2017 is off to a great start and we can already sense the hottest upcoming trends for the new year. A lot of these are based on the evolution of past styles- adding nuances and special details to keep them unique and fresh. Keep in mind these trends are not to be confused with fads which come and go very quickly- these are engagement ring styles that will have staying power for years to come so do not shy away from them! At Lauren B we are always on the cutting edge of custom engagement ring designs and the combination of our innovative styles and our clients’ new ideas make for some gorgeous finished rings. While engagement ring trends take more time to evolve than fashion trends we are counting on the following styles to have a massive following in the year 2017:
5. Prong to prong diamond wraps: One of our most popular designs to date is the classic RS-63 micropave design: This design features a full wrap of diamonds on the basket. This essentially means that the wrap of diamonds under the main stone covers the center portion of the prongs. For 2017 we are predicting that styles such as our RS-275 this prong to prong pave design will top the charts. In this model, the prongs holding the center diamond wrap over the basket of diamonds. Here you can add diamonds to the prongs themselves or leave them blank such as in this oval center three row design ring.
4. Yellow gold: White gold and platinum rings are thought of as traditional engagement ring colors since they look great all on skin tones and give a brightened effect to your engagement ring set. Aside from the traditional white metal, 2015 and 2016 saw a huge rise in trend of colored metal rings and rose gold rings in particular. Rose gold tends to blend in with a lot of skin tones creating a more delicate and “barely there” appearance. However we foresee the original “Gold” aka Yellow gold making a big appearance this year. Of all the colored metal options yellow gold is the brightest and stands out most on majority of skin tones. Yellow also works amazingly well as a two tone option for many of our custom engagement rings. Don’t be afraid to mix metals as well! If you already have a white gold engagement ring you can also opt for a colored gold wedding band for a pop of color. Check out this yellow gold micropave halo design featuring an oval cut center. For more colored metal engagement ring design ideas, click here.
3. Cathedral designs: Practicality comes to mind when we think about upcoming trends. In the past, engagement ring center stones tended to sit very high off the setting for a bright effect. However, if a diamond is set too high, it may become uncomfortable for the wearer resulting in catching and snagging on clothing etc… Cathedral design rings create an extra attachment of the band to the center diamond giving the effect of a lower set ring. Check out our previous blog post that goes more in depth regarding High vs. Low set engagement rings. The cathedral designs create a very fluid like appearance where the band and center diamond connect directly at the top and bottom. We find that cathedral designs can be more comfortable for the wearer and result in a more low maintenance ring for every day wear. This custom emerald cut solitaire cathedral design ring has it all! Solitaire, yellow gold, diamonds on the basket, and cathedral for a sleek and clean appearance. Talk about stylish!
2. Solitaire rings with subtle details: While we are incredibly known for our micropave diamond engagement ring designs we think solitaires will have a huge moment this year.Typically a solitaire means that the band is completely free of any gem stones. The simplicity and elegance of a solitaire ring allows the center diamond or gem of your choice to really stand out. While the solitaire designs have the center as it’s main focal point we think that adding subtle details such as diamonds on the basket as shown on this solo round cut diamond ring make a really 
nice statement. Another option is to add some detail to the metal such as a split band as shown on this emerald cut split shank design; These subtle additions makes an otherwise simple ring more personalized and instantly come to life. Another one of our solitaire favorites is this round cut cathedral style design featuring scrollwork underneath the basket. If you are looking something with a vintage feel, consider a braided solid band engagement ring that adds a funky, earthy touch. For more solitaire design ring ideas from our site click here.
For our #1 upcoming engagement ring trend of 2017:
Radiant cut diamonds: Radiant cut diamonds are one the most unique looking diamond cuts. Radiant cut is extremely versatile because it is a combination of round brilliant, emerald, and princess cuts. The radiant has the same outline shape as the emerald cut, with its trimmed corners, but is a brilliant cut, versus the emerald’s step cut, so it creates the sparkle and fire of a round. Check out this video comparing radiant and emerald cut diamonds side by side. Radiant cut diamonds have a very modern, clean, edgy appearance to them that we think is going to really take off this year in terms of popularity. We also love that radiant cuts come in elongated shapes which provides a bigger face up appearance. And just in case you missed out, check out our last blog post where we break down the nuances of a 2 carat radiant cut diamond. Radiant has quickly become one our favorite cuts and we think you will love them too!
Continuation of trends: As we mentioned previously, engagement ring trends tend to take more time to evolve considering an engagement ring is not something that you change often! We know oval diamonds will still remain as popular as they were in 2017 considering their large face up appearance and graceful edges. Cushion cut diamonds in micropave halo settings along with more delicate pave setting designs are definitely still going to favorites as well.
If you need help picking a design we are always available! Email us at [email protected] for all requests and inquiries and we are happy to make your engagement ring dreams a reality.