10 min read

Unveiling The 3 Hottest Engagement Ring Trends Of 2023

Three different engagement ring styles stacked on top of one another

An engagement ring is more than a dazzling diamond ring; it symbolizes a profound commitment and marks the beginning of a lifelong journey. As couples embark on this exciting milestone, choosing an engagement ring becomes a cherished decision, reflecting personal style and the essence of their love story. In the ever-evolving world of jewelry, engagement ring trends emerge each year, offering an array of captivating options for brides-to-be and ring enthusiasts alike.

In this blog, we'll delve into the captivating world of engagement ring trends, unveiling the most popular styles, including gemstone engagement rings, emerald cut diamond rings, toi et moi rings, and vintage-inspired engagement rings, that have captured the hearts of couples in recent times.

From classic solitaires to nature-inspired designs and ethically sourced center stones, let's explore the trends that encapsulate modern love stories while preserving the timelessness of traditional engagement rings and eternal devotion.

Modern Art-Deco Rings

Modern Art Deco engagement ring trends, combine the timeless elegance of the Art Deco era with contemporary design elements, making them a popular choice for couples seeking a unique and sophisticated diamond ring. These rings boast distinctive features, such as toi et moi designs and center stones, that set them apart from traditional engagement rings, appealing to individuals with a penchant for modern aesthetics.

If you're considering a modern Art Deco engagement ring, here are some key aspects to keep in mind:

Geometric Patterns

At the heart of modern Art Deco engagement ring trends are striking geometric patterns that infuse the diamond ring with sleekness and sophistication. These patterns employ lines, triangles, squares, and circles. A common technique for creating these geometric designs is using baguette-cut diamonds, acting as center stones. [1]

These elongated and narrow diamonds perfectly complement the clean lines and bold shapes of Art Deco styles, resulting in an exceptionally stylish and contemporary appearance for toi et moi and traditional engagement rings.

Colored Gemstones

Modern Art Deco engagement rings, part of popular engagement ring trends, embrace various colored gemstones, allowing for creative and personalized designs for traditional engagement rings. Beyond the classic brilliance of round diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds act as center stones and are often featured prominently in these stone rings. [2]

These vibrant gemstones can evoke emotions and styles, from understated elegance to bold statements, making creating such an extensive style possible. The use of colored gemstones provides an opportunity to incorporate individual tastes and meaningful symbolism into the wedding band or wedding ring, making it a cherished heirloom for years to come.

Metal Choices

White gold and platinum are the primary metals used for crafting modern Art Deco engagement rings, [3] as they offer a stunning backdrop that complements the brilliance of diamonds and gemstones. However, some couples may opt for the warmth of yellow gold or the romantic allure of rose gold, depending on their preferences and style.

Setting Styles

The setting of a modern Art Deco engagement ring plays a pivotal role in enhancing its overall look. Common setting styles include:

Pavé Setting: In this arrangement, small diamonds or gemstones are set closely together to create a seamless and dazzling surface, accentuating the center stone.
Bezel Setting: The center diamond or gemstone is surrounded by a metal rim, securing it while also creating a contemporary and sleek profile.
Halo Setting: A halo of smaller diamonds or gemstones encircles the center stone, adding extra sparkle and enhancing its visual impact. [4]

Choosing the Perfect Modern Art Deco Engagement Ring

Selecting the ideal modern Art Deco engagement ring should reflect the wearer's personality, preferences, and budget. Here are some tips to aid in your decision-making process:

Define Your Budget: Before embarking on your ring search, establish a budget that aligns with your financial comfort. This will help narrow down your choices and prevent overspending.
Conduct Thorough Research: Explore different jewelry retailers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the available designs, prices, and quality. This research will empower you to make an informed decision.
Comparison Shopping: Don't hesitate to shop around and compare prices from various vendors. Many jewelers are open to negotiation, so be sure to inquire about potential discounts or promotions.

Modern Art Deco engagement rings come in a wide range of styles and prices in South Africa. The cost will depend on factors such as the size and quality of the diamond or gemstone, the choice of metal, and the intricacy of the design. As a general guideline, you can expect to find modern Art Deco engagement rings ranging from R30,000 to R100,000 or more. [5]

For those seeking affordable options without compromising on style, consider the following strategies:

Lab-Grown Diamonds or Moissanite: Opt for rings featuring lab-grown diamonds or moissanite, which are more budget-friendly alternatives to natural diamonds while maintaining brilliance and durability.
Vintage or Antique Rings: Explore vintage or antique jewelry stores for unique and wallet-friendly modern Art Deco rings with character and history.
Online Shopping: Look for deals and discounts on modern Art Deco engagement rings from reputable online retailers. Shopping online can often yield more affordable options compared to brick-and-mortar stores.
Be Patient and Persistent: Finding the perfect affordable modern Art Deco engagement ring may require time and persistence. Stay patient during your search, as the right ring will eventually reveal itself.

