to discover the best engagement rings below.

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Engagement rings have always been a reflection of the current moment couples are living in—but lately, they’re saying a lot more than “I’m engaged.” As fashion continues to blur the lines between personal style, wealth signaling, and cultural taste, engagement rings have officially entered their main-character era. No longer limited to tradition or rules passed down generations ago, today’s rings are bolder, more expressive, and deeply intentional. They’re shaped by everything from celebrity engagements and red carpet moments to sustainability concerns, gold prices, and the rise of lab-grown diamonds.

As a 2026 bride currently deep in the engagement ring discourse (and overall wedding decision-making spiral), I’ve spent more time than I’d like to admit talking to jewelers, stalking fashion girls’ left hands, and dissecting what actually feels of the moment versus what already feels dated. The result? A clear shift toward rings that signal taste over trends, individuality over excess, and personal meaning over tradition for tradition’s sake.

From sculptural gold bands and elongated, billionaire-coded diamonds to antique stones with heirloom energy and warm diamond hues that feel elevated and unexpected, these are the five engagement ring trends jewelry experts—and I—see defining the next era of “I do.”

Liquid Gold

Fluid, curved, and impossibly designed, sculptural engagement ring bands have been massively growing en vogue for the last couple of years. As the price of gold increases and subtle wealth signalers become even more prevalent, cool fashion girls are signaling their tastes and growing pockets in the form of chunkier, sculptural, modern-feeling bands.

The Stretch Effect

Diamond engagement rings have never been bigger, more elongated, and incredibly billionaire coded. Once only reserved for the ultra-wealthy elite, the adoption of lab-grown diamonds and price accessibility have made larger-than-life commonplace for more and more nearly-weds. One has to only look at the diamonds of fashion girls like Kylie Jenner, Elsa Hosk, and Georgina Rodríguez to see the elongated effect take flight.

Heirloom Energy

Old is officially new again. From softly faceted old mine and antique-cut diamonds to fully vintage- and estate-sourced engagement rings, heirlooms are having a major moment. With their candlelit sparkle, imperfect symmetry, and storied pasts, these diamonds feel deeply personal—like they’ve already lived a life before yours. As sustainability, sentimentality, and individuality take center stage, fashion-forward couples are opting for rings that feel timeless, soulful, and impossibly chic in a way no brand-new stone ever could.

The New Bezel

The 2026 version of everyone's favorite bezel-set engagement ring is here. Thanks to a few notable 2025 celebrity engagements (Dua Lipa, Miley Cyrus, and Zendaya!), engaged couples to be are looking closer at east-west bezel-set diamond engagement rings. Whether they're chunky, have cutouts, or are crafted in traditional Georgian settings, these fresh-feeling bezel-set diamonds are the object of desire.

Warm Neutrals

White diamonds are so 2025. This year, jewelers are suspecting a sudden rise in warm-colored diamonds with the style set opting for champagne, nude, yellow, and brown. Perhaps I'm biased as a 2026 bride (I got engaged with a buttery yellow pear diamond!), but warm diamonds often exude personality, serving as a bold, yet intimate, engagement ring choice that feels incredibly special and individualistic.

While summer may reign supreme for weddings, it’s the twinkling, fairy-light-lit weeks of Christmas and New Year that have long been prime time for engagements. With romance in the air and a new year on the horizon, it feels only right to take stock of the most dazzling celebrity engagement rings that emerged over the course of 2025.

From under-the-radar proposals to headline-making announcements, this year delivered a bumper crop of celebrity engagements. Stars including Dua Lipa, Zendaya and Elsa Hosk all revealed they’ll be walking down the aisle in the not-too-distant future—and naturally, my attention turned immediately to the rings. Read on for the most jaw-dropping celebrity engagement rings of 2025.

But before we begin, test your knowledge of the best celebrity engagement rings of 2025 with our short quiz, below.

The Best Celebrity Engagement Rings of 2025

1. Elsa Hosk

Style Notes: Model Elsa Hosk got engaged to her longtime partner Tom Daley, on 10 September 2025, sealing the moment with a truly show-stopping ring. Her Tiffany & Co. design features a 5.34-carat brilliant-cut oval diamond with an estimated value of £262,000.

2. Dua Lipa

Style Notes: While Dua Lipa initially kept her engagement under wraps, only confirming the news in a June 2025 interview, fans had already begun speculating thanks to a series of hinting Instagram posts. The singer’s ring, set on a chunky 18ct yellow-gold band, departs from tradition in favour of a bolder, modern aesthetic. Commenting on the wider trend, jeweller Rachel Boston, Founder of Rachel Boston, noted that “in the past year or two, we’ve seen clients increasingly gravitate towards wider, more gold-heavy bands”—making Dua’s choice feel particularly of-the-moment.

3. Winnie Harlow

Style Notes: Confirming her engagement in February, Winnie Harlow announced her forthcoming nuptials to NBA star Kyle Kuzma with an elegant diamond ring. The oval-cut centre stone, estimated at between 8 and 10 carats, is flanked by matching pear-shaped side stones on a platinum or white-gold band. According to Justin Daughters, jewellery expert and Managing Director at Berganza, the ring is valued between £750,000 and £1 million.

4. Zendaya

Style Notes: True to form, Zendaya kept her engagement firmly under the radar. News broke only when she stepped onto the red carpet at the January 2025 Golden Globes, wearing a striking east-west set engagement ring. Minimal yet distinctive, the simple ring has likely made its way onto many a vision board by now.

5. Miley Cyrus

Style Notes: Miley Cyrus confirmed her engagement to Maxx Morando at the Avatar: Fire and Ash world premiere in Los Angeles, debuting a refined cushion-cut diamond ring. Estimated at 4–5 carats, the elegant design retains an elevated glamour—very much in line with Miley’s evolved aesthetic.

6. Georgina Rodríguez

Style Notes: Georgina Rodríguez briefly broke the internet when she shared her engagement ring on Instagram—and it’s easy to see why. Valued at up to £1.5 million, it’s one of the most extravagant engagement rings seen in recent years. The design centres on an enormous oval-cut diamond, estimated at 10–15 carats, set on a platinum or white-gold band and flanked by tapered side stones. As Justin Daughters notes, the result is pure, high-impact brilliance.

7. Taylor Swift

Style Notes: Letting us in on her engagement to partner Travis Kelcee, Taylor debuted her ring in a late-August announcement, showcasing "an elongated cushion-cut diamond in a vintage-style setting, likely an old mine cut set in yellow gold,” noted Eliza Walter, Founder of Lylie. Elegant and timeless, the design perfectly reflects Taylor’s romantic style.

8. Camilla Mendes

Style Notes: Camila Mendes’s engagement makes a case for the most classic round design. Estimated between £30,000 and £50,000, the ring features a round brilliant-cut diamond, the most traditionally romantic of shapes, set on a white-gold or platinum band.

There are only a few pieces of jewellery that you carry with you forever; the string of pearls you received upon your graduation à la the ladies of The First Wives Club, a signet ring that has been passed down from generation to generation, perhaps even a luxury watch to commemorate a milestone birthday. Still, none of these are as important or significant as your engagement ring. “Engagement rings are meaningful because of the intention behind them, which is to carry your shared story,” explains Lucy Folk, the founder and designer of her eponymous jewellery, apparel and accessories brand

A manifestation of the love felt between two people, engagement rings are the physical representation of their commitment to one another and a symbol of their reciprocal devotion. Like a memory poised on the second finger to the left, an engagement ring is a proclamation of affection and a reminder that, like the style your partner has chosen, you’ve found ‘the one’ to spend the rest of your life with..

In this way, the stakes in choosing an engagement ring are incredibly high. Unless you’re someone like Victoria Beckham, who boasts an impressive collection of nearly 15 engagement rings, the cut and setting you choose now will likely be the one you wear forever.

“Where an engagement ring is concerned, it’s about wearability, character, and longevity, rather than following a trend,” celebrated New Zealand-born, London-based jeweller Jessica McCormack tells me over email. With a niche for incredibly poised pieces that become modern heirlooms, the renowned designer has courted a loyal customer base that includes Zoë Kravitz, Zendaya and Dakota Johnson. “I think couples are looking for something that feels personal and timeless.”

“The ring will always be special and significant,” Folk notes. “It's the shared history that is embedded in the ring over its lifetime that enhances the allure of the piece and your story.” Part of this tale is the process of finding the right fit. There are, of course, classic styles that have been around for centuries, like the brilliant diamond ring finished in a six-prong setting created by Tiffany & Co., all the way back in 1886 or the emerald-cut diamonds worn by everyone from Jennifer Lawrence to Elizabeth Taylor. But in order for something to truly be considered timeless, it needs to be offset by the contemporary styles of the day, which brings us to the key engagement ring trends of 2026.

“Classic with a twist” is how Folk describes the collective mood for engagement ring trends in 2026. “People are connecting with storytelling, and there’s a real desire for rings that hold personal meaning,” she adds. “It’s very much about individuality, pieces that feel intimate, expressive, and unique to each love story.” On a more practical level, this translates to rings featuring a trilogy of stones styled in bolder settings, bezel cuts that truly spotlight the diamond and antique rings that accentuate an eternal bond.

When it comes to actually shopping for an engagement ring in 2026, McCormack advises that the most important thing is “to buy a ring that you really love”. Whilst she admits this sounds obvious, she emphasises this point because this is a piece of jewellery that you’ll wear day in and day out. “Finding a design that you’ll want to wear every day comes first, so I always recommend really loving the stone. Couples need to consider the comfortability of the ring; how it sits and looks on their finger, if it moves around and whether that is something that works for them and fits into their daily lives.”

So, whether you’re a future bride or are just curious to know what styles are shaping up to be the defining ones of the year ahead, I’ve consulted leading jewellery designers and experts to identify the 6 key engagement ring trends of 2026. Uncover them all, ahead.

The 6 Key Engagement Ring Trends of 2026

1. Jaw-Dropping Stones

Style Notes: Speaking to Cushla Whiting, a Melbourne-based jeweller specialising in fine jewellery, rare stones and art deco designs, during her recent London trunk show, she explained that one of the biggest trends of 2026 will be a return to maximalism. “With the accessibility of larger lab-grown diamonds, big stones have completely dominated the space,” she adds. “Elongated shapes such as ovals, elongated cushions and radiants are in particularly high demand. Where a one-carat diamond was once considered ideal, couples are now seeking two carats and above.”

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2. Bolder Bands

Style Notes: “We are also seeing a shift in settings to support these larger stones,” Whiting adds. “Bold, chunky gold solitaires are taking precedence over the fine, minimal metal bands of previous years,” she explains. The focus is on statement pieces that feel substantial, luxurious and confidently modern.”

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3. Antique Cuts

Style Notes: Whilst a majority of these engagement ring trends look ahead to the future, it’s also important to look to the past for inspiration. “For 2026, I’m especially excited about finding some beautiful old cuts, which I think look so perfect in an engagement ring,” McCormack notes. “I have always loved working with antique stones, but by nature, they are harder to come by, and while Old Mines are particularly rare, once found, I think they are worth the search! I think there is something very special about having an antique diamond engagement ring.”

“There is a growing desire for engagement rings that tell a personal story, moving away from the classic white diamond solitaire toward pieces that express unique taste and values, like genuine antique diamonds,” Whiting adds. Of course, Taylor Swift’s stunning engagement ring from Travis Kelce helps underscore this message, but it’s not just amongst the rich and famous where this lust for vintage stones is being expressed.

“The appetite for antique diamonds continues to be a strong niche within our studio, driven by clients seeking one-of-a-kind pieces with unmatched history and charm.” As a result, she developed the LA CUSH™ diamond collection, which is a series of proprietary diamond cuts inspired by the character of antique stones and conceived by her brother and the brand’s in-house gemologist, Hamish Whiting. “Each cut reinterprets antique traditions through a modern architectural lens, designed to Hamish’s exact specifications and cut from Antwerp-sourced roughs with full transparency.”

Shop the Trend:

4. Multiple Stones

Style Notes: Folk also notes that singular diamonds are also being eschewed for a collection of multiple stones, be it in trilogy, cluster or toi et moi settings. “Our clients are also excited by combining cuts that are not traditionally presented together,” she tells me. “This ranges from cuts like emeralds, baguettes, rounds and ovals presented on one plane, with equal weight to designs that are diamond-heavy, but with no hero or central stone or regular pattern.”

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5. Full Spectrum Styles

Style Notes: Alongside these more flashy cuts, modern brides are also looking to express their uniqueness through the colour they select. “Naturally coloured stones such as champagne, light yellow, and richly toned sapphires in green, teal and Australian parti hues are increasingly sought after for their rarity and character,” Whiting tells me. It’s a consensus shared by Sydney-based goldsmith, jewellery designer and gemologist, Monika Ruggerino. “Designs are more daring than ever before, with my clients requesting bespoke personalised elements added to my signature designs and opting for colour over traditional white diamonds,” she adds.

Shop the Trend:

6. Bezel Settings

Style Notes: Where a lot of emphasis is placed on the stone itself, Folk reminds me that setting is equally important when factoring in your chosen ring design. “Our clients want to live and love in their rings!” she stresses. “Bezel settings, or diamonds embedded into surfaces that protect the edges of the diamonds and can keep up with a life well lived, are what people are drawn to. These styles are full of texture and spirit. They are magnetic, and I think our customer feels this energy.” This sentiment is echoed by Whiting: “Chunky gold bands, bezel settings and personalised engraving are also making a return, offering the perfect blend of individuality, craftsmanship and timeless appeal.”

Shop the Trend:

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We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

Congratulations, Elsa Hosk and Tom Daly! After 10 years together, the pair is officially engaged. Hosk shared the news with her eight million Instagram followers, revealing that the proposal happened in a Swedish wildflower garden. How cute is that? Both of them share a love of fashion—Hosk runs a clothing line called Helsa, and Daly cofounded District Vision, a sunglasses brand.

Let's cut to the chase and get to the details you came here for, shall we? Hosk's engagement ring is the Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Soleste Oval Halo Engagement Ring With a Diamond Platinum Band. "With a scintillating halo of brilliant diamonds and a striking, masterfully cut oval center stone, light is gathered and mirrored throughout the design, resulting in an unrivaled display of brilliance," the brand's website explains. An oval diamond surrounded by a halo of smaller stones is a thoroughly classic choice that will never go out of style. Scroll down to take a close-up look at Elsa Hosk's engagement ring.

Shop Other Tiffany & Co. Rings

Breaking: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are engaged! (Yes, our entire office collectively gasped.) The couple, who first went public with their relationship in October 2023, took to Instagram today to announce the big news with the caption, "Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married." Cue the "Love Story" bridge.

