Five Engagement Ring Trends for 2020By Angelica Malin
Getting engaged is a special, defining moment in your life so choosing the perfect engagement ring should be a magical time. Whether you’re picking out your own ring or dropping hints to your partner, there are so many styles to choose and experiment with. Here are five engagement ring trends to consider in 2020.
Lab-grown diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are trending because of “increased consumer interests in sustainability as well as a desire for larger, more impactful stones”, as noted by bespoke jewellers Taylor & Hart. This growing interest is fuelled by rising concerns surrounding climate change, with lab-grown diamonds being less harmful to the environment than naturally mined ones. For instance, lab-grown diamonds do not contribute to global emissions caused by mining and transportation of the gems. Yet, these diamonds possess the same qualities found in mined ones, and the process of creating them eliminates any unethical practices.
Bespoke engagement rings
Every proposal is different so it’s no surprise that many brides-to-be are ensuring their engagement rings are one-of-a-kind too. Bespoke bling is completely exclusive to its wearer, adding an extra special element to the engagement celebrations. If your dream ring isn’t already on the shelf, experimenting with different gemstones, shapes, colours and settings will allow you to create a piece of jewellery perfectly tailored to your tastes.
Fancy cut diamond shapes
A fancy cut diamond refers to a gem that isn’t round, like oval, emerald or pear. The oval is flattering on the finger as it appears to make it longer and thinner, while also showing its carat weight well as less of the stone is hidden. This shape was chosen by Justin Bieber for Hailey Baldwin’s engagement ring in 2018. What’s more, fancy cut diamonds cost less than round shapes because they use more of the rough diamond which means there’s less waste to account for in the price. Other shapes, like emerald, have an elongated rectangular shape which is perfect for fans of traditional jewellery, while the single point and rounded edges of pear shape makes a strong statement with an incredible sparkle.
Stackable engagement rings
Stackable engagement rings were popularized by Scandinavian women who wear three bands at once for engagement, marriage and motherhood. For this trend, it’s best to buy your engagement and wedding rings together to make sure they fit perfectly. This also makes more sense financially as diamonds and other gems usually come at a reduced per-carat price if multiple are purchased. These rings don’t necessarily have to match and it can often be more effective to mix colours and styles. Some brides like to have a wedding band either side of their engagement ring to “seal it in”, and some like to leave space for other rings celebrating occasions like anniversaries or children.
Yellow gold rings
After two decades of platinum and white gold dominating, yellow gold engagement rings are back on the scene. While previously considered “tacky”, the style sprung back into fashion thanks to Meghan Markle and her beautiful yellow gold engagement ring. The rich tones of this precious metal perfectly complements colored and white diamonds and adds a vintage feel. Though anyone can pull one off, timeless yellow gold engagement rings will especially flatter olive and darker skin tones.