Most Popular Engagement Ring Trends for 2021

Last year showed us that not even a global pandemic can put love on hold, with an abundance of romantic lock-down proposal stories—and 2021 has proven no different. While you may have to wait a bit longer for that destination wedding of your dreams, you can still proclaim your love for one another and say yes to forever.

Whether you are planning to surprise your soulmate by popping the question or you’re on the hunt for your dream ring together, shopping for an engagement ring is incredibly exciting. Considering that 70% of people say their engagement ring is one of the most expensive things they own, it’s worthwhile putting time and thought into the decision before you make a purchase.

There is no shortage of classic and modern designs this year, so let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular engagement ring styles for 2021.

With a rise in design-led pieces for 2021, we are seeing new twists on classic styles along with brand new chic contemporary designs to adorn your finger.

Personalized elements are a cornerstone of fine jewelry design. If you have been searching for an engagement ring and you’re not finding “the one”, designing your own custom engagement ring, using trends as a guide, may be a great option for you. The hidden details in Blue Nile’s custom settings add to the romance and uniqueness of your ring.

Two-Stone Rings

Image Credit: Ariana Grande

You know what they say, two stones are better than one! A favorite of celebrities such as Ariana Grande and Emily Ratajkowski, the two stone engagement ring has been a major trend in 2021.

Perfect for the cool-girl bride, a two stone ring is a gorgeous alternative to traditional styles. You can mix colors, shapes, sizes or even stone type to create something truly unique and personal. Opt for a plain metal setting and wedding band to keep all the attention on your center stones.

Modern Geometric

Elegant and ethereal, modern geometric rings feature clean lines inspired by architecture and graphics.

These geometric designs can be achieved in a number of different ways including staggering stones at different heights, interlocking bands, or through unique stone shapes such as a triangular brilliant cut diamond.

With this trend you have the option to go bold or minimal. Show stopping details such as pavé encrusted bands or a double halo around the center stone work well on a geometric ring. You can also create an equally beautiful solitaire geometric ring with a plain metal band and an interesting cut gemstone.

The Three-Stone Halo

The three-stone halo engagement ring is a royal-inspired mash up of two trends: halos and three stone rings. In a three stone ring you can have three stones of the same size and shape side-by-side or you can play with proportions through different sized stones.

You may have your three-stone halo ring in a plain metal band, or choose to go full bling with a channel set or pavé diamond band. They are designed to sit flush with most straight wedding bands.

A three-stone ring is sometimes referred to as a trilogy ring. The three stones represent the past, present, and future of your relationship, making this trend both beautiful and meaningful.

V-Shaped Bands

A V-shaped band is great for a bride who wants to stand out from the crowd. This band can be paired with multiple diamond cuts and looks great in any metal, making it extremely customizable. It will also give your finger a sleek and elongated look.

Great for stacking, pair your V-shaped engagement ring with multiple matching bands for an ultra-modern style.

Fancy Shapes

Fancy shaped gemstones and diamonds include your not-so-average cuts such as oval, pear, emerald, cushion and marquise.

If you gravitate toward the look of soft, round edges but are looking for something a little different, an elongated oval cut diamond might be perfect for you. If you prefer a square shape, cushion or emerald cuts are two of the most popular shapes.

Marquise and pear shaped diamonds can easily stand alone without accents due to their unique shape.

Petite Side Stones

A petite side stone setting features a center stone flanked with smaller stones on both sides.

Go traditional with a single round stone on each side, or opt for a beautiful vintage look with delicate pear or marquise shaped details.

Petite side stones compliment a wide range of center stone shapes and are great if you want to add just a little bit of extra sparkle and a touch of romance to your engagement ring.

Halo Engagement Rings

Halo settings have been around since the 1700s, but began trending in modern engagement rings within the last few years. Judging by their popularity, it looks like they are here to stay! No matter what center stone you choose, there is sure to be a halo setting to fit.

Halos or double halos are made up of pavé diamonds or gemstones placed in a design around the center stone, which creates an optical illusion of an enlarged center stone. They are a great, cost-effective way to achieve that head turning look.

While platinum had been the go-to metal for engagement rings for the past decade, yellow gold has made a resurgence across all sectors of jewelry including bridal. We recommend 14k or 18k yellow gold for engagement rings as it’s the most suitable for everyday wear.

Setting your diamond in yellow gold can give it a warmer appearance, however this can be avoided by having the prongs of your ring done in white gold. The beautiful warmth and brightness of yellow gold makes it stand out on almost all skin tones.

Diamonds remain the popular choice for an engagement ring due to their durability for everyday wear. If you choose to go with a diamond for your center stone it’s important to remember the 4 C’s which are cut, color, carat and clarity.

Typically, an engagement ring is given at the time of the proposal, while the wedding bands are exchanged during the vow portion of the ceremony.

While there are no set rules when it comes to marriage, it’s important to remember that usually couples will also choose to purchase a wedding band with a similar aesthetic to be worn alongside the engagement ring after the ceremony.

Engagement rings traditionally have a dominant stone with smaller stones in the band, while wedding bands feature plain metal or can be diamond encrusted. You often have the option to purchase a bridal set, where the engagement ring and wedding band have been specifically made to match.

An engagement ring is probably one of the most important and personal purchases you will make in your lifetime. With so many designs to choose from the options can seem endless. It’s key that you choose a ring that fits both your budget and lifestyle. From settings to stones, Blue Nile’s jewelry education guides can help keep you choose the perfect engagement ring that your partner will treasure for years to come!