Choosing an engagement ring is a truly meaningful experience. For many, it’s the ultimate symbol of love, commitment, and a promise for the future. Today, more couples are seeking out rings that are unique, meaningful, and personalised to their love story. Whether you’re leaning towards a classic style or something more modern, creating a bespoke engagement ring allows you to design a piece that truly reflects your or your partner’s personality.
Coloured gemstones, such as sapphires, emeralds, and even salt-and-pepper diamonds, are also increasingly popular, offering a striking alternative to traditional clear diamonds. Another sought-after trend is the use of asymmetrical settings, which create a distinctive, contemporary look. Halo settings continue to enchant, but with a fresh approach, incorporating unusual shapes or mixed metals to add contrast. For a truly one-of-a-kind piece, consider designing a bespoke ring that combines these trends, allowing you to craft an engagement ring that is as unique and timeless as your love story.
Vintage-Inspired Designs
Vintage-inspired engagement rings have been a rising trend over recent years, bringing a touch of old-world charm and timeless elegance. Styles from the Victorian, Edwardian, and Art Deco periods have inspired many modern designs, incorporating intricate detailing, filigree patterns, and milgrain edging (a row of tiny beads along the edges of the ring). These rings are ideal for those who appreciate classic beauty with a unique twist.
For instance, consider a halo setting, where a circle of smaller diamonds surrounds the centre stone, adding extra sparkle and making the centre diamond appear larger. Alternatively, a three-stone ring, inspired by Victorian jewellery, symbolises the past, present, and future of your relationship.
Diamond Shapes and Cuts
The classic round diamond will always be popular, but other shapes are becoming equally beloved for engagement rings. Alternative diamond cuts like oval, pear, marquise, and cushion cuts are all trending right now, as they each bring a unique look and personality to the ring.
An oval diamond, for example, elongates the finger and offers a larger surface area, giving an elegant appearance while maximising sparkle. Pear-shaped diamonds have a teardrop shape that’s both graceful and distinctive, while cushion-cut diamonds are known for their soft, rounded edges that give a vintage feel.
Choosing a unique diamond shape adds a personal touch to an engagement ring, allowing couples to explore different cuts that complement their style. To get inspired, explore different diamond shapes and fancy cuts.
Two Tone Metals
Gone are the days when engagement rings were solely made of either white gold, yellow gold or platinum. Mixed metals are now making a splash in the world of jewellery. Couples are increasingly blending different metals in one ring, such as combining platinum with yellow gold or rose gold. This contrast in metals can create a striking, modern look and allows for more creativity in the design process.
Tow tone metals not only look stunning but are also practical, as they allow the ring to match with other jewellery in different metals. A platinum crown with a rose gold band, for example, highlights the centre stone beautifully and offers a modern yet timeless appeal. Mixing metals is a fantastic option for those looking to design a unique ring that stands out.
Coloured Gemstones
Coloured gemstones are a popular choice for couples looking for something a bit different. While diamonds have traditionally been the go-to choice for engagement rings, many people are now drawn to vibrant gems like sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and even more unusual stones like morganite and aquamarine.
Sapphires, for example, symbolise loyalty and trust, making them a meaningful option. Morganite, with its blush-pink hue, has become popular for its romantic feel, while emeralds are loved for their rich, deep green colour. Coloured gemstones can be used as the centre stone or as accent stones to add a pop of colour to a classic diamond ring.
The best part about using coloured gemstones is the endless combinations of colours, shapes, and settings. When creating a bespoke piece, you can work with a jeweller to select the perfect stone that complements your personal style and colour preference.
Sustainable and Ethical Choices
Many couples today are more conscious about the origins of their engagement ring. As a result, there’s a growing trend towards ethical and sustainable rings. This includes choosing lab grown diamonds, which are eco-friendly and often more affordable than natural diamonds, without compromising on quality or brilliance.
Another popular sustainable option is to repurpose family heirlooms. By resetting a vintage diamond or gemstone from a family ring, you can create a unique piece that has sentimental value and a beautiful story behind it. Sustainable choices are meaningful and thoughtful, making them perfect for those who value the ethics behind their purchase.
Minimalist Styles
Not everyone wants a ring that’s packed with sparkle and intricate designs. Minimalist engagement rings offer a clean, simple look that is both modern and timeless. These rings often feature a solitaire setting, where a single diamond or gemstone is the star of the show. This style highlights the beauty of the stone without additional embellishments, making it ideal for those who prefer an understated yet elegant design.
Minimalist rings can still be incredibly unique. By choosing an interesting shape for the diamond, like a marquise or baguette, or opting for an east-west setting (where the diamond is set horizontally), you can create a minimalist ring with a twist. This trend is all about quality over quantity, focusing on craftsmanship and the beauty of simplicity.
Personalised Details
Adding personalised elements is one of the most significant advantages of creating a bespoke engagement ring. From engraved initials or meaningful dates on the inside of the band to choosing symbolic gemstones, these details make the ring even more special.
For instance, some couples choose to add hidden diamonds or coloured gemstones on the band, known as “surprise stones, or birthstones”. Others include a unique pattern or motif that symbolises something meaningful in their relationship. Personal touches can transform a beautiful ring into a cherished family heirloom.
Designing Your Bespoke Engagement Ring
Designing a bespoke engagement ring is a journey that combines personal taste, creativity, and sentiment. It allows you to take inspiration from current trends and customise each detail to reflect your unique love story. Working with experienced jewellers in Hatton Garden, ensures that your vision becomes a reality with expert craftsmanship and quality.
If you’re ready to start creating your dream engagement ring, consider exploring the wide selection at Hatton Garden. With guidance and inspiration, you can design a ring that captures the essence of your relationship and becomes a timeless symbol of your love.
