When it comes to designing an engagement ring, couples want to create a timeless ring that mirrors their unique style and personality. It's exciting to see people exploring their creativity and incorporating their own flavour into something they'll cherish forever. From fancy cuts and mixed precious metals, the options for a one-of-a-kind design are endless.
Here are my predictions for the hottest jewellery trends that will continue to inspire in 2016:
Coloured Gemstones
Fancy coloured diamonds and gemstones are really starting to gain traction as an engagement ring and wedding band trend. Used as the centre stone or as a complimentary accent, coloured gems are a wonderful alternative to colourless diamonds and add vibrancy to the overall look. They are also a wonderful way to incorporate and express one's own personal style.
Blue sapphires, in particular, are a bold and dramatic choice. Rings featuring this gemstone are often inspired by Kate Middleton's infamous jewel that once belonged to the graceful Princess Diana. Sapphires come in a variety of hues (pink, yellow, etc.) and can be an affordable alternative to fancy coloured diamonds.
Other celebs embracing this trend: the newly engaged Eva Longoria stuns with her gorgeous engagement ring that features a vibrant round ruby weighing more than 5.00-carats encircled by a halo of diamonds; a glowing Hilary Swank flaunts her Columbian emerald on a platinum art-deco inspired setting.
Fancy Shapes
Fancy-shaped diamonds such as the emerald, radiant or oval cut are being discovered for their distinctive, elegant features. They offer much versatility for different designs and can be a great option for someone leaning towards a more contemporary style. The darling Julianne Hough proudly displays her oval-shaped diamond on a delicate band. This shape, in particular, has recently skyrocketed in popularity. The elongated shape of the oval gives the illusion of greater size so this diamond cut has excellent value.
Modern Metals
Rose gold settings continue to be a prominent trendsetter with yellow gold resurfacing from the '80s. Mixing these precious metals against white gold or platinum is also becoming a popular choice - the contrast of the metal colours adds dimension to the design. One of the most commonly requested ring styles belongs to Blake Lively. The actress dons a magnificent 12-carat light pink oval diamond set in rose gold on a narrow diamond band. The softness of the pink metal gives this style a romantic femininity.
Unique, Personality-driven Designs
Brides-to-be want to add their own unique flare and play with traditional engagement ring designs. Whether it's a twist or infinity design in the band or an elaborate side view of intricate metal work, adding a personal touch ensures the ring is truly one-of-a-kind. Lady Gaga is the most perfect example of this. The "Mother Monster" wears an absolutely massive heart-shaped diamond that only the eccentric pop singer could pull off. With careful consideration, an engagement ring can truly reflect someone's personality and style.
Ring stacking
Stacking wedding bands is a trend that gained momentum in 2015 and continues to soar in 2016. Brides love to personalize and create their own arrangement of rings - stacking eternity bands, diamonds and coloured gemstones rings or mixed modern metals (rose and white gold). They choose wedding bands that compliment the engagement ring but also create a bigger, statement-worthy combination.
So there you have it! These are the most notable current and upcoming trends that I have seen so far this year. To continue getting jewellery insider tips and see my very own creations, follow along on Facebook and Instagram.
Amy Follwell is the director and founder of Bijoux By Amy - a personalized jewellery concierge service based in Toronto, ON, servicing clients worldwide. For more information, please contact info@bijouxbyamy.com or visit www.bijouxbyamy.com
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