Fashion

16 Coolest Engagement Rings For The Unconventional Bride

because not everyone dreams of a diamond solitaire

by Jenna Igneri

When it comes to planning one’s big day, not all of us are the white-wedding-dress-platinum-diamond-ring types. More so than ever, today’s brides are looking to break the mold and go a more unconventional and unique route when it comes to planning their nuptials. This holds especially true when it comes to picking out engagement rings—where the size of the rock isn’t as important as it used to be.

Today’s engagement ring options are much more interesting—whether due to shape, type, or color of the stone, they’re certainly more of a conversation piece than just a token of commitment. The more eccentric or edgier, the better. Diamond alternatives, from opals to rutilated quartz, can add some serious color and flair to your setting—not to mention, cut the cost. Besides, if you’ll be wearing it forever (or, at least, have the intention to), it should be something you really love that reflects your personal style. 

We rounded up some of the coolest shapes, stones, and styles of engagement rings that aren’t exactly traditional—for every budget, of course—to help inspire you to find the ring of your dreams. Click through to the gallery to see our picks.

Photo courtesy of Anita Ko.

Anita Ko, Pear Diamond Chain Ring, $2,375, available at Anita Ko.

Photo courtesy of Anna Sheffield.

Anna Sheffield, Hazeline Solitaire Ring with Blackened Rutilated Quartz, $2,500, available at Anna Sheffield.

Photo courtesy of Catbird.

Catbird, Opal Teardrop Ring, $198, available at Catbird.

Photo courtesy of Digby & Iona.

Digby & Iona, Raziel Ring, $3,180, available at Digby & Iona.

Photo courtesy of Erica Weiner.

Erica Weiner, Deco Acanthus Engagement Ring, $1,600, available at Erica Weiner.

Photo courtesy of Finn.

Finn, Pear Rose Cut Ring, $1,375, available at Finn.

Photo courtesy of Jennie Kwon.

Jennie Kwon, Sapphire Mini Deco Point Ring, $375, available at Jennie Kwon.

Photo courtesy of Katie Diamond.

Katie Diamond, Leighton Ring, $2,164, available at Katie Diamond.   

Photo courtesy of Macha.

Macha, Rockwell III Ring, $325, available at Macha.

Photo courtesy of MANIAMANIA.

MANIAMANIA, Divine Ring, $220, available at MANIAMANIA.

Photo courtesy of Meadowlark.

Meadowlark, Mini Hex Engagement Ring, $1,629, available at Meadowlark.

Photo courtesy of Greenwich Jewelers.

Megan Thorne, Asta Ring With Blue Zircon, $2,710, available at Greenwich Jewelers.

Photo courtesy of Mociun.

Mociun, Sunstone And Black Diamond Crescent Ring, $1,656, available at Mociun.   

Photo courtesy of Satomi Kawakita.

Satomi Kawakita, Hexagon Ruby Ring, $585, available at Satomi Kawakita.

Photo courtesy of Stone Fox Bride.

Kathryn Bentley, Tanzanite Summer Triangle Ring, $450, available at Stone Fox Bride.

Photo courtesy of Wwake.

Wwake, Nestled Opal Ring, $445, available at Wwake.