Top 10 Engagement Ring Styles of 2017
The very first recorded engagement ring was from Archduke Maximilian of Hamburg to his future wife, Mary of Burgundy in 1477. Ever since then engagement rings have taken on different shapes and forms accommodating different personalities and styles. Throughout the years technological advances in the field of diamonds have made it possible to create new contemporary designs that we find today. With the different polishing and cut techniques that were introduced, rings went from the classic solitaire to the breathtakingly beautiful contemporary designs. Just like your love, every engagement ring is unique. Here is a round-up of the Top 10 Engagement Ring Styles in 2017.
The solitaire style ring remains classic throughout the years
Solitaire Diamond Ring Style
The Solitaire diamond engagement ring remains a classic throughout the years. The timeless design was created in 1980 and still remains a popular choice amongst brides. But what makes the solitaire style so popular? A solitaire diamond ring is the perfect way to show off a beautiful standout stone. The four to six claw setting helps to give your ring the maximum exposure to light adding to the brilliance of the diamond. A simple solitaire ring is usually accompanied by a diamond wedding band to give it, even more, sparkle.
The Halo, is the second most popular style engagement ring amongst future brides
Halo Engagement Ring Style
The Halo style diamond ring is like a solitaire style ring, but with a twist. Instead of showcasing one single gemstone, the Halo design surrounds the main diamond with multiple smaller diamonds. But what makes the Halo style ring so attractive for future brides? No matter the carat weight, the diamond can look almost twice its size with a Halo ring design. For that reason, the Halo diamond engagement ring has become the second most popular choice amongst brides, after the solitaire design. It’s a great alternative for a bride-to-be, who is looking to add a bit more sparkle to her engagement ring.
Trilogy Engagement Ring Style
Trilogy Engagement Ring Style
As the name suggests, the trilogy diamond engagement ring consists of three diamonds set next to each other. The popular ring design has been known for being desirable for what it symbolises. The three stones refer to the past, present and future. In other cases, the centre diamond has been known to symbolise commitment, and the two supporting stones refer to respect and trust. If you would like your ring to feature personality, symbolism and a variety of stones you should consider a trilogy design.
Fancy yellow diamonds are extremely rare and mesmerising
Fancy Yellow Diamonds
If you’re truly looking for something unique, the fancy yellow diamond design will most certainly take your breath away. The extremely rare and breathtakingly beautiful gemstone is naturally yellow in colour. These valuable stones capture the warmth of the South African sun giving it a unique style and look. But what makes the fancy yellow diamond so rare? Natural fancy yellow diamonds belong to a group of exceptionally rare diamonds that are formed in nature. The diamond gets its colour from nitrogen that was present when the diamond was first formed. For every 10 000 white diamonds that are mined, you will only find one natural fancy yellow diamond – making it truly one of a kind. The majority of Natural Fancy Yellow diamonds, also known as Canary Diamonds, originate from South African diamond mines.
New technology has created contemporary masterpieces like the Millennium
Contemporary Diamond Rings
For brides that are less conservative and more open to exploring their creative side, new technology advancements have created a wide variety of modern style rings to choose from. A perfect example of a truly unique contemporary design is the Millennium engagement ring from Shimansky. The timeless design perfectly captures the essence of commitment. The diamond in the middle represents ‘forever’ while the two bands holding the stone represents the coming of two lives.
The vintage-style engagement ring never goes out of fashion
Vintage Style Diamond Rings
There’s something truly remarkable about the vintage-inspired engagement rings. The style is created to give you a nostalgic feel. But what exactly classifies as a vintage style engagement ring? Even though the style is described as vintage, the ring isn’t actually from decades ago. Instead, the style refers to the amount of detail featured in a ring. Factors like the colour of the metal and the type of diamond contribute to the everlasting and ageless feel. Detailed filigree embellishments are also characteristic of vintage diamond rings.
Black diamonds have given brides the opportunity to be less traditional
Black Diamonds
In recent years Black diamonds have become popular amongst future brides, who are looking for nonconventional engagement rings. Therefore black diamonds have become a great alternative to the traditional white diamond engagement ring. But what exactly is a black diamond? A natural black diamond is just that – a diamond. Many black diamond engagement rings are set with white diamonds to create a beautiful contrast between light and dark.
A romantic style engagement ring is the true symbol of love
Romantic Diamond Rings
A romantic style ring is specifically designed for a bride who is a true romantic at heart. The beautiful designs usually consist of rose gold bands and heart shaped diamond arrangements. A perfect example of a romantic style engagement ring is the Two Hearts Diamond ring from Shimansky. The one of a kind design has become the ultimate symbol of love.
Cognac diamonds give your engagement ring a truly unique style
Cognac Diamond Rings
The cognac (brown) diamond ring is perfect for a bride who is looking for a truly unique style engagement ring. On the diamond grading scale, the cognac diamond is on the deeper end of the scale than the champagne colour diamond. The rich chocolate colour of the stone gives it a one of a kind appeal. It’s also more affordable, compared to a white diamond; giving brides the opportunity to design a bigger ring.
The tension setting engagement ring gives the ring a “floating” effect
Tension Settings
If you’re looking for a unique ring design, that will capture the beauty of your diamond, the tension setting will be to your liking. But what makes the tension setting so different from the other engagement rings? While traditional rings use claws and baskets to hold the diamond in place, the tension setting uses the band of the ring. In other words, in a tension setting, the diamond is placed in the middle and secured by pressure from the side. Your diamond then appears to be standing alone in the middle of the ring. This allows, more light to enter the diamond giving it that extra sparkle.
When it comes to being in love, no relationship is the same. Therefore no engagement ring should look alike. Technology advancements have given craftsmen the opportunity to cut and polish diamonds with different facets, creating unique styles to fit every bride’s personality and style. Today, every couple has the opportunity to select a variety of diamond engagement ring designs. There’s simply no limitation to where your creative mind can take you.
Images courtesy of Shimansky Jewellers.
