When it’s time to pop the question, knowing what style of engagement ring to look for can be a daunting task. With so many options available, from art deco clusters to princess cut halos and contemporary geometric settings, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news is that being prepared with an idea of the style you’re looking for can make all the difference. Not only will this help guide your search, but it’ll also give you a better understanding of what to expect in terms of cost.
While you may have gotten hints from your partner about their preferences (maybe they’ve admired certain designs on shop windows or Instagram?), having a clear idea of the style you’re looking for can be just as important. We’re here to help you with that, by providing an extensive list of engagement ring styles that’ll leave you feeling confident and prepared when it’s time to make your purchase.
Classic Ring Styles
When venturing into any jewelry shop, you’re likely to come across these tried-and-true engagement ring styles. The term ‘classic’ here doesn’t imply dull or uninspired; rather, it signifies a timeless and versatile design that effortlessly complements a wide range of gemstones, stone shapes, and metals. In fact, some classic ring settings may even blend with vintage or contemporary designs to create unique and captivating pieces.
Three Stone Engagement Ring
When it comes to choosing a ring setting, many people opt for three, four or five stone rings as they’re incredibly popular and versatile designs. A three-stone setting allows the center stone to take center stage, with two accent gems flanking it, creating a beautiful balance of sizes. Alternatively, all three stones can be similarly sized, adding visual interest to the overall design.
Solitaire Engagement Ring
The timeless appeal of a solitaire ring lies in its simplicity and elegance. At the heart of this classic design is a single gemstone, often showcased on a minimalist band. The focus here is squarely on the rock itself, making it essential to invest in a high-quality stone. When examining solitaire rings, pay close attention to the prongs that secure the gemstone in place.
This can range from six-prong settings like the one depicted above to four or three-prong arrangements, each adding a unique touch to the overall design.
Halo Engagement Ring
A double halo engagement ring features a central gemstone, such as a sapphire or emerald, surrounded by two concentric circles of diamonds or other precious stones. This design creates a stunning display of sparkle and fire, drawing attention to the centerpiece while adding visual interest through the halos. The outer halo can also create an optical illusion, making the center stone appear larger than it would with a single halo.
Double Halo Engagement Ring
For those seeking an extra touch of sparkle and glamour on their special day, a double halo ring is a stunning choice. Unlike a traditional single-halo design, this style features two concentric halos that surround the center stone, amplifying its brilliance and fire. This unique setting is perfect for brides who crave attention-grabbing jewelry with plenty of visual interest.
Cluster Engagement Ring
Cluster rings offer a diverse array of designs, where sometimes the focal point is a prominent central stone, while other times each gemstone within the ring shares a uniform size and prominence. The Concierto ring from Appleby is a testament to this versatility, showcasing that cluster rings can be just as unique and captivating as any other type of jewelry.
Twist Engagement Ring
The surge in popularity of twist engagement ring bands has been noteworthy, offering a fresh approach to showcase a stunning solitaire setting. This modern design twist provides an effortless way to breathe new life into a classic solitaire arrangement, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a contemporary update.
Bezel Engagement Ring
In contrast to prong settings, where gemstones are held firmly in place using metal claws, a bezel setting allows the stones to nestle comfortably within the metal. This unique design feature gives the overall appearance a sleek and streamlined look, as the edges of the stone are encased by a band of metal.
Pavé Engagement Ring
When it comes to pavé engagement rings, the key feature that sets them apart from other styles is the intricate design of the band. Instead of being solid or featuring a single central stone, a pavé ring is adorned with small stones, often diamonds, encrusted along the entire band. This unique approach gives the ring an undeniable touch of glamour, making it perfect for brides who crave opulence and sophistication.
Coloured Stone Engagement Ring
Beyond the traditional white diamond, coloured stone engagement rings offer a treasure trove of unique and captivating options. Consider the timeless allure of gemstones like rubies, emeralds and sapphires, which have been prized for their beauty and rarity throughout history. For a more modern twist, look to trendy stones like tanzanite, morganite or grey diamonds, each with its own distinctive character and charm.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing the perfect coloured stone engagement ring.
Bombe Engagement Ring
A bombé engagement ring exudes opulence and sophistication, characterized by its prominent, rounded shape adorned with sparkling gemstones. This stunning design is perfect for the woman who appreciates the finer things in life. The image above, courtesy of Trumpet & Horn and photographer Jennifer Fujikawa, beautifully captures the elegance and glamour of this show-stopping ring.
