What's Trending in Engagement Rings Right Now
Engagement ring trends move more slowly than fashion trends — a ring is a lifetime commitment, after all — but they do move. And 2024 has brought some genuinely exciting shifts in what couples are choosing. Here's what we're seeing at Siegel Jewelers.
Oval Is Still Queen (But Pear Is Surging)
The oval cut has dominated engagement ring trends for the better part of a decade, and it's not going anywhere. Its elongating effect on the finger, its excellent brilliance, and its slightly softer aesthetic compared to round brilliant have made it the go-to choice for style-conscious buyers.
But pear cuts are surging. The teardrop shape — essentially a hybrid of round and marquise — has seen a significant uptick in demand, driven partly by celebrity influence and partly by its genuinely distinctive look. Worn with the point toward the fingertip, a pear cut creates a dramatic, elongating effect that photographs beautifully.
East-West Settings Are Everywhere
The east-west setting — where an elongated stone (oval, pear, marquise, emerald) is set horizontally across the finger rather than vertically — has become one of the most requested styles in our store. It's unexpected, modern, and genuinely striking. An east-west oval in particular has a sculptural quality that feels both contemporary and timeless.
Colored Stones Are Making a Statement
White diamonds are still the dominant choice, but colored center stones are having a genuine moment. Sapphires (blue, pink, and yellow) are the most popular alternative, followed by morganite, aquamarine, and emerald. The appeal is obvious: a colored stone is immediately distinctive, often more affordable than a comparable diamond, and carries its own symbolism.
If you're considering a colored stone, it's worth understanding the durability trade-offs. Sapphires and rubies (corundum, Mohs 9) are excellent for everyday wear. Emeralds and opals require more careful handling.
Vintage-Inspired Settings Are Enduring
Art Deco and Edwardian-inspired settings — with milgrain edges, filigree work, and geometric detailing — have been popular for years and show no signs of fading. There's something about the craftsmanship of these styles that feels antithetical to the disposable quality of so much modern production. Couples who choose vintage-inspired settings tend to feel strongly about them.
Our estate jewelry collection includes genuine vintage engagement rings for those who want the real thing, not just the aesthetic.
The Minimalist Solitaire Is Quietly Dominant
For all the trend coverage of unusual cuts and elaborate settings, the simple solitaire — a single diamond in a clean, minimal setting — remains the most popular engagement ring style by volume. There's a reason: it's timeless, it focuses attention entirely on the stone, and it pairs with virtually any wedding band.
If you're drawn to minimalism, don't let trend coverage make you feel like you're making a boring choice. A well-cut round brilliant in a simple four-prong solitaire is one of the most beautiful things in jewelry.
What We're Recommending
The best engagement ring is the one that reflects the person who'll wear it every day. We don't push trends — we help you find what's right. Browse our engagement ring collection or book a private consultation to explore options in person.
Our team has helped thousands of Grand Rapids couples find their perfect ring. We'd love to help you too.