Unusual Engagement & Diamond Rings

When you think of an engagement ring, you likely think of a diamond ring. But not all diamond rings are traditional engagement rings, and not all engagement rings have to have diamonds as the main stone (or at all). Many people nowadays want to show their personality with their jewellery, and the same goes for when choosing an engagement ring (or maybe you're looking to treat yourself with an unusual diamond ring). Everyone is different, whether a bride or a groom, and there's nothing wrong with wanting to do things a little differently. Here we'll go through some unusual diamond ring styles that can be used as engagement rings or that you can treat yourself to.

What is a Traditional Engagement Ring?

There are many traditions surrounding engagement rings, from the style and shape of the ring to how much you should spend on an engagement ring, though many of the traditions we see surrounding engagement rings are fairly new traditions!

Diamond rings became the traditional stone for engagement rings due to their association with love and commitment, making them the perfect stone to pop the question with. Diamonds last forever, so they are a commitment in themselves.

Traditionally, diamond engagement rings have a simple band and allow the diamonds to steal the show. Diamond solitaire rings are the classic choice for engagement and has been around since the Ancient Romans. Another traditional engagement ring style is the diamond trilogy ring, where the three diamonds represent the past, present and future.

Unusual Engagement Ring Styles

Diamond rings come in many more styles than the traditional engagement styles. And although many people will always love the traditional styles, sometimes engagement ring trends will deviate from the traditional. Or you may have a much less traditional partner who would prefer an unusual engagement ring. You may even want an unusual diamond ring for yourself. Whatever the reason you are looking for a unique diamond ring, here are our favourite styles that create an unusual engagement or diamond ring:

Cluster Rings

Diamond cluster rings are a popular choice for engagements but still deviate from the traditional styles. As the name suggests, this ring is set with multiple diamonds close together in a cluster, usually with one large diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds. This type of ring is a showstopper, making the centre diamond appear larger and more luxurious.

Sometimes, these rings can have many diamonds and even include diamonds on the shoulders, like this yellow gold 0.47ct diamond cluster ring by Anya Belle, which allows the ring to sparkle from every angle.

Be aware, with cluster rings, a wedding band may not be able to stack neatly by it. But if you're not going traditional, that's not a problem! Once wedded, the engagement ring can be worn on a different finger or on a chain.

Rub-Over Rings

A rub-over ring is similar to a solitaire ring but has a metal band surrounding the diamond centrepiece, creating a halo effect. This displays the diamond beautifully, as well as extremely securely. A rub-over ring also means claws won't catch on clothing, and gloves can easily be worn over the top of the ring with no risk of snagging.

This ring style is minimal, but still manages to catch the eye, like this rub-over 2.02ct diamond solitaire ring.

Diamonds and Other Stones

Diamonds don't have to take centre stage to sparkle and symbolise your love; in fact, they can complete a ring with a different gemstone taking the lead. If the wearer prefers different colours or gemstones, you don't have to be restricted to a diamond ring. Why not choose their birthstone for the central stone? Or another stone that represents love?

Emerald and diamond rings make the perfect combination, with diamonds representing love, and emeralds representing hope and desire. But there are many more combinations and gemstones you can choose from, such as this head-turning 0.15ct diamond and smokey quartz ring. Or why not choose a traditional colour of love, such as this pink gemstone and 0.05ct diamond ring. For a colourful option, this sweet multi-gemstone and diamond ring would make a very unusual engagement ring.

Crossover Rings

Crossover rings may not be traditional engagement rings, yet they still have a romantic meaning, as they symbolise the uniting of two people and everlasting love. In crossover diamond rings this combines with the symbolism of diamonds to create a powerful meaning and promise in your proposal.

Crossover diamond rings come in many styles, from simple and subtle, to head-turning sparkles. This simple yellow gold 0.05ct diamond crossover ring has three diamonds, creating a subtle sparkle. For more of a statement piece, this yellow gold 0.25ct diamond crossover ring is sure to turn heads.

Coloured Diamonds

When you think of a diamond ring, you likely think of the clear, sparkling stone, but diamonds are available in different colours. So, if you want to stick to the tradition of a diamond engagement ring but want more colour, this could be an excellent choice. These diamonds have a trace element in the stone, which gives them their colour. You could find a diamond ring with your other half's favourite colour.

Colours also have a spiritual meaning, so coloured diamonds can have extra meaning beyond the love and commitment of diamonds. For instance, blue symbolises devotion, truth and peace, perfect for an engagement ring. This 0.40ct blue diamond cluster ring would make a unique engagement ring for someone who loves the colour blue.

Different Shaped Rings

For extra meaning, why not choose an engagement ring where the shape the diamonds or other gemstones make is a little different. Hearts and flowers make sweet engagement rings, but you're not restricted to shapes that are traditionally associated with love. You can choose something with additional meaning for your loved one. For instance, this white and rose gold 0.18ct diamond leaf ring would make a non-traditional engagement ring for a nature lover.

Choosing shapes beyond the traditional solitaire and trilogy styles can also allow you to look at some truly stunning designs. This white gold 0.20ct diamond fancy ring will very much dominate a finger and would proclaim your engagement for all to see. Another showstopping diamond ring is this white gold 3.00ct diamond fancy ring, with diamonds set in contemporary bubbles, creating a unique look.

Check out all our diamond fancy rings for unsual shapes.

Dual Metal Rings

Traditionally, engagement rings are a simple metal band with a solitaire or trilogy of diamonds. This usually means one metal colour. But why not use different metal colours for an unusual and intricate engagement ring? This can be done in simple styles or be used to make delicate patterns.

This yellow and white gold 0.16ct diamond ring is a simple, but unusual design that is sure to attract attention. Another unusual design is this yellow and white gold 0.40ct diamond cluster ring, with a white gold band and yellow gold holding in an elegant design surrounding the diamond cluster. If your other half has a Celtic heritage, this yellow and white gold 0.05ct diamond Celtic ring has an intricate Celtic design in the two gold colours and would make a personal engagement ring.

Choosing an Unusual Engagement Ring

When choosing an unusual engagement ring, it's important to consider your other half's preferences and styles. What colours do they like? What metals do they usually choose for jewellery? Are they traditional, or would they prefer something quirky? Do they prefer subtlety, or would they like a ring that'll turn heads?

Choosing an engagement ring is a big task and a difficult one. You want to get it right, but it can be hard to know where to start. Have a read of our engagement ring buying guide for some inspiration.

If you're sure your intended would love something unusual, you can often find something a bit different when shopping pre-owned. These rings are beautiful and come with their own history, so they can mean something extra special. Browse our second-hand diamond rings collection to find vintage and unusual diamond rings.

Remember, any ring can be used as an engagement ring. So long as it has meaning to you and your loved one, it doesn't matter if you go for something traditional, quirky, vintage or unusual. Check out our full range of rings for more designs and styles, or if you think your loved one would prefer something more traditional, head over to our collection of engagement rings.