Curious which engagement rings are leading the way in 2026? At Austen Blake, we're diving deep into the data to give you an exclusive look at the trends that will define the year in bridal jewelry. We've analyzed our comprehensive internal sales data from the last 12 months to uncover the designs, stones and metals that have been most loved.
Get ready to explore the most sought-after styles, from the resurgence of classic cuts to the rising popularity of alternative gemstones and innovative setting techniques, all setting the stage for 2026's most coveted, beautiful engagement rings.
Our 2026 trend report
As the makers of fine jewelry, we’re able to see trends emerging, so from timeless solitaires to striking gemstones, here’s what our couples have been choosing this year. So let’s take a look at what symbols of love our clients are now wearing on their ring fingers…
Top five bestselling engagement rings
1. Sabrina
2. Amoret (with oval center stone)
3. Megève
4. Madison
5. Wren
Meet the five designs that have proved most popular this year! Sabrina has been our bestselling design for years; its beautiful solitaire design is endlessly versatile with different diamond shapes, carat weights and ring sizes, as well as precious metal color. Tellingly, the third, fourth and fifth positions are also held by solitaire diamond engagement rings too.
Amoret has made its debut on our list in second position. The design option that features an oval center stone has been hugely popular. This trilogy ring features pear side stones framing your choice of center stone, creating a harmonious look.
Unsurprisingly, solitaire engagement rings have spent another year at the top of our list of bestsellers. This style features a single central diamond usually set on a plain band. The result? An enduring style that truly is timeless. While variations can include shaped bands, full or semi bezel settings or alternative prong styles, this design puts the focus on a single, sparkling diamond. Simplicity at its finest.
Interestingly, halo engagement ring styles have dipped in popularity from third to fifth place, with trilogy rings and gemstone designs jumping up positions. In fact, gemstone engagement rings have seen a 111% increase in the past 12 months.
“This could denote that more and more couples are seeking rings with deeper sentiment,” says Sophie Lomax, Head of Design at Austen & Blake. “Three stone engagement rings are said to symbolize the past, present and future shared between a couple, while colored gemstones are often believed to have different meanings and offer an alternative look.”
Popular diamond shapes
1. Round
2. Oval
3. Pear
4. Emerald
5. Princess
Round and oval-shaped stones remained firm favorites again this year for a diamond ring. Pear rose two places from fifth last year to third, further showing that rounded and softer silhouettes are here to stay.
In contrast, our list saw the emerald and princess shape take fourth and fifth place respectively in the top five. Our data showed the emerald shape is up 50% on last year, as some were seeking a sharper sparkle! The square-shaped princess has a unique look with its corners and brilliant faceting. Their flashes tend to feel ‘geometric’ compared to the soft brilliance of a round cut.
Adding to this trend, marquise diamonds have seen a huge surge in popularity. “Sales of this stunning shape were up by 94%,” adds Sophie Lomax. “Perhaps helped by Selena Gomez's engagement ring design, this distinctive diamond shape has an elongated outline with two pointed ends that maximize the appearance of the stone.”
Stone sources: Natural or lab diamonds
We predict diamonds will continue to be the go-to for most engagement rings. We saw strong sales for both diamond types, but lab diamonds remain popular with sales up 46% from last year. Lab created diamonds, as the name suggests, are developed in a laboratory in conditions that replicate the process of natural diamonds. They are chemically and optically identical, while the time and cost of producing lab diamonds is lower, reflecting the price.
“This has meant that customers now have access to larger carat weights or higher-quality diamonds,” says Sophie Lomax. “Customers may also be seeking lab created diamonds to reduce the environmental and ethical impact of their jewelry choices. As more couples learn about the benefits of lab created diamonds, they’re sure to continue to grow in popularity.”
In a move away from clear diamonds, we’ve found that again, more couples are choosing to share their own style and story through design. Sales of colored gemstones were up 55% year-on-year, as well as colored diamonds, including black and yellow diamonds, up 22%. We believe this demonstrates that individuality through stone choice is on the rise!
