It’s estimated that 2-3 million people get engaged each year. The way people get engaged has changed with the times over the years, but doing so with a ring as a symbol has been consistent for hundreds of years. Today’s engagement ring trends reflect a shift toward meaning and individuality, where personal story and intention matter more than sheer sparkle.
“We’ve seen the trend of people being bold and flashy with their engagements and proposals,” says Ishaan Zaveri, fourth-generation jeweler at Diamond Wish. “Now the focus is on customization, intention and meaning, not just making a statement.”
The idea of using a ring to propose isn’t something that is going anyway any time soon. It’s a tradition that dates back to ancient Rome and the act has evolved to symbolizing love and marriage, according to the American Gem Society. They also report that the first commissioned engagement ring on record was in 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented one to Mary of Burgundy. Over time, the style of the ring and manner in which the proposal was carried out has changed with the times and trends.
Today, the trends in getting engaged involve proposals that are less about garnering public attention, and more about creating an intimate and memorable experience. People are focusing on intention, rather than flashy social media posts. It’s more about quality over showmanship. People are seeking story-driven ring design and customization that will be meaningful to their partner and story.
Here are some of the key trends in engagement rings that Diamond Wish is seeing:
- Customization is big. Personalizing the band with having something engraved inside. There are also many opting for vintage-inspired diamonds that are placed into modern settings.
- Ring designs that tell a story. Many prefer to go with heirloom redesigns, rather than opting for completely new stones. Rings today often carry a story about how the person met, shared milestones and goals, and family histories.
- Luxury that is more subtle, such as gemstone engagement rings. This includes designs that are based in timeless beauty, rather than those driven solely by short-lived trends.
- Emotional ROI. People are focusing on intentional love or symbolism, over performative luxury and showmanship. They want rings that are going to reflect their feelings and emotions.
“Emotion-first planning is where proposals are at right now,” said Zaveri. “People want thoughtful ring selection, romance without comparison, and quality. We are happy to help them make it such a special day!”
Diamond Wish is a trusted destination for bespoke and ready-to-wear fine jewelry this Valentine’s Day. With boutiques in Newport Beach (844 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, CA) and Palm Desert (73525 El Paseo, Suite 1500, Palm Desert, CA), the fourth-generation family-owned jeweler invites guests into a personalized shopping experience where meaningful gifts are designed to be remembered – and worn – for a lifetime. Customers can discover one-of-a-kind, timeless pieces to celebrate their loved ones, all backed by a complimentary lifetime warranty that reflects Diamond Wish’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Explore the collections at www.diamondwish.com.
