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Everything You Need to Know About Non Traditional Engagement Rings

Many people probably imagine a large, colorless diamond when it comes to engagement rings. The “solitaire” is a very prominent symbol of traditional engagement rings. However, with the rise of personalized styles, non traditional engagement rings have become increasingly popular. Do you know what non traditional engagement rings look like? In this article, we will explore non traditional engagement rings, how they differ from traditional engagement rings, their benefits, symbolism, and how you should choose one.

Table Of Contents:

What’s Non Traditional Engagement Ring?

Non traditional engagement rings are simply rings that go beyond the traditional designs of engagement rings. I probably deserve to be slapped for this answer—it’s saying something without really saying anything. Alright, let’s get back on track. non traditional engagement rings refer to engagement rings that feature non-classic designs. What exactly constitutes classic designs?

Classic designs include:

That are pave rings, halo rings, and three-stone rings also classic designs – are they traditional engagement rings? These designs can make a ring more dazzling. Some people classify these designs as traditional engagement rings, but I don’t think so. Traditional means having historical heritage and classic features that are immediately recognizable. Sometimes, overly intricate pave settings, side stones, and halo designs have moved away from classic styles and have nothing to do with history. Therefore, except for colorless solitaire rings with classic cuts and settings, everything else can be considered non traditional engagement rings. Not clear enough? No worries, keep reading.

Traditional vs. Non Traditional Engagement Rings Main Differences 

The main differences between traditional and non traditional engagement rings lie in the center stone and design style, as follows:  

Gemstone Variety  

Traditional engagement rings typically feature colorless diamonds. non traditional engagement rings offer a wider variety of gemstone options, including all gemstones, with diamonds being no exception. “But isn’t a diamond a traditional engagement ring gemstone? Why are diamonds also in non traditional engagement rings?” Because a diamond ring can have a non traditional design style.

Design Style  

Traditional engagement rings usually feature a solitaire design. non traditional engagement rings come in a variety of design styles, such as halo, multi-stone, nature-inspired, asymmetrical, Toi et Moi, and other unique designs.

Cutting Style  

Traditional engagement rings often feature brilliant round cuts and classic cushion or oval cuts that enhance the diamond’s brilliance. non traditional engagement rings include various cutting styles.

Setting Style 

Traditional engagement rings often use classic, simple prong settings, such as four-prong or six-prong settings, to maximize the elegance and brilliance of the single diamond. non traditional engagement rings use the most suitable setting style according to their design.

Metal Material 

Traditional engagement rings are usually made of 10K, 14K, 18K white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum. non traditional engagement rings can be made from any material you can imagine. (Related Reading: 10K Vs. 14K Vs. 18K Vs. 24K Gold: Which Is Better)

Symbolic Meaning  

Traditional engagement rings usually symbolize eternal love and commitment. non traditional engagement rings emphasize individuality and uniqueness, with different gemstones carrying different symbolic meanings.

Price 

The gemstone in traditional engagement rings is typically a diamond, so the price is usually high. non traditional engagement rings offer a wide range of options in terms of gemstone types, metal types, and designs, resulting in a wide price range that can accommodate different budget needs.

A Quick Test: Distinguishing Between Traditional and Non Traditional Engagement Rings  

Based on the information above, we can easily distinguish traditional engagement rings from non traditional ones by considering the ring’s design style, gemstone type, cutting style, setting style, and more. So, which of the rings in the images below are traditional engagement rings, and which are non traditional?  

1.5ct diamond solitaire ring
Natural Inspired Kite Cut Moss Agate Weeding Ring Emerald Accented Leaf Design Ring
1.5ct Oval Cut Moissanite Halo Engagement Ring Pavé Bridal Ring
Unique Emerald Moissanite & Pear Cut Cornflower Sapphire Two Stone Engagement Ring Unique Toi et Moi Ring
Minimalist Emerald Cut Moissanite Promise Ring Solitaire Engagement Ring
Round Brilliant Cut Salt and Pepper Diamond Engagement Ring

Shown above in order:

  1. 1.5ct Diamond Double Claw Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring
  2. Nature Inspired Kite Cut Moss Agate Wedding Ring Emerald Accented Leaf Design Ring
  3. 1.5ct Oval Cut Moissanite Halo Engagement Ring Pavé Bridal Ring
  4. Sapphire & Moissanite Toi et Moi Wavy Engagement Ring
  5. Minimalist Emerald Cut Moissanite Promise Ring Solitaire Engagement Ring
  6. Round Brilliant Cut Salt and Pepper Diamond Engagement Ring

Answer: only the first one is a traditional engagement ring, the rest are non-traditional engagement rings.

Benefits of Non Traditional Engagement Rings

Non traditional engagement rings have a lot of benefits, which is why they are becoming increasingly popular.

  • Uniqueness: By choosing non traditional engagement rings with different gemstones and design styles, the wearer’s personality and style can be truly reflected, making the ring one of a kind.  
  • Symbolic Meaning: non traditional engagement rings offer a wide choice of gemstones, each with its own symbolic meaning. For example, sapphire engagement rings symbolize loyalty and love; morganite engagement rings symbolize gentleness and romance, etc.  You can choose based on your desired symbolic meaning.
  • Affordability: non traditional engagement rings are usually more affordable than traditional engagement rings.  
  • Variety: The wide range of choices allows couples to find something that resonates with their shared values.

