Many people are ring shopping now in order to pop the big question on Valentine’s Day. Here are five 2018 diamond engagement ring trends destined to appeal to modern brides and grooms. (Hint: A certain royal engagement is having a big influence on these dazzling styles.)
3-Stone Rings
Ever since Prince Harry proposed to Meghan Markle in November, demand has been growing for classic 3-stone diamond rings. Markle’s yellow gold stunner, designed by the prince himself, features a center diamond from Botswana flanked by two diamonds from the collection of the prince’s late mother, Princess Diana.
Three-stone diamond engagement rings offer incredible versatility. For instance, some couples may want to choose a fancy color diamond as the the center stone, while others complement a white diamond with sapphires, emeralds, rubies or spinels.
Ovals and Elongated Shapes
Meghan Markle’s center diamond is a slightly elongated oval shape, as opposed to a more traditional round diamond. Experts agree that longer shapes such as ovals, pears and marquise diamonds are slenderizing to the fingers and flattering to the hand. That’s reason enough for many brides-to-be to pay extra attention to the shape of their stone!
Custom Heirloom Designs
Just as Prince Harry incorporated his mother’s diamonds into his fiancée’s ring, many couples are customizing engagement rings with heirloom stones. According to TheKnot.com, this trend is definitely on the rise.
Personalizing your engagement ring with an heirloom diamond not only ensures you will have a one-of-a-kind treasure, it celebrates the legacy of the family members who came before you.
More Bezels, Fewer Halos?
This week, social media is abuzz with the British Princess Eugenie’s padparadscha sapphire and diamond halo engagement ring. However, many fine jewelers are predicting the minimalist look, especially bezel settings, will be the next big thing. “Bezel settings perfectly achieve an impactful but minimal feel, showcasing diamonds and gemstones the way a frame holds a painting,” reported National Jeweler magazine last month.
Eternity Rings as Engagement Rings
The eternity ring, long a preferred style for second weddings, is gaining popularity among first-time brides and grooms as well. A diamond eternity band, with or without gemstones, can be used to combine an engagement ring and wedding ring in one…and some are unisex in design.
Two years ago, renowned Italian jeweler Picchiotti introduced an extensive selection of diamond eternity bands that expand to fit any size finger (perfect for surprise engagements). To learn more about the Xpandable™ Collection by Picchiotti, please visit picchiotti.it.
Source: connoisseurs.com