The engagement details are still trickling in, but we do know Swift is sporting a cushion-cut diamond (and a gigantic one at that!) set on a yellow-gold band from Artifex Fine Jewelry with a manicure so sheer she could be wearing no polish at all. As someone who has an entire Pinterest board dedicated to wedding-day manicures (important), this is causing me to rethink every potential polish choice I've meticulously picked out.

Of course, Swift's "naked" nails appear super clean and polished—just without an actual coat of polish. That's the key if you're going to commit to a naked mani; a nourished base free of splits, chips, and frays will keep it looking elegant. That said, a "naked" look can also include a coat of incredibly sheer, neutral polish (or just a shiny topcoat, if you feel so inclined).

After some mild sleuthing (and staring at the photos for longer than I care to admit), we finally know that Swift paired with her striped dress with CND's Plexigel Color Builder in Spiced Taffy, a creamy, soft beige. Note, this is a brush-on gel enhancement you'd need to head to the salon for (unless, of course, you have your own UV lamp. If you're looking for a regular-polish equivalent, I'd say opt for OPI's Bare My Soul, which has a similar sheer, neutral finish. Celebrity nail artist Natalie Minerva once told WWW it's a fabulous base for a variety of different nail looks, so you can't go wrong with it in your at-home collection. Shop both colors below, along with a few other similar shades and naked mani essentials.

Shop Naked Nail Polishes and Tools

After months of speculation and a whirlwind romance, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have officially announced their engagement. The power couple, known for blending the world of music and sports, shared the news on Instagram today. Their announcement, a slideshow of pictures captioned "your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married" instantly captivated the internet, amassing over a million likes in under five minutes.

Swift's engagement ring, a custom diamond set on a yellow-gold band from Artifex Fine Jewelry, is true to her timeless yet unique style. Daniela Tarantino, VP of merchandising at James Allen and Blue Nile, described the ring to Who What Wear: "Taylor Swift's gorgeous ring is likely a unique cut just for her, but to our eye, it looks similar to an elongated modified cushion." Tarantino estimates the ring is between 10 and 15 carats total, set on a yellow-gold band, and likely costs between $750,000 and $1,000,000.

"Taylor’s ring stands out immediately; it feels bold, vintage-inspired, and very much like her," Steph Mazuera, NYC-based bespoke jeweler, adds. "The band is wide, broadening as it meets the diamond, and appears to feature hand-set details." And while the setting is substantial, Mazuera notes that it is not distracting but instead beautifully complements the antique diamond.

On Taylor Swift: Polo Ralph Lauren Striped Silk Blend Dress ($320); Cartier watch

The elongated cushion-cut is a perfect choice for Swift, reflecting her appreciation for nostalgia and classic style, while the modified version adds a contemporary touch fitting for a bride-to-be in 2025 and beyond. "Although elongated shapes are trending, I love that Taylor’s ring doesn’t necessarily feel trendy," Mazuera shares. "It feels very unique to her. I think more and more people are choosing to forgo trends and instead create one-of-a-kind engagement rings."

Without further ado, scroll to see Swift's engagement ring, her perfect "naked" manicure, as well as shop similar rings and the pretty striped dress she wore.

Shop Taylor Swift's Exact Dress

Shop a Similar Striped Dress

Shop Cushion-Cut Engagement Rings

In 2025, the BB Thelma ring by Aaryah has secured its spot as a defining staple in the modern cool girl’s fine jewelry rotation.

With its dainty, sculptural silhouette, tilted pear-shaped center, and mirror-like diamond or gemstone finish, the BB Thelma offers a tactile, almost meditative presence on the hand. It’s the kind of piece that draws a second glance—and then a question: Where did you get that?

That was exactly what I DMed influencer Rocky Barnes after she posted a far-away photo wearing the ring. Even through an Instagram Story, the BB Thelma shimmered with quiet confidence. It wasn’t flashy. It didn’t beg for attention. It just was. What made it stand out even more? It sat on her pinky finger—a placement that has evolved from an afterthought to a bold, deliberate statement in 2025.

Once a symbol of lineage and legacy—think signet rings worn by older men in the 1900s—the pinky ring has been reclaimed by women as a sign of autonomy and personal style. The BB Thelma captures that shift. "We've found that women are buying it for themselves," says Aaryah founder Megan Kothari. "Traditionally, fine jewelry is something gifted by a partner, for a milestone—but our customers are flipping that. They’re buying BB Thelma rings to celebrate themselves."

But let’s rewind: Before the BB Thelma ring became Aaryah’s signature piece, the brand was born with a mission to honor Kothari’s Indian heritage and the importance of jewelry in it, amplify women’s voices in a male-dominated industry, and reimagine what fine jewelry could mean for a new generation.

Kothari comes from a long line of jewelers (her grandfather and father both worked in the trade), but she didn’t plan to follow in their footsteps. "Growing up, I never wanted to be in this industry," she says. "It was very male-dominated. There wasn’t really space for women’s voices. So I went into beauty instead, working at L’Oréal and Estée Lauder."

It wasn’t until 2020, during the pandemic, that she began to reconsider her approach. She drew on years of observation, a diamond grading class at FIT, and extensive self-teaching. Kothari began working with a jeweler in Manhattan’s Diamond District to bring her vision to life. She then began helping friends design engagement rings, and through that process, she noticed a gap in the market for unconventional and unique engagement ring styles. It pushed her to design her first signature engagement ring, the Trikona—a negative-space triangle ring that quickly found its audience.

"I brought it to an event and it went viral," Kothari says. "A magazine picked it up, then a few more publications, and it actually sold pretty fast. That was the moment I realized, there’s something here." A year later, Aaryah officially launched its first collection of nontraditional engagement rings.

Among those designs was the original Thelma—a sculptural engagement piece featuring an organic, satin-finished gold band that cradled a slanted pear-cut diamond. “It went viral on Pinterest,” Kothari recalls. “We got so much good feedback, and I started thinking, ‘What if we created a non-bridal version for people who loved the design but weren’t necessarily shopping for engagement rings?’”

That idea became the BB Thelma. Kothari and her team scaled down the silhouette to fit the pinky, then posted a mockup on Instagram to get follower feedback. "We did not anticipate the response," she says. "We launched a pre-sale and got so many orders that we were delayed in fulfilling them."

So why has it resonated so strongly? "A pinky ring is symbolic of personal power," Kothari says. “We’ve had clients say, ‘I just got a promotion—I want to buy myself a pinky ring,’ or ‘I just want to treat myself to something nice.’”

Prices range from $1000 to $2500, and many customers aren’t stopping at one. “We’ve seen women stacking two at a time [as they hug each other nicely],” Kothari says. “It’s been amazing to see how they're building personal collections.” The BB Thelma is available in various natural stones—ruby, amethyst, sapphire, emerald—allowing customers to personalize the piece based on birthstones or other meaningful markers. “There's so much emotion behind it,” she adds. “It becomes a piece you never want to take off.”

And speaking of never taking it off, besides Barnes, tastemakers like Nara Smith and Melissa Wood are rarely seen without theirs. Whether they’re cooking from scratch or leading Pilates-inspired mat workouts, the BB Thelma is there, catching the light. This small but impactful piece has created a ripple effect, inspiring buyers far beyond the brand’s home base, New York City. “We’ve had orders from Dubai, Kuwait, Canada,” says Kothari. “And our only marketing is organic social media.”

The ring’s rise also comes at the perfect cultural moment. Pinky rings are everywhere. When Emily Ratajkowski got divorced, she split her engagement ring into two bands—one of which now lives on her pinky. Even Hailey Bieber has been spotted stacking dainty styles on hers while posing with Rhode’s latest Peptide Lip Tint launches. Plus, we’re living through a fashion cycle obsessed with resurfacing past trends. Just like Victorian-inspired tassel-adorned accessories have made a comeback, so too have pinky rings—once symbols of heritage, now icons of independence and women's empowerment.

In the coming months, Aaryah will expand the BB Thelma line with earrings and bracelets that echo the ring’s architectural softness. And while the pinky ring may be trending now, its shape feels too classic—and the sentiment too intimate—to ever really go out of style. After all, the name Aaryah, derived from the Sanskrit word Arya, means “precious” and “rare.” What’s truly precious and rare never goes out of style.

Shop the BB Thelma Ring

Shop Chic Pieces From Aaryah

I just got engaged! While I knew my fiancé was planning to pop the question for a while, it still didn't take away from the excitement when he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him in Tokyo, Japan. Even though I'm over the moon to be stepping into my bridal era with my high school sweetheart, let's be real. I was *slightly* more excited to sport my jaw-dropping engagement ring he custom-designed with a good friend of mine, New York–based jeweler Steph Mazuera.

If you know anything about shopping for an engagement ring, you'll know it is a process. From last summer until my engagement, I was anxiously shopping around for the best luxury engagement ring. My Pinterest board was full of whimsical, custom designs from up-and-coming engagement-ring designers and those from established maisons. I went to a whopping 10 jewelry houses in search of the perfect diamond engagement ring I'd be wearing for decades to come. While my then boyfriend indulged my fashion-person fantasies as I dragged him up and down Manhattan to browse, he also gave me some strong opinions while on the search for the ring. After countless appointments and trying on over 50 rings, I'm considering myself an expert on the best luxury-engagement-ring designers and maisons.

Summer wedding season is here, and if you've been with your partner for a while, you might be itching to have something shiny on your finger soon. Thankfully, I went through the process and took long, detailed notes so you don't have to. Below, read my robust guide to the brands and designers making the best luxury engagement rings on the market. Whether it's a tried-and-true maison with a history of excellence or the new designer on the block with a fresh perspective, these names are the ones to look out for on your search to find your dream engagement ring.

Tiffany & Co.

Tiffany & Co. basically wrote the book on engagement rings. Founded in 1837, the NYC institution introduced the now-iconic six-prong Tiffany Setting in 1886, changing the way diamonds are displayed forever. To this day, the brand's bridal collection continues to blend innovation with tradition. Whether you're eyeing a solitaire or a vintage-inspired halo, Tiffany & Co.'s craftsmanship and ethically sourced diamonds ensure a wow factor. Recent collections like Tiffany True offer a modern edge with clean lines and low-set profiles. Stars like Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Mila Kunis have turned to Tiffany & Co. for showstopping sparkle, so you'll be in good company. Plus, the brand's box in robin's-egg blue is so iconic you'll be ecstatic when you see your partner pull it out of their pocket.

Harry Winston

Harry Winston has long been the go-to for diamonds that dazzle. Founded in 1932, the American jewelry brand quickly gained fame for acquiring some of the most legendary stones in history—including the Hope Diamond—and became a fixture on red carpets, from Hollywood to the Met Gala. Its engagement rings echo that same glamour, offering a blend of classic design and exquisite quality. Expect to see cushion-cut solitaires, vintage-inspired settings, and halos that sparkle from every angle. From American icons like Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to current-day pop divas like Jennifer Lopez, Harry Winston engagement rings have proven their enduring appeal. Known for its diamond-first philosophy, the brand's settings are designed to maximize light and brilliance. For a ring that feels straight out of a classic movie scene, Harry Winston is the gold standard.

Cartier

Few names are as synonymous with timeless luxury as Cartier. Founded by Parisian watchmaker Louis-François Cartier in 1847, the house has long been the jeweler of choice for royals and fashion elites. When it comes to engagement rings, Cartier perfects that balance of classic and contemporary. Its Solitaire 1895 style is a fan favorite—understated, refined, and impeccably cut—and collections like Étincelle de Cartier and Cartier Destinée add a more modern sparkle. Celebs such as Grace Kelly and Mary-Kate Olsen have been spotted in the maison's iconic pieces, proving that a Cartier ring is always in style. Known for its attention to detail and clean, architectural settings, the brand's bridal offering is effortlessly chic—perfect for the minimalist fiancé with an eye for heritage. If you're looking for a fashion statement in your luxury engagement ring, though, you can opt for one of the brand's tricolor Trinity rings or the iconic Panthère de Cartier ring on your left hand.

Jessica McCormack

Jessica McCormack's bridal jewelry is where Georgian-era romance meets modern London edge. Founded in 2008, the brand has gained a cult following for its fusion of antique aesthetics and contemporary silhouettes. McCormack's engagement rings often feature old-mine and rose-cut diamonds set in blackened gold and her signature Button Back mount, which gives each piece a lived-in heirloom quality. The pieces have been the focal point of proposals for fashion insiders like Zoë Kravitz and Zendaya, both women who set the standard for the modern-day style lexicon. What sets the brand's rings apart is their unique charm, looking like they've been pulled from a family jewelry vault. If you want a ring that looks like it's been passed down through generations (but still feels totally you), Jessica McCormack should be at the top of your list.

Graff

If over-the-top glamour is your thing, Graff will be your holy grail. Since its founding in 1960, the London-based house has specialized in rare, investment-grade diamonds. Think museum-worthy stones cut and set to perfection. Its bridal collection isn't for the faint of heart: Oversize solitaires, dramatic halos, and flawless clarity dominate the lineup. Graff's pieces are often one of a kind, making the brand a magnet for royalty and A-listers. (I'm talking Elizabeth Taylor and Charlene, Princess of Monaco.) The brand is known for sourcing and cutting some of the world's most famous diamonds, like the 118.78-carat Graff Venus. It's all about bold elegance here—ideal for the fiancé who wants their ring to make a statement from across the room. If you're looking for a bit of sparkle, the brand's Icon setting is sure to catch anyone's attention.

Arielle Ratner

For those seeking something a bit more under the radar but no less stunning, Arielle Ratner delivers. The New York–based designer launched her fine-jewelry line after a decade in fashion, bringing with her a modern sensibility and a passion for personal storytelling. Her engagement rings are quietly luxurious—think antique-cut diamonds, low-profile settings, and subtle, handcrafted details that feel intimate and bespoke. Each piece is made to order, with a strong focus on ethical sourcing and sustainability. Ratner's rings have that effortlessly cool vibe that appeals to the downtown bride who's into vintage denim, natural beauty, and timeless design. With a growing celeb following and a commitment to individuality, the brand is one to watch.

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

If there is one thing my friends are always asking me for, it's manicure inspiration. With everyone's love of nail art and obsession with BIAB only growing with every passing year—and being my friendship group's go-to beauty person/personal shopper, I happily accept the tasks of finding the best nail trend options and nail art ideas out there.

