8 Engagement Ring Trends, From Lab-Grown Diamonds to Bold Bezels

Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds continue their rapid rise to the top as the favored diamond of most people getting engaged today. Ankur Daga, CEO and founder of Angara, reports that two-thirds of the diamonds they sell are lab-grown.

The demand for lab-grown diamonds has skyrocketed in recent years. While part of that is driven by a commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, the bigger driver is value. "Once customers look at lab-grown and see the value, they stretch their budget to go even bigger," says Daga. "Where they could have purchased a one-carat natural diamond, they’re now splurging on a three-carat lab-grown."

Asymmetrical and Baguette Accent Stones

Couples who want a unique touch are gravitating towards asymmetrical and baguette accent stones that give timeless center stones a fresh, unexpected look. "Baguette diamonds pair well with almost any shape of center stone and lend themselves to a lot of fun styles," says Mallory Shelter, founder and designer at SHELTER, a fine jewelry shop in Washington, D.C. "Customers are moving away from traditional, polished styles to little ways to add in playful design elements."

Chunkier, Heavier Bands

Pave bands and delicate settings have had their time in the sun, but this year, bold, chunky bands are having a moment. "We are seeing a lot more interest in a chunkier, heavier band this year," says Shelter. "People are moving away from the extremely delicate look and into something a little bit more durable and unique feeling."

In her studio, she’s seen customers opt for thicker rings that can replace both an engagement ring and a wedding band. "A thicker band can also bring a unique element to an otherwise classic style, like a solitaire set on a chunky band," she says.

Unique Colored Sapphires

Dark blue sapphires are in—but couples are also looking at other sapphire options when seeking a colored gemstone ring. "We’re seeing growing interest in different colored sapphires, like lighter blues, teals, and deep moss greens," says Shelter. She notes that these are not only a stunning twist on the traditional sapphire blue, but they’re often a more budget-friendly, traceable choice. "Many of the sapphires we work with are coming out of Montana mines," says Shelter. 

Warm Stones

It’s not just emeralds, rubies, and sapphires that are grabbing the attention of couples looking for a white diamond alternative. They’re also gravitating towards a sun-kissed look in their stones. "We’ve noticed brides are embracing a warm pop of color like Oregon Sunstone," says Alexis Russell, president and chief design officer of Alexis Russell. "It beautifully represents the Pantone color of the year, Peach Fuzz, but it is timeless."

Shelter notes that she’s also seen an influx of interest in warmer stones. "Couples aren’t looking for yellow or champagne diamonds, but, instead, white diamonds that fall into the K-N color range," Shelter says. "These bring warmth to the overall piece, especially when set in yellow gold."

Ornate Designs

With less expensive lab-grown diamonds comes an opportunity to splurge on more ornate ring settings with accent stones, diamond details, and intricate designs. Daga reports that their couples are going for show-stopping pieces. "If they can save money on the center stone, they can invest the money they’d budgeted into a more ornate setting," says Daga. He notes that while he used to see primarily solitaires or simple side stones, now customers are looking for filigree details, art deco shapes, and vintage-inspired designs.

Family and Heirloom Stone Resets

Your "something old" could be decided the day you get engaged if you reset an heirloom stone. From using a grandmother’s diamond in a modern setting to finding the perfect cut in an antique piece and then making it your own, family and heirloom resets continue to gain traction—particularly as more people emphasize secondhand, sustainable clothing, jewelry, and more.

"Not only is this a sustainable and cost-effective way to create an engagement ring, it also ensures family memories are honored in your sentimental piece," says Shelter.

Bold Bezel Settings

"We’re seeing a shift towards more durable, bold bezel settings," says Russell. "By allowing the band to make a statement, along with the stone, these rings bring an unexpected twist to your bridal stack." These non-traditional rings feel more casual and sculptural than the more expected silhouettes, which makes them perfect for couples who want something that doesn’t feel so "engagement."