On-Trend Bands: 8 Ring Styles for 2018
Proposing is a big step, so you want to make sure you choose the right ring for your soon-to-be fiancée. Between band metals, gemstones and cuts, the options for ring designs are practically endless. In fact, there are so many options that grooms today spend three and a half months looking for a ring on average according to The Knot 2017 Jewelry & Engagement Study.
If you’re thinking about getting down on one knee soon, here are some of the latest engagement ring trends to consider for your lucky partner.
1. Open Rings
Why settle for one stone when you can have two? Open rings pair together two stones with a gap in between (hence the name) for a modern, yet timeless look. It’s the perfect choice for brides with minimalistic and alternative taste. Plus, with two settings there’s plenty of room for personalization, so she doesn’t have to choose between diamonds or colored gems.
2. Chevron Bands
These v-shaped bands are a contemporary twist on classic stacking rings. Chevron patterns have been popular in recent years in everything from home décor to clothing, and now brides can rock the trend on their ring fingers.
3. Unique Stone Shapes
While traditional stone cuts will always be popular, an increasing number of brides are looking for ways to stand out. A shield cut, for example, is a bold alternative to classic round or princess cut stones.
4. East West Settings
This trend puts a literal spin on the traditional engagement setting, which makes it ideal for the girl who turned your world upside down. Rather than placing the stone vertically, the east-west style sets the stone horizontally. It works for a wide range of cuts, including oval, marquise or pear.
5. Three Stone Rings
Thanks to all the buzz around the royal engagement of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, three stone rings are having a moment. The design is not only exceedingly elegant, but also meaningful since the three stones are meant to represent the couple’s past, present and future.
6. Custom Designs
Presenting an engagement ring may be traditional, but many brides-to-be today don’t want a traditional looking ring. That’s probably why 45 percent of couples chose a custom ring in 2017 according to The Knot. These unique designs range from asymmetrical silhouettes to distinctive metals and colored gems (or some combination) to create a one-of-a-kind look.
7. Moissanite Rings
If you’re on Pinterest, you’ve probably seen these diamond look-a-likes; according to the site’s 2018 Wedding Report, searches for the stone are up 294 percent. And with good reason – since most moissanite gems are lab-created, they’re much more affordable than diamonds and just as beautiful.
8. Rose on Rose
If your bride feels prettiest in pink, a rose on rose engagement ring is the answer. This type of ring takes the rose gold trend to the next level by combining the super popular metal with morganite gemstones. Morganite is a semiprecious gemstone that ranges in tone from purple to an orangey-pink and, when paired with a rose gold band, is a dazzlingly romantic combination.
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