The pressure really was on however, when a friend recently asked me specifically what the best nail colours for engagement rings are. Now my friend isn't yet engaged, but we both know that it's certainly imminent, and being a Type A personality, she's the kind of person who needs to be prepared—and will be sporting an engagement ring-worthy manicure every day for the next year, if that's what it takes.

Prior to my wedding earlier this year, I was engaged for four years before that, so I've tried my fair shade of nail colour options up against my own engagement ring. I also tapped my friend and manicurist Ashleigh Bamber for her recommendations. "Not everyone knows they're going to be proposed to, but most of my clients seem to have a pretty accurate inkling beforehand," she tells me. "They tend to opt for neutral and nude shades, which will provide a clean, plain background, and let the ring do the talking."

Nudes, neutrals, pinks, and whites are usually safe (and chic) options for newly proposed to brides-to-be—after all, you're probably going to be taking and sending lots of pictures of your hand, so you want the focus to be on the ring, not your manicure. Further down the line however, you'll probably want to mix things up a bit. "Those of my clients who prefer bolder manicures will opt for a bright classic red," says Bamber. "And baby blue is also a popular choice—a lot of my bridal clients will wear this on their wedding day as a nod to 'something blue'."

The Best Nail Colour for Engagement Rings:

1. Sheer Neutral

Clean, elegant, and sophisticated, you really can't go wrong with a sheer neutral finish.

If this option feels too plain for you, why not add a tiny gem to your accent nail to match the sparkle of your ring?

2. True Red

Proof that no matter how bright and bold your red manicure, the ring will still take centre stage.

This is a chic and flattering option for all nail lengths, but especially shorter ones.

3. Pale Pink

A little more than nude, but not quite a full pink—a pale hue with an ultra-glossy finish always looks expensive.

Opting for a cooler pink shade looks cleaner and fresher than warm hues.

4. Something Blue

I wore this baby blue French tip so much throughout my engagement that I also settled on it for my wedding nails, too.

And of course, baby blue looks just as good when worn all over. Plus, the squared-off shape of these nails would work so well with a modern or geometric style of ring.

5. Pearly White

Pearly white is a bridal classic for a reason. Ask your manicurist for a chrome finish to keep it feeling fresh and modern.

This colour looks especially elegant when the formula is sheer and glossy, like this one.

Getting engaged can be one of the most exciting times in one's life. From the ring shopping to the proposal to the start of wedding planning, there are so many big moments to experience in a short amount of time. Because of this, it is very common for couples to want to choose the easiest route possible for all the above, and now, customizing an engagement ring has officially crossed over from the stereotype of complicated to easy and seamless thanks to Ben Bridge. Ben Bridge is a jeweler you might recognize the name of from growing up attending your local mall but has since evolved into one of the most revered luxury jewelers in the United States. Ben Bridge has been around for over 112 years and has remained a family-operated business for most of that time. This year, I was fortunate enough to attend a trip to India with the jeweler alongside the company's CEO and president, Lisa Bridge, where we toured their manufacturers and factories in India.

Since Ben Bridge offers many different product types, from gemstones to luxury-brand timepieces, we got a taste of the companies in India that collaborate with Ben Bridge to create some of its most valued products. One I am excited to speak to today is its bespoke engagement ring line, Bella Ponte, which translates to "beautiful bridge." Bella Ponte is manufactured by Shah Luxury in Mumbai, India, where the brand's custom engagement rings come to life. The goal of this engagement ring line is to debunk the hysteria around customizing an engagement ring—this includes the idea that it's way more expensive, way more time-consuming, and way more complicated to go the custom route. They achieve this through technological innovations that are advanced and uncommon in the industry. And for customers, these innovations make the customization process easier than ever.

Bella Ponte by Ben Bridge offers every engagement ring and wedding band style you could think of in addition to its customization services. Below, I walk you through the Bella Ponte custom engagement process step by step, outlining just how simple it is to make your dream engagement ring come to life. Including design consultations, a 3D hologram of your ring, and unique documentation of the entire process, Bella Ponte is changing the game of custom engagement rings. While in India, Ben Bridge gifted me with the opportunity to design my own ring so I could get an intimate look at just how special and effortless this process is. Go on to read the breakdown of the Bella Ponte customization process, including images from my time in India with the Ben Bridge team and a sampling of rings that will get your wheels turning should you be expecting to get engaged any time soon.

Step 1: In-Store Design Consultation

Ben Bridge offers in-store design consultation appointments where customers can meet with an associate to map out their dream engagement ring. This first step is often the most intimidating, but the Bella Ponte collection coupled with the associates' expertise makes it easy. Here, you will be guided through stone shapes and sizes, settings, and more. Whether you have a vision in mind that is completely custom or you want to take an existing style and customize it from there, this collection can accommodate every preference.

Before my trip to India with Ben Bridge, I had an appointment to design a ring of my own from the Bella Ponte collection. I was so intimidated by my initial meeting because I didn't know where to start design-wise, but I was guided through every step with ease, and we ultimately ended up designing a ring that was perfect for me.

Step 2: Digital Rendering

Once your design is finalized, the next step in the Bella Ponte customization process is to review a digital rendering or CAD (computer-aided design) of your very own ring. This step is where you can see your idea come to life. The digital rendering is very detailed, meaning you can see every stone, prong, and metal detail. If you have any changes you would like made, this is the step to make them happen. In this stage, a wax casting is also created. This step makes you feel secure and at peace with your ring design. I remember seeing mine for the first time and realizing the concept we worked on was going to be even more gorgeous than I imagined.

Step 3: 3D Hologram

This next step is what makes the Bella Ponte engagement ring process stand out among its competitors. Once your ring is finalized, you will receive a 3D hologram of your ring to view with your smartphone. Customers receive a custom link and a special plastic cone, allowing them to view a 3D holographic version of their ring. The unique technology developed by Salil and Neil Shah is what further makes the process of customization feel approachable. Customers are involved in every detail of the making of their ring and receive these innovative affirmation checkpoints along the way. This step is a great way to tide customers over while they wait for their ring to be completed.

Step 4: Take Your Ring Home

Finally, customers get to take their customized ring home. My favorite detail about this Bella Ponte customization process is the My Story Card that customers receive once their ring is delivered. This is sent via a QR code that links to and documents the life cycle of the ring. It has every detail about the metal and stones, along with photos and recorded design notes. Whether the person getting proposed to was involved in the ring design process or not, this My Story Card will be a keepsake couples cherish.

Shop our favorite Bella Ponte by Ben Bridge engagement rings:

For a jewellery enthusiast, few purchases carry as much weight as the engagement ring. Not only is it a piece you'll wear every day for the rest of your life, but it’s also likely to be one of the most significant investments in your collection—both financially and sentimentally. With this in mind, choosing the right ring involves a great deal of thought and research.

Even if you've trusted your partner with choosing your engagement ring, it's worth dropping occasional subtle (or not-so-subtle) hints about your preferences. Chances are, they'll be grateful to have some guidance. If you've always pictured a timeless solitaire diamond on your ring finger, don't be afraid to make it known—no one wants you to end up with a fussy ring that's not to your taste.

Of course, it's a different story when you yourself have no idea what you'd like. That's where engagement ring trends can be helpful in sparking ideas. If conventional designs don't resonate with you, the good news is that the world of engagement rings has never been more diverse or creative. From striking cocktail-style designs to sculptural pieces that break away from tradition, there’s a perfect option to suit every bride-to-be.

I reached out to trailblazers in engagement ring design to learn about the trends set to shine over the coming year. If you're hoping to say "yes" in 2025 or 2026, keep reading for their expert insights.

The 7 Engagement Ring Trends to Know for 2025/2026

1. Diamond Clusters

“I predict we'll see more mixed setting styles, and potentially a shift toward hybrid designs where the ring neither looks too much like a typical engagement nor wedding ring. Think multi-stone clusters that spread horizontally so there is less emphasis on one large centre stone.” — Michelle Oh, founder, Michelle Oh Jewellery

“Clusters remain a popular choice, particularly those featuring green stones and mixed cuts, offering a dynamic and visually striking finish.” — Laura Kay, director and buyer, Tomfoolery London

“An antique design that’s having a moment for us is the ‘trefoil’ which features a central oval or round-cut stone with a cluster of three smaller stones set on either side. It comes from the Latin trifolium, meaning ‘three-leaved plant’—and that’s how it looks! The trefoil has strong romanticism roots, as it was adopted as masonry ornamentation during the Middle Ages.” — Eliza Walter, founder, Lylie Jewellery

Shop the Trend:

2. Yellow Gold

“This year, yellow gold has been very popular, often paired with white gold detailing. I believe this trend will continue into 2026, as it's great for those who like mixing their metals. Additionally, I expect to see an increase in demand for platinum pieces due to rising gold prices, so we look forward to working more with platinum while still having a little flash of yellow.” — Lucy Crowther, founder, Minka Jewels

“There’s something about yellow gold that feels fresh and modern, while still being super timeless.” — Jessie Thomas, founder, Jessie Thomas Jewellery

Shop the Trend:

3. Antique Diamonds

“Free from mining, recycled and repurposed diamonds are kinder to the planet. Antique stones exude old-world charm because they have been cut by hand (versus today's brilliant-cuts which are faceted by machine), and have a real romance about them with your love story being only part of their journey through time. Our clients are often drawn to the idea of repurposed diamonds, agreeing with us that reusing something already in circulation is perhaps the most sustainable choice of all.” — Eliza Walter, founder, Lylie Jewellery

“Discerning customers are becoming increasingly aware about supply chain issues when it comes to buying new diamonds, and sustainability concerns are at the forefront of their buying decisions. Using antique diamonds and recycling heirloom stones is a great way to create jewellery in a transparent and ethical way, as it doesn't require any new resources to be extracted in the process. I also love the charm of these older, hand-cut diamonds: they each have a very distinct character, which makes them all the more special. In this spirit, we've recently released a new collection only featuring recycled and antique diamonds.” — Rachel Boston, founder, Rachel Boston Jewellery

Shop the Trend:

4. Coloured Gems

“This year, we've had a lot of demand for subtly coloured diamonds—think pale, buttery yellow, light champagne, or even cool grey and caramel-coloured stones. Combining these pale central diamonds with traditional white diamond side stones is a really effective way to infuse a lot of character into a piece, with it still reading as a classic and timeless engagement ring. The colour is definitely there, but the overall result looks tonal and elevated. Even better if the side stones are a more unusual shape!” — Rachel Boston, founder, Rachel Boston Jewellery

“There is a noticeable trend of customers opting for bright, bold-coloured stones, shifting away from traditional diamonds and mixing in vibrant hues. Emerald green remains a favourite, but we've recently had a rise in requests for orange, peach, purple, and even a few rubies. We love that this creates individuality with every design.” — Michelle Oh, founder, Michelle Oh Jewellery

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5. Cocktail Style

“Engagement rings are evolving to look more like right-hand or cocktail rings, emphasising unique design over traditional centre stones. Couples are drawn to these non-traditional styles because they express individuality and creativity. It's all about showcasing stunning craftsmanship and artistic flair, allowing for a more personal touch in their jewellery.” — Shahla Karimi, founder, Shahla Karimi Jewellery

“I’m seeing more couples leaning into bold, cocktail-style engagement rings with oversized and coloured stones. These rings are for people who want something that stands out but still has that heirloom feel.” — Jessie Thomas, founder, Jessie Thomas Jewellery

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6. Art Deco

“2025 marked 100 years of Art Deco, a style known for its geometric motifs. As more people are buying with longevity in mind, I think we’ll see even more modern brides applying their own contemporary take on Art Deco-inspired designs.” — Laura Vann, founder, V by Laura Vann

“Art Deco designs are still highly sought after, continuing to lead most of our sales. They are appreciated for their timeless elegance and geometric appeal.” — Laura Kay, director and buyer, Tomfoolery London

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7. Asymmetry

“We predict bold, avant-garde engagement rings that break from traditional expectations increased in demand over 2025 and will continue into 2026. Personal expression and individuality will be celebrated through sculptural and asymmetric shapes alongside textural metal crafted by our goldsmiths.” — Eliza Walter, founder, Lylie Jewellery

“The idea of a ‘traditional’ diamond engagement ring is being steadily replaced with customers seeking unique designs that reflect their personality. People are buying more playful, less conventional designs and a great way of doing this is with an asymmetric ring. You can mix cuts and colours to create a truly unique piece.” — Laura Kay, director and buyer, Tomfoolery London

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How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how much you should spend on an engagement ring. The traditional "3 months' salary" rule is outdated and largely a marketing tactic. Ultimately, the appropriate amount depends on individual circumstances, financial capacity and personal preferences. I can't speak for all recipients of an engagement ring, but I'd much rather start the next chapter of our lives together with excitement rather than the underlying anxiety of having spent beyond our means on the engagement ring itself.

What to Do If Your Partner Doesn't Like Their Engagement Ring

This scenario is much more common than people assume; chances are they don't dislike it, but it might not feel like "them", and when it's something you're going to wear for the rest of your life, it's understandable to want your engagement ring to be an extension of who you are. No one is at fault here—the key is to work together to find a solution. Much like you'll do time and time again in your marriage.

The first step is to have an open and honest conversation about it. Focus on finding a solution together, whether that involves customising the ring, exchanging it or exploring alternative options like a wedding band. Open communication and understanding are key to navigating this situation with sensitivity and respect for your partner's feelings.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try pieces ourselves, everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, speak to external experts and fashion insiders and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

Ever since her Wizards of Waverly Place days, Selena Gomez has had serious personal style, so when it came time for her to get engaged, her engagement ring was always going to be unique and undetermined by the wedding realm's biggest trends. Now that she has gotten engaged—Gomez's partner, Benny Blanco, proposed last night—we know exactly how different and remarkable her real-life ring is.

"Forever begins now," Gomez captioned a slideshow of Instagram photos on December 11 showcasing the proposal and her dazzling marquise-cut diamond engagement ring. "Hey wait… that's my wife," Blanco responded in the comments. The music producer did good. He selected the perfect ring, a diamond set on a yellow-gold pavé band; location, a grassy picnic; and choice of cuisine, Taco Bell. Of course, the singer and actress's nails were painted to perfection for the occasion in a barely noticeable pale pink, and she wore a cropped faux-fur jacket, Banana Republic's Icon wide-leg jeans (which just so happen to be 40% off right now), and white sneakers.

According to The Clear Cut founder Olivia Landau, elongated marquise diamonds like Gomez's are one of the most surprising cuts that she's been seeing more and more recently. Not too long ago, this shape was considered untrendy, and many future fiancés wanted oval-shaped diamonds instead, Landau told Who What Wear assistant shopping editor Ana Escalante earlier this year. However, there's been a significant rise in demand for marquise cuts, and Gomez's big news is sure to encourage even more.

