0
A memorable engagement ring does more than signal a commitment – it tells a bigger story about the aesthetics, values, and cultural mood of the moment. Over the past four decades,
ring trends have shifted from bold and unapologetic 1980s glamor to an emphasis on personalization, ethical sourcing, and timeless sparkle. Here’s a quick tour of the engagement
ring styles and symbols that defined each decade and where the trends are headed next.
1980s: The decade of statement sparkle
In the 1980s, ‘more’ was the mantra in everything from clothing through to interior design. And engagement rings were no exception. Elaborate cluster settings, eye-catching colored
gemstones in green, red, and blue, and substantial yellow gold bands dominated ring boxes, echoing the decade’s love for high-glam fashion and dramatic silhouettes. It was truly
maximalism at its finest.
1990s-2000s: Platinum and minimalism take center stage
The pendulum swung toward restraint in the 1990s and early 2000s. Platinum and white gold replaced yellow tones, while marquise and princess cuts reflected a modern, more
streamlined sensibility. You could really see the move away from 1980’s overstatement in the popularity of solitaire settings, which appealed to couples who were looking for more refined
elegance and clean lines.
2010s to today: Glamorous rings that tell your story
The past decade and recent years have brought a focus on individuality and personal expression. It’s all about vintage inspiration combined with modern ethics. People are looking
for custom-designed rings, antique-inspired settings (think Victorian and Art Deco), and responsibly sourced stones. And while the halo setting gained traction in the early 2000s, halo
engagement rings remain a top choice, offering vintage charm, amplified sparkle, and endless opportunities for personalization.
2025 and beyond: Statement cuts and sustainable sparkle
This year’s trends spotlight elongated shapes like marquise and oval cuts, bold mixed-metal bands, and a surge in lab-grown diamonds and other eco-conscious choices. As always,
celebrity choices are also shaping consumer tastes, driving innovation that marries striking red-carpet worthy design with climate-conscious materials.
How history could shape your future ring
You want to choose a style that stands the test of time. From the over-the-top opulence of the 1980s to today’s sustainable and eco-conscious sparkle, engagement ring trends reflect
changing tastes and values. Whether you’re drawn to vintage elegance or cutting-edge design, the best ring is one that feels timeless to the person who wears it.