In a whirlpool of jewellery trends that come and go every season, some waltz in and win us over so thoroughly that they end up being around for a long time. If you are set to be the bride in 2017 and looking for a ring that stands out, or you’re a diamond-lover who wants to own a piece that breaks stereotypes – there’s good news. Experts have forecast this year to be a favourable time for off-beat designs, unique shapes and a splash of imperfection. So, let your inner genius out and break the rules!
Here’s a lowdown on the engagement ring trends that’ll set this year on fire.
Engagement rings featuring fancy colour diamonds or gemstones are a great choice for women looking for a ring with an edge. Pictured above are bespoke 77 Diamonds rings featuring black diamond and morganite centre stones surrounded by halos of white diamonds
‘Design’ the dream:
Hail the halo: This year, designers are using diamonds of varying shapes and sizes to up the ornate look of a halo ring for those who want their diamonds to stand out from the crowd. As opposed to the uniform micropave halo that has been doing the rounds for many years now, an elaborate halo adds an element of interest, a vintage aura and makes a personalised statement.
Centre takes stage: When the three-stone ring came in vogue, women couldn’t get enough of it. While this trend continues, there’s a twist that makes it better – the three stones (diamonds or gemstones) will no longer be close in size. Instead, the side stones will be subtle so as to accent the central diamond. With smaller diamonds letting the main diamond take the spotlight, the show is set to become dramatic.
Going Sideways: Some diamond shapes – such as ovals, marquise and cushions – help accentuate a stone more than others. Changing the orientation of the setting in an engagement ring is a clever way to incorporate style while going off-the-beaten-track. An East-West setting features a diamond with a much longer length-to-width ratio, positioning the diamond across the finger rather than along it.
For trilogy rings, smaller side stones add character while allowing the centre stone to shine. Above is the 77 Diamonds Barcelona Honey in 18k yellow gold which features a 1ct Round Brilliant solitaire flanked by two pear-shape yellow sapphires
‘Style’ your rock:
Bind it with the bands: For those who like to keep things simple and chic, as well as those who like collecting bands to celebrate milestones – stacked bands not only add character, they are now on their way to becoming a popular alternative to engagement rings. But, this year, make sure you don’t match your ring with the band. Not many know that vintage and antique rings are not meant to ‘match’ with a band. So, break free from convention and let your personal style run amok.
Celebrate imperfection: We especially love that 2017 seems to be a year when lovers celebrate imperfection, stray away from tradition and let their emotions speak. In keeping with these sentiments, couples are advised to throw all caution to the wind and choose hand-cut (read rose-cut), odd stones that aren’t necessarily flawless. The norm to break from the clutter of excellence also stands true for shapes – be it pear, cushion, marquise or emerald-cut. Oddballs are apparently in.
Colour me bright: The biggest diamonds auctions of 2016 saw coloured diamonds and gemstones being lapped up first. The love for colour follows suit in engagement rings too, as splashes of varied hues will be preferred by brides seeking fresh and unexpected pieces. From edgy black diamonds to blue-green opals, dark navy sapphires, vibrant emeralds and pale pink morganites – they’re yours to pick. In metals, rose gold continues to be much-loved, standing out for its unique ability to make the diamonds pop.
Spice up your engagement ring with a unique wedding band. Featured here is 77 Diamond’s vintage halo Medici ring paired with the Cyrielle Sapphire designer ring
The 1477 Vintage engagement ring can be paired with any wedding band to suit your personality. This band is the Soraya Ruby by 77 Diamonds
Clearly, the idea of selecting an engagement ring for love, commitment and passion serves best when made with a no-holds-barred approach. There couldn’t be a better time to break free from the rules – in relationships and jewellery.