Leah Blundell, Content Editor for Rock My Wedding, comments: "In 2026, we’re going to see couples move even further away from traditional ‘rules’ around engagement rings. Colored diamonds, emeralds and gemstones speak to a desire for individuality and emotional storytelling.
“Couples want rings that feel personal and symbolic rather than purely classic. Social media and celebrity proposals continue to normalize non-traditional choices, while increased access to bespoke design and alternative stones makes experimenting with color feel both aspirational and achievable. Ultimately, engagement rings are becoming less about conformity and more about creating a piece that reflects a couple’s identity."
Precious metal preferences
1. Yellow gold
2. Platinum
3. White gold
4. Silver
5. Rose gold
Your choice of metal color makes a big impact on the overall look of your engagement ring, so personal preference is key. Yellow gold came out on top again this year, beating all three silver-toned metals we offer combined.
The warm, rich tones of yellow gold create a beautiful contrast with white diamonds. The metal also complements colored gemstones beautifully, which could also tally with the surge of gemstone engagement rings we’ve seen this year.
However, sales data showed cooler precious metal tones are still a favorite with platinum, white gold and silver firmly in the top five.
Men's engagement rings
We believe that jewelry is the ultimate statement of your story and style and that everyone should be able to express themselves in a way that feels authentic to them. We’re pleased to see a huge 205% rise in men’s engagement ring design sales this year, ensuring more couples can wear a meaningful piece of jewelry daily!
When is the most popular time to buy an engagement ring?
1. November
2. August
3. June
4. October
5. July
Our data showed that November was the most popular month to buy an engagement ring. While this coincides with Black Friday, we also think that partners are purchasing rings in November and October, ready for the festive season which has long been a very popular time for proposals.
August followed, driven by summer holidays and warm-weather proposals, while June saw a surge thanks to classic summer engagements and wedding season planning. Finally, July rounded out the list, as couples took advantage of mid-summer trips and romantic moments to pop the question.
Average spend on engagement ring
Our data showed that the average cost rose slightly this year to £1,922, compared to £1,884.50 last year.
“Choosing an engagement ring is a balancing act and speaking with a professional jeweller can make the process far easier,” says Sophie Lomax. “Craftsmanship and quality should always come first, but there are smart ways to stay within budget without compromising either.”
Key things to consider:
Center stone: Understanding the 4Cs helps you make smart swaps, like choosing between key carat weights or prioritising cut for extra sparkle. Near-colorless VS1–VS2 diamonds look clean while keeping costs down.
Alternative stones: Lab grown diamonds, moissanite and colored gemstones offer impact at a lower price.
Metal choices: White gold gives a similar look to platinum for less.
Settings: Be savvy with your setting choice. For example, halo designs can make a smaller diamond appear larger.
Above all, we’d recommend speaking with a trusted jeweller to receive expert advice. You can book a free consultation with one of our expert team members in-store or by virtual appointment.
2025 celebrity engagements & weddings
2025 shaped up to be a sparkling year for celebrity love! Stunning engagement rings and starry announcements made headlines. From timeless diamonds to unique settings, these rings are as memorable as the proposals themselves. Here are just some of the year’s most exciting celebrity engagements.
Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, who have been together since 2023, announced their engagement in August 2025 via a five-picture Instagram post of Kelce proposing in a stunning garden with a floral arch, captioned: "Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married."
Swift's engagement ring from Kelce is estimated to be over $1 million, featuring a rare, upwards of 8 carat old mine diamond with rounded corners, similar to an oval or elongated cushion cut.
The yellow gold band of Taylor's ring features intricate detailing, either an engraved floral design, filigree or milgrain. This detailing, commonly seen on Edwardian antique or vintage-inspired rings, adds a romantic and whimsical touch.
Zendaya & Tom Holland
Confirming their engagement early in 2025, Zendaya's engagement ring from Tom Holland features a beautiful, elongated cushion-cut diamond. It’s said to be approximately 5 carats and is set in a striking east-west orientation. The ring has a button back setting, where the gemstone within the design has a solid metal back framing it. Get a similar look with our full bezel engagement ring, Kate, with a cushion cut center stone.