Engagement Rings With Coloured Stones: A Unique Expression of Love and Individuality

When it comes to expressing your love and commitment through an engagement ring, colored stones offer a captivating alternative to the classic diamond. These vibrant gemstones not only exude beauty but also allow couples to make a deeply personal statement with their choice of hue.

A Kaleidoscope of Colors

The allure of colored stone engagement rings lies in the vast spectrum of colors available. From the regal blues of sapphires to the lush greens of emeralds, and the passionate reds of rubies, there is a colored stone to suit every taste and preference. Couples can select a gemstone that aligns with their partner's birthstone, resonates with their favorite color, or simply holds a special meaning in their relationship. [6]

Affordability without Compromise

While some colored stones, like rubies and emeralds, can be quite valuable, others like aquamarines and morganites offer more budget-friendly options without compromising on beauty and symbolism. This affordability opens up opportunities for couples to invest in a stunning, high-quality ring without breaking the bank.

Durability and Timelessness

When it comes to engagement rings, durability is a crucial consideration. Colored stones, such as sapphires and rubies, rank high on the Mohs scale of hardness, [7] making them durable and suitable for daily wear. While diamonds are renowned for their exceptional hardness, some colored stones prove equally resilient, ensuring your ring stands the test of time without losing its luster or succumbing to scratches.

Opting for a colored stone engagement ring not only adds an element of uniqueness but also ensures a timeless piece that can be passed down through generations.

Metal Options for Elegance

Colored stones can be set in a variety of precious metals, each offering a distinctive look and complementing the gemstone's hue. Popular choices include:

White Gold: A versatile option that pairs well with most colored stones, creating a sleek and sophisticated appearance.
Yellow Gold: Classic and warm, yellow gold can add a touch of vintage charm to the overall design.
Rose Gold: With its romantic blush hue, rose gold beautifully complements pink and peach-colored gemstones, infusing the ring with a sense of contemporary elegance.
Platinum: Known for its durability and silvery-white hue, platinum creates a striking contrast against vibrant colored stones, enhancing their brilliance. [8]

Choosing the Perfect Colored Stone Engagement Ring

Selecting a colored stone engagement ring requires thoughtful consideration to ensure it aligns with your partner's tastes and preferences. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Color: The color of the gemstone is the most significant factor as it defines the ring's overall appearance and significance. Choose a color that resonates with your partner or holds sentimental value.
Durability: Consider the stone's hardness and durability to ensure it withstands everyday wear and tear.
Budget: Set a budget and explore the wide range of colored stones available within that range. Remember that size, color, clarity, and cut all influence the stone's price.
Metal Setting: Select a metal setting that complements the gemstone's color and enhances its beauty.

The Price of Colored Stone Engagement Rings in South Africa

Colored stone engagement rings in South Africa offer an array of prices depending on various factors such as the stone's size, color, clarity, and cut, as well as the choice of metal setting.

A 0.5-carat sapphire engagement ring with a yellow gold band might cost around R35,000.
A 1-carat ruby engagement ring with a platinum band could be priced around R60,000.
A 1-carat emerald engagement ring with a white gold band may cost approximately R100,000.

Of course, prices will vary based on the specific gemstone's characteristics and the jeweler's pricing structure. It is essential to shop around, compare prices, and seek reputable jewelers who can offer fair pricing and high-quality gemstones.

Tips for Finding Your Perfect Colored Stone Engagement Ring:

Gemstone Expertise: Seek out reputable jewelers with expertise in colored stones to ensure you receive genuine, high-quality gems.
Certification: If possible, choose certified gemstones to verify their authenticity and quality.
Customization: Consider customizing the design to create a unique ring that embodies your love story and symbolizes your bond.
Sentimental Value: Choose a colored stone with personal significance to make the ring even more meaningful.

Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Rings: A Sparkling, Ethical, and Affordable Choice

In recent years, lab-grown diamond engagement rings have gained significant popularity among couples seeking a beautiful and ethical alternative to mined diamonds. These stunning gems offer the same brilliance, durability, and allure as their naturally occurring counterparts but come with added advantages that make them an attractive choice. If you're considering a lab-grown diamond engagement ring, here's everything you need to know about these captivating gems:

Understanding Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds, as the name suggests, are created in a controlled laboratory environment using advanced technology. The two primary methods of diamond synthesis are Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) [9] and High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT). [10] These processes simulate the natural conditions under which diamonds form, but they occur at a much faster rate, enabling the production of gem-quality diamonds in a matter of weeks.

