5 Ways To Choose A Unique Engagement Ring

Now, more than ever, a multitude of jewelry styles can symbolize and celebrate everlasting love. But whether you want to guide your other half in the right direction or would prefer to pick out your own engagement ring, some simple dos and don’ts can help to ensure this often-daunting investment is worth every penny. For example, don’t feel restricted by conventions and definitions, such as the four Cs, but do allow your personality – whether you favor classic, vintage, mixed metals, colored gems or unusual settings – to shine through. Here, we explore five engagement-ring trends that will remain stylish and scintillating long after your nuptials.

Believe it or not, a traditional skinny band with a round solitaire diamond is becoming an increasingly rare breed when it comes to engagement rings. Perhaps this is because wider jewelry trends are erring towards bigger and bolder styles; a dainty and delicate ring doesn’t quite chime right with the chunky chains, punchy pinky rings and stacked cuffs, beads, and bangles that so many of us now default to. Melissa Kaye’s ‘Lenox Reign’ ring and Repossi’s ‘Serti Inversé’ design are contemporary styles that celebrate singular diamonds in solid and sleek surrounds, while 42 Suns and Gemella showcase tourmalines, aquamarines and blue topaz in souped-up settings, where gold reigns supreme. Elsewhere, Retrouvaí’s emerald ‘Heirloom’ ring offers pass-it-down potential in spades, while its robust silhouette and textured gold band bring it right up to date.

The history of the toi et moi ring runs rich and long: French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte famously proposed to Empress Josephine in the 18th century with an engagement ring featuring a pear-shape sapphire and diamond, each representing one half of the betrothed couple. Translated from the French as ‘you and me’, the toi et moi’s romantic symbolism has captured couples ever since – from John F. Kennedy, who proposed to his future First Lady Jackie Onassis with an emerald and diamond design, to more modern references today; Emily Ratajkowski, Ariana Grande and Megan Fox have all worn this style of engagement ring. Those seeking a subtle interpretation should turn to Stone and Strand’s topaz two-stone ring, or try House of Meraki and Kamyen for bright gems and bold enamel with eye-catching appeal.

For many brides-to-be, an instinctive gut feeling declares a lone white diamond as just ‘not their thing’ and a pop of color gets added to the mix instead. Blue and green tones tend to be ultra-wearable for both a working and weekend wardrobe, and this is where sapphires, emeralds, tsavorites and topaz truly shine. Irene Neuwirth and Pomellato have taken on the traditional solitaire and added some pizzazz, with curvaceous central gems and fully embellished bands. Suzanne Kalan frames a teal opal with her signature baguette-cut diamonds, while David Yurman’s twisted gold band and svelte, diamond-set claws add some edge to its ‘Chatelaine’ design.

A diamond ring doesn’t have to mean an iceberg perched upon your finger – smaller, subtle stones can be gathered en masse to deliver intense sparkle without such a high price tag. Jade Trau and Jennifer Meyer offer classic diamond-band styles that boast subtle detailing for a neo-vintage feel. Those looking for a sleek and sculptural center stone should consider Anita Ko’s 18-karat gold ‘Gia’ ring, which is elegantly amplified by a double band of diamonds. Spinelli Kilcollin’s interlinking rings are ideal for those who want a layered look, while Marlo Laz, Sophie Bille Brahe and Almasika all deliver undulating bands that feel fresh and precious.

Art Deco engagement rings are a classic, even traditional choice, but choosing an Art Deco-inspired piece that features unusual gems or unique materials will subvert their standard design codes and add intrigue. Garrard’s pink tourmaline, mother-of-pearl and diamond ring is a true showstopper, while Bayco’s three-stone ring features a punchy pink sapphire rather than a traditional Royal-blue hue. Rather than a cluster design, like the Princess of Wales’ iconic example, consider an Art Deco-inspired piece with artful angles and emerald-cut stones, such as Fred Leighton’s sapphire and diamond ring or Selim Mouzannar’s ‘Mina’ design.