Trending Engagement Rings in 2026

In 2026, the engagement ring world is officially breaking all the old rules. We are moving away from the "Pinterest-perfect"  look and leaning hard into rings that feel like they have a soul.

If you're planning a proposal or just daydreaming about your future stack, here's what’s actually trending right now.

"Big Rock" Energy (Thanks to Lab-Grown)

The biggest shift this year is the move toward maximalism. Because lab grown diamonds have made high carat stones so much more accessible, "size" is no longer unattainable for more modest budgets.  We are seeing a massive surge in 2 and 3-carat centre stones. People aren't just looking for sparkle anymore, they want an Insta-worthy statement piece. 

Chunky Gold and Bold Bands

For a long time, whisper-thin bands were the only thing anyone wanted. In 2026, the pendulum has swung back. We are seeing thick, substantial gold bands - think cigar bands and heavy 18k yellow gold settings. It’s a vibe that feels more secure and much more editorial. These bands don't just hold the diamond, they are part of the design itself.

The Elongated Silhouette

If there is one shape dominating the 2026 moodboard, it’s anything elongated. Ovals are still huge, but marquise, pear, and "moval" (a mix between a marquise and an oval) cuts are the ones to watch. These shapes are incredibly flattering because they make the finger look longer, and they often look much larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight.

Antique Cuts with a Modern Twist

Couples are currently obsessed with the "Old Mine" and "Old European" cuts. These are diamonds that were originally cut to glow in candlelight, giving them a softer, romantic sparkle compared to the clinical precision of modern stones. The 2026 way to wear them is in a sleek, modern bezel setting. It’s the perfect "old meets new" aesthetic.

East-West Settings

Symmetry is taking a backseat this year. One of the coolest trends right now is the East-West setting, where an elongated stone like an emerald or oval is set horizontally across the finger instead of vertically. it's a small change that completely transforms the look of the ring, making it feel instantly more modern and unique.

Warm Tones and "Off-White" Diamonds

The obsession with D-colourless stones is fading. This year, people are falling in love with champagne diamonds, soft yellow tones, and "off-white" stones. These warmer diamonds look incredible against yellow gold and feel a lot more personal and grounded than a traditional icy white stone. Check out my previous commissions of coloured diamonds for inspiration.