The couple made their first public appearance together in December 2023, though they've been working together professionally for years. Blanco produced two of Gomez’s tracks in 2015, "Same Old Love" and "Kill Em With Kindness," and "Trust Nobody" in 2016. They also collaborated in 2019 on "I Can't Get Enough" and in 2023 on "Single Soon." That last one couldn't be further from the truth.

In addition to her future husband, many more celebrities flocked to Gomez's comment section to congratulate her on the big moment. "Congratulations beauty," Suki Waterhouse wrote. Lily Collins jumped in with "Ahhhhhhhh yes yes yes!! Best news ever. Couldn't be more happy for you both," followed by a bunch of red heart emojis. Hulu, the network Gomez's comedy series Only Murders in the Building runs on, is crying, according to the company's IG account, and Nina Dobrev is "so happy" for the couple.

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I'm going to be vulnerable on Beyoncé's internet for a second: Over the last few months, as I've scroll through endless engagement ring options, I can’t help but feel a little overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices. It’s not that I’m not excited (I am!), but with so many options out there, how do you find thee ring that feels just right? I turned to a few of my coolest, most stylish married friends in NYC for advice. They’re the type of women who value individuality and design, so I knew their engagement rings would be anything but basic (and, at times, even controversial). Sure enough, each of them had a story about how they found the perfect piece—something unique, sculptural, and full of personality.

The common thread? They all chose bespoke, handcrafted rings from individual designers and tried-and-true brands, opting for sculptural designs that felt fresh and modern. Gone are the days of basic solitaires and cookie-cutter styles, unless you find one that speaks uniquely to you and your timeless style. For my friends, though, their rings are pieces of art—whether it’s an asymmetrical setting, a mix of colored gemstones, or a sleek, minimalist band. It turns out that some of the best places to buy an engagement ring are the indie designers and boutique stores where custom work is the star.

I was curious about what made these rings so special, and my friends shared how they connected with these talented makers to create one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether it was finding a diamond alternative or working with a designer to create something that reflected their personal style, they all agreed: The best engagement ring brands are the ones that help you tell your love story and show off a deeply personal sense of style. Below, shop a few of the best engagement ring brands I have no doubt you'll swoon over too.

The Clear Cut

Co-founded by Olivia Landau, The Clear Cut is all about creating personalized, sustainable engagement rings with an emphasis on earth-mined-only stones. With a focus on custom designs and ethical sourcing, they help clients create the ring of their dreams, all while offering a seamless virtual experience. Prices range from $3000 to $30,000, depending on customization. Whether you're going for something timeless or trendy, The Clear Cut makes it easy to find a beautiful ring that feels just right.

Stephanie Gottlieb

Stephanie Gottlieb’s engagement rings are the definition of elevated elegance. Known for modern yet classic designs, Gottlieb’s rings are perfect for those who want something chic and timeless. She focuses on high-quality diamonds and custom pieces, with pieces starting in the five-figure range and costing upward of six figures. With her eye for fashion-forward details, her rings are beloved by celebrities and brides alike, offering both style and sophistication for your big day.

Steph Mazuera

Miami-born, Brooklyn-based Steph Mazuera and her engagement rings are the epitome of unique and sustainable luxury. Known for one-of-a-kind designs, the label works closely with clients to create bespoke custom engagement rings and wedding rings that are both eco-friendly and elegant. With diamonds sourced from conflict-free suppliers (whether lab-grown or not!), her rings are both socially responsible and stunning. Mazuera also uses recycled metals for most bands, along with a detailed, highly crafted hand-fabrication process.

Aaryah

Started by family jeweler Megan Kothari, Aaryah is where luxury meets conscience. Specializing in ethical, earth-mined diamonds, Aaryah has clients who clients flock to the brand thanks for its niche focus on colored stones, with diamonds coming in rich butter yellow, champagne, and brown hues. While the brand offers ready-to-ship rings beginning around $10,000, most of the beauty comes from the brand's top-to-bottom bespoke process.

Brilliant Earth

Brilliant Earth is a trailblazer in digital-first engagement rings, offering stunning designs made with ethically sourced earth-mined and lab-created diamonds. With prices starting around $1500, its rings range from simple solitaires to intricate vintage-inspired styles. Plus, it has an easy-to-use online customization tool.

Orianne

Orianne Jewelry is all about bold, timeless elegance with a modern twist. Raised by a family of jewelers, founder Orianne specializes in luxurious, handcrafted engagement rings that combine high-quality diamonds with innovative design. The pieces are known for their unique details, like vintage-inspired settings and custom touches, making each ring a true work of art. With prices starting around $5000, Orianne Jewelry offers sophisticated options for brides seeking a standout piece that feels both contemporary and classic.

Greenwich St. Jewelers

Located in New York’s iconic Tribeca neighborhood, Greenwich St. Jewelers offers a curated collection of classic and contemporary engagement rings. Known for their craftsmanship and stunning diamond selection, their pieces range from upward of $4000. Whether you want something sleek and modern or vintage-inspired, they provide both off-the-shelf and custom designs that speak to both tradition and trend. Their pieces are perfect for couples seeking fine jewelry that’s stylish and timeless.

James Allen

James Allen makes buying an engagement ring online a breeze with its vast selection and 360-degree HD viewing tool. You can explore diamonds in-depth, ensuring you get the perfect stone. Prices start at around $1000, with a wide range of styles, from classic solitaires to contemporary halo rings. Known for its customization options and affordable pricing, James Allen is a great choice for couples who want a top-quality ring without breaking the bank.

Roen NYC

Handmade in New York City, Roen is the minimalist jewelry lover's dream, with timeless, handcrafted pieces that feel fresh and modern without being too stale. Although the brand has a bevy of non-bridal fine jewelry, the craftsmanship truly shines in its bespoke luxury engagement ring process, using both top-tier lab-grown diamonds and ethically sourced natural diamonds that are conflict-free and adhere to the United Nation’s stringent Kimberley Process.

Perhaps I'm the only one noticing this, but there's been an influx of cool-girl bridal themes on my For You page recently. With more and more Gen Z weddings taking center stage as the years go on, micro-weddings, anthurium bouquets, and third (or fourth!) looks are gaining popularity among my close circle of friends in their mid-20s. Most of us can agree on the small aesthetic details of our future weddings based on our Pinterest boards, but when I started ring shopping earlier this year, there was no debate that lit up our group chat quite like the decision that I was exclusively looking at non-white diamond engagement rings.

Before you throw your arms up to protest my unconventional and, to some, downright ugly choice, just know I'm not alone. This year, there have been a few high-profile colored-diamond engagement rings that the internet has collectively lost its mind over. Gabbriette Bechtel's jet-black ring surrounded by brilliant-cut white diamonds was a fan favorite among alt Twitter, and Twilight star Christian Serratos's jaw-dropping 11.66-carat pink, pear-shaped engagement ring from Brilliant Earth made its way to the Instagram Stories of nearly every prospective bride I know.

Lorraine Brantner, a certified gemologist and James Allen sales manager, confirmed that there's been a massive surge in clients seeking out colored diamonds in lieu of white diamonds for engagement rings. Lab-grown stones are especially seeing a spike in interest, Brantner explained, alluding to the fact that the man-made options are coming at a much more affordable price point than earth-mined stones. James Allen also released a new Radiant Reflections collection of colored-gemstone fine jewelry for those who love the look but aren't getting engaged.

For some brands, colored diamonds have become their primary mode of business. Take Aaryah, for example. The Instagram-viral, cool girl–beloved NYC jewelry spot specializes in colored earth-mined diamonds. While founder and third-generation jeweler Megan Kothari does, in fact, sell colorless diamonds, you wouldn't know it from glancing at her brand's page. Since starting in 2021, Aaryah has been one of the biggest driving forces behind fiancés favoring unique bands, interesting cuts, and chicer hues in a world full of engagement rings that, frankly, look all the same at times.

"While I didn't start out with the intention to specialize in non-white diamonds, I was always drawn to their unique tones given to them by Mother Nature. No two feel the same," Kothari said. "My second collection ever in 2022 featured yellow diamonds in a fresh, unexpected way at a time when few others were doing so. After the success of that collection, I knew others like me were interested in these warmer hues."

The verdict seems to be in: More and more celebrities are opting for untraditional rings to mark their love and commitment to their partners. It's only now that the rest of the world is catching on.

What is a colored diamond?

Colored diamonds are any stones that, like the name suggests, aren't white. Yellow diamonds, pink diamonds, and champagne diamonds are all included in the conversation along with brown diamonds, black diamonds, and salt-and-pepper diamonds. Colored diamonds are graded differently than white diamonds, which exist on the traditional D–Z scale, with D being a perfectly colorless, bright-white diamond. Most will exist in some variation on the fancy colored-diamond scale, which ranges from faint to fancy vivid. Anything from a light butter yellow to a deep, vibrant pink is possible within the scope of both lab-created and earth-mined diamonds.

"Fancy colored diamonds are evaluated for their hue (the color), saturation (intensity of the color), and tone (depth of the color)," Brantner explained. "Think of a fancy-color diamond falling within a three-dimensional box of possibilities compared to a diamond on the D–Z scale that shows a tint of color in a linear progression."

Brantner says that yellow and pink are typically the most sought-after fancy-colored diamonds for engagement rings, and 2024 purchases are signaling that yellow diamonds are dominating both the natural and lab-made diamond space.

How are colored diamonds made?

Given the fact that colored stones are much rarer, the conditions necessary to create them are as well. "For instance, yellow diamonds get their color from nitrogen, while pink diamonds develop their hue due to structural changes as the diamond forms deep in the earth," Kothari said. Larger colored diamonds are often sourced from specific regions and mines, she explained, adding that Australia is well-known for producing pink diamonds whereas South Africa and Canada are some of the world's top producers of yellow diamonds.

For lab-created yellow diamonds, nitrogen atoms are introduced during a diamond's growing process to give them their signature canary hue.

Are colored diamonds rare?

Traditionally, colored stones were an earth-mined-only product. The technology for lab-created diamonds has gotten better over the years, and slowly but surely, more subtle and realistic-looking lab diamonds are entering the marketplace. It's still a challenge, though, and I can attest to this firsthand. It took visiting six different brands and trying on at least 35 rings to source a diamond that aligned with my vision for a colored-diamond engagement ring.

"The color diamonds we work with typically fall in the K–Z range of the D–Z scale. That's where we're able to find those unique nude, buttery yellow, or even brown-toned diamonds," Kothari explained, nodding to the even rarer subtly colored diamonds her business has seen tremendous growth in over the last few years. Aaryah specializes in warmer champagne, nude, and brown earth-mined diamonds, so if you're looking for something within that palette, chances are you'll only find it at the brand's New York studio. Plus, if you're into a skin tone–esque diamond, the brand's new Nüd collection will meet you right where you're at.

Are colored diamonds expensive?

While colored diamonds do exist, they're much rarer and, as a result, come at a premium within both earth-mined and lab-created sectors—some even costing three times the price for a similar carat weight compared to their non-fancy-colored counterparts.

At the moment, most subtle-colored diamonds are only earth mined, meaning you'l be paying the price for naturally created stones. For reference, most of Aaryah's colored-diamond rings sit above the $15,000 price range, and carat weight and cut factor in significantly in how much an engagement ring costs, similar to non-fancy-colored rings.

Can anyone buy a colored-diamond engagement ring?

Of course. It is interesting to note, though, that both Brantner and Kothari agreed that most people who seek out a colored diamond for their wedding jewelry have a very clear, unconventional vision. "Our clients are typically very in touch with their own unique personal style and are looking for something that will be an extension of that versus a cookie-cutter engagement ring style that's more traditional," Kothari explained. With every colored-diamond ring that she promotes on Instagram, the ways they're set are also unique and more elevated for a fashion-inclined fiancé. "Additionally, we've had clients express an appreciation for the natural characteristics of mined diamonds, especially with the rise of 'super-perfect' lab-grown diamonds," Kothari added.

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Actress Nina Dobrev and Olympic snowboarder Shaun White are engaged! The pair just announced their happy news on their respective Instagram accounts with celebratory photos of the proposal, and the photos of the occasion (captured by photographer Andrew Arthur) give us a clear view of the stunning engagement ring. I find that celebrities tend to favor large rings that are modern twists on a classic style, and that's exactly what Dobrev's is. It's not just any classic style—it's perhaps the favorite style among the celebrity set: a cushion-cut oval ring atop a thin band.

A few other celebrities with iconic oval engagement rings are Hailey Bieber, Blake Lively, and Kourtney Kardashian, and the list is even longer. A big part of the appeal of oval-cut rings is that they'll never go out of style, they're incredibly elegant and elongating, and they're even known to appear larger than round-cut diamonds of the same carat weight.

Without further ado, scroll to see Dobrev's engagement ring along with some of the other celebrity members of the oval-engagement-ring club.

More Celebrity Oval Engagement Rings

Hailey Bieber

Blake Lively

Jasmine Tookes

Kourtney Kardashian

If you're invested in the fine jewelry world at all, you've heard of The Clear Cut. The fashion person–beloved brand behind some of New York City's best jewelry has had a devoted following since launching in 2018. What you might not have heard about, though, is the woman behind the brand: co-founder Olivia Landau. While most fourth-generation jewelers would prefer to stay in the shadows, Landau has focused on stepping into the light.

After launching her natural diamond education blog pre–Forbes 30 Under 30 fame, Landau and her husband/co-founder Kyle Simon have kept modernization and personality at the forefront, challenging the norms of an outdated, male-dominated field by focusing on bringing education and natural diamond awareness into the forefront of millennials' and Gen Z's minds. Landau's efforts have paid off. The Clear Cut is now the largest digitally native natural diamond company in the U.S.

Six years after launch, Landau is hitting her stride and has become the face of the brand. She's launched a podcast, gone viral several times over, and crafted a cult following that has incorporated The Clear Cut into every facet of their lives—from taking Landau's nail color recommendations to buying heirloom-worthy diamond bands for their partners. Diamonds are Landau's best friend, and thanks to her million-dollar idea, she wants to make them yours too.

Below, we caught up with Landau to discuss her origin story, her passion for natural diamond education, and, of course, the true investment pieces that everyone needs to have in their jewelry box that will stand the test of time.

The Clear Cut primarily has two nodes of business: engagement rings and fine jewelry. We're curious to hear the difference between the two as it pertains to design, creative vision, and craftsmanship.