The couple shared the news in August 2025 with an Instagram post of a showstopping ring and the caption that read: “Sí, quiero. En esta y en todas mis vidas.", which translates to: "Yes I do. In this and in all my lives.”
The ring appears to feature a stunning oval cut diamond as its center stone. Its estimated value has been widely reported as well over the million-pound mark, which is to be expected for the ring’s carat size.
Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco
Engaged in December 2024, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco tied the knot in September 2025. Selena's stunning engagement ring has been estimated to cost anywhere between upwards of £250,000 to even £1 million. The high price point is warranted due to the pure size and quality of the elegant stones. Marquise diamonds of this size are very rare and not always a typical choice, although it's well-known that she pays tribute to them in her song 'Good For You' – perhaps providing unique meaning behind the ring choice.
The sheer rarity and individuality of such a diamond would reflect its price point, along with the engagement ring having a high carat weight of approximately 4 to 6 carats. The beautifully cut diamond symbolizes sophistication and longevity perfectly!
Dua Lipa & Callum Turner
This couple confirmed their engagement in 2025. Dua Lipa’s ring is estimated to feature a 2 carat round-cut diamond set within a thicker yellow gold band that creates a uniquely modern and sculptural look. The ring has either a semi-bezel or tension setting, which differs from traditional prong settings. It’s a ring that’s full of personality.
2026 at a glance
Top styles: Solitaires lead, with trilogy and gemstone rings rising
Diamond shapes: Round and oval remain top; pear, emerald, marquise and princess gaining.
Stones: Individuality on the rise, with lab grown diamonds remaining popular.
Metals: Yellow gold tops sales, while platinum, white gold and silver are still popular.
Men’s engagement rings: Sales are up +205%; more couples are embracing meaningful pieces.
Average spend: £1,922
Final thoughts
2026 is all about rings that make a statement. Whether through classic elegance, a touch of color or a distinctive diamond shape, jewelry is more about the stories it symbolizes than ever.
Our trend report shows couples are embracing timeless solitaires, bold gemstone choices and distinctive diamond shapes. Lab grown diamonds and colored stones are on the rise, while yellow gold remains a favorite. Above all, choosing a ring that reflects your style – and seeking expert guidance – makes all the difference.
Ready to find the one that’s perfect for you? Book a consultation with one of our experts, in-store or online and discover a ring that feels truly yours.
By Kat Hill
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Curious which engagement rings are leading the way in 2026? At Austen Blake, we're diving deep into the data to give you an exclusive look at the trends that will define the year in bridal jewelry. We've analyzed our comprehensive internal sales data from the last 12 months to uncover the designs, stones and metals that have been most loved.
Get ready to explore the most sought-after styles, from the resurgence of classic cuts to the rising popularity of alternative gemstones and innovative setting techniques, all setting the stage for 2026's most coveted, beautiful engagement rings.
Our 2026 trend report
As the makers of fine jewelry, we’re able to see trends emerging, so from timeless solitaires to striking gemstones, here’s what our couples have been choosing this year. So let’s take a look at what symbols of love our clients are now wearing on their ring fingers…
Top five bestselling engagement rings
1. Sabrina
![Sabrina]()
Sabrina
from $1,694
![Amoret]()
Amoret
from $1,682
![Megève]()
Megève
from $1,515
![Madison]()
Madison
from $1,964
![Wren]()
Wren
from $1,779
2. Amoret (with oval center stone)
3. Megève
4. Madison
5. Wren
Meet the five designs that have proved most popular this year! Sabrina has been our bestselling design for years; its beautiful solitaire design is endlessly versatile with different diamond shapes, carat weights and ring sizes, as well as precious metal color. Tellingly, the third, fourth and fifth positions are also held by solitaire diamond engagement rings too.
Amoret has made its debut on our list in second position. The design option that features an oval center stone has been hugely popular. This trilogy ring features pear side stones framing your choice of center stone, creating a harmonious look.
Top five ring styles
1. Solitaire 2. Side stones
3. Trilogy
4. Gemstone engagement rings
5. Halo
Unsurprisingly, solitaire engagement rings have spent another year at the top of our list of bestsellers. This style features a single central diamond usually set on a plain band. The result? An enduring style that truly is timeless. While variations can include shaped bands, full or semi bezel settings or alternative prong styles, this design puts the focus on a single, sparkling diamond. Simplicity at its finest.
