Franklin Dean
Wedding ring preferences are highly subjective, with some people preferring modern styles, while others prefer vintage finds. The most popular wedding ring styles are solitaire, bezel, and channel settings. Solitaire rings are widely considered the most traditional and popular style, featuring a single centre stone with no additional diamond accents along the band. Bezel settings are popular for wedding bands, especially men's bands, as the diamond sits securely in the band, protected from chipping or falling out. Channel settings are also popular for wedding bands, featuring a row of small diamonds set into the band. In terms of diamond shapes, round-cut diamonds are the most popular, although the popularity of this shape has been declining, with oval-cut diamonds gaining popularity, accounting for 25% of engagement rings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shape | Oval, marquise, Asscher, heart, round-cut, princess-cut |
| Gemstones | Diamonds, moissanites, sapphires, emeralds, opals, morganites |
| Metal | Platinum, rose gold, yellow gold, white gold |
| Setting | Bezel, prong, solitaire, halo, tension, channel |
| Style | Vintage, nature-inspired, classic, contemporary |
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Solitaire rings
The gemstone in a solitaire ring is typically a diamond, with popular shapes including oval, marquise, Asscher, heart, and princess-cut. The princess-cut diamond is known for its modern and geometric look, featuring square or rectangular sides with rounded corners. This cut provides a brilliant shine, but it is more prone to chipping at the corners or falling out, so it requires a protective setting.
While round-cut diamonds have been one of the most popular choices for engagement rings, their popularity has been declining, with other shapes like the oval gaining popularity due to celebrity influence. In addition, non-diamond centre stones like moissanite, sapphires, emeralds, opals, and morganites are also gaining traction. Moissanite, in particular, accounts for 24% of non-diamond choices as it is significantly sparklier and more affordable than diamonds.
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Diamond shapes
Diamond shape is a crucial factor in determining a diamond's overall appearance and style. Round diamonds are a timeless and traditional choice, with most brides opting for this style. Their symmetrical shape and precisely cut proportions allow them to display incredible light performance and sparkle, complementing various hand sizes and ring settings. However, the popularity of round diamonds has been declining, with a 21% decrease since 2015.
Oval diamonds are a unique twist on the classic round shape, offering a combination of brilliance and a distinctive silhouette. They create an elegant, elongated appearance, making the finger look longer and slimmer. Oval diamonds exhibit excellent fire and brilliance but may sometimes display the "bow-tie effect", a dark area across the centre. This shape has gained popularity due to celebrity wearers like Blake Lively, Hailey Bieber, Ariana Grande, and Kourtney Kardashian, now making up 25% of all engagement rings.
Princess-cut diamonds are another popular choice, known for their versatile, face-up shape with square or rectangular sides. They offer a modern and geometric look while boasting brilliance and a vintage aesthetic. Cushion-shaped diamonds, with their rounded corners and brilliant facets, combine a square or rectangular outline with soft edges, resulting in a romantic, pillow-like appearance. This shape is ideal for those seeking a blend of vintage and contemporary appeal.
For a unique and asymmetrical design, pear-shaped or teardrop diamonds combine the best features of round and marquise shapes. They can be positioned with the point facing towards or away from the wearer, providing flexibility in styling. Emerald-shaped diamonds, on the other hand, emphasise clarity and luster with their step-cut facets, creating a sophisticated and elegant "hall of mirrors" effect.
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Ring settings
When it comes to ring settings, there are several options to consider. The setting of a ring refers to the manner in which the centre stone is set and what kind of accents it features. Here are some popular ring settings:
Solitaire
Solitaire rings are widely considered the most traditional and popular style. They feature a single centre stone with no additional diamond accents along the band. The classic form of a solitaire ring consists of a simple, thin band with four to six prongs supporting the centre stone. Solitaires can also feature design variations such as a split shank, textural elements, or a thick band width.
Bezel
A bezel setting is a popular choice for those who want a secure and durable ring. In this setting, the diamond sits securely in the band of the ring, making it highly protected from chipping or falling out. Bezel settings are a great option for those who lead active lifestyles or work with their hands.
Three-Stone
The three-stone setting features three stones set closely together, symbolizing the couple's past, present, and future. The centre stone is typically larger than the two side stones, and the setting can be personalized with coloured side stones such as sapphires, rubies, or emeralds.