Our custom diamond engagement rings and our fine jewelry collection are both strongly based on the principles of using the highest-quality materials and craftsmanship. All of our pieces only use natural diamonds, solid 14k, 18k gold, and platinum, and each piece is handmade to order in New York City.

When it comes to our custom diamond engagement rings, each ring is truly one of a kind: A client receives a unique experience to work one-on-one with a GIA-certified graduate gemologist who handpicks each stone after working with the client through our custom-built ring portal. Once the client selects their diamond, they will work closely with their gemologist to design a one-of-a-kind ring specifically designed to their preferences and to highlight the beauty of their natural diamond. Each ring is handmade in New York City and then sent out with a physical GIA certificate and insurance appraisal. Our engagement process is truly unique because we blend human touch and expertise with cutting-edge technology.

When it comes to our fine jewelry collection, we design with our customers and community in mind. All of our pieces are timeless investment pieces with a modern edge. Each piece is made to order in New York City and is made to last for generations to come.

All of The Clear Cut's diamond fine jewelry is created using naturally mined diamonds, and it's a very strong point throughout the brand and on social media. Where does your passion for consumer education come from when it comes to today's online diamond debate and the alternatives that exist in the market?

A pivotal moment for me was my first trip to Botswana in 2022 as part of Forbes's 30 Under 30. This experience was life-changing and deeply reinforced my passion for diamonds. In Botswana, diamonds have transformed the nation: Everyone has access to free education, there is no student debt, and healthcare is free. These precious stones have built the country, and this story is one I share with my community to illustrate why diamonds are so special. After all, diamonds are older than the stars in the sky, and their value extends beyond their beauty, touching lives and building futures.

In today's world, we are inundated with misinformation, and unfortunately, retailers often push this misinformation to profit off consumer confusion. We stand firm in our commitment to quality, working only with the highest-grade natural diamonds and avoiding materials like moissanite, CZ, or enhanced diamonds.

We'd love to hear a bit about your diamond grading process in regard to choosing the stones for TCC's fine jewelry pieces. How do you know what stones are good enough to pass your test?

Each person who works on our fine jewelry team is a certified GIA graduate gemologist or diamonds graduate. We believe it is important to have a team that is expert driven. For our fine jewelry pieces, each diamond is handpicked and inspected to ensure the highest-quality materials are being used while also pairing it with cutting-edge technology to ensure quality control and no cross contamination with any lab-grown stones. For our engagement rings, we only use untreated and GIA-certified diamonds.

As a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry, what challenges did you initially face in taking your business to the next level?

One of the biggest challenges when starting my business as a young woman in a traditionally older male–dominated industry was fighting to be taken seriously. I had to work 10 times harder and set very ambitious goals and standards for myself and the business. As the business grew and I continued to prove myself, I noticed I gained more and more respect from the industry.

Are there any exciting projects, collaborations, or new categories you're excited about in 2024 and beyond?

We have several exciting projects and collaborations in the pipeline for 2024 and beyond, one of which is a focus on our collection pieces, particularly wedding bands. We've seen significant growth in this category, and we're thrilled to offer more designs that cater to our customers' diverse tastes and preferences.

Additionally, we remain committed to promoting the countries of origin and telling the rich stories of natural diamonds. We have an ongoing collaboration with Tracr, a cutting-edge blockchain platform that provides transparency and traceability for diamonds. This partnership allows us to offer our customers detailed information about the origin of their diamonds, ensuring they can make informed and ethical purchasing decisions. By highlighting the journey of these precious stones, we aim to deepen the connection between our customers and the communities that benefit from diamond mining. These initiatives reflect our dedication to innovation, education, and sustainability in the diamond industry.

What secrets to entrepreneurship and building a brand can you share with readers?

Authenticity, hands down. It is so important to stick to your guns and never compromise your morals, ethics, or integrity for short-term profits or success. I always think of my brand and business with a long-term vision and want to feel passionate and 100% authentic about every decision and vision that is made. A daily practice that I believe helps me with this is journaling and practicing gratitude.

What does the future of the diamond business look like? How do you think you'll be able to usher in that new era?

As a fourth-generation diamond expert, I've seen firsthand the evolution of the diamond industry. Growing up, my parents advised me against entering the industry, labeling it as a dying one. However, they were mistaken. The diamond industry was not dying; it was evolving. By embracing technology and social media, I found a way to modernize this antiquated industry and create new opportunities, working with partners like Tracr to transparently track diamonds on the blockchain or highlighting our commitment to educating the public on natural diamonds alongside the government of Botswana.

I'm incredibly proud of our accomplishments at The Clear Cut, from developing custom software to providing valuable educational content and establishing a scholarship for BIPOC women to enter the diamond industry. As our business has matured, I've taken on an increasing leadership role within the industry, working with partners to drive a new era of change and leadership.

If you could sit down with younger Olivia today, what would you tell her?

I would tell her to dream big, and anything is possible if you work hard enough at it. The best way to predict the future is to create it.

Tennis Bracelets

Diamond Studs

Solid Gold Hoops

Luxury Watches

Tennis Necklaces

Diamond Eternity Bands

Although I can't believe I'm admitting this on Beyoncé's internet, I've secretly wanted the craziest engagement ring in the room for years—the type of ring that people raise their eyebrows at or half-heartedly say "Oh! That's really different!" toward. Maybe it's my superiority and individuality complex or the fact that I work in fashion, but more often than not, I'm finding myself gravitating toward nontraditional, almost controversial engagement ring trends. My friends and other editors will agree with me. Over the last few years, more and more fashion people have brushed past the inoffensive and timeless solitaire gems and dainty pavé bands in search of jaw-dropping styles that are reflective of someone's personality rather than a safe trend.

While there are arguments to be made for how overly trendy, nontraditional rings may look dated in a few years, jewelers are revealing that the number of couples looking for unique engagement rings and vintage styles is on the rise, taking to either designing their rings themselves alongside experts or opting to skew toward younger, fresher jewelry designers offering unconventional silhouettes.

"The style of an engagement ring is truly all about who is wearing it and their taste. If you are looking for a more adventurous style, I recommend settings with asymmetrical patterns or scattered diamond shapes on either side of your center stone for a fun and fresh design," explained Lorraine Brantner, gemologist and James Allen's director of sales and service. As someone who's played around in James Allen's custom digital Ring Studio to come up with the wildest and most expensive creations (to the annoyance of my boyfriend), I can attest to the detail firsthand. "Whether they're looking for something simple and classic or elaborate and trendy, we can create something perfect to meet any customer's needs," she added.

If shopping in-person is more your speed when it comes to a fully unique design, look no further than The Clear Cut, the largest digitally native natural-diamond company in the United States. Founder Olivia Landau has built a cult of personality when it comes to her bespoke Earth-mined diamond engagement ring process, working one-on-one with clients to fully help their designs come to life.

I visited the brand's New York City showroom earlier this year, where Landau walked me through the entire process of crafting a ring, top to bottom. Afterward, I fully understood why both Instagram-famous clients and regular ole couples reach out to her to make their dreams come true. "Anything our customer is looking for, we can make [it] happen," Landau explained. "Our customer wants an engagement ring with a personalized touch rather than a design straight out of the box. Many clients opt for sentimental personalizations such as hidden burnished birthstones or unique engravings."

Clearly, custom is the way to go. Even our own senior beauty editor, Jamie Schneider, got in on the fun. Her stunning toi et moi ring from the New York classic Greenwich St. Jewelers wasn't complete without an offset marquise diamond. "I love a marquise shape. It's so timeless and elegant, and I adore anything vintage inspired. The tilted orientation from the toi et moi adds a playfulness that just feels so me," she said.

Below, I've rounded up the six controversial engagement ring trends fashion people are firmly into this wedding season and beyond. From chunky, cigar-style bands to offset diamonds, these ring trends are more than what meets the eye.

East-West Settings

East-west settings are some of the most popular growing styles of the last few years, according to the diamond experts I spoke with and the fashion crowd. After Antoine Arnault, son of LVMH chairman Bernard Arnault, proposed to his girlfriend with an east-west-set ring at the start of 2020, the look catapulted in popularity among the "if you know, you know" crowd.

Marquise-Cut Diamonds

Landau told me that, by far, one of the most surprising cuts she's been seeing more and more recently is an elongated marquise. After being deemed incredibly untrendy until the last year or so (with some gem-cutters even going so far as to shape unsold marquise diamonds into their trendier cousin, the oval), the pointed shape has risen in popularity, but there are still deniers to the It girl factor of this style.

Sculptural Bands

The Clear Cut is known for its Ahead of the Curve engagement setting, so it's no surprise the overall vibe of the sculptural style has landed on the Instagram Explore pages of prospective brides-to-be scoping out unusual ring styles. It may be harder to find a wedding band that sits flush with the style, something Brantner notes to keep in mind while shopping, but the style definitely takes my breath away.

Toi et Moi Rings

Call it the Emily Ratajkowski or Ariana Grande effect—the toi et moi style is still major among fashion people circles, but some people may think the style is too clunky and unwearable.

"We are still seeing customers wanting to customize two-stone engagement rings with different shapes, which is always fun for [the James Allen] team to work on," Brantner told me. "Two-stone rings have become trendy in recent years as more celebrities are flocking to this style. They're still uncommon enough to remain unique and a bit unconventional, especially since there are so many shape combinations to choose from."

Chunky Gold Settings

One of the most eclectic styles, chunky engagement rings including bezel-set diamonds and cigar-style gold bands are divisive among the jewelry community. While the style may not be for everyone, the people who love it are die-hards.

Tilted Rings

Just like Schneider's ring, a slightly offset ring is the style of the moment, slowly gaining traction with the crowd who prefers a more traditional look while still being slightly unique and different. "I have definitely seen an uptick in styles with offset diamonds. Similar to EmRata's divorce ring, many clients are opting to have their diamond set akimbo," explained Landau. If you're not feeling that bold, a tilted right might just do. Just look at Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's ring for inspiration.

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You heard it here first: if you're expecting to get engaged in 2024, you'll be spoilt for choice in the ring department. Gone are the days of traditional solitaire diamonds being the only option—nowadays, there's something out there for every kind of bride-to-be. Whether you see yourself with a simple band on your ring finger or a scene-stealing XL stone, it's important to consider every cut, colour and arrangement before starting to drop some not-so-subtle hints to your partner.

Of course, amongst the most important considerations is the fact that you'll be wearing your engagement ring for the rest of your life. So, it's crucial to pick a design that you're confident you'll love for months, years and decades to come. For some, sticking to a classic cut on a simple gold band is the most sensible choice, but you also might strongly resonate with a more out-there ring that you just know it's the one for you. It's entirely personal.

Just like with every other category of jewellery and fashion, there are trends within the engagement ring market, too. I know what you're thinking—aren't trends short-lived by nature? Well, we've found that engagement ring trends are, for the most part, simply updated takes on age-old silhouettes; those that have already proven their enduring appeal and have been modernised to match contemporary tastes. To get the low-down on which of these silhouettes and aesthetics are popular right now, I spoke to a handful of jewellery experts. According to them, the following eight engagement ring trends will peak in 2024. 

The 8 Engagement Ring Trends That Will Dominate 2024:

1. Toi-et-Moi

"Our predicted trend from 2023 is still going strong. The toi-et-moi design has become a staple for us, and will continue to lead into 2024. Our clients adore the sentiment behind the 'you and me' theme, as well as the endless customisation options available when it comes to mixing stones, colours, cuts and carats. This allows them to create a truly unique combination that really is one of a kind." — Michelle Oh, founder, Michelle Oh Jewellery

"We are still seeing a lot of demand for toi-et-moi style rings and I can see why: it's a design that is incredibly versatile and you can really let your personality shine through when choosing the combination of different stone shapes and colours to create something that is completely unique to you. It's a great way to showcase your individual style whilst still having a ring that reads like a classic engagement ring." — Rachel Boston, founder, Rachel Boston Jewellery

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2. Art Deco

"Vintage styles have been making a comeback, but with a modern twist. Customers are especially drawn to the Art Deco era, which offers an already contemporary feel. Jewellery featuring emerald cuts, radiant cuts, baguettes and other geometric shapes have become particularly popular in recent months." — Michelle Oh, founder, Michelle Oh Jewellery

"We love using older cuts of diamonds like mine cushion-cut diamonds or old European-cut diamonds for an Art Deco look with a contemporary twist. We have also seen a real increase in the popularity of certain Georgian or Victorian setting styles that add a vintage feel to an engagement ring." — Emma Clarkson Webb, founder, Emma Clarkson Webb

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3. Asymmetry

"For some, the idea of a 'traditional diamond engagement ring' has been replaced with unique rings that will reflect their personality. People are buying more playful, less conventional designs and a great way of doing this is with an asymmetric ring. You can mix cuts and colours to create a truly unique ring." — Laura Kay, director and buyer, Tomfoolery London

"I think asymmetrical jewellery is a trend that has been growing recently. These pieces seem quite classic, but an asymmetry of stone layout and sizing creates a slightly unusual feel and an edge of individuality. Recently, I have made a lot of two-stone bombe rings, where traditionally they would be done in a three-stone layout. It’s definitely quite subtle but adds a contemporary and individual spin to pieces that could otherwise seem quite traditional." — Jessie Thomas, founder, Jessie Thomas Jewellery

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4. Pop of Colour

"A great way to express individuality within your ring is by injecting colour. Whilst diamonds are still incredibly popular, they aren’t necessarily for everyone. We have seen a huge demand from our customers for coloured sapphires, particularly in yellow and teal hues." — Laura Kay, director and buyer, Tomfoolery London

"Emeralds are making an appearance on a lot of our customers' Pinterest boards, with 90% wanting a green pop of colour (rather than the emerald stone itself). We offer some great emerald alternatives like tsavorite, tourmaline and sapphire, which our customers really love. I think green stones are on the rise in popularity amongst engagement rings." — Michelle Oh, founder, Michelle Oh Jewellery

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5. Bright White Bands

"I predict a return to white gold or platinum rather than yellow gold. It does require more care, as white gold is a mixture of pure yellow gold and other white metals and a rhodium plating, which gives it the brilliant white finish; but it works so well to really offset white diamonds." — Emma Clarkson Webb, founder, Emma Clarkson Webb

"I think this is the beginning of a real comeback of white gold and platinum engagement rings, especially when using coloured stones such as aquamarine and sapphire, which lend themselves well to the neutrality of white. I often set diamonds into white gold, even in a predominantly yellow gold piece, as it shows off the stones more fully. It’s quite a cool, utilitarian look that I find people are looking for. I’m also black-rhodium plating white gold a lot, which feels modern and really makes diamonds pop." — Jessie Thomas, founder, Jessie Thomas Jewellery