Interestingly, halo engagement ring styles have dipped in popularity from third to fifth place, with trilogy rings and gemstone designs jumping up positions. In fact, gemstone engagement rings have seen a 111% increase in the past 12 months.
“This could denote that more and more couples are seeking rings with deeper sentiment,” says Sophie Lomax, Head of Design at Austen & Blake. “Three stone engagement rings are said to symbolize the past, present and future shared between a couple, while colored gemstones are often believed to have different meanings and offer an alternative look.”
Popular diamond shapes
1. Round
2. Oval
3. Pear
4. Emerald
5. Princess
Round and oval-shaped stones remained firm favorites again this year for a diamond ring. Pear rose two places from fifth last year to third, further showing that rounded and softer silhouettes are here to stay.
In contrast, our list saw the emerald and princess shape take fourth and fifth place respectively in the top five. Our data showed the emerald shape is up 50% on last year, as some were seeking a sharper sparkle! The square-shaped princess has a unique look with its corners and brilliant faceting. Their flashes tend to feel ‘geometric’ compared to the soft brilliance of a round cut.
Adding to this trend, marquise diamonds have seen a huge surge in popularity. “Sales of this stunning shape were up by 94%,” adds Sophie Lomax. “Perhaps helped by Selena Gomez's engagement ring design, this distinctive diamond shape has an elongated outline with two pointed ends that maximize the appearance of the stone.”
Stone sources: Natural or lab diamonds
We predict diamonds will continue to be the go-to for most engagement rings. We saw strong sales for both diamond types, but lab diamonds remain popular with sales up 46% from last year. Lab created diamonds, as the name suggests, are developed in a laboratory in conditions that replicate the process of natural diamonds. They are chemically and optically identical, while the time and cost of producing lab diamonds is lower, reflecting the price.
“This has meant that customers now have access to larger carat weights or higher-quality diamonds,” says Sophie Lomax. “Customers may also be seeking lab created diamonds to reduce the environmental and ethical impact of their jewelry choices. As more couples learn about the benefits of lab created diamonds, they’re sure to continue to grow in popularity.”
In a move away from clear diamonds, we’ve found that again, more couples are choosing to share their own style and story through design. Sales of colored gemstones were up 55% year-on-year, as well as colored diamonds, including black and yellow diamonds, up 22%. We believe this demonstrates that individuality through stone choice is on the rise!
Leah Blundell, Content Editor for Rock My Wedding, comments: "In 2026, we’re going to see couples move even further away from traditional ‘rules’ around engagement rings. Colored diamonds, emeralds and gemstones speak to a desire for individuality and emotional storytelling.
“Couples want rings that feel personal and symbolic rather than purely classic. Social media and celebrity proposals continue to normalize non-traditional choices, while increased access to bespoke design and alternative stones makes experimenting with color feel both aspirational and achievable. Ultimately, engagement rings are becoming less about conformity and more about creating a piece that reflects a couple’s identity."
Precious metal preferences
1. Yellow gold
2. Platinum
3. White gold
4. Silver
5. Rose gold
Your choice of metal color makes a big impact on the overall look of your engagement ring, so personal preference is key. Yellow gold came out on top again this year, beating all three silver-toned metals we offer combined.
The warm, rich tones of yellow gold create a beautiful contrast with white diamonds. The metal also complements colored gemstones beautifully, which could also tally with the surge of gemstone engagement rings we’ve seen this year.
However, sales data showed cooler precious metal tones are still a favorite with platinum, white gold and silver firmly in the top five.
Men's engagement rings
We believe that jewelry is the ultimate statement of your story and style and that everyone should be able to express themselves in a way that feels authentic to them. We’re pleased to see a huge 205% rise in men’s engagement ring design sales this year, ensuring more couples can wear a meaningful piece of jewelry daily!
When is the most popular time to buy an engagement ring?
