Over the past year, a lot of romantic relationships have been put to the test. Given all the stress and anxiety that everyone has experienced due to the global pandemic, it’s highly likely that the one thing that has helped keep you grounded through all of it was your significant other. This is especially true for couples who have been together for quite a long time.
The health crisis has also led many people to really re-evaluate what’s important to them and their lives. Other people have found that now’s also the best time to take the next step forward when it comes to their relationships. If you’re feeling the same way, maybe it’s finally time to pop that all-important question. Just make sure you do it perfectly.
Bend the Knee
When it comes to going down on one knee and finally popping the question, one of the most important things you have to get right is the engagement band. There’s such a wide variety of items, designs, and stones you should consider, from a braided engagement ring lined with diamonds to more classic styles with a single gemstone.
The engagement ring that you’re planning to give to your partner will be the embodiment of your coming union. Like any other piece of jewelry, however, there are also certain trends you have to be on the lookout for when purchasing this sentimental item. These are some of the most prominent engagement rings for the year.
Just for Two
Most jewelers have noticed that personalization has become a huge trend when it comes to engagement rings recently. More couples are coming up with more ideas and directions that are really meaningful to them, especially after having so much time to really think about what they want.
This has become evident in various aspects of engagement rings, from unique ways on how their stone should be cut to customizing the way that stone sits on the ring. Others have also opted to add some secret details into their bands, sort of like an inside thing that only the couple knows about. It’s genuinely just a good avenue to really elevate the love and meaning that comes into the piece.
Quantity and Quality
Another engagement ring trend that’s been making waves is having multiple stones. In fact, it’s become quite a favorite among couples. This is particularly because a lot of notable personalities have similar rings like Meghan Markle and Emily Ratajkowski.
This can come in multiple variations, but among the most common are the two-stone and three-stone rings. The two-stone engagement ring, or the “Toi et Moi” — French for “you and me” —, is usually interpreted as the coming together of two souls. Three-stone rings, on the other hand, are typically used to symbolize your past, present, and future with your partner. Regardless, more stones just also mean that’s your ring is sure to draw lots of attention.
Make It Pop
Aside from having personalized rings, choosing different colored stones has also been in demand for couples looking to really make their engagement rings stand out from the rest. It’s also a matter of letting your ring reflect your personal style. However, it should be noted that these gemstones are usually a lot less durable than diamonds.
Pink and yellow engagement rings were among the most common until fairly recently. Now, emeralds and blue gemstones have taken center stage. Couples are going for emeralds because of how it symbolizes serenity and new beginnings, which is a fit not just for weddings but also in the wake of the pandemic. On the other hand, interest in blue stones like sapphire, aquamarine, and topaz fits perfectly for a couples’ “something blue.”
Tender Loving Care
It’s also important to note that your and your partner’s engagement rings should be maintained regularly. Remember that it’s should ideally last as long as possible, given its sentimental value for both of you. While most superstitions claim that taking your engagement off is bad luck, it’s actually much better to do so from time to time. This allows you to keep it clean and safe in the long run.
You could also consider bringing it to a professional at least twice a year. This is just to make sure that your stones are secure and that they won’t accidentally fall out. Storage is also key for engagement rings. When you take it off, make sure to keep it in a fabric-lined box and keep it separate from your other jewelry to avoid any scratches or dents.
If there’s something to be taken from all this, it’s ultimately the resiliency of love and relationships. Despite all the unfortunate events that have transpired over the past year, it’s still imperative to choose love and let it triumph over everything. Engagement rings are just one among the countless ways you could express your love for your partner.