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6. More Is More

"I imagine that some trends that we saw gain momentum in 2023 will keep going strong in 2024. Generally, we're seeing a pull towards bolder pieces. Whether large, solitaire diamonds in playful settings or graphic designs with double halos and asymmetrical double bands, we notice that clients aren't shying away from pieces with a lot of character." — Rachel Boston, founder, Rachel Boston Jewellery

"Statement designs with plenty of gold are here to stay and we couldn’t be happier. We love to protect our stones with rub-over settings—as well as looking incredibly modern, this protects gemstones from knocks and catching. We want our jewels to be seen, and we love a chunky, fuss-free design featuring plenty of gold. More is more is our motto." — Lucy Crowther, founder, Minka Jewels

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7. Modern Trilogy

"We're seeing a pull towards trilogy-style white diamond rings, but with more unusual side-stone shapes. Some of our favourite shapes are empress, half-moon, kite or shield-cut sides, which complement a classic round or oval brilliant-cut diamond really beautifully. Again, it's a style that will read like an engagement ring, but that has a lot more personality than most off-the-shelf trilogy style designs, which tend to have more standard-shaped side stones." — Rachel Boston, founder, Rachel Boston Jewellery

"The design we are seeing exploding in popularity is modern or more unusual takes on the timeless trilogy design. A trilogy symbolises a relationship's past, present (central stone), and future. Deciding to get engaged is a very happy time in couples' lives that is never forgotten, so this resonates. Over the past few months, our best seller has been our Vita Trilogy Ring, which has an octagonal or emerald-cut central stone, sitting between a pair of trillion-cut diamonds on the sides. This epic stone combination is paired with our signature molten-effect settings and petite ball detailing laced around the ring band." — Eliza Walter, founder, Lylie Jewellery 

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8. Sustainable Diamonds

"A lot of our customers have been opting for lab-grown diamonds for their centre stones this past year, prioritising sustainable credentials. Lab-grown diamonds have an identical chemical composition to earth-mined diamonds but can offer complete reassurance when it comes to your carbon footprint. It’s impossible to tell the difference without advanced technology and you can get a much larger centre diamond with better clarity, colour and cut for your budget." — Laura Kay, director and buyer, Tomfoolery London

"Each year, we witness sustainability getting stronger and stronger in couples' decision-making. Our clients are becoming more aware of the environmental crisis and are therefore looking to invest in an engagement ring that will both stand the test of time but also have minimal impact on the planet. As is often wrongly assumed, a conflict-free diamond does not equate to a diamond free from human rights abuses and environmental harm. To avoid any doubt over sourcing, we exclusively use lab-grown and recycled antique diamonds." — Eliza Walter, founder, Lylie Jewellery

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Next Up: Fact: Every Fashion Editor Aspires to Own Jewellery by These Designer Brands

From Sofia Richie to Naomi Watts, there have been plenty of great celebrity weddings this summer. But just because fall is on the horizon doesn't mean the excitement is slowing down. Today, Zooey Deschanel and Jonathan Scott (of Property Brothers fame) just announced they're engaged after four years of dating. How cute are they?

In an Instagram post, Deschanel revealed her unique engagement ring, which consists of pink and purple stones in a floral design. Of course, she also coordinated her manicure with similar shades. I have a feeling her New Girl character Jessica Day would approve. According to People, the couple became engaged in Scotland, where Scott's family is from. Keep scrolling to see their announcement. 

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It’s not discussed enough just how difficult it is to break into the fine-jewelry space. In fashion, for example, you could arguably start a brand without leaving the Garment District. That’s not to say that making it in fashion is easy. But when you compare it to the astronomical entry fee that fine-jewelry designers must pay to even get their foot in the door, it could feel like that. 

Thus, it makes sense why the industry has always been an exclusive one. "Historically, it’s been a small and quite closed sector, depending on multigenerational family relationships to get access to materials, workshops, and so on,” says Sally Morrison, the director of PR for natural diamonds at De Beers Group, one of the oldest and most respected diamond companies in the world. "So if you don’t have an ‘in,’ you’re not in!” The most significant barrier to entry (of quite a few) is the cost involved with buying precious materials. "The building of [each] piece is slow and labor-intensive, and many retail outlets expect goods on memo,” Morrison says. (A memo in the jewelry space simply means consignment.) Because of this decades-old custom, many independent designers, no matter how talented they are, will never make it in fine jewelry. 

Understanding these barriers, Morrison and the team at De Beers have made it their mission to break them down. Their ultimate goal is to see their industry finally reflect America as it is today, a place where diverse approaches to creativity are celebrated instead of stamped out. According to Morrison, there is clearly no one-size-fits-all approach to supporting diversity in both design and talent in the fine-jewelry space. "Our response aims to be as varied as the designers that need support,” she explains. "We aim to take a layered approach.” Some examples of the company’s work include sponsoring the Teen Gems program at the 92 St. Y in New York, which gathers high school students and provides them with resources for basic jewelry-making skills. De Beers also collaborated with RAD, or Red Carpet Advocacy, on a campaign called #BlackIsBrilliant that paired mid-career fine-jewelry designers with celebrity stylists to help them secure placements at major red carpet events.

Most recently, Morrison’s team partnered up with The Surf Lodge for the Montauk mainstay’s 15-year anniversary, and the hotel’s founder and creative director, Jayma Cardoso, curated a collection of pieces from independent fine-jewelry designers, including Lorraine West, Maggi Simpkins, and TenThousandThings founders Ron Anderson and David Rees, all of whom are equally responsible for ushering in a new era for the industry, one that champions diversity instead of curbing it. 

At a sunset dinner held at the hotel and venue’s private beach, I had the pleasure of speaking with the four industry-shaping creatives about their unique entrepreneurial journeys, the community they’ve each built in the fine-jewelry space, and their biggest achievements so far. Scroll down to dive in.

Anderson and Rees met at Linda Dresner’s store on Park Avenue—a Manhattan shopping institution that opened in 1984 (and very sadly shuttered in 2008) and was frequented by the likes of Jackie Kennedy and Gloria Vanderbilt—in 1989, and the rest was history. Only one year later, Rees, who was managing the store at the time, and Anderson, who was showing his work to one of its buyers, launched their first jewelry collection as a duo. Anderson had been designing jewelry since high school, using vintage pieces and repurposing them into jewelry he could sell on the streets of SoHo. "In the late ’80s and early ’90s, this was very cool,” the designer clarifies. Rees was a graphic designer and overall creative renaissance man. Their meeting on that fateful day in 1989 was nothing short of kismet. 

How has the fine-jewelry space changed since you started?

When we started in 1990-91, it was a much less saturated market. You built your business by making exclusive relationships with the finest stores across the world. There really wasn’t designer fine jewelry. The retailers were mostly selling costume jewelry from the big houses or fine jewelry from traditional big brands. Looking back, it seems like it was easier then to make your impact and solidify distribution. 

Today’s reality is much different and more difficult for emerging jewelers. Ultimately, retail strategies like only consignment [make] it almost impossible for emerging designers. An increasing instability in the retailer sector is also a problem for establishing exposure and distribution. These are both things that make it difficult to start your career.

Tell me about the fine-jewelry community.

We are lucky to have a tight community in the jewelry space probably because we love other jewelers, and we have a huge respect for handmakers and creators and are very open in our appreciation. We have mentored emerging jewelers and have for many years. In 2019, Elliot Carlyle invited us to participate in a BIPOC initiative called Here We Are. At that moment, we were pulled into a community of makers we didn't know, and the bond was immediate. Further diversity initiatives have strengthened our community by connecting us to new peers and also reuniting us with old friends like Jacqueline Rabun, who we started out with 30-some years ago. It’s been an amazing thing to take our place in the community for the first time really. Being part of a bigger thing has been amazing.

Why is it important for big-player brands like De Beers to push for diversity in the fine-jewelry space and support designers? 

It’s important ... because without institutional support many jewelers would not find their way to distribution and stability. Providing a platform for them to be discovered or considered and recognized is invaluable to emerging designers. Being given the opportunity to show your work and explain your brand and product is essential in the modern marketplace, where consumers need to connect to you and your brand in a very personal way.

Where do you look for inspiration when designing for TenThousandThings? How do you continue to come up with fresh, original designs?

We have the benefit of working together and inspiring each other, and that is the center of our creative process. We both bring ideas to the table and then work on them together and separately. We share a love of art, outsider art, sculpture, and Native American craft—those things inspire us. We make it a point to continue to evolve signature techniques and vocabulary so everything reflects back on the brand.

What are some of the biggest achievements in your career thus far?

Our 30-year retrospective exhibition at Pratt last year was a great moment for us. We were nominated for the Jewelry Design award at the Gem Awards last/this year and won a couture design award at this year's [Couture Design Awards]. Those are some industry landmarks, but I think our biggest achievement is maintaining a sustainable, influential, high-profile, relevant business for over 30 years. Sally Morrison said that in her toast at dinner, and honestly, we hadn't really thought of it in that way, but that is definitely the biggest achievement of our career.

Lorraine West, a first-generation Caribbean American, was born and raised in Central Islip, a suburb outside of New York City. Her parents—a carpenter and a professional baker—provided her primary source of design inspiration thanks to their own interest in all things DIY and dedication to both craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. In 1998, West earned her BFA from the Fashion Institute of Technology with a focus on illustration. During her studies, she discovered the jewelry-supply store Toho Shoji, which remains a staple business in Bryant Park, and almost immediately, she became enthralled with jewelry making. "I walked in the store with $23 and out with zero, pliers, cutters, wire, and beads in hand,” West recalls. "I had no idea it would become a business.”

Tell me about the fine-jewelry community. Is it a diverse environment? Is it a close-knit group? Do you help each other out? What do you love about it? How could it be improved? 

I connected with the fine-jewelry community in 2019. I was a lone wolf prior, so it’s been a true joy to connect with OG jewelers I admired as a young adult, contemporaries, and emerging designers. It’s becoming more of a diverse environment, especially since 2020. I love the camaraderie among the jewelers I’ve connected with. We can cheer on one another, learn from [each other], and share resources. There’s room for all of us to shine. There’s still work to do. Industry leaders, editors, stylists, and retailers need to keep up with the pulse of the diverse talent and create space to nurture it.

Would you say that you have a community in the jewelry space? How did you find it? 

I found a jewelry community through participation in group pop-up markets, various jewelry-design initiatives, and networking events celebrating diversity. I made myself available to share my knowledge, experience, and resources. I have nothing to lose because my product offering is unique to me, and no matter what anyone else is doing, I stay true to my vision and design ethos. From my observation, the industry can be secretive, cliquish, and gatekeeping. One of my goals as a designer and leader in this space is to break those walls down.

How are initiatives like the one De Beers has created to support diversity in the fine-jewelry space beneficial? Why do you think more companies should follow suit? 

The De Beers initiative #BlackIsBrilliant that I was honored to be a part of has been life-changing. It has given me the opportunity to design high-jewelry pieces with De Beers sustainable diamonds from Botswana for the red carpet. It has expanded my design ethos and education about diamond provenance, from the mines to final goods distribution. More companies should follow suit and not just stop at short-term initiatives. Create space for diversity and provide resources and opportunities to assist in growing careers indefinitely.

Where do you look for inspiration when designing? How do you continue to come up with fresh, original designs? 

I am inspired by storytelling, nature, geometry, symbology, astrology, cursive writing, and my muses. I listen to my gut and allow time to upload information that I get from my connection to my higher self.

What sets a Lorraine West piece apart from others in the space? 

What sets Lorraine West Jewelry apart is that the designs are an expansion of myself. They’re beautiful, expressive, timeless, and made with the highest quality. Designed to bring joy and serve as a reminder to step into your inner beauty and power.

What are some of the biggest achievements in your career thus far? 

Some of my biggest achievements in my career are my Abstract Palette Earrings placed on Beyoncé in her film Black Is King; designing my first high-jewelry choker for the red carpet, which was placed on Keke Palmer; visiting Botswana with a group of fellow jewelers, courtesy of De Beers Group; gracing the cover of Rapaport magazine; and winning the 2023 Diamonds Do Good Inspiration Award.

It’s been 14 years since Portland-born Maggi Simpkins began designing jewelry professionally for a private-label costume-jewelry company and eight since she went off on her own, starting her namesake brand in 2015 and never looking back. Today, she runs her business out of a studio in Los Angeles, specializing in bespoke engagement rings, the likes of which are miles away from the traditional styles that have become associated with the bridal bauble. According to Simpkins, her design ethos is driven by storytelling, with the goal of every piece being to craft a future family heirloom with a meaningful narrative behind it. 

Tell me about the fine-jewelry community. 

I think the fine-jewelry community has been making an effort to become a more diverse place. There is always more work to do around this, but it feels like, over the last few years, inclusivity and diversity have been a priority, and I am excited about that. As an independent designer who doesn’t attend trade shows or work with retailers, it can feel really isolating, like you are on the outside looking in. This has changed for me over the years, and I have made a point to meet and become friends with other designers who also understand my experience as a designer. We all share stories and resources with one another, and that feels amazing. Like anything, it took time to build those relationships, but it really came down to putting myself out there and showing up to events, etc. Social media has also been a really great place to connect with fellow designers and jewelry lovers.

Same for the engagement-ring designer community—in your experience, is it an inclusive and diverse environment? 

The engagement-ring sector still feels a little more traditional and less diverse.

Why is it important for heritage brands like De Beers to promote diversity in the fine-jewelry space?

As a small, independent jewelry brand without a huge marketing budget or investor backing, it can be really hard to build a platform big enough to get noticed outside of our direct communities. Big-player brands like De Beers help introduce smaller brands to a different audience that otherwise might not have been exposed to our work.

How has your experience as a designer in the fine-jewelry space shaped your brand and the pieces you create? 

Like I mentioned before, this space can feel really traditional and a little stuffy at times. I try to be as playful as possible while still attempting to create things that are classic enough to stand the test of time. I like to tell my clients, "There are no rules.” A lot of times, people come to me and ask things like, "Do I need to wear a wedding band with my engagement ring?” or "Do I need to use a diamond for a center stone?” I think that every person and relationship is unique and that when couples are looking at getting married, they get to make their own set of rules that work for them. I can’t make those rules for them.

What are some of the biggest achievements in your career so far? 

Honestly, getting to wake up every day and create heirlooms for clients continues to be one of my biggest achievements. But I would say the most monumental feeling was in 2021 when I was asked to show my work at Sotheby’s, and I created a million-dollar ring for the show. That really changed the way I see myself and my capabilities as a designer.

