2016 is coming to a close and it’s time to review the engagement ring trends we saw from a Lauren B perspective. Let’s look at the engagement ring trends of 2016. We saw some new breakout custom ring designs and of course variations to our already expansive design catalog. As always the focus was on adding beautiful touches of details while keeping the overall finished piece elegant and timeless . Here we will break down the top eight trends of the year:
Engagement Ring Trends
#8 Round in Cushion Halo:
Cushion cut diamonds are arguably one of the most popular diamond shapes of the past few years. However, round cut stones are always going to be the steady leader in engagement ring trends. They are the gold standard for diamond cutting and reflect the most amount of light and sparkle. For this reason the round cut diamond in a cushion shaped halo has quickly become a favorite! Look at model RS-213 design shown to the right. The extra sparkle of the round brilliant paired with the seamless halo, brings a modern twist to the classic diamond shape. We also love that the cushion halo makes the center diamond appear larger than if it were a round halo. Here is another standout design from Lauren B. Custom engagement ring with round in cushion halo and split band. Our rings are handmade ensuring a seamless fit from the main diamond to surrounding pave stones.
#7 Invisible Gallery:
Our invisible gallery design made its debut in late 2015. It has quickly become a crowd favorite with engagement ring trends. The minimalistic design features a low set diamond that remains flush with the hand for a comfortable ring. We love the versatility of this look. The invisible gallery designs pair beautifully with any size or shape center diamond. The best part is that these pair perfectly with a matching band in any thickness for a seamless flush fit. Starting with the original RS-220 rose gold oval pave engagement ring design we have a wide range of styles within the “Invisible Gallery” family.
From double edge halo tops, three row bands and split bands this style continues to develop. We can only expect more in the years to come. For a more extravagant style try this RS-272 oval diamond with three row pave band invisible gallery ring from Lauren B
#6 Elongated Shape Center-Stones:
2016 saw a revival of elongated shape center stones such as oval, pear shape, and elongated cushions or radiant cuts in particular. The elongated diamond shapes take up extra real estate on the finger length wise giving a larger face up appearance and providing a great value. Check out this video comparing round and oval diamonds ; notice the ovals appear larger even though the carat weights are similar. While pear shape has a more vintage look and is less popular at the present time, the oval and elongated cushion cut definitely tie in first place for most requested fancy diamond shape.
The combination of our delicate micro-pave designs and the standout elongated shape center-stone make for a beautiful contrast and help create a floating style look Like this RS-217 custom design by Lauren B shown above.
#5 Two Tone:
2016 made way for two tone rings featuring combinations of white, yellow, and rose gold. Commonly the band of the ring will be done in rose or yellow, and the top portions created in white metal. The white top portion will enhance the colorless appearance of your center stone. The band will be any metal color of your choice to give you that unique touch of flavor.
This is a great way to add a fun spin on any custom ring design! At Lauren B we have come up with innovative ways of adding dual metal colors to your ring such as this RS-223 design shown to the right where the top facing part of the halo is done in white gold while the rest is rose. Check out our gallery featuring over 100 videos of custom two-tone engagement rings by Lauren B.
#4 Cushion brilliant:
In the past few years we know how popular cushion cut diamonds have become. The main issue with some cushions is that they have a crushed ice appearance. For this reason the cushion brilliant cut diamond has become our client’s top choice when it comes to this shape. It provides them with that unique pillow outline and a distinct reflection of light. See this video of a loose cushion cut brilliant diamond lineup.
Also, these cushion brilliant diamonds are cut to maximize face up appearance and have larger dimensions than average. Finding the perfect one is no easy task which is why we strongly recommending working with a real life diamond expert. Here is a video comparing a crushed ice diamond against cushion brilliant diamond; notice the distinct differences between the two and always keep in mind this is very hard to detect from the diamond certificate alone.
#3 Moissanite:
This diamond alternative has absolutely skyrocketed in 2016 engagement ring trends. Before this year it was somewhat unknown but has risen to prominence in a quick fashion! These lab grown diamond alternatives look really similar in terms of sparkle and fire, and have a similar hardness rating making them great options for any custom ring design.
The best part is they are very cost effective and a moissanite ranges from $700 and up for the stone alone depending on the size/shape/quality. They come in tons of shapes and sizes so the options are endless and here you can view over 80 custom moissanite engagement rings we have created here at Lauren B. We love that these centers make engagement rings more affordable and accessible to everyone looking for something unique. For someone who is after a more extravagant setting design this allows you to achieve that overall look without going over your intended budget such as this oval moissanite halo engagement ring with a three row band.
#2 Three Row Bands:
While a single row of diamonds on the band is always a timeless look, the three row pave diamond band stole the show in 2016. Number one on the list was our RS-126 cushion cut design shown to the right. Our triple sided micropave band can be custom crafted in either a round or square appearance. There are options as well with varying thicknesses starting at 2.2 millimeters such as this oval diamond three row pave custom engagement ring model RS-292.
The extra width and dimension of the multi-sided shank gives a special alternative to an otherwise classic design. These designs are substantially more intricate requiring more detail, labor and diamonds to set. This does make it a more expensive ring. For a really bold look opt for a larger row of diamonds along the center row of the band.
#1 Double Edge Halo:
When it comes to our custom settings this is the most popular engagement ring trends feature. This detail is being added to our custom engagement rings constantly. Our signature custom halo engagement rings such as oval design RS-128 will always be classic. However the extra addition of a row of diamonds along the perimeter of the halo give a beautiful pop of sparkle from the side view of the ring. Check out the profile on our RS-61 design shown to the right. The double edge halo gives the ring a more definitive look and makes an already bright design even more eye catching. If you do not believe us just check out over 150 videos of custom double edge halo engagement rings created by Lauren B.
Wishing all of our past and future clients. subscribers, and readers a happy, healthy, prosperous and joyous New year to come! Thanks to each and every one of you for all of your support! Our LB team is hard at work to bring you fresh new designs that we are sure you will love. Stay tuned!!!