2020 in a ring design, and what to expect in 2021

Whether you’ve had your dream ring picked out since childhood or are curious as to how to surprise your partner with the design of their dreams, it’s always a good idea to get a little inspiration. But it can be hard to know if what you’re looking at is a classic character or passing fad.

To help separate the showy from the show-stopping, our Design Director Kate Earlam-Charnley has designed a singular ring that represents all of the trends to emerge from 2020. We spoke with her to learn why these design features will maintain a strong presence in 2021 and beyond. Gone is the era of vintage design, says Kate. Welcome to the decade of delicate, minimalist, and modern.

Colour your world with gemstones

To start, Kate says in that 2020 everyone wanted one thing: gemstones. People are getting bolder in the type of gemstone they choose, along with its cut and colour. This is a departure from the near zealous popularity of white diamonds that’s dominated the engagement ring market for over half a century. Kate tells us that the most requested gemstones are peach oval sapphires, round emeralds and rubies, with blue oval sapphires coming out on top.

Lab grown diamonds are here to stay

Additionally, the 2020 ring design features lab grown diamonds along the band. Lab grown diamonds have surged onto the scene as a more sustainable option for those looking to buy  new diamonds. Forgoing the need to extract resources from untouched earth, lab grown diamonds deliver top-quality diamonds with none of the geological impact. And their popularity is palpable: since 2015, the search term “lab grown diamonds” has increased 400% worldwide.

Hidden halos, because why not?

Another feature to be widely embraced in 2020 is the “hidden halo.” This refers to pavé diamond detailing—traditionally displayed along the face of a ring’s band—which is added to unexpected elements of the ring, such as around the basket of a centre stone. “Because why not? More diamonds and extra hidden details is always going to be a winner.” We couldn’t agree more.

Slim bands with a bit of flare

In terms of the ring itself, ridged bands are having a real moment. “Super slim bands are definitely the biggest trend,” says Kate, going on to note that, “towards the end of this year, everyone loved ridged bands in particular because the raised ridges give an engagement ring the delicate look of a super slim band, whilst the lower ridge gives the design integrity to ensure the ring is strong enough to be worn everyday.”

It’s all about the details

Double eagle prongs give this ring its delicate finish. Adding small touches like this is a way to express your love through the fine details. It’s been a trying year, but something inspirational to come out of 2020 is that more than any other, people are taking more time to design their rings. Likely a knock on effect from the slow-pace of life in lockdown, Kate says that couples are “meticulously looking at every aspect of personalising a ring.” We hope this attention to detail and emotional connection will only continue to result in stunning and highly original designs for all would-be proposers.

After the year we’ve had, many would say it’s impossible to know what the next 12 months will hold. But if we’ve learned anything from 2020, it’s that people don’t give up on love. We can’t wait to see all of the one-of-kind designs you create to tell your love stories in the new year!