Charlotte Lawrence recently got engaged and the internet went wild over her ring because it didn't appear like a traditional engagement ring, or whatever we've been taught that one should look like. Lawrence's ring is oversized and features color (emerald green, in particular). It's not subtle or demure, but why should it be? She's getting married and she's proud. The history of engagement rings is pretty dark, anyway, so women wearing "non-traditional" rings makes a statement in more ways than one.
In Ancient Rome, women wore rings to signify a business transaction and/or their commitment to be obedient to a man. And from there, the engagement ring tradition was born. In 1477, Archduke Maximillian of Austria is speculated to be the first to ever propose with a diamond engagement ring and in 1947 De Beers came up with the slogan "A Diamond is Forever."
Colored gems predated diamonds and were the go-to for ancient royalty, often for spiritual reason, but white diamonds have become the standard in this day and age. "Most people would describe a 'traditional' engagement ring as a solitaire diamond ring," Olivia Landau, founder and CEO of The Clear Cut says. "The quintessential engagement ring would be a round brilliant diamond on a platinum solitaire ring."
instagram.com/charlotteslawrence
Now, in rejection of the trend cycle, in favor of embracing personal style, or both, we've seen many people, including our favorite celebrities embrace more non-traditional engagement styles: Emma Stone's pearl snowflake ring, Joey King's split shank ring, Miley Cyrus's ultra thick band and, of course, Charlotte Lawrence's oval cut diamond surrounded by green gemstones.
"Non-traditional can mean a lot of things: unique silhouettes, unexpected stone cuts/combinations, colored gemstones (in lieu of a white diamond), chunky gold settings, asymmetry, or something a little sculptural," Jillian Sassone, founder and creative director of Marrow Fine shares. "It’s less about following the 'rules' and more about choosing something that feels personal, expressive and unique." People opting for non-traditional rings often commonly go for off-center diamonds, toi et moi setting, and unexpected bands.
affinitypicture / BACKGRID
What is it exactly about this current moment in fashion that has people wanting to forego traditional trends even when it comes to something meant to be worn forever? "There has been a cultural shift toward customization and self-expression across all categories, and bridal jewelry is no exception," Nicole Wegman, founder & CEO of Ring Concierge says. "Social media has exposed people to a much wider range of design possibilities, and with that comes the confidence to choose something less expected. A ring is such a meaningful symbol, and people want it to feel uniquely theirs."
instagram.com/joeyking
People are interested in their engagement rings serving as an extension of their personal style, rather than something that follows a blueprint that was laid out for them. "With so much inspiration online, people feel more empowered to explore bolder, less expected options instead of defaulting to the traditional playbook," Sassone said. As with everything style-wise, we've seen more of an interest in owning things exclusively and wearing things that our uniquely our own. And when it comes to something as special, intimate, and personal as an engagement ring, can we really blame them?
Shop The Trend:
Point No Point Studio Clear Shield Engagement Ring
Point No Point Studio
Ashley Zhang 2.95 Carat Rosie Emerald & Diamond Ring
Ashely Zhang Jewelry