Vintage & Vintage-Inspired Ring Styles
If your partner has a penchant for vintage charm or appreciates the story behind an antique gift, she might be eyeing a one-of-a-kind engagement ring with a rich history. Consider exploring esteemed establishments like Dublin’s Powerscourt Townhouse or London’s Grays, renowned for their impressive collections of vintage treasures. When searching for a vintage-inspired ring, keep an eye out for distinctive styles such as…
Art Deco Engagement Ring
The Art Deco era, spanning the late 1920s to the early 1930s, was an epitome of luxury, extravagance, and glamour. The opulent vibe of this period is reminiscent of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, The Great Gatsby. When it comes to crafting an Art Deco-inspired engagement ring or a piece that echoes the style above, key elements include baguette-cut gemstones, intricate fanned motifs, geometric shapes, and sometimes, a pop of vibrant colour.
This distinctive aesthetic is exemplified in designs like Huntley by Trumpet & Horn.
Victorian Engagement Ring
The allure of Victorian jewellery lies in its opulence and grandeur, characterized by heavy metalwork and statement stones. A hallmark of this era’s design is the use of flower-shaped clusters and three to five-stone settings, which are especially prominent in engagement rings. The intricacy and drama that these elements bring to pieces like Sioux Falls by Trumpet & Horn evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication.
Edwardian Engagement Ring
Edwardian jewellery, a captivating period that spanned just nine years from 1901 to 1910, is characterized by intricate designs. Rings from this era boast an abundance of oval-shaped settings, bombe settings, and floral clusters, often featuring precious stones like ruby and blue sapphire. The metalwork itself is equally impressive, adorned with curls and beading that add a touch of elegance.
Take, for example, the Herringbone ring by Trumpet & Horn, which exemplifies the period’s emphasis on ornate craftsmanship.
Art Nouveau Engagement Ring
Art Nouveau jewellery is renowned for its distinctive and ornate design, rivaling only Art Deco in terms of recognizability. Emerging between 1890 and 1900, this style was a testament to the creative arts’ renaissance, reflected in the intricate details and organic motifs that adorn each piece. Expect to see delicate swirls, soft pastel hues, and subtle nods to nature – think flowers, birds, and butterflies – as defining characteristics of Art Nouveau jewellery.
When seeking an engagement ring, look for dainty designs featuring petal-shaped accent stones, swirling embellishments, and ornate beading that evoke the whimsical charm of this era.
Retro/Mid-Century (1940s, 50s, 60s, or 70s) Engagement Rings
Retro jewelry encompasses a broad spectrum of styles spanning multiple eras, effectively bridging modernity with vintage charm. The aesthetic is reminiscent of adornments treasured by your mother or grandmother, boasting an eclectic mix of designs that were both cutting-edge in their time and influenced by historical inspirations. A prime example of this fusion can be seen in the exquisite pieces produced during the 18th century, as exemplified by Adin Anique Jewellery’s stunning ring.
Baroque Engagement Rings
While authentic Baroque-era engagement rings may be rare to find, modern jewelers are crafting stunning pieces inspired by this era’s opulence. Characteristic features of these rings include heavy goldwork, irregularly shaped stones, and intricate gothic-style carvings that evoke a sense of grandeur. The Dearest ring by Lulu Frost is a prime example of this style, boasting ornate details that would make even the most discerning eye sparkle.
Acrostic Engagement Rings
The concept of an acrostic engagement ring is nothing short of romantic. These unique pieces of jewelry share similarities with eternity rings in terms of their style, as they feature a band adorned with stones. However, what sets them apart is the carefully chosen stones that spell out a word or phrase when read from top to bottom. For instance, the example above features an acrostic ring that spells out ‘Dearest’ – a sweet and sentimental touch.
While this type of ring has its roots in the Napoleonic era, it’s experiencing a resurgence in popularity. The McCaul Ring is one notable example of this romantic trend, offering a unique and thoughtful way to express love and devotion.
Modern & Alternative Styles
When exploring the realm of modern engagement rings, the possibilities seem endless. From talented designers across Ireland and globally, unique and innovative designs emerge. While showcasing some popular contemporary styles, this aesthetic is particularly suited to custom-made rings. Look to artisans like Natasha Sherling or Stonechat Jewellers for bespoke creations that perfectly encapsulate your personal taste.
Some designs may present pairing challenges with wedding bands; thus, consider bridal sets where the engagement ring and band are designed to harmonize seamlessly. The world of modern engagement rings is characterized by creativity and experimentation. For instance, Molten engagement rings have gained immense popularity, boasting textured, ‘imperfect’ casts that evoke a vintage charm while incorporating unusual gemstones with natural inspiration.
The Diamond Triangle ring by Mociun exemplifies the versatility and style that contemporary designs bring to the table.