1. November
2. August
3. June
4. October
5. July
Our data showed that November was the most popular month to buy an engagement ring. While this coincides with Black Friday, we also think that partners are purchasing rings in November and October, ready for the festive season which has long been a very popular time for proposals.
August followed, driven by summer holidays and warm-weather proposals, while June saw a surge thanks to classic summer engagements and wedding season planning. Finally, July rounded out the list, as couples took advantage of mid-summer trips and romantic moments to pop the question.
Average spend on engagement ring
Our data showed that the average cost rose slightly this year to £1,922, compared to £1,884.50 last year.
“Choosing an engagement ring is a balancing act and speaking with a professional jeweller can make the process far easier,” says Sophie Lomax. “Craftsmanship and quality should always come first, but there are smart ways to stay within budget without compromising either.”
Key things to consider:
Above all, we’d recommend speaking with a trusted jeweller to receive expert advice. You can book a free consultation with one of our expert team members in-store or by virtual appointment.
2025 celebrity engagements & weddings
2025 shaped up to be a sparkling year for celebrity love! Stunning engagement rings and starry announcements made headlines. From timeless diamonds to unique settings, these rings are as memorable as the proposals themselves. Here are just some of the year’s most exciting celebrity engagements.
Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, who have been together since 2023, announced their engagement in August 2025 via a five-picture Instagram post of Kelce proposing in a stunning garden with a floral arch, captioned: "Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married."
Swift's engagement ring from Kelce is estimated to be over $1 million, featuring a rare, upwards of 8 carat old mine diamond with rounded corners, similar to an oval or elongated cushion cut.
The yellow gold band of Taylor's ring features intricate detailing, either an engraved floral design, filigree or milgrain. This detailing, commonly seen on Edwardian antique or vintage-inspired rings, adds a romantic and whimsical touch.
Zendaya & Tom Holland
Confirming their engagement early in 2025, Zendaya's engagement ring from Tom Holland features a beautiful, elongated cushion-cut diamond. It’s said to be approximately 5 carats and is set in a striking east-west orientation. The ring has a button back setting, where the gemstone within the design has a solid metal back framing it. Get a similar look with our full bezel engagement ring, Kate, with a cushion cut center stone.
Georgina Rodríguez & Cristiano Ronaldo
The couple shared the news in August 2025 with an Instagram post of a showstopping ring and the caption that read: “Sí, quiero. En esta y en todas mis vidas.", which translates to: "Yes I do. In this and in all my lives.”
The ring appears to feature a stunning oval cut diamond as its center stone. Its estimated value has been widely reported as well over the million-pound mark, which is to be expected for the ring’s carat size.
Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco
Engaged in December 2024, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco tied the knot in September 2025. Selena's stunning engagement ring has been estimated to cost anywhere between upwards of £250,000 to even £1 million. The high price point is warranted due to the pure size and quality of the elegant stones. Marquise diamonds of this size are very rare and not always a typical choice, although it's well-known that she pays tribute to them in her song 'Good For You' – perhaps providing unique meaning behind the ring choice.
The sheer rarity and individuality of such a diamond would reflect its price point, along with the engagement ring having a high carat weight of approximately 4 to 6 carats. The beautifully cut diamond symbolizes sophistication and longevity perfectly!
Dua Lipa & Callum Turner
This couple confirmed their engagement in 2025. Dua Lipa’s ring is estimated to feature a 2 carat round-cut diamond set within a thicker yellow gold band that creates a uniquely modern and sculptural look. The ring has either a semi-bezel or tension setting, which differs from traditional prong settings. It’s a ring that’s full of personality.
2026 at a glance
Final thoughts
2026 is all about rings that make a statement. Whether through classic elegance, a touch of color or a distinctive diamond shape, jewelry is more about the stories it symbolizes than ever.
Our trend report shows couples are embracing timeless solitaires, bold gemstone choices and distinctive diamond shapes. Lab grown diamonds and colored stones are on the rise, while yellow gold remains a favorite. Above all, choosing a ring that reflects your style – and seeking expert guidance – makes all the difference.
Ready to find the one that’s perfect for you? Book a consultation with one of our experts, in-store or online and discover a ring that feels truly yours.