Some Celebrities’ Non Traditional Engagement Rings

Kate Middleton

kate engagement ring
Getty Images

How can you round up celebrities’ non-traditional engagement rings without the royals? Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge’s engagement ring is a sapphire halo engagement ring, a sapphire from the late Princess Diana’s collection.

Lady Gaga

gaga pink engagement ring
Getty Images
gaga diamond heart ring
Getty Images

Lady Gaga has two beautiful engagement rings that are both nontraditional, a pink gem halo engagement ring (not sure if it’s a pink diamond or a pink sapphire) and a 6-carat heart-shaped pave diamond ring.

Lily Collins

lilycollins engagement ring
@lilyjcollins

Instead of a traditional diamond, Lily Collins opted for a romantic morganite, and her engagement ring is a wrap around morganite engagement ring.

Emily Ratajkowski

Emily Ratajkowski toi me moi engagement ring
@emrata

Emily Ratajkowski’s engagement ring is a Toi et Moi design engagement ring consisting of a pear-shaped and a square diamond, in keeping with her individual style.

Emma Stone

emma prarl engagement ring
Instagram
Emma Stone ring

Emma Stone didn’t opt for a very expensive engagement ring, her engagement ring is a pearl ring with small diamonds surrounding the pearl, which looks very elegant and beautiful.

Perfect Non Traditional Engagement Ring Choosing Tips

The following tips can help you find your ideal non traditional engagement ring:  

1. Understand Your Partner’s Style  

Consider what your partner likes. Do they prefer modern, vintage, bohemian, or minimalist styles? Take note of their jewelry preferences.

2. Explore Different Gemstones  

Research various gemstones beyond diamonds. Each gemstone has its symbolism and beauty. For example:  

  • Sapphire: Represents wisdom and loyalty.  
  • Emerald: Symbolizes rebirth and love.  
  • Ruby: Symbolizes passion and protection.  
  • Morganite: Symbolizes gentleness and romance.  
  • Moss Agate: Symbolizes life and prosperity.  
  • Opal: Symbolizes hope and dreams.  
  • Moonstone: Symbolizes love and emotion.  

Many more gemstones are waiting for you to explore.  

3. Consider the Metal  

Consider the metal that complements the gemstone and suits your partner’s style:  

  • Rose Gold: Adds a romantic and vintage feel.  
  • White Gold or Platinum: Offers a classic and elegant look.  
  • Yellow Gold: Adds warmth and timelessness.  

Want to choose a metal that suits your partner’s skin tone? Read: White Gold vs Yellow Gold vs Rose Gold: Which Jewelry Color is Better For You?

4. Customization  

If you have specific ideas in mind, consider customizing the ring to reflect your thoughts and emotions. MollyJewelryUS looks forward to every custom engagement ring request and is honored to witness your love.

5. Set a Budget  

Non traditional rings can vary greatly in price. Set your budget early to narrow down your choices and avoid overspending.

Featured Non-Traditional Engagement Rings

Related FAQs About Non Traditional Engagement Rings

Traditional vs. Non Traditional Engagement Rings, Which You Should Choose?

If you like classic styles, traditional engagement rings are a perfect choice; if you seek uniqueness, non traditional engagement rings are an excellent option.

How to Tell Traditional and Non Traditional Engagement Ring?

A very simple way: classic cut + clear diamonds + solitaire design + classic prong setting + straight ring shank = traditional engagement ring, the rest are non-traditional engagement rings.

What are The Popular Gemstones for Non Traditional Engagement Rings?

Sapphire, moissanite, morganite, ruby, moss agate, and emerald are popular gemstones for non-traditional engagement rings.

Can Non Traditional Engagement Rings Still be Set with Diamonds?

Yes, non-traditional engagement rings can still be set with diamonds. The difference is in the design. A diamond ring can be considered non-traditional if it has unconventional design elements, such as a unique cut, a non-classical setting, or a combination with other gemstones.

Is a Moissanite Solitaire Ring a Traditional Engagement Ring?

No. Moissanite is an emerging gemstone for engagement rings, and moissanite solitaire rings are not traditional engagement rings, although they closely resemble solitaire rings.

Non Traditional vs. Traditional Engagement Rings, Which Is More Affordable?

Generally, non-traditional engagement rings are more affordable because they offer a wider selection of gemstones and metals in a wider price range.

Are Non Traditional Engagement Rings Durable?

Depending on the gemstone and metal you choose, different gemstones and metals have different hardness values.

Are Nontraditional Engagement Rings Popular?

Yes, many celebrities use non-traditional engagement rings, such as Kate’s sapphire engagement ring, Beyonce’s heart-shaped engagement ring, etc.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose a traditional or non traditional engagement ring, what matters most is conveying your love accurately. Don’t chase after too much tradition or trendiness—what’s best for you is the best choice!

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