When it comes to engagement ring trends, it seems like just about anything goes right now. Except a traditional diamond solitaire. When musician Travis Barker proposed to Kourtney Kardashian, it was with a custom oval-cut diamond by American jeweller, Lorraine Schwartz. Lily Collins, who wed screenwriter Charlie McDowell last September, got engaged during a road trip in 2020 with a beautiful rose-cut diamond in a bezel setting by Irene Neuwirth. Meanwhile, when Brooklyn Beckham proposed to Nicola Peltz in 2020 with an emerald-cut stone, it caused a spike in online searches for the same style. And supermodel Emily Ratajkowski showcased an unusual ‘toi et moi’-style ring on her Instagram following her engagement in 2018. It comprised one pear-cut diamond nestled next to a princess-cut one. So named because it symbolises the coming together of two people in love.
Even diamonds aren’t necessarily de riguer anymore. Both Emma Stone and Ariana Grande received pretty pearl engagement rings when their partners proposed. And let’s not forget that the mere sight of Kate Middleton’s sapphire engagement ring over a decade ago (it had formerly belonged to Princess Diana) created a vogue for coloured gemstone engagement rings which still continues to this day.
In these post-Covid times, bright, unconventional, and boldly bespoke rings feel like the perfect way to celebrate a union that’s totally unique. Modern couples wishing to eschew the classic crowd-pleasers are totally spoilt for choice. Colourful eternity bands, eye-catching cocktail rings and delicate clusters of pavé stones (and other precious gems) all proving brilliant alternatives. The best news? Even if you can’t find what you’re looking for, there are plenty of wonderful jewellers who will happily help design your dream ring. They simply need enough notice – so don’t wait too long to say, ‘I do’.
Here, we round up 18 of the best alternative engagement rings for modern brides:
