If a round, princess, oval, pear, cushion, or emerald-cut diamond does not appeal to you, chances are you’re an unconventional bride. With a taste level that often defies tradition, you’re drawn to engagement rings with a distinctive look such as cuts and settings that appear one-of-a-kind whether it’s a solitaire, cluster, or three-stone ring. But, you're not the only one! Several brides in the spotlight have been gravitating towards unexpected pieces as well. From Lily Collins and
Besides, there are plenty of brides who crave the classics, so choosing a rare engagement ring with a shield-cut diamond, geometric stone, or cluster of uniquely shaped gems will help you stand out in a sea of sparkle. Even brides in the spotlight have been gravitating towards these unexpected pieces. Lily Collins and Heidi Klum sport colored stones, Katy Perry shows off her personal style with a floral-inspired ring, while stars like Ariana Grande and Emily Ratajkowski wear asymmetrical two-stone bling.
While a uniquely shaped engagement ring is all about an extreme wow factor, it’s not to say that every design necessitates a stone upwards of three carats. Sure, that would be #goals, but a range of sizes from half-carat diamonds and gemstones to one or two carats can be absolutely striking in a distinctive cut. Shield and portrait cuts—which are an angular alternative to pear and oval-shaped diamonds—are flatter but appear longer on the finger, giving the illusion of a bigger stone, especially with side baguettes or a pavé halo wrapping around. Unexpected shapes like a trapezoid, half-moon, or teardrop are especially exceptional and versatile—depending on your budget, you can opt for a bigger solitaire stone in one of these uncommon cuts, a two-stone ring with contrasting shapes (or stones!), or a cluster ring or band featuring a mix of smaller stones. Rest assured, even the smallest of stones are impactful whether you go for a diamond, gemstone, or a mix of both. Even antique rings like art deco and Edwardian styles come with uniquely shaped stones which is a perfect solution for the vintage bride craving something entirely unique.
Wherever you fall on the unconventional engagement ring spectrum, we culled 30 spectacular styles to inspire you from exceptional cuts to avant-garde shapes. For the bride eschewing tradition, these rings are perfect, no matter your budget.
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Bario Neal Lash Cluster Dyad Ring
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This dainty yet striking champagne ring features more than one unexpected detail. The mismatching shaped cluster in addition to the two colored stones exude an irresistible visual interest and charm.
Price at time of publish: $1,230
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Selin Kent Luna Ring
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We love how this stone appears as if its floating over this 14k yellow gold band. For the bride seeking an effortlessly magical piece, this half moon shaped diamond may be the perfect fit.
Price at time of publish: $2,900
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Nora Kogan Pillar Ring
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Seriously, how chic is this?! A tapered diamond baguette is set horizontally on a solid gold band. This is such a daringly unique approach to a sophisticated and simple engagement ring.
Price at time of publish: $3,700
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Loriann Stevenson Gray Kite Diamond Slice Ring
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It's not everyday we see a salt and pepper diamond, but when we do, we can't get enough of it. To make this extraordinary piece even more unique, the stone is cut in one of the most dramatic diamond-cut shapes we've ever seen.
Price at time of publish: $6,150
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Threelayers Hexagon Moss Agate & Moissanite or Diamond Ring
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This is another deep green nature-inspired piece that we're absolutely obsessed with. Intricate and charming, there's so much detail to appreciate within this hexagon-shaped stone.
Price at time of publish: $1,050
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Tomasz Donocik Stellar Engagement Ring
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An 18k rose gold engagement ring features a delicate tension setting creating the illusion of a floating center stone. The baguette-cut white diamonds are just the cherries on top of this once-in-a-lifetime piece.
Price at time of publish: $9,805
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Van Cleef & Arpels Two Butterfly Between the Finger Ring
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So playful and light, this rose gold butterfly design featuring round and marquise-shaped diamonds is simply genius. We love how the two butterflies appear as if they're lightly resting upon the fingers.
Price at time of publish: $20,200
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Eli Halili Trapezoid Diamond Ring
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A trapezoid-shaped stone is a great choice if you're seeking a ring like no other. Set in 18k gold, this 0.84 carat diamond ring is simply polished and chic.
Price at time of publish: $11,800
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Angara Round Morganite Cocktail Ring with Floral Diamond Halo
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A floral-inspired engagement ring is one of the few designs that is timeless but still wildly unexpected. This customizable piece features 14k white gold and a soft pink morganite center stone.
Price at time of publish: $1,159
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Mejuri Diamonds Cluster Ring
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We just can't resist a good cluster ring. This beauty adds a classic touch to a unique shape and miscellaneous placement of the brilliant white diamonds.
Price at time of publish: $2,300
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Angara Oval Blue Sapphire and Diamond Wedding Band Ring Set
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It's all about the setting with this one. While the deep blue sapphire in the oval cut is a tried and true classic style, the unexpected placement of the stones on this intricate yellow gold band is everything.
Price at time of publish: $2,289
The Ultimate Guide to Non-Traditional Engagement Rings
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Van Cleef & Arpels Frivole Between the Finger Ring
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We're obsessed with how light and delicate this yellow gold floral ring appears on the finger. The delicate diamonds placed in the center of each flower is the perfect touch of shimmer.
Price at time of publish: $10,800
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Capuccine Grey Diamond Ring
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This is as down to earth as it gets. An iridescent rough diamond is in the most beautiful hue of soft grey. The yellow gold band adds a timeless yet striking touch that we're in love with.
Price at time of publish: $1,470
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VimleshBadaya 9k/14k Solid Gold Multi Sapphire Cluster Engagement Ring
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Hello color! This dainty yet vibrant cluster ring set on a gold band is like pure magic to the eyes. With multi-colored sapphire and white diamonds, you truly get a little bit of everything.
Price at time of publish: $403
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Brilliant Earth Sweeping Ivy Diamond Engagement Ring
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This is such an ethereal spin on an open-designed engagement ring. Inspired by cascading vines of ivy, this 14k rose gold oval engagement ring effortlessly drapes across the finger.
Price at time of publish: $2,590
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Capucinne Isabella Tanzanite Engagement Ring, Statement Diamond Ring
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This is so dreamy. A tanzanite is set in an elongated marquise-shaped stone framed by clusters of triangular bezel-set diamonds. We love how the yellow gold detail provides an eye-catching contrast against the dark center stone.
Price at time of publish: $6,210
Meet the Expert
- Lorraine Brantner is a sales manager for James Allen, a fine jewelry company dedicated to premium customer service and affordable prices.
What to Look for When Choosing a Uniquely-Shaped Engagement Ring
Metal
The metal that is chosen for your forever ring can largely contribute to the distinct look of a uniquely-shaped engagement ring. You may decide to select a metal that blends in with your stone or acts as a sharp contrast. "For those with sensitivities, platinum is best. If you can wear yellow, rose, or white gold, consider the metal color that will complement your gemstone most," suggests Lorraine Brantner.
Cut
When it comes to the cut of your uniquely-shaped stone, it's usually best to play a little dress up! We won't argue with that. "Try on different center-stone shapes to see what looks best on your hand. You may like the look of a princess or cushion center stone in pictures, but find that you prefer how an oval or pear complements your finger," Brantner says.
Style
"Consider your lifestyle and any jewelry that you already own," Brantner says. While uniquely-shaped engagement rings are undoubtedly striking and stunning, elaborate features may become obtrusive. Ensure that the cut and style of your engagement ring accommodates activities that you will regularly partake in when wearing your bling.
FAQ
What is the most popular engagement ring style?
"Solitaire settings and simple pavé styles are the most popular," says Brantner.
What are consistently the least popular engagement ring styles?
"Very bold, chunky modern styles such as tension rings are not as popular," Brantner claims.
How can I make my engagement ring unique?
If you are looking for a truly eye-catching design, consider a halo with various fancy shapes or patterns surrounding your center stone. You can also go with a pear or marquise center stone for maximum finger coverage," Brantner says.
