man holds woman's hand with the engagement ring on her finger
Photo: Studio Romantic

If you are in the market for an engagement ring this year, you will have to think about the style of ring that you prefer, and there are many choices available. As with any fashion, the popularity of engagement ring styles has changed over the years, but some designs are always present in the most popular trends. Below are some of the most fashionable engagement ring styles for 2021 that will have you feeling and looking like a princess when you say the words ‘I do’.

  • Everlasting Classics

Let's begin with trusty classic rings, which will never go out of style. The trend-driven choice may sound like a great idea at the moment, but with time, when you're over it, you may regret it. To avoid this inconvenience, pick a sophisticated-looking classic style, without any 'screaming' elements and colors. A simple gem cut, like an oval-shaped or princess cut, minimalistic band, and white gold would be a great choice. 

Apart from these, these days cushion cut engagement rings are making waves. Known for their timeless elegance and soft edges, they blend vintage charm with modern sophistication. These engagement rings will also allow you to add more elements to the style in the future.

  • Art Deco

Art Deco engagement rings epitomize the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, radiating a sense of opulence and modernity. Characterized by geometric shapes like triangles, trapezoids, and stepped cuts, these rings exude a bold and confident aesthetic. Streamlined lines and contrasting materials, often featuring platinum alongside diamonds and colorful gemstones, create a striking visual impact.

  • Marquise

With its elongated oval shape culminating in elegant points, it exudes a captivating air of drama and sophistication. This unique cut, inspired by the mischievous glint in a marquise's eyes, maximizes the brilliance of the center stone, creating an illusion of length and emphasizing the finger's slenderness.  Its distinctive shape demands attention, making it a statement piece that perfectly complements a confident and discerning bride-to-be.

close-up of an antique, gothic engagement ring
Photo: Michael Morse

  • The Gothic Style

Many people think that gothic is drab and dull, but the basis of gothic is macabre and elegance, and the designs may not be as drab as you may think. Gothic jewelry will embrace light-colored metals such as silver, platinum, white gold, or titanium. It will usually contrast the light with dark rich colors, such as dark rubies, and black diamonds. Gothic is making its way back into fashion, and if you want to stay on-trend, a gothic engagement ring may be the perfect choice for you.

  • Something Bespoke

It is becoming more popular for people to create bespoke engagement rings, as evidenced by the styles of Melbourne engagement rings being showcased by jewelers these days. Not just in Australia, bespoke engagement rings are becoming in demand in other countries as well. As engagement rings are highly personal to couples, the fiancé would often include inscriptions or other personalizations.

When you compare the cost of a custom handmade engagement ring to an off-the-shelf design, the price is similar, but you get much more value for your money when going down the bespoke route. You also get to benefit from having an engagement ring that is as unique as you are, and you can incorporate multiple styles into your design.

  • Heart-shaped Rings

Its curvaceous silhouette, a symbol of eternal affection, radiates a joyful exuberance that sets it apart. This unique and eye-catching design playfully deviates from the traditional, adding a touch of whimsy to the most romantic of gestures. The wearer, forever adorned with this emblem of love, will carry a piece of their beloved's playful spirit and enduring affection wherever they go.

an engagement ring buried in the sand on a beach
Photo: Carlos Esteves

  • A Halo Engagement Ring

Halo rings have been popular for quite some time, and they are also an excellent option when you want the appearance of a more substantial engagement ring. The way that the gemstones are set in a halo ring makes them appear bigger than they are, and if you are looking for something that stands out and makes you look like a princess, this is the style for you. You can find many choices of diamond engagement rings in this design, and it may also be a cheaper option than some of the more traditional styles.

  • Vintage Style Jewellery

Something else that is growing in popularity when it comes to engagement rings is people creating modern versions of vintage-style engagement rings. You can also opt for a genuine vintage or antique engagement ring, but the modern variations usually have higher quality materials, so they are often a better value option. If you see a vintage design that you like, you can take pictures of it and then take it to a skilled jewelry designer, who can create it in the vintage style and throw in a modern twist if required.

man holds woman's hand with the engagement ring on her finger
Photo: Oulaphone

  • Filigree Styles

These engagement ring styles are a testament to the enduring allure of intricate artistry. Crafted with exquisite attention to detail, these rings feature delicate, lace-like patterns of interwoven metal, often gold or silver. This intricate metalwork creates a captivating three-dimensional effect, where delicate tendrils and scrolls seem to dance across the surface of the band and setting.

  • Bezel Setting

The bezel setting for an engagement ring offers a contemporary and minimalist aesthetic. In this style, the diamond is entirely encompassed by a smooth band of precious metal, creating a sleek and protective embrace. This technique not only enhances the diamond's brilliance by maximizing light reflection but also provides exceptional security, minimizing the risk of the gemstone becoming dislodged or damaged.

Let's conclude...

Now that you've explored these 10 popular engagement ring styles, it's time to start your own ring search! Consult with a trusted jeweler to discuss your preferences, budget, and lifestyle. Explore these styles, experiment with different settings, and don't be afraid to step outside the box. 

Lots of love,
Liz