The excitement surrounding an engagement ring remains, regardless of the years that pass. From the cut, carat, colour and clarity to the intricate setting of the stone, every detail sparks curiosity. While the Tiffany & Co. six-prong solitaire was once considered the epitome of an engagement ring, trends have evolved; notably, oval diamonds have dominated the 2000s. Tiktok was the first to point it out, terming them 90210 rings – a massive oval solitaire diamond as seen on the fingers of Hailey Bieber, Blake Lively and Kourtney Kardashian.
As ring fingers begin to look identical with designs distinguishable mostly by size, 2026 leans toward antique pieces that tell a story. “The real shift lies in the preference for something meaningful,” Lauren Curtin of Lauren Addison Jewelry tells MOJEH. “Brides are now prioritising engagement rings that carry personal significance, resonating with both their values and style.” This trend mirrors a larger societal shift that is reimagining artefacts from the past, whether heirlooms or retro items like record players and vinyls.
Trends also suggest that yellow gold will be the most sought-after metal this year, especially for those moving away from dainty bands and princess-cut stones. Curtin affirms this, noting, “I expect to see a continued demand for substantial yellow gold rings that are unique and sculptural, likely featuring an antique diamond to add both history and individuality to the piece.” Celebrity rings, from Zendaya, Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa to the contemporary designs of Winnie Harlow and Elsa Hosk, exhibit a wide variety yet embrace storytelling to make the designs personal to the couple.
“Zendaya’s engagement ring, which features an antique-inspired collet setting, is certainly making a significant impact by beautifully merging old and new design elements,” says Curtin. The ring, a 5.02ct east-west cushion diamond, had the internet searching for stone orientation as well as its unique setting. “Taylor Swift also deserves mention for introducing the allure of antique old-mine cut diamonds to a whole new audience,” she says. “Once coveted almost exclusively by jewellery enthusiasts and collectors, these diamonds have now become the most requested cut for engagement rings.”
Are daintier bands then taking a backseat now? Curtin believes their role is simply pivoting. “I wouldn’t say that we’re seeing an end to dainty bands. Rather, their role is shifting to one of a supporting character; nothing pairs with a hefty ring better than a delicate band.” Ultimately, engagement rings no longer need to fit an expected mold, people appreciate designs that have more essence to them. If you’re planning to get down on one knee, we recommend looking for what defines your relationship, and no, it doesn’t have to be a massive oval solitaire.
