Unusual Engagement Rings

We have all noticed someone's ring and thought, "Wow, that is a really unusual engagement ring!" Maybe it was the setting, or the stone. Maybe the design of the band made the ring stand out.

There are many styles of unusual rings.

For many people, unusual engagement rings symbolize not only their relationship, but their individuality as well. A unique ring can capture the personality of the bride-to-be as well as the couple, and is all the more significant because of its charm.

Settings

There are many engagement ring settings, but the most popular is the traditional prong or tiffany setting where the central stone is held by four or six prongs slightly elevated above the band. For an unusual engagement ring, you might want to consider choices that veer away from the standard engagement ring.

Bezel Setting

Bezel settings hold stones in place by using a metal ring instead of prongs. The metal ring completely encircles the stone and embeds it into the setting. A bezel set engagement ring is perfect for the woman who leads an active lifestyle or never removes her ring. Without the sharp corners of prongs, the chances are less that the setting will catch on something. In this way, the stone is more secure and the ring less likely to be damaged.

Semi-Bezel Setting

The premise for the setting on this type of ring is the same as a bezel setting, except that the metal band or ring around the stone doesn't completely surround it. Instead, there is a partial rim on opposite sides of the stone. This is still a very secure setting; however, it allows more of the stone to be noticed. This is a good choice for smaller diamonds, since the full bezel setting may overshadow the stone.

Double channel set diamond ring.

Channel Setting

A channel setting is a ring style where the stones are set into the band itself, usually in a continuous line. These settings are very popular for anniversary bands and men’s wedding bands, but would make a unique choice for an engagement ring as well. While many engagement rings include accent stones in a channel setting, a ring that uses solely this type of recessed setting would be quite unusual.

Pave Setting

Pave setting engagement rings feature diamonds or other stones encrusted into the band, making the entire ring appear to be made from precious stones. These exquisite settings can be quite expensive, however, and to avoid a higher price couples can consider using artificial stones to pave the ring.

Stone Choices

Sometimes, simply choosing a stone other than a diamond can classify an engagement ring as unusual.

Retro Stones

The retro style of the 1920s through the 1950s is popular among many women today. Some simply want their rings designed with the past in mind, while others search for an authentic vintage ring with that unusual, retro look. Antique engagement rings also feature older designs with unique stones. Retro styles often feature color diamonds or other gems such as aquamarines, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. Many of these rings use intricate filigrees and delicate accent stones along the bands.

Colored Diamonds

If a diamond is your choice but you want something a bit unusual, think about colored diamonds. Colored diamonds open up a whole world of choices. You can choose from pinks, reds, yellows, greens, and blues. Another choice for a colored diamond is to actually choose one of a lower grade, which would then have a yellow or brownish tint. Color is one of the factors affecting a stone’s price, and if you prefer a colored stone that qualifies as lower grade, you can create an unusual engagement ring at a significant discount.

Birthstones

A rising trend for unusual engagement rings is to use the birthstones of the bride and groom when designing the ring. There may be a central diamond flanked by the gemstones, or the stones themselves can be a focal point in the ring’s design. This not only creates a unique ring, but also imbues it with personal significance to the couple.

Finding an Unusual Engagement Ring

There are several places that you can search for that unusual ring. Of course, your local jeweler will probably be your first stop. Let the jeweler know that you are in the market for an unusual ring. If you have stone and setting preferences, be sure you let him know that, too. If you decide to shop online, investigate the store's reputation, warranty offers, and security before you buy. Auctions, estate sales, pawn shops, and wholesale dealers are other options.

Many couples struggle to express their individuality, and an unusual ring may be the first step for a new couple to highlight their own uniqueness. From unique settings and stones to completely non-traditional rings, unusual engagement rings are quickly becoming a usual trend.

• Meanings of Gemstones
• Design My Own Engagement Ring
• Discount Wedding Bands
• How Much Should I Spend On An Engagement Ring
• What is the main gemstone in your engagement ring?

• Unique Engagement Rings
• Celebrity Engagement Rings
• Asscher Cut Engagement Rings
• Pave Setting Engagement Rings
• Engagement Ring Settings