A Chanel tweed suit. A pair of Christian Louboutin’s. An Aston Martin DB5. Some things were classics long before our time and will remain so long after our time. The same goes for engagement rings. While engagement rings are as susceptible as anything else to the fickle winds of hype and fashion, certain styles have somehow always been immune, regardless of how feverish current trends are. And for this reason alone, they’ll always be a smart bet when it comes time to choose an engagement ring.
So, which styles are these? Below are five engagement ring styles that will never fade.
When it comes to engagement ring styles, it’s hard to beat the round solitaire. This classic design features a single round diamond set in a simple band, making it both elegant and timeless. This style has been popular for decades; honestly, at this point, if you’re not already well-versed in its iconic story, well, you’re keeping sparse company. The simplicity of the design allows the diamond to truly shine and be the star of the show.
The classic example of a round solitaire, of course, is the Tiffany Setting, worn by Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn. Again, if you know, you know.
Another style whose sparkle has never lost its ability to stun is the three-stone engagement ring. This style features three diamonds, with the center diamond typically larger than the two side stones. The three diamonds are said to stand for the past, present, and future of a couple’s relationship, making this style both meaningful and symbolic.
Much like the Tiffany Setting, the three-stone style Cartier Trinity is etched into celebrity history, with luminaries such as Princess Diana, Elizabeth Taylor, and Rihanna all wearing this design.
Ring jackets, also known as enhancers, are a versatile and unique way to add some extra sparkle to an engagement ring. This style features a band that wraps around the engagement ring, creating a unique look and adding some extra bling.
Real-world examples of this style include the Gabriel & Co. Diamond Jacket, which features a curved band of diamonds that wraps around the engagement ring, and the Verragio Parisian Wrap, which features a band of diamonds that creates a unique, asymmetrical look. Celebrities that have worn these styles include Katy Perry, Sarah Jessica Parker, Carrie Underwood, and Sofia Vergara.
Diamond bands are a popular choice for couples who want to add some extra sparkle to their engagement ring. This style features a band that is completely encrusted with diamonds, creating a sparkling and elegant look.
Diamond band styles that have achieved timeless status include the Cartier Love Ring, which features a band of diamonds that wraps around the finger and is secured with a screw motif, and the Graff Spiral Band, which features a spiraling band of diamonds that creates a unique, contemporary look. Angelina Jolie, Kylie Jenner, Jennifer Lopez, and Victoria Beckham have all worn these styles over the years.
Whether we’re all becoming more aware of the collective impact of our decisions or not, more and more couples are choosing to buy engagement rings made with ethical and sustainable diamonds. These diamonds are sourced in a way that is socially and environmentally responsible, making them a compassionate choice for couples who want to make a positive impact on the world.
Forward-thinking examples of this style include the Brilliant Earth Beyond Conflict Free Diamonds, which are sourced in a way that avoids funding conflict and supports ethical mining practices, and the MiaDonna Lab-Grown Diamonds, which are created in a lab using sustainable and ethical practices. The American film star Nikki Reed and British singer-songwriter Leona Lewis are two notable public figures who proudly sport jewellery made with ethical and sustainable diamonds.
While these styles have been stylish without fault for decades, it doesn’t mean they will suit your partner. Just as it’s ill-advised to choose a certain style because it’s trendy, choosing one because it is classic can be almost as risky. The main aim is—and always will be—to choose a ring that both speaks to and speaks for your partner. That said, if you are taking the time to explore every engagement ring option there is, these styles are certainly worth your attention. They’re built to turn heads forever, which is the whole idea.
