Engagement rings are a tradition deeply rooted in history, culture, and symbolism. They showcase two people's love for each other and the promise of commitment and marriage. Traditional rings have stood the test of time, but with an increasing focus on individuality, many people are beginning to look for unique engagement rings that showcase their creativity and personal style.
Today's couples seek rings that speak to their personalities, passions, and love stories. If you’ve been looking for an engagement ring and can’t find the one, consider a design that’s less traditional. From vintage-inspired to avant-garde designs, the world of unique engagement rings offers new possibilities.
5 Things to Consider for a Unique Engagement Ring
Adding an element of individuality to your wedding ring can be as simple as changing the type of band or as complex as custom-designing your dream ring. Regardless of your design decisions, your ring is sure to make a bold statement and spark conversation.
Engagement rings are available in many styles, shapes, and settings. Be sure to take the time to fully understand the wide variety of options available to ensure you will love the ring for years to come.
1. Personal Engagement Ring Style
Your style is the most important thing to consider when deciding on a unique engagement ring. Understanding your style will help you narrow down the options and guide your search. There are plenty of choices to fit any style, such as:
- Vintage-inspired rings
- Modern minimalist rings
- Bold, avant-garde style rings
2. Gemstones for Engagement Rings
While traditional engagement rings generally feature a diamond, unique engagement rings often use alternative gemstones. Consider color when you are choosing your ring, like opting for a sentimental birthstone or a color you will love wearing forever!
When choosing a nontraditional gemstone, you should keep in mind that some are less suitable for everyday wear. Make sure to consider day-to-day activities when making your selection. While the diamond can withstand almost anything, other gems are more delicate.
Favorite Gemstones for Unique Engagement Rings:
Sapphires – Reminiscent of Princess Diana’s heirloom engagement ring, sapphires are known for their striking blue color and are second to diamonds in terms of hardness. Our White Gold Oval Sapphire Ring with Diamonds combines these gemstones for an elegant look.
Emeralds – Renowned for their vibrant green color, emeralds are a great choice for an eye-catching ring. This remarkable Birthstone and Diamond Halo Ring puts a unique twist on a traditional halo setting.
Rubies – Choosing fiery red rubies like the ones featured on our White Gold Ruby and Diamond Accent Ring is a great option for anyone looking to make a bold statement. Rubies are also one of the rarest gemstones.
Opals – When opals are in the light, it creates a dazzling play-of-color that can change depending on the angle. The iridescent gem on the Rose Gold Oval Opal & Round Diamond Halo Ring is a captivating, unique engagement ring choice.
Amethysts – Amethysts are dramatic purple gemstones belonging to the quartz family. The Marco Bicego Jaipur Yellow Gold Amethyst and Diamond Ring makes a sophisticated and impressive statement.
3. Engagement Ring Metal Preference
While gold - whether yellow, white, or rose gold - is the most common and classic choice for an engagement ring, other metal options can make your ring stand out even more. When choosing a jewelry metal, make sure to consider your hobbies and type of work, as some metals are softer and can scratch easily. Silver and gold are softer metals that are more delicate and may need to be removed for some activities, while platinum and tungsten are great for everyday wear, especially if you lead an active lifestyle.
4. Nontraditional Diamond Cuts
Nontraditional diamond cuts offer a departure from the classic round brilliant or princess cut and provide another opportunity to make a bold statement. A diamond’s cut is one of the main factors that will determine how your ring looks to the naked eye. While they will all sparkle and shine, different cuts interact with light in various ways.
Compare the brilliance of traditional diamond cuts to nontraditional options to help you choose. Some nontraditional diamond cuts are:
- Hexagon Cut
- Kite Cut
- Trillion Cut
- Rose Cut
- Baguette Cut
- Crescent Cut
- Shield Cut
5. Unique Engagement Ring Design and Setting Options
The setting of your ring protects and holds your center gemstone in place. It can impact both form and function while also influencing the look and feel of your ring. When looking for an engagement ring, there are various ring setting options. The most common are prong, pavé, halo, bezel, or side stone settings. However, you may opt for less popular setting options like east-west, tension, cluster, open shank, or nesting to make your engagement ring unique.
Vintage-Inspired Engagement Rings
Vintage-inspired designs pull influence from earlier decades to put a modern twist on a once popular trend, making them perfect as unique engagement rings. If you don’t have heirloom vintage jewelry that’s being passed down but still want that vintage feel, you can choose a ring like our White Gold Vintage Style Round Diamond Ring.
Custom Designed Engagement Rings
When you custom design an engagement ring, you have the freedom to add as many personal touches as you want to ensure the ring is truly one-of-a-kind. Custom engagement rings hold sentimental value and show that you value everything that makes your spouse unique.
While custom designing an engagement ring can seem like a daunting process, the team at our custom design studio will work directly with you to ensure the process is easy, affordable, and fast. We are here to ensure your vision comes to life and marks the beginning of your new journey together.
By exploring various styles and considering what resonates with the individuality of your relationship, you can find a unique engagement ring that embodies your love story. Embrace the opportunity to create a timeless piece as special and extraordinary as the bond you share, and you can ensure that it will be cherished for generations to come.