Engagement Ring Styles and Cuts: All You Need to Know
Congratulations! We’re guessing you’re here because you’re getting ready to pop the question to that special someone in your life.
This is such an exciting and memorable time for any couple, but lots of our customers tell us that they find the process of choosing a ring overwhelming – it seems like there’s just so much to learn.
If you’re wondering about the best style or cut (shape) of stone for an engagement ring, we’ve got your back. Here are some straightforward tips to help you find the perfect engagement ring styles and cuts for your partner.
The first rule is, there are no rules
Let’s start with the good news. Gone are the days of engagement rings needing to follow a particular set of style rules. And, thankfully, gone too are the early 2000s days of size-is-everything rings. With the ‘rules of engagement’ being thrown out faster than old Nickelback albums, we’re seeing a relaxed air of fun around proposals with more women proposing to their partners, more joyful rainbow weddings and more of a focus on personal style and lifestyle in the rings that couples are selecting.
So, although your choice of ring is only limited by your imagination, this might only add to your confusion! Let’s take a look at some of the engagement ring styles and cuts of stones that we see most often.
Remember, the most important thing to bear in mind is your partner’s personality and lifestyle. Are they a classically elegant type, are they outdoorsy and unfussy? It’s important to select a ring that they can wear everyday with ease and enjoyment.
Also, check out our other guide on How Much Should an Engagement Ring Cost.
Classic styles
A beautiful diamond solitaire remains the most classic and popular choice for engagement rings. Diamonds signify durability, and have the added advantage of complementing every skin tone and just about every personality. This is a classy choice that will suit your partner at every age and stage of their life.
The classic round brilliant cut is a solid choice - when most people think of a diamond they think of a round one, right? Also consider the cushion cut. It's not round, it's not square but it is very classy. You get a square shape without it being sharp and severe.
Vintage styles
Victorian elegance
The Victorians certainly knew how to make a style statement. If your partner loves old-time elegance, a classic cut such as a central cushion or pear-shaped stone framed by a glittering halo of diamonds may be the right choice.
Art Deco
Art Deco and Art Nouveau style engagement rings have seen a strong revival lately. Perhaps it’s their bold, distinctive aesthetic, or perhaps it’s the romantic sensation they evoke of late nights at the speakeasy, whiskey bootleggers and flappers shocking the establishment.
For a dazzling deco-style ring, go for an emerald or Asscher cut, flanked by stepped baguette cut diamonds, or geometric shapes set with small round diamonds.
If your partner has a bold streak and a love of timeless design, a deco style ring could be the ideal choice.
Modern styles
When it comes to modern engagement rings, the only limit is your imagination. You can opt for square styles using radiant cut and princess cut diamonds, bold statement rings, or an asymmetrical scattering of stones. Perhaps you prefer a sleek style with no stone at all.
Perfect Proposal ™
No idea where to begin? No worries! With our Perfect Proposal ™, you can present your partner with a stunning, hand-selected stone in a beautiful box, and then come to our studio to design your ring together.
We hope that helps give you a picture of the many beautiful cuts and styles of engagement rings that are out there, and whether they might be just the thing to ensure your partner says ‘yes’ when you say ‘will you?’
Good luck, romantics – and remember, the team at Simon Wright Jewellery is always here to answer your questions.