Authenticity of Lab-Grown Diamonds

One common question surrounding lab-grown diamonds is whether they are real diamonds. The answer is a resounding yes. Lab-grown diamonds possess the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. [11]

They have a genuine crystal structure composed of carbon atoms, making them indistinguishable from natural diamonds. Gemological laboratories grade lab-grown diamonds using the same criteria as mined diamonds, ensuring transparency and accuracy in the industry.

The Benefits of Choosing Lab-Grown Diamonds: There are several compelling reasons to opt for a lab-grown diamond engagement ring:

Affordability: One of the most significant advantages of lab-grown diamonds is their affordability. They typically cost around 50% to 60% less than mined diamonds of similar quality and size. [12] This substantial cost savings allows couples to invest in a larger and more visually impressive gemstone within their budget.
Ethical Sourcing: Lab-grown diamonds are entirely conflict-free. They are created in a controlled environment, eliminating any association with regions where mining activities might be linked to human rights abuses or environmental degradation. Choosing a lab-grown diamond offers peace of mind, knowing that your ring comes from an ethical and sustainable source.
Diversity in Size and Color: Lab-grown diamonds offer an extensive range of sizes and colors, providing a diverse selection for couples to choose from. This variety allows for greater personalization, as you can select a diamond that perfectly reflects your partner's preferences and style.

Considerations When Choosing a Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Ring: When selecting a lab-grown diamond engagement ring, several factors should be taken into account:

The Cut: The cut of a diamond significantly impacts its beauty and sparkle. Choose a well-cut diamond to ensure maximum brilliance and fire.
The Color: Lab-grown diamonds are available in various color grades, from colorless to near colorless to light yellow. Select a color that appeals to you and complements the metal setting.
The Clarity: Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions or blemishes within the diamond. Lab-grown diamonds come in a range of clarity grades, from flawless to slightly included. Choose a clarity grade that meets your preferences and budget.
Certification: To guarantee the authenticity and quality of the lab-grown diamond, always purchase a certified gemstone from a reputable gemological laboratory.

Lab-grown diamond Engagement Rings in South Africa: Lab-grown diamond engagement rings offer excellent value for money in South Africa. With prices typically around 50%-60% lower than mined diamonds, couples can find stunning, high-quality rings at a more accessible price point. For instance, a 1-carat, G color, VS2 clarity lab-grown diamond engagement ring might cost around R20,000 in South Africa, whereas a similar mined diamond ring could cost approximately R40,000.

Reputable Jewelers in South Africa: South Africa boasts several reputable jewelers that specialize in lab-grown diamond engagement rings. Some of the notable ones include:

The 3 Hottest Engagement Ring Trends Of 2023 -Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of engagement rings offers a captivating array of styles, each carrying its unique charm and symbolism. From the romantic fusion of Toi et Moi rings to the sparkle and elegance of solitaire with hidden halo rings, the modern simplicity of bezel set rings, and the golden comeback of yellow gold rings, there is a perfect ring to suit every couple's taste and personality.

With the option for unique customization, each engagement ring becomes a heartfelt reflection of the couple's love story, symbolizing their enduring commitment and journey together. As trends evolve and traditions endure, one thing remains constant - the power of an engagement ring to symbolize the timeless and profound bond of love between two individuals.

FAQ

What are the current trends in engagement rings?

The current trends in engagement rings are shifting towards unique and personalized choices. Colored stone engagement rings, particularly those featuring sapphires, emeralds, and morganites, are gaining popularity as they offer a distinct and meaningful touch. Additionally, lab-grown diamond engagement rings are on the rise due to their affordability, ethical sourcing, and diverse options in size and color.

Are lab-grown diamond engagement rings a good alternative to mined diamonds?

Yes, lab-grown diamond engagement rings are an excellent alternative to mined diamonds. These diamonds are real and possess the same properties as natural diamonds, but they are more affordable, conflict-free, and available in a broader range of sizes and colors. Their authenticity and quality are ensured through grading standards similar to those used for mined diamonds.

How do I choose the perfect colored stone or lab-grown diamond engagement ring?

When choosing a colored stone or lab-grown diamond engagement ring, consider several factors. For colored stone rings, select a stone that holds personal significance, matches your partner's preferences, and complements the metal setting. For lab-grown diamond rings, focus on the cut, color, and clarity to ensure maximum brilliance and a perfect fit for your budget. Always opt for certified gemstones from reputable jewelers to guarantee authenticity and quality.

UNIQUE ENGAGEMENT RINGS