By Sulav Sharan K.C., GIA Graduate Gemologist
The history of engagement rings is a fascinating journey of changing tastes, technological advancements, and cultural influences. Each decade brought its own unique twist to ring designs, reflecting the trends of its time. Here’s a breakdown of the most iconic engagement ring styles, decade by decade:
1920s: Geometric Elegance – Emerald and Asscher cut
The Art Deco period ushered in a love for symmetry and bold geometric shapes, making emerald and Asscher cuts highly sought after. Multi-stone designs became fashionable, often surrounded by dazzling diamond halo settings that added extra brilliance.
1930s: Round cut
In the aftermath of the Art Deco era, ring designs softened. Round brilliant settings resembling ribbons and bows became popular, favoring round-cut diamonds. The economic strain of the Great Depression led to simpler styles, with solitaire diamonds emerging as an affordable yet elegant choice.
1940s: A New Era of Diamonds
The 1947 De Beers campaign, “A Diamond is Forever,” revolutionized the jewelry world, cementing diamonds as the ultimate center stone. The scarcity of platinum during World War II saw yellow and rose gold rise in prominence. Rings during this period reflected a mix of classic round cuts and diverse materials.
1950s: Detailed Sophistication – Pear cut !
This decade focused on intricate details, with settings showcasing engravings and braided elements. Pear-shaped diamonds gained popularity, often paired with baguette accents. Audrey Hepburn’s stackable engagement rings further inspired innovative designs, featuring mixed metals for a modern touch.
1960s: A Return to Glamour – Asscher Cut
Art Deco’s influence resurfaced, bringing the Asscher cut back into the spotlight, epitomized by Elizabeth Taylor’s iconic engagement ring. Colored gemstones also gained favor, thanks to Jackie Kennedy’s emerald-and-diamond ring, which made vibrant stones a trend for engagement rings.
1970s: Coordinated Sets – Emerald cut
The 1970s emphasized matching engagement and wedding ring sets, with yellow and rose gold becoming staples. The emerald cut reemerged as a favorite, celebrated for its timeless elegance and symmetry.
1980s: Royal Inspiration – Round cut
Princess Diana’s sapphire engagement ring sparked a surge in colored gemstone rings. Yellow gold remained the metal of choice, while round-cut diamonds with baguette accents became a quintessential combination.
1990s: Edgy Boldness- Marquise Cut
Marquise-cut diamonds, with their elongated and sharp design, gained popularity during the grunge era. White gold and platinum bands became fashionable; as yellow gold briefly fell out of favor.
2000s: The Princess Era – Princess cut
Classic solitaire and three-stone rings dominated the 2000s. The princess cut, with its clean lines and contemporary aesthetic, became a favorite, solidifying its place as a modern classic.
2010s: Cushion cut and Halo Revival
Diamond halo settings made a grand comeback in the 2010s, adding a dramatic frame to center stones. While various cuts paired beautifully with halos, the cushion cut stood out for its brilliance and ability to appear larger when surrounded by smaller diamonds.
2020s: Custom Creativity – Oval cut
The 2020s celebrate individuality, with custom-made rings and skinny pave bands leading the way. The oval cut gained immense popularity, offering versatility with vertical or horizontal settings that cater to a wide range of unique ring designs.
Conclusion
Engagement rings are far more than just symbols of commitment; they are reflections of cultural shifts, personal tastes, and evolving craftsmanship. Each decade brought something unique—from the sharp geometric styles of the 1920s to the highly personalized designs of the 2020s. These changes reflect not just trends but also the technological advancements and societal influences of the time. Whether it’s a classic round cut, a vibrant gemstone, or a modern oval design, engagement rings tell a story of love, style, and individuality. As styles continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: the timeless allure of a beautifully crafted ring.