Congratulations appear to be in order for Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown and her partner since 2021, Jon Bon Jovi's son Jake Bongiovi. News broke of the couple's alleged engagement Tuesday morning when the 19-year-old actress posted a black-and-white photo on Instagram that showed an elated Bongiovi hugging an engagement ring–clad Bobby Brown on the beach. The caption accompanying the photo was taken from Taylor Swift's song "Lover" and reads: "I've loved you three summers now, honey, I want 'em all." At the same time, Bongiovi posted two photos from the same occasion on his account, using the caption "Forever" with a white heart. 

Though the couple has not yet confirmed they are indeed en route down the aisle, the rock on Bobby Brown's left ring finger—which appears to be a cushion-cut solitaire diamond surrounded by a halo—combined with the rhetoric used in both of their Instagram captions, paints a clear picture of their future wedding plans. Ahead, investigate all the photos released from the couple's special day. 

More adorable photos of the newly engaged couple: 

Next up: Millie Bobby Brown Is Ready to Call the Shots

Congratulations are in order: Vanessa Hudgens and baseball player Cole Tucker are officially engaged! She announced the news on Instagram and shared a couple of romantic photos from Paris, including a close-up look at her ring. "YES. We couldn’t be happier," she captioned the post. The cute couple has been dating for a little over two years. 

Her engagement ring is the definition of timeless: a large solitaire rectangular diamond on a slim gold band. Sleek and simple, it doesn't get any more classic than that. Oh, and can we talk about that backdrop? Nothing screams romance like the Eiffel Tower, after all. Scroll down to see Vanessa Hudgens's engagement ring reveal. 

Revisit Their Cutest Couple Moments

Next, 30 new H&M and Mango items that are Fashion with a capital F.

Opening Image: Getty Images

It has been years since my own engagement and wedding, but one thing I relish in is wedding planning and helping friends and loved ones pick out their engagement rings. In fact, I started an Instagram mood board to share my favorites along the way: When at Last. Weddings come and go, but the engagement ring is an everyday reminder of the love and commitment a couple shares. The ring often also reflects one's personal style, and that is where things get interesting.

One great place to find engagement-ring inspiration is on my Instagram feed—I am always keen to see what styles my favorite fashion people land on. Below, I rounded up 11 stunning engagement rings to inspire and delight even those married long ago. From classic emerald-cut diamonds to three-stone rings to more whimsical, fashion-forward settings, there is a little something for every taste.

Lucy Williams: Fashion and Lifestyle Influencer

British influencer Lucy Williams created her bold fashion-forward engagement ring with jewelry designer Hattie Rickards. Before the ring was complete Williams actually had a heart-shaped placeholder ring, which she shared in a YouTube video about her jewelry collection.

Cortne Bonilla: Fashion and Beauty Editor

Fashion and beauty editor Cortne Bonilla opted for a three-stone ring from the Anna Sheffield Ceremonial jewelry collection. Cortne shared with us that it was based on a ring that belonged to Anna's mother: "I thought [that] was so, so special. It resembles an heirloom and goes perfectly with my classic sense of style."

Chloë Sevigny: Actress

This is actually actress Chloë Sevigny's wedding band, which is too chic not to share. For a similar look, skip the trending dainty, delicate bands and go for a thicker design.

Pia Baroncini: Creative Director of LPA

How fitting is Pia Baroncini's Italian-made round solitaire engagement ring? The gorgeous ring is a custom design by Massimo Izzo, who happens to be one of her husband's close friends.

Alyssa Rara-Luna: Brand Marketing Consultant

Alyssa Rara-Luna went the nontraditional route with her statement linked ring. The design creates a cool layered look that I can't get enough of.

Lee Litumbe: Founder and Creative Director of Éluwa Studio

Lee Litumbe's oval solitaire engagement ring is the epitome of chic. The barely-there band makes the diamond almost feel like it's floating.

Natalie Cantell: Creative and Style Director

Creative and style director Natalie Cantell got to design her "art deco–inspired, sunburst dream" with Naveya & Sloane. She adds, "Engagement rings with solitaire diamonds all seemed very grown-up and seemed like I was wearing someone else's ring, so a cocktail ring like I already wore felt more my style. It's not conducive to stacking with a traditional band, so instead, I'll have a wedding ring I wear on my other hand—maybe a Cartier Love ring or something else we design together. I think it's a nice reminder you can really do whatever you want when it comes to your wedding."

Rikke Krefting Ulstein: Fashion Influencer and PR

Rikke Krefting Ulstein is known for her elevated minimalist looks, and her sleek emerald-cut ring fits right in with the aesthetic.

Rachael Keegan: Fashion Lifestyle Influencer

Calling all pearl lovers! Rachael Keegan's gorgeous setting shows a lovely way to incorporate a pearl into an engagement ring.

Amrit Sidhu: DJ and Music Curator

Amrit Sidhu created her beautiful framed emerald-cut ring with designer Maggi Simpkins, who is known for her one-of-a-kind jewelry.

Camille Charrière: Fashion Influencer

Every detail of Camille Charrière's wedding was an absolute dream, including her ring by Sophie Bille Brahe. As it turns out, Camille was not a fan of her original engagement ring, which she admitted on TikTok. This fashion-forward wavy design is much more her style—get a closer look at the ring over on her Instagram.

We've entered that time of year. No, we're not talking about the holidays. We're referring to the start of engagement season. Statistically speaking, we see the largest number of proposals between November and February. And for those who are planning a proposal (or awaiting one), it can be overwhelming. Perhaps the most trying aspect of all is finding the engagement ring.

First of all, you have to address a learning curve when it comes to shopping for diamond rings, from understanding the four Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat) to researching what constitutes a conflict-free and ethically made piece. Once you know what to look for, you still have to consider your budget, the brand name, and your partner's personal preferences. All of this is to say that shopping for an engagement ring is not an easy task, and it can become even more challenging if you're shopping for someone picky. We all know that any ultra-stylish soon-to-be-engaged person won't settle for a basic cookie-cutter ring. 

Unless they sent you precisely what they want or you already know what you want, we can guess that you clicked on this article because you're stressed about looking for a ring. In order to make the process easier, we've done some research to find 39 unique engagement rings on the market right now. Whether you're hoping to find the perfect engagement ring for your partner, helping someone pick one for a loved one, or trying to drop hints that they need to hurry up and put a ring on it, there's something ahead for everyone. 

This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

It's been nine years since my now-husband proposed to me, and in the face of even my own scepticism, I still adore my engagement ring. For someone whose fashion aesthetic has changed in a pretty drastic way in the same space of time, my engagement ring has been a mainstay. An antique style featuring a cluster of rose-cut diamonds encapsulated in an Art Deco setting, on paper, it now wouldn't match my mainly minimal wardrobe. However, it feels so intrinsic to me that it could be a part of my anatomy; ornate but not flashy, statement without being garish, it's still easily my most prized possession. It wasn't expensive either (we were 23 when we got engaged, 24 when we got married), and our budget was next-to-nothing; Still, I can honestly say I wouldn't change for the world. This is why I think it's so important to select an engagement ring that reflects your personality. You mightn't be there when your partner makes the decision, which is why I advise all my friends to make the sort of engagement ring they'd like very clear (just maybe not on the third date). 

Over the years, the engagement ring market has broken many of its own rules and now offers an incredible array of rings to suit any wearer. The one downside to this, however, is knowing where to start your search. From cuts to carats, colours to clusters, there are more engagement ring styles out there than ever. So, I thought it would be a good idea to speak to an esteemed panel of experts to find our which engagement ring trends for 2023 they're backing.

"Trends" is perhaps the wrong word—jewellery has a significantly longer lifespan than clothes or other accessories; the turnover isn't as rapid. So, rest assured if the engagement ring style you love or already have on your finger isn't listed here, do not be disheartened. These are merely the engagement ring trends that those in the know have highlighted as talking-points. And you can never be too informed when it comes to such a monumental purchase.

Scroll on to see the seven engagement ring trends for 2023 that experts and designers are particularly excited about.

1. Constellations of Stones

"Our clients who are still opting for white diamonds are tending to seek multiple stone options, often in the form of Art Deco styles. The rings are often juxtaposed and created by mixing different cuts of white diamonds,” says Laura Kay, creative director of Tomfoolery London. 

2. Kaleidoscope Colours

"Many of our clients are opting for colour for their engagement rings, which great to see, with some going for completely untraditional looks. We are finding customers are mixing and matching, seeking alternative options; choosing a mix of coloured gemstones and different cuts that work together in harmony within one ring which, perhaps, wouldn’t initially be your first thought for an engagement ring,” says Laura Kay, creative director of Tomfoolery London.

"More than ever, clients are searching for something different to traditional engagement rings, with the brief being for a piece that will stand out from the crowd. Coloured stones do this perfectly. I have found that the main request from my clients is for vibrant coloured stones rather than diamonds," enlightens Lucy Crowther, founder of Minka Jewels.

"Engagement rings will become bolder and more colourful in 2023. This includes coloured diamonds and bold and vibrant-coloured gemstones such as sapphires, rubies and emeralds. Eye-catching and unique, these qualities make the wearer’s personality stand out,” affirms Angie Marei, owner and designer of Marei New York.

3. Two Become One

"Toi-et-moi rings—a ring that coils around the finger with two complementary gemstones—are also becoming a firm favourite. I'd recommend these sorts of designs if you are looking for something a bit more daring: they are great canvases for combining different types of gemstones, shapes, and colours, as well as for incorporating graphic bands and settings,” says Rachel Boston, founder of Rachel Boston. 

"The Toi-et-moi trend will continue, but perhaps we will see slightly more unique interpretations. For example more unusual stone shapes or colours being used," affirms Michelle Oh, owner and designer of Michelle Oh Jewellery. 

4. Solitaires With a Twist

"Solitaires will ever go out of fashion because, as a design, the simplicity of a single-stone ring will always be a timeless option. Still, I think there will be a pivot towards small details that make a single-stone ring look more unusual. For example, perhaps a unique setting style, the unique placement or alignment of the stone itself, or maybe it will be the shape of the ring band. It's all in the details,” says Michelle Oh, owner and designer of Michelle Oh Jewellery. 

5. Spotlight On: Lab-Grown

"I think we will start to see more and more people moving to lab-grown diamonds. They have been around for a long time now but we have recently added them to our offering because we found a 100% climate-neutral and sustainably rated option. Just because they are grown in a laboratory, does not make them ethical, so it was important for us to find the best option here. These are great for people who really want to know exactly where their jewellery is from. And because they are much more affordable than mined diamonds, you can get a much bigger diamond for your budget," says Claire Hammon, co-founder of Meadowlark.

"The one trend that is coming through stronger and stronger is sustainability (although this shouldn’t really be a trend, more of a way of life!). Our clients are becoming more aware of the environmental crisis and are therefore looking to invest in an engagement ring that will both stand the test of time but also minimise its impact on the environment. We are seeing huge demand for lab-grown and antique diamonds, which are by far the most eco-friendly options, and also much more affordable than a newly mined diamond,” agrees Eliza Walter, founder of Lylies.

6. Bumper Bands

"Our clients are investing in metal heavy, bold-band styles that help them express themselves and take up real estate! Following a similar vein, men's rings, once as afterthought, are now taking centre stage, whether they are the ones being proposed to or they too want an engagement ring at the same time as their partner. Our clients are looking for signet/class ring styles, diamond solitaire rings and more design-forward bands, and often mirror their partner’s," says Shahla Karimi, owner and designer of Shahla Karimi. 

"I am noticing a general move away from any engagement ring that is considered traditional. People want something cool and modern that doesn’t have such a conventional connotation attached to it. My most requested style is a single diamond ring in a heavy gold bombe or sculptural ring. People are still channelling their budget into a single diamond, but they are increasingly looking to the design to set the stone more interestingly. They want a unique design, a chunkier ring and often an unusual form to add interest,” affirms Jessie Thomas founder of Jessie Thomas Jewellery. 

7. Endearing Ovals

"We have seen huge interest in oval cut diamonds this year—either set in a solitaire, halo or three stone design—and I predict that this cut will continue to be a popular choice for 2023. My clients are becoming much more adventurous when it comes to combining different cuts of diamonds—baguettes with rounds, for example,” says Emma Clarkson Webb, founder of Emma Clarkson Webb Bespoke Jewellery.

Next Up: I'm Getting Married in 2023, so I Tried On All of the Best Modern Bridal Looks

Every bride-to-be is unique, and not everyone's dream engagement ring looks the same. Whether you want to forgo tradition entirely or embrace the classic, diamond-clad look, one thing is for certain: Vintage-inspired engagement rings will never date. And for a piece of jewellery that's made to be cherished forever, that feels pretty important.

There's a reason so many jewellery designers look to the past for guidance. From 1930s Art Deco diamonds to ’70s-esque chunky bands, each era comes with its distinctive take on the engagement ring. And all these years later, we can decipher which have stood the test of time and still feel classic today.

This brings us here, to our edit of the very best vintage-style engagement rings. The term vintage is broad, so there's a good chance a design below will be The One for you or will at least help steer you in a certain direction. Whether it's a cluster of stones arranged in a flower or a single emerald set into gold, scroll to see which old-school engagement ring captures your heart.

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Next Up: How to Find the Best Vintage Pieces, According to a Secondhand Expert

At this point, we might as well divide up the year into wedding season and engagement season. I'm either fielding spring and summer wedding invites or scrolling through Facebook to see yet another one of my high school friends get engaged between Thanksgiving and Christmas. For some, that might spark a healthy dose of envy, but for me, I revel in the announcements for one reason only: to see what kind of engagement ring they're wearing.

Fascinated with engagement rings, I decided to reach out to a diamond expert to get her take on the four trends that will never go out of style. I tapped Jenna Housby, Aether's chief design officer. If you're not familiar with the brand, it has a fascinating backstory. Aether is the creator of the world's first diamonds made from atmospheric carbon, "using carbon sequestration technology to pull CO2 directly from the air and transform it into diamonds (unlike other lab-grown diamonds, which utilize fossil fuels)," the brand explained in a press release. "This results in a positive impact on the environment, leaving the planet more brilliant than before. Each carat of diamond sold by Aether offsets customers' carbon footprints for over one year." Scroll down to see Housby's expert opinion on the engagement ring trends you can't go wrong with.

1. Round Solitaire

"For the classic consumer, the solitaire band is undoubtedly the go-to when choosing a timeless way to show your love and commitment," Housby told Who What Wear. "Round brilliant stones are the most popular stone shape and certainly would appear to be the safest choice for surprising a loved one. It's important to note that a shift in buying behavior has seen increasingly more partners shopping together—and jointly paying—for engagement rings. Experimenting with other fancy cuts is not unusual. However, a simple band and a single stone still prove to be the most common option."

