All the Engagement Ring Trends You Could Possibly Need to Know For 2019

"The classic round diamond is always popular, but the Old European cut diamond has become very sought after recently. The cut has the round outline that's so popular in engagement rings, but the proportions give it a unique charm."

"Old European cut diamonds have more rainbow flashes than modern round brilliant cuts and less of the splintery white flashes."

"Geometric step cuts, like an emerald cut, offer a bold alternative to the classic round brilliant cut. The sharp edges and angles create a clean look further enhanced by the straight step cut facets. They are a good option for someone looking for a more sleek, modern look but can also be combined with various diamond cuts or engraving and detail to create a rich, layered look."

"Unique, unique, unique. People really want a ring that stands out and has a story all its own. Vintage and antique rings are a great way to have a ring that no one else will have, and each one comes with a rich history and story. Unusual shapes and cuts are also trending. An octagon-, lozenge-, or kite-shaped diamond can anchor a unique design that creates a personal, one-of-a-kind ring."

"Oval cut diamonds are very flattering to many finger shapes and are a classic alternative to round stones. The graceful, elongated shape tends to visually lengthen the finger. They have similar brilliance and sparkle to the more prevalent round brilliant cut but are a more unexpected shape. Though they are a less common diamond shape, they still lend themselves well to a variety of classic mounting styles to create timeless, elegant engagement rings. Our oval and baguette cut engagement ring keeps the design simple and refined. The centre stone is the star of this ring. The long, tapered baguettes add a clean sparkle to the band while not detracting from the centre. The design keeps the focus on the verticality of the stone along the length of the finger."

"I never really write off any diamond shape. There's so much creativity and reinvention in the jewellery world that we constantly see older shapes being dusted off and made edgy and interesting again. Take the marquise shape; it was completely outdated for a while, but now designers are gravitating towards the shape and creating really fresh designs."

"When shopping on a budget, I always encourage clients to carefully consider what's important to them. For some people, a large, impressive ring is very important. For these clients, I recommend a warmer-coloured diamond and staying away from the higher-clarity grades. Framing the centre stone with other diamonds or even a beautifully engraved metal frame can make the diamond appear larger."

"Sapphires have always been a popular alternative to a diamond engagement ring. Sapphires are nine out of 10 on the MOHS hardness scale, just under diamonds, so they hold up well to everyday wear."

"They come in a wide variety of colours. A very pale sapphire can even approximate the look of a diamond. A rich, royal blue sapphire stands on its own as a beautiful statement ring (think Princess Diana's, now Kate Middleton's ring). But sapphires come in every colour of the rainbow, so your imagination's the limit in creating a special engagement ring with a sapphire centre. The other benefit of choosing a sapphire is they're available in a huge range of price points. You'll find a beautiful sapphire no matter the budget, whether it's modest or the sky's the limit."

"Aquamarine is another good alternative to a diamond engagement ring. It is a relatively hard stone that holds up well to everyday wear. The light blue hue is very easy to wear and looks great in traditional engagement ring styles. Aquamarine can also range in price to accommodate many budgets."

"The most important thing to remember when choosing (or hinting) at a ring is to try on as many different styles as possible. You may be surprised that something you are not initially drawn to looks great on your finger. Once you have identified the style of ring that looks good on you, and feels like your ring, collect images. We have many customers create Pinterest boards, which may or may not be 'accidentally' left open. Or forward images to a trusted friend who can help guide your partner. On our website doyledoyle.com, we even have a way for you to email a fun little hint right from the ring page."