Engagement Ring Trends 2026 | Jewellery Designer Insights
A summary of engagement rings from 2025
As we approach the end of 2025, it’s a good time to look back at what’s been popular this year and what’s likely to influence engagement ring styles in 2026. Just like interior design, architecture and clothing, jewellery follows its own trends — especially when it comes to engagement rings.
Engagement ring trends are less obvious because the designs are guided by a narrow set of principles and use only a few materials that hold up to everyday wear. Around 98% of engagement rings feature either a diamond or a sapphire as the centre stone, as most other gemstones are more prone to scratching or chipping over time. The metals used are either gold or platinum, chosen for their durability and non-reactive properties, meaning they won’t cause skin irritation.
The most noticeable engagement ring trends from year to year are the diamond shapes that rise and fall in popularity. For example, princess-cut diamonds were in demand around the 2010’s, yet now I’d be surprised to sell more than one in a year. I also see shifts in the finer design details, especially in setting styles. Bezel settings, for instance, were considered old-fashioned from about 2008 to 2020, but they’ve made a comeback and are now more popular than ever.
Green oval sapphire and pear diamond three stone ring
In this article, I’ll cover the most popular sapphire choices for engagement rings, along with where both lab-grown and natural diamonds are trending.
I’ll also look at which setting styles are becoming more fashionable, as well as the classic design elements that have remained timeless across the decades.
Top Sapphire choices of 2025 | Shape, Color & Variety
Sapphire Colour| Lighter Greens and Parti
Light green to dark green sapphires loose
Light green and parti sapphires have been a popular engagement ring choice throughout 2025. Teal sapphires have started to slow in demand, with clients now favouring lighter, fresher tones. Bright parti colours and soft greens are expected to be the standout sapphire colour for 2026.
Choosing a Sapphire | Tip’s from a Gemmologist
Sapphire Shapes | Freeforms & Ovals
Green oval sapphire and diamond three stone ring
Oval sapphires continue to be the most requested shape, followed closely by emerald-cut sapphires.
Freeform sapphires also keep gaining popularity each year. Their individuality, combined with the creativity needed to design around them, makes them an appealing choice for clients who want a distinctive yet timeless engagement ring.
Freeform sapphire and round diamond two stone ring
With the ongoing demand for freeform sapphires, more rough material is now being cut into freeform shapes. In 2026, I expect to see an even wider range of freeform colours available as more international lapidarists respond to their growing popularity.
Our Top #10 Sapphire Engagement Rings
Sapphire Variety | A Shift to Sri Lankan Origin
Australian sapphires remain a strong favourite in the local market. However, interest in African and Sri Lankan sapphires is growing, particularly among clients looking for lighter and brighter tones.
Royal blue cushion-cut sapphire from madagascar set into a three-stone style engagement ring
Diamond Preferences Expected in 2026
Lab-Grown Diamonds
In 2026, I expect lab-grown diamonds to remain a popular budget-friendly option, as they offer the same look as natural diamonds at less than half the price. However, there has been a noticeable shift in attitudes towards lab diamond as their value continues to drop. As a result, many clients are starting to lean back toward natural diamonds for their long-term value and rarity.
Green Radiant-Cut Lab Diamond Three Stone Ring with Baguette Lab-diamonds Bezel Set
Coloured Lab-Grown Diamonds
With more coloured lab-grown diamonds becoming available in 2026, they’re likely to appeal to clients wanting something a little different without the higher price tag.
You can get creative with lab-grown diamond colours, with options ranging from soft yellows to mint greens and intense reds. I’m looking forward to seeing how this space develops in the year ahead.
Natural Diamonds
Natural diamond 1ct marquise east west
As mentioned above, natural diamonds are gaining momentum again because of their long-term value. As we’ve seen historically with synthetic rubies and sapphires, lab-created gemstones tend to decline significantly in value over time. This expectation is now influencing more clients to choose natural diamonds over lab-grown alternatives.
The 4 C’s Explained | Diamond Grading
Interestingly, inclusions are becoming less of a concern in natural diamonds. Many clients now prefer stones that aren’t perfectly clean, as the natural characteristics help them stand apart from lab-grown options.
Coloured Natural Diamonds
Faint yellow natural diamonds are becoming more popular for their soft, neutral tone and unique character. I also expect to see more champagne and cognac diamonds appearing in engagement rings throughout 2026.
Popular Setting Styles in 2026
Bezel Settings & Double Claws | A highlight of 2025
Emerald-cut & baguette-cut diamond bezel set ring
Bezel settings are shaping up to be the leading style for 2026. Sleek, clean bezels are starting to replace the fine, delicate claws that have dominated in recent years. Double claws are also making a return, adding a subtle vintage touch while offering extra security for the centre stone.
Band Styles for 2026
Chunky & Substantial Heavier Bands
After many years of fine bands being the go-to choice, heavier band profiles are starting to return. Strong, more substantial designs will be a noticeable trend throughout 2026.
This shift to chunkier styles comes at a time when gold prices are at an all-time high. If you’re buying a heavier gold ring online, make sure the band is solid. Hollowing out wide bands is a common cost-saving tactic, but it results in a lower-quality piece.
Personalisation Remains a Priority
Personalisation remains a strong trend, with clients wanting something that feels unique—whether that’s a one-of-a-kind centre stone, a distinctive design element, or subtle hidden details.
Hidden blue sapphires and detailing underneath the diamond
Hidden Gemstones
Hidden gemstones remain the most popular way for clients to add personal meaning to their engagement ring. Whether it’s a birthstone, a favourite colour or a symbolic gem, these subtle additions will continue to be a staple feature.
Timeless Classics That will Endure Past 2026
Across decades of engagement ring history, two styles have remained consistently popular: the solitaire and the three-stone ring. These classics won’t be going anywhere in 2026. Instead, clients are likely to personalise them with small design tweaks that make them feel modern while preserving their timeless appeal.
About the Author | Lisa Clune
Hi, I’m Lisa. I’ve worked in the jewellery industry for 15 years, specialising in engagement ring design and manufacturing. Every ring photographed in this article has been designed and made by me and the team at Set Together Jewellery.
Jewellery Designer Interview | Lisa Clune
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