2. Two Stones

"Arguably the most romantic style of engagement rings that is now making a fierce comeback is the 'toi et moi' (you and me) style," Housby told us. "One of the first noted creations of this type of setting was Napoleon Bonaparte's gift to his wife Joséphine de Beauharnais back in 1796; therefore, we can take it on good authority that this ring style is a keeper! It's also a fun way to experiment with color and shape to create your own, very personal piece."

3. Ring Jackets

"The time-honored tradition of stacking commitment rings on one finger has always been a consistent winning look. However, more recently, 'ring jackets' have grown in popularity and are undoubtedly the most stylish (and uncomplicated) way of elevating your ring styling," Housby explained. "It's perfect for those who prefer a more manageable, understated look day to day but appreciate the flexibility of being able to transform their plain band into a cocktail ring party piece for best!"

4. Ethical and Sustainable Diamonds

"Younger consumers now seek more from their purchase, and in a break from the tradition of their parents' generation, more emphasis is placed on environmental concerns and innovation than purely the emotion of the piece. With this being paramount, alternatives to the traditional mined diamond have become vastly more popular. Commitment to the future of the planet is just as important as the future of the marriage," Housby said.

While Louis Vuitton will always be synonymous with handbags and luggage, those are far from the only categories the brand excels in. Case in point: the new LV Diamonds fine-jewelry collection that launched this week, including beautiful rings, unisex bands, earrings, and pendants. Lord knows I'll be dreaming about the entire collection, but the rings stood out to me in particular because they're bound to become the most covetable engagement rings for fashion people. 

"The monogram flower, Louis Vuitton's iconic pattern, resonates throughout the House with its timeless and bold design," the brand said in a statement. "With the LV Monogram Star diamonds, the motif confirms its status as a symbol of eternity...Instantly recognizable with its fifty-three facets with pointed ends, it reprises the star-shaped monogram flower created by George-Louis Vuitton." Scroll down to see close-up photos of the new LV Diamonds collection. 

Shop Louis Vuitton's New Rings and Bands

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To say I'm type A would be the understatement of the century. I'm a triple earth sign with a Virgo moon, I have three color-coordinated agendas, and I send my friends calendar invites when we're meeting for a 30-minute coffee—weeks in advance, of course. While there are millions of details I can plan out in my life, there's one detail I couldn't fully control that's been taking over all of my brain space the last few months: how to buy an engagement ring. Six months, seven boutiques, and three Microsoft Excel spreadsheets later, I've survived the process (and even had fun while doing it!).

If figuring out how to buy an engagement ring sounds incredibly stressful, don't worry; you've come to the right place. I was in your shoes just a few months ago. In theory, engagement ring shopping is as simple as going into a shop and pointing at a big, shiny rock, but in my mind, I had to logistically control every step of the process without my fiancé-to-be feeling like I was stepping on his toes. I promise you it wasn’t nearly as stressful as it could have been.

Don't believe me? Below, read my complete, foolproof guide on how to buy an engagement ring with zero stress—or as little stress as possible.

Get Off of TikTok (Yes, Seriously) and Figure Out Your Personal Style

When buying an engagement ring, the first step is to define your personal style. The process can feel daunting, especially when considering a piece that will symbolize your love and be worn for a lifetime.

The first step in buying an engagement ring is to define your personal style, advises Brooklyn-based bridal designer Steph Mazuera. After launching her business during the COVID-19 lockdown, Mazuera has become known for creating timeless, heirloom-quality pieces with a focus on ethical and sustainable production. Mazuera is one of the fresh, exciting voices within the bridal space in an age when Gen Z is looking at getting hitched and values responsibility and aesthetics over all else. Her TikTok is a fun bonus—and, admittedly, how we connected.

Rather than chasing fleeting trends or opting for a conservative, uninspired design, choose a cut, diamond color, or silhouette that resonates with you personally. Mazuera recommends starting with resources like Pinterest to explore designs that align with your authentic personal style but advises against overwhelming yourself with too many options. Instead, trust your instincts and go with what feels right.

"There's a lot of weirdness around people feeling like certain diamond shapes are 'out' or too trendy or too tied to a celebrity," Mazuera says. She has a point—in 10 years, no one's going to look at your engagement ring and think, Is that a Hailey Bieber oval? "When we talk about choosing your diamond, it's so important to just go with your gut. It helps not to listen to the online chatter and instead find something you're going to love because no one else is gonna wear it."

Throw away your phone, for lack of better words.

"Vibe Check" Your Jeweler

When I first started shopping for an engagement ring, I was intimidated by the overwhelming world of diamonds and precious metals. It can feel like a maze of information, but working with the right jeweler can completely transform the experience. One of the key steps is meeting with a jeweler, ideally in person or over Zoom, to collaborate on your vision. I initially consulted several jewelers, including those from luxury design houses, but none seemed to align with my personal style. I knew I wanted something eclectic and out-of-the-box, so I sought out skilled, thoughtful craftspeople who could truly understand and bring my vision to life.

Enter Mazuera, who guided my partner and I through hours of educational lessons, hand-drawn sketches, and behind-the-scenes videos of making my dream ring come to life. "I feel like I serve as sort of a market of people who want something that is very unique to them and something that doesn't feel like everyone else has it," Mazuera explained, nodding to her clientele—often young, hip, and sartorially inclined.

As a result, Mazuera works hand in hand with her bespoke clients in-person over the course of several months. Most of them, she admits, become IRL friends and long-term, repeat customers—a testament to the growing market for personalized, bespoke pieces Mazuera specializes in.

"I feel like we're all very tired of direct-to-consumer, venture-capital-backed corporations where pick your diamond from a spinning image, add a setting, and add it to your cart," she admits. "For other things, it's a great way to buy jewelry, but your engagement ring is something that you really want to sit down and talk to someone about."

Your jeweler making your engagement ring should be someone who is not only knowledgable but also takes the time to know you and your spouse-to-be's love story, Mazuera adds. "The best feeling ever is when I knock it out of the park and I know that I made something that speaks to that person's individual taste."

Do Your Research

Once you chose your jeweler, the best thing to do is to dive into the research process. For most people, their jeweler will encourage them to sit down and go through the crafted makeup of an engagement ring. Technical details like buying a lab-created or Earth-mined diamond, shank and basket details, CAD—or computer aided design—molds, and whether or not you want a hand-fabricated ring are all topics you should keep top of mind. Prepare to come with questions and answers about crucial topics like budgets and timeline so your jeweler can adequately provide reasonable expectation.

After an initial consultation, jewelers may require a small fee to begin sourcing diamonds based on your preferences or rough sketches. It’s helpful to have a clear idea of the stone cut and size you want so your jeweler can present options in person. Mazuera works first by having a client narrow down their diamond selections and then sketches a complete ring designed around a stone's characteristics. "At the end of the day, I always tell people to pick the stone that you put on your hand and love immediately," she says. Mazuera prefers not to discuss the four Cs until after clients have selected their favorites, emphasizing that the first impression of a diamond’s character should guide the choice, rather than its perceived value.

Once an ideal stone, shank, and basket are in place, jewelers typically design a lifelike 3D rendering—a CAD—which can then be printed and cast in wax or silver for Mazuera and a couple to see in the flesh.

You can also go the hand-fabricated route, Mazuera says, especially if you're looking at a larger stone. In short, hand fabrication is the "traditional" way of creating bespoke pieces where a jeweler will heat up raw material and work it into a desired shape via forging. It's a technique Mazuera often blends into her work, hand-fabricating prongs or baskets to ensure increased durability for stones over four carats or diamonds on thin bands.

Determine How Involved You Want to Be in the Process

Nowadays, it's more common than not for people who are receiving an engagement ring to be involved in the process. Whether it's seeing the full design, from stone selection to delivery, or stepping out somewhere in the middle, it's important to determine how surprised you want to be when seeing your engagement ring.

If you're hoping to maintain a slight element of secrecy, Mazuera encourages the person who is receiving the ring to step out of the process prior to seeing a detailed sketch or 3D rendering of the ring. (That's what I did!) There's no set time to step away, though—Mazuera says there's some couples who work with her throughout the entire process, and it doesn't take away from the proposal or the ring at all.

If you want to completely be surprised, Mazuera suggests sending your person to one of your favorite jewelers with a few guidelines like stone shape or metal type. "If there's a designer that you think every single piece is amazing, and you'd be happy to own any piece from this designer, that's a great way to be 100% floored," she says. "If you feel that strongly about their work, you're probably going to be fine with whatever comes out of the end process."

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Kendra Scott has already cornered the market when it comes to beautiful under-$150 jewelry, but now the designer is set to conquer a whole new category: engagement rings. The Austin-based brand has debuted 11 pieces with prices ranging from $1350 to $8150, and I have a feeling its dedicated fan base will be over the moon. 

A press release expounded on the exciting news: "The debut eleven-piece Engagement Collection by Kendra Scott features lab-grown diamonds that are F in color (colorless), VS2 in clarity range, and available in carat weight from 0.5 to 2 carats. All rings are custom, made to order, and delivered in approximately three weeks." All of Kendra Scott's engagement rings are available in platinum, yellow gold, or rose gold. 

To get the scoop on the new launch, I went straight to the source and tapped Kendra Scott herself. I asked for her expert opinion on this year's biggest engagement-ring trends. Keep scrolling to see her answers and shop pieces from her new line. 

1. Vintage-Inspired Details

"I have been loving vintage-inspired engagement rings!" Scott told Who What Wear. "It adds a touch of uniqueness to the ring, making it feel one-of-a-kind. During our design process for our engagement collection, I knew that I wanted to incorporate a vintage-inspired setting that felt unique but still embodied our signature shape. I was inspired by a vintage Elizabeth Taylor ring I came across in a jewelry book 10 years ago and thought, How can I create something like this for our customer? So along with my design team, we used our classic Dira silhouette to create a gorgeous setting around the center stone that gave it that one-of-a-kind heirloom feel." 

2. Contoured Wedding Bands

"The stacked style has been around for some seasons now, and it is not going away any time soon," Scott told Who What Wear. "I love stacking necklaces, rings, and bracelets to create an eclectic feel. When done correctly, stacking and mixing metals through your jewelry can elevate an entire outfit by giving it an edgier feel. We are now seeing this trend translate over to engagement and wedding bands. Even if one has a classic solitaire ring, adding in a contoured wedding band that curves and hugs around the engagement ring creates a gorgeous stack on your finger that is customizable, luxurious, and fashion-forward at the same time." 

3. Round-Cut Diamonds

"There is a reason the round-shaped diamond continues to be one of the most popular cuts. It is timeless and universal. The circular shape also allows for maximal fire and brilliance to shine through, making this diamond really sparkle. Timeless is something we strive for in our design process at Kendra Scott, and a meaningful jewelry piece, like an engagement ring, should also have that element." 

4. Lab-Grown Diamonds

"Additionally, we are using lab-grown diamonds in our collection, another surging trend. Kendra Scott was founded on the concept of attainable luxury, and we are applying that same understanding to our Engagement collection. Working with lab-grown diamonds provides an attainable, heirloom-quality alternative that is rooted in industry advancement and technology."

5. Hidden Details

"I am extremely detail-oriented, especially as it relates to design. I love when any piece of jewelry features hidden details that only the giver and receiver are privy to, such as a special message engraved on the inside of the band. It's a subtle and intimate way to personalize a jewelry piece. Within The Engagement Collection by Kendra Scott, we thoughtfully placed a singular Yellow Sapphire at the bridge of our Solitaire settings and at the base of our Iconic Halo rings to represent joy, optimism, and the promise of a bright future." 

Next, this Vogue France editor's 3-piece outfit just went viral on TikTok—shop the key items. 

This just in: One of the entertainment world's coolest and most talented couples Margaret Qualley and Jack Antonoff just got engaged. If you don't yet know how cool and talented they are, watch Qualley in Netflix's Maid and Antonoff's recent Saturday Night Live appearance with his band, Bleachers. (Fun fact: Qualley was nominated for multiple awards for her performance in Maid, and Antonoff won 2022's Grammy Award for producer of the year.) The pair are thought to have started dating in 2021, and they just confirmed their engagement on Instagram.

So about the ring… Qualley actually debuted it on the red carpet at Cannes last week while promoting her upcoming film Stars at Noon but just made it Instagram official today. The beautiful, delicate ring has a vintage quality that perfectly suits Qualley, who has a classic-retro aesthetic and is a Chanel brand ambassador. It's a round-cut ring that seems to be white gold or platinum, and the delicate setting gives it an heirloom quality. We can't wait to see which Chanel wedding dress Qualley wears.

Scroll to see the happy couple and Qualley's timeless engagement ring.

Shop Similar Vintage-Inspired Jewelry

Next up: This is where fashion girls find vintage engagement rings.

About 24 hours after sharing a photo of herself on a tropical vacation with her sister and friends, Sofia Richie revealed that it wasn't just any casual getaway—it was actually an engagement trip. Elliot Grainge proposed to Richie with an elaborate candlelit sunset scene, and the couple shared images of the cute moment. 

As for the engagement ring, it's a sizeable emerald-cut diamond with a thin band. True to the tropical theme, Richie wore a pretty floral dress in the photos and couldn't look any cuter. Grainge is the founder of a record label, while Richie has been busy with her modeling career. Scroll down to see the photos and get a close-up look at Sofia Richie's new engagement ring. 

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Next, The 2022 Swimsuit Trends Celebs Are Already Wearing

Opening image: Getty Images

If you, too, remember every word to "Sk8er Boi," you'll be pleased to hear that Avril Lavigne has some exciting news. She just announced on Instagram that she and singer Mod Sun are engaged. (His real name is Derek Ryan Smith, by the way.) Luckily for us, Lavigne also shared several photos from the Paris proposal.

The adorable photos show the couple getting engaged smack-dab in front of the Eiffel Tower. How sweet is that? As for Lavigne's engagement ring, it features a beautiful heart-shaped diamond. According to data from the International Gem Society, heart-shaped diamonds aren't one of the most popular engagement ring styles. Instead, the list includes round, square, rectangle, cushion-cut, Asscher-cut, and marquise-cut diamonds. Plus, considering Lavigne's penchant for the grunge aesthetic, a cutesy heart-shaped ring wasn't exactly what I was expecting, but I love it all the same. Scroll down to see the engagement photos and shop for heart jewelry. 

Shop My Favorite Heart-Adorned Jewelry