Minimal Engagement Rings
Minimalist rings often embody simplicity at its finest, characterized by slim bands and subtle settings that whisper elegance rather than shout it. The understated presence of small stones adds a touch of sophistication, while geometric elements can introduce a hint of modernity to the design. A perfect example of this understated yet refined aesthetic is the Hex Nico ring by Digby & Iona, a masterclass in subtle beauty.
Geometric Engagement Rings
Geometric shapes have taken the wedding world by storm, and engagement rings are no exception. This trend has led to the creation of unique and modern designs that depart from traditional round-cut diamonds. Instead, couples are opting for triangular settings, angular band shapes, and unconventional geometric cuts in both diamonds and gemstones. A prime example is the Confetti Ring by Polly Wales, a stunning representation of this geometric trend.
Confetti Engagement Rings
Innovative jewelry designers like Polly Wales have been instrumental in popularizing a unique style of ring that features stones with imperfect cuts, often creating a beautiful contrast between the different hues. The resulting pieces can have a mesmerizing molten appearance. One example of this style is the Freya Ring by Zoe & Morgan.
Suspended Stone Engagement Rings
Tension rings and suspended stones can seamlessly incorporate geometric patterns into your jewelry collection, but they also provide a stunning backdrop to showcase exceptional gemstones. This versatile design allows for creative freedom, as you can experiment with different wedding band pairings to find the perfect harmony. For instance, pairing a tension ring with a wrong band could disrupt the overall aesthetic, highlighting the importance of considering compatibility.
Enamel Engagement Rings
Despite enamel’s relatively lower durability compared to precious stones like diamonds and sapphires, its unique charm has led to a growing demand for it in engagement rings. However, if you do opt for an enamel ring, don’t forget to prioritize practicality by investing in some rubber gloves for the inevitable household chores that come with marriage.
Etched Engagement Rings
Etching is a timeless design element that can be found in many types of jewelry, including vintage and modern engagement rings. While it may not be as prominent in some alternative engagement ring styles, etching can still add a unique touch to a band. Whether your partner is looking for something traditional or non-traditional, incorporating etched details can elevate the overall design and make their ring stand out.
Shaped Band Engagement Rings
Initially conceived as a solution to complement uniquely shaped engagement rings, shaped bands have evolved into a popular standalone engagement ring option. The rise of stacking rings has further fueled their popularity, allowing couples to express their personal style through bespoke jewelry designs.
Cosmos-Inspired Engagement Rings
Cosmic inspiration is woven throughout many modern jewelry pieces, making it a distinct style worth exploring. Among the most popular cosmic-inspired designs are constellation rings, which often feature intricate illustrations of star maps or stylized representations of celestial bodies. The moon also plays a significant role in cosmic jewelry, with its phases and shapes influencing the design of pendants, earrings, and even rings.
Opals and moonstones are prized for their ethereal beauty, and their inclusion along the band of a ring adds an extra layer of mystique. Even spaced-out stones can create a sense of otherworldly wonder when arranged in a unique pattern. This cosmic aesthetic is exemplified by designers like Brian Eburah, whose granulated diamond rings often feature celestial motifs.
Granulated Engagement Ring
The granular beading phenomenon has recently taken the world of contemporary jewelry by storm, building upon the popularity of molten ring designs. This subtle yet visually appealing trend caters to individuals who appreciate intricate details without seeking overwhelming sparkle.
Side Stone Ring
The symbolism of an open band takes on a new meaning when used as a proposal or promise ring. It represents the union of two individuals who will eventually become one. To make it even more meaningful, consider choosing two diamonds or your shared birthstones. The beauty of this design lies in its versatility – the rings also stack well with other pieces, allowing you to create a unique and personalized look.
Minimal Engagement Rings
When it comes to minimal engagement rings, the beauty lies in its simplicity. For some, it may be a small stone, an understated setting, or a plain band that exudes elegance without drawing attention away from the love and commitment being celebrated. If your partner has expressed a desire for a ‘minimal’ ring, take the time to truly understand what that means to them – is it a lack of ornamentation, a subtle nod to their personal style, or something entirely different?
By clarifying their vision, you can ensure the perfect symbol of your love and commitment.
Modern Cluster Engagement Ring
When it comes to adding visual interest to a ring, unique and unusual clusters are an excellent way to incorporate multiple colours or gemstones. This design approach allows for creative freedom, enabling you to either focus on a specific colour palette or make a bold statement with contrasting hues in asymmetrical settings. For instance, the ‘Ring by Alexis Russell’ perfectly showcases this concept, offering a stunning visual display that is sure to turn heads.
You & Me Ring
In a beautiful display of symbolism, two distinctively shaped stones sit alongside each other on one band, representing the union of the couple. The combination of square and pear-shaped stones is particularly popular in engagement rings, where they’re complemented by a solo diamond solitaire that takes center stage on the wedding band, nestled delicately between the pair.