Channel
A channel setting is ideal for smaller diamonds or gemstones. It involves setting the stones in a row into the band of the ring, creating a metal channel of sparkling stones flush with the shank. This setting is popular for wedding bands or stackable rings that feature only smaller stones without a centre stone.
Halo
Halo rings feature shimmering accents surrounding the centre gemstone, creating a brilliant and eye-catching look.
When choosing a ring setting, it's important to consider your lifestyle and personal style. If you lead an active lifestyle, a bezel setting or a low-profile ring may be more suitable to avoid snagging. Additionally, the shape of the centre stone can also influence the setting, with certain settings better suited to specific shapes.
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Gemstone options
Diamonds
Diamonds are a classic and popular choice for wedding rings. They symbolise strength, durability, and brilliance. Diamond shapes can vary, with popular options including round-cut, oval, princess-cut, marquise, Asscher, and heart-shaped. Round-cut diamonds are one of the most popular shapes, with many brides opting for this style. However, the popularity of round diamonds has been declining, with other shapes like ovals gaining popularity due to celebrity influence. Princess-cut diamonds offer a modern and geometric look and are usually more affordable than round-cut stones.
Moissanite
Moissanite is a popular alternative to diamonds, accounting for 24% of engagement ring choices. Moissanites have a similar appearance to diamonds but are significantly sparklier and more affordable. They are a great option for those who want the look of a diamond without the high price tag.
Sapphires, Emeralds, Opals, and Morganites
Coloured gemstones are also gaining popularity as centre stones. Sapphires are the most popular choice among non-diamond stones, accounting for 21% of centre stones. Emeralds, opals, and morganites are also favoured, making up the top five most popular gem centre stones. These gemstones can add a unique touch of colour and personality to a wedding ring.
Personalisation and Birthstones
Some people choose to personalise their rings with coloured sidestones, such as sapphires, rubies, emeralds, or other birthstones. This adds a meaningful and customised element to the ring, symbolising the couple's past, present, and future.
When choosing a gemstone for a wedding ring, it is important to consider the overall style and lifestyle of the wearer. Some may prefer a sleek and sophisticated look, while others might opt for a bold and eye-catching design. Additionally, active individuals might prioritise a secure setting to avoid snagging or chipping.
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Metal choices
When it comes to choosing a wedding ring, the type of metal is an important consideration. Popular metal options for wedding rings include:
Platinum: Platinum is a highly durable and naturally white metal, making it an elegant and long-lasting choice for wedding rings. Its natural colour also enhances the brilliance of diamonds or other gemstones.
Gold: Gold is a traditional and classic choice for wedding rings. It is available in various colours, including yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold. The caratage of gold, such as 18ct or 24ct, indicates the purity of the metal. Lower caratages, like 9ct or 14ct, are also available and can be more affordable options.
White gold: White gold has a similar appearance to platinum but may be more affordable. It is often plated with rhodium to enhance its whiteness and durability.
Rose gold: Rose gold has a warm and romantic hue, making it a unique and eye-catching choice for wedding rings. Its pinkish colour is achieved by alloying yellow gold with copper.
Yellow gold: Yellow gold is the most traditional colour of gold and has been a popular choice for wedding rings for centuries. It is achieved by alloying pure gold with metals like silver, copper, or zinc.
Mixed metals: Combining two or more metals, such as white and rose gold or platinum and yellow gold, creates a unique and contemporary look. Mixed metal rings offer a versatile and personalised style.
When selecting a metal for a wedding ring, it is essential to consider factors such as durability, colour preferences, skin tone, and the overall style desired. Some metals, like platinum and white gold, are known for their strength and resistance to scratching, while others, like yellow and rose gold, offer a wider range of caratage options to suit different budgets. Ultimately, the choice of metal depends on individual preferences and the symbolic meaning each couple wishes to convey.
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Frequently asked questions
Round-cut diamonds are one of the most popular shapes for engagement rings. However, the popularity of round diamonds has been declining, with oval diamonds becoming an increasingly popular alternative. The princess cut is another popular choice, offering a modern and geometric look.
A bezel setting is a popular choice for men's wedding bands, as the diamond sits securely in the band and is protected from chipping or falling out.
Platinum, 18ct rose gold, 18ct yellow gold, and 18ct white gold are all popular metal options for wedding rings.
