Rings to Fancy Over

I was suppose to share this post over 3 weeks ago, but never got around to arranging all my fave ring cuts + styles. But now it's done and ready for viewing. I compiled a collection of traditional to the alternative girl for engagement ring styles. These are the ones that catch my in terms of good design and what seems to be the trend for the year.

The classic, single solitaire white diamond ring is and will always be in style so men you can't go wrong there. But if you're future fiance seeks something unique and with a little color, there are ways around it by going with a different cut from the standard round, opting for a colored stone and/or intermixing metal tones.

For stone cuts, I love the vintage influence, but incorporated in a modern way. Some of my favorite cuts are the Asscher, Cushion, Oval and Emerald shapes. And depending on your taste, each of these cuts would be beautiful with a clean, thin band. Or if you're looking to add some character to the ring, embellish the main center stone with pave or small diamonds surrounding the main stone. Braided and woven-like bands are pretty hot right now, too. There are tons of samples of this technique featured in all these pics whether it's a bezel setting or a pronged look.

[White Diamonds – Round + Oval Cuts]

Quite a few individuals don't like to mix two different metal tones together, and I was one of them at one point, until I found some really good examples of where its done well. Like the ring above oval cut white diamond above encased by a thin gold band and smaller diamonds. It's a nice little touch.

[Champagne + White – Asscher Cut]

[Precious Stones – Oval, Emerald + Pear Cuts]

I prefer some color + contrast in a ring even if you can't get a colored diamond. There are some amazing colored precious stones out there that allow you to afford a larger setting. Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, received a beautiful sapphire ring for her engagement. Have a look at the Art Deco inspired ring above in the upper left hand corner, I am just in love with the symmetry and the design between the blue and white stones.

How about a deep Emerald green or a Pink tourmaline? Or going for the dirty diamond like the Champagne + Brown hues featured below. Do you think you can pull off a bold, Black diamond? I know I would rock it. :)

[Champagne/Brown Diamonds – Oval, Round + Emerald Cuts]

[Black Diamonds – Round Cut]

There are so many styles, shapes and colors out there to choose from, and it can get overwhelming, but start with something you or she will love such as a specific color or shape, determine your budget, and customize the setting to reflect her personality. And don't forget men, you can get a nice ring, too. How about a matching band that has the same colored stone incorporated into the design, like the black bands above that match the black diamond engagement ring. Aren't they the perfect pair or what?

[Pearl – Natural Oval + Round Shape]