The new year has just begun, and just about everybody is looking forward to what improvements 2021 has to offer. What does this mean on the engagement and wedding scene? Check out some of the trends bringing sparkle to the 2021 selection of engagement rings.
Strong Ties to Tradition
There were quite a few “adventures” and plenty of unexpected excitement in 2020, so it makes sense that many brides now find themselves longing for the consistency and security of tradition. The round solitaire has been a favorite for a very long time and has never lost its ability to shine. This year, however, brings with it memories of good times and a new rise in popularity. You’ll probably see many of these round brilliant stones set in yellow gold which has been replaced by platinum or white gold in the past several decades.
Vintage engagement rings are enjoying a rise for many of the same reasons as the solitaire. Whether these rings come from the drawers of ancestors and other family members or were created to echo the styles of the past, many brides-to-be will be flaunting finely detailed rings. Look for beaded metal patterns, finely filigreed metal wiring, and gorgeous halos around the center stone. You may also see some North South East West prongs again.
Be on the lookout for some familiar three-stone rings. This popular style is making a comeback with a few unique adjustments. Many engaged couples want to combine the appeal of the three-stone ring with their own personal statement. This may include using different stones or the same stones with different cuts.
Yet another trend based on tradition, the rose cut diamond is making a strong appearance this year. These diamonds have flat bottoms rather than the pavilion or pointed meeting of the bottom facets. Rose-cut stones were popular during the 1500s and are on the path to popularity in 2021. One of the reasons people love this cut is that the stone looks much bigger than its actual carat value.
Personalized Beauty
Another trend to expect this year includes rings created by the engaged couple. The desire to control some of the details could also be a nod to the insecurity of 2020. During this new year, look for rings with enchanting personal details, including unique cuts and custom-designed settings.
One take on personalization includes two-stone engagement rings. These rings, sometimes known as toi et moi rings, may be some of the most popular. This means you’ll see engagement rings with two stones. You may see the same stone with distinctly different cuts or a smaller stone nestled next to a larger stone. There’s a very good chance that you’ll see different stones and different colors, as well.
Another way that couples are making engagement rings their own is by using a variety of alternative gemstones and metals. You may see that the main stone is a bright pink, or you’ll see a brilliant diamond set against black gold. Alexandrite, with a beautiful color-changing appeal, has seen a huge increase in popularity in the past few months. This June birthstone may appear purple, green, blue, or orange, depending on the light and the angle of the stone.
Blues and a Rainbow of Other Colors
Another trend making itself known this year is the blue engagement ring. This year’s popular color runs the gamut from light blue stones to those with a deep, dark blue. Some ring enthusiasts suspect that the traditional call for “something blue” is partly responsible for this trend. Others point to the popularity of the blue sapphire in Kate Middleton’s engagement ring. Whatever the source of this trend, you’ll probably see a lot of tourmaline, aquamarine, sapphire, and other blues on the fingers of engaged couples.
Blue isn’t the only color you’re likely to see this year. Many colors are making prominent appearances in 2021 engagement ring trends, including striking emerald rings. What sets colors apart this year seems to be a focus on pastels rather than deeper colors.
A Token of Strength
One surprising engagement ring trend this year includes the use of stones with gothic motifs. This may show up as diamonds set against a dark background or stones set in spiky settings. The deep colors and daring details reflect the strength that many couples want to bring to their marriages. Don’t be surprised to find diamond alternatives in these settings. For example, the morganite precious stone is a common alternative that many couples find more affordable and ethically responsible than traditional stones.
There are many factors that go into finding the perfect engagement ring, and the most important is the person you’re buying the ring for. Look at factors such as carat, color, cut, and clarity, but don’t forget to think about the preferences and ideals of the person you hope to marry. While this year’s trends may be something to think about, it’s best to keep your special someone in mind.
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