Some people dream about their weddings from the time they're young children. We imagine the beautiful white dress, the perfect outdoor venue, and — of course — Mr. or Ms. Right.
Of course, there's a lot more to it than the wedding. Nowadays, every part of the wedding experience is a big deal — the proposal , the engagement party, the bridal shower, the bachelor/bachelorette party, and more.
The very first thing involved in the wedding process is the proposal. Traditionally, this means that one member of the relationship will ask for the other's hand in marriage and present that person with a stunning engagement ring.
For many people, this ring absolutely must be a diamond. According to the American Gem Society , the tradition of giving a diamond ring for a proposal dates back to the 15th century: "In 1477, Archduke Maximillian of Austria commissioned the very first diamond engagement ring on record for his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy. This sparked a trend for diamond rings among European aristocracy and nobility."
It wasn't until centuries later that the diamond became popular in America, though. The American Gem Society explains: "In 1947, De Beers launched its now classic slogan, 'A Diamond is Forever.' This campaign spurred even more sales. The implied durability of a diamond conveyed the meaning in the American psyche that marriage is forever. A diamond's purity and sparkle have now become symbols of the depth of a man's commitment to the woman he loves in practically all corners of the world."
And although diamond rings are beautiful, they are not the be-all and end-all of engagement rings. Today, there are more engagement ring options than ever before, and some of the nontraditional ones are the most beautiful of all.
These 20 one-of-a-kind engagement rings will prove that you don't have to spend a fortune to get an absolutely stunning ring!
1. Bohemian Raw Stone Blue Apatite Ring, $199
This copper and blue apatite ring is perfect for anyone who loves a more organic, natural look. The raw gemstone is said to encourage creativity, focus, and thinking, and it looks absolutely beautiful. The ring is handmade, which means if you buy it, you'll be supporting artists.
2. Tanzanite Rose Gold Ring, $974.25
This romantic tanzanite and rose gold engagement ring has a traditional design with a unique gemstone. The cushion-cut tanzanite is surrounded by sparkling diamonds. This showstopping ring will look absolutely gorgeous on anyone.
3. Opal and Diamond Ring, $750
This opal and white gold ring is simple and stunning. Opal, the October birthstone, is known for its unique appearance. The iridescent opal catches the light in a beautiful way, and the diamonds on either side add a bit of sparkle.
4. Floral Diamond and White Gold Ring, $974.25
This floral-inspired diamond ring has elements of a classic engagement ring but is more unique. Petal-shaped elements encircle the round center stone. The milgrain swirls on the band give the ring a completely one-of-a-kind look.
5. Hexagon Salt and Pepper Gray Diamond Ring, $998+
This hexagon-cut diamond is truly one of a kind. Not only is the cut unique, the salt and pepper gray color is truly special. Plus, the diamond is 100% conflict-free! The band is made of palladium and white gold.
6. Two-Tone Gold and Diamond Ring, $999.99
This twisted two-tone ring is a perfect combination of traditional and modern. Small, round diamonds are set in white gold to create the center of the ring. Diamonds also trace down the delicate yellow gold band.
7. Modern Rose Gold Solitaire Ring, $449.25
This elegant rose gold ring features a minimalist design with a bezel-set diamond. The princess cut diamond sparkles in the light and looks perfect with the 14 karat rose gold band. This unique ring is ideal for any modern woman.
8. Vintage-Style Black Diamond Bridal Set, $899.99
This one-of-a-kind black diamond bridal set comes with both an engagement ring and a wedding band. The engagement ring has a 1 carat enhanced black diamond, and there are smaller black diamond accents down the side of the band. The diamonds throughout the ring set ensure a sparkly appearance.
9. Contemporary Geometric Ring, $120.70
This unusual gold-plated ring is perfect for someone who is totally unconventional. The square design is modern, while the brushed metal look is boho chic. This fashion-forward ring can be made with silver or black zircon, or it can be created with 14 karat gold (at an additional cost).
10. Morganite Rose Gold Ring, $659.25
This pear-shaped morganite ring is a romantic and beautiful ring that's perfect for any bride. The light pink stone goes perfectly with the rose gold band. The sparkly morganite is surