Engagement ring trends have evolved dramatically over the years, reflecting changing tastes, cultural influences, and advancements in jewelry design. From the timeless elegance of vintage styles to the innovative allure of contemporary settings, each era has left its mark on the world of engagement rings. In this blog, we will journey through the decades, exploring the iconic trends that have defined love and commitment, showcasing some of our very own engagement rings that embody each era.

History Behind Engagement Rings

The custom of engagement rings evolved significantly in the Roman era, where rings made of iron, and later gold, were exchanged to signify their husband’s ownership. The modern engagement ring tradition began in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring, sparking a trend among European aristocracy. In 1947 De Beers launched the classic slogan “A Diamond is Forever” and the rest was history.

The Early 20th Century: Classic Elegance

In the early 20th century, engagement rings were characterized by a blend of classic elegance and intricate craftsmanship. The Edwardian and Art Deco periods greatly influenced the designs, with rings showcasing delicate filigree work, intricate lace-like details, and geometric patterns. Due to the Great Depression many couples sought out less extravagant engagement rings to do less with more. Later, platinum became the metal of choice due to its strength and ability to hold fine details, while colored gemstones like sapphires, emeralds, and rubies often accompanied diamonds, adding vibrant splashes of color.

The Mid-20th Century: Hollywood Glamour

The mid-20th century witnessed a surge in glamorous and eye-catching engagement ring trends, heavily influenced by Hollywood and the allure of celebrity engagements. This era saw the rise of the iconic solitaire setting, which showcased a single but large diamond held aloft by slender prongs, maximizing its brilliance and light. These types of rings were showcased on many famous individuals such as Aretha Franklin, Lucile Ball, and Elizabeth Taylor.

The Large, dazzling diamonds were here to stay and became the focal point, often accompanied by intricate side stones or baguettes. Platinum and white gold were the preferred metals, reflecting the era's preference for sleek, modern designs. Mia Farrow, who was proposed to by Frank Sinatra, was gifted a gorgeous 9 carat solitaire pear-shaped diamond accompanied by two tapered baguettes. Contrary to belief, side stones of all shapes and sizes have made their way to the 21^st century without fail.

The 1970s and 1980s: Bold and Unique

The 1970s and 1980s saw distinct engagement ring trends that reflected the cultural shifts and evolving tastes of the times. In the 1970s, there was a noticeable embrace of non-traditional and eclectic designs, often featuring bold and unique gemstones. More specifically, Princess Diana's sapphire engagement ring, given to her by Prince Charles in 1981, epitomized this trend with its large oval blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds, setting a precedent for colored stones in engagement rings.

The 1980s, on the other hand, were characterized by a return to more opulent and glamorous styles, influenced by the era's overall need for luxury and excess. Marquise-cut diamonds, with their elongated shape and dramatic flair, became particularly popular, as did elaborate settings with clusters of smaller diamonds surrounding a larger central stone. The decade also saw a rise in yellow gold settings, reflecting the period's love for rich and vibrant hues.

The 1990s and 2000s: Minimalism and Sparkle

The 1990s and 2000s marked a shift towards sleek, modern engagement ring designs that emphasized simplicity and elegance. In the 1990s, the solitaire diamond ring reigned supreme, which showcases a single brilliant diamond on a plain band. This minimalist style was favored for its timeless appeal and ability to highlight the diamond's brilliance. Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, whose engagement ring from Brad Pitt featured a solitaire diamond on a simple band, influenced this trend.

Moving into the 2000s, the trend evolved to include more personalized and intricate designs. Platinum and white gold became the metals of choice, aligning with the era's preference for cooler tones. The halo setting, which features a central diamond surrounded by a ring of smaller diamonds, gained popularity for its ability to enhance the perceived size and sparkle of the center stone. The engagement rings given to Gwyneth Paltrow and Khloé Kardashian include a halo to make the already seemingly large stone appear even bigger.

The 2010s: Vintage Revival and Customization

The 2010s saw engagement ring trends that blended classic elegance with modern innovation, catering to a wide range of tastes and styles. There was a resurgence of rose gold, appreciated for its warm, romantic hue that provided a fresh alternative to traditional white gold and platinum. Vintage-inspired designs also gained traction, with intricate details such as milgrain, filigree, and pavé settings becoming highly sought after. Furthermore, there was a growing interest in ethical and sustainable practices, leading many couples to seek conflict-free diamonds and opting for antique engagement rings.

The 2020s: Sustainability and Innovation

As of recent, we have seen a surge in engagement ring trends that prioritize both individuality and sustainability, reflecting broader cultural shifts towards personal expression and environmental consciousness. One standout trend is the preference for large, statement-making stones set in simple, elegant designs. Hailey Bieber's engagement ring, featuring a stunning oval-shaped diamond solitaire set on a thin gold band, is a prime example of this minimalist yet luxurious aesthetic.

This decade also sees a rise in the popularity of lab-grown diamonds, offering an ethical and affordable alternative to mined stones without compromising on quality or brilliance. Additionally, two-stone or "Toi et Moi" rings, symbolizing the union of two souls, have captured the imagination of many, with celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski sporting this distinctive style. Toi et Moi style engagement rings are perfect for those that love two stones but can’t pick just one! Why have one when you can have both!

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Gage Diamonds is Chicago's premier jewelry showroom and online retailer of engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. We offer a selection of dazzling handpicked diamonds, including certified natural and lab grown diamonds.

We’re committed to helping you find the ring of your dreams. For inspiration, browse our selection of natural and lab grown diamonds, or set up an appointment with a member of our trusted staff at our in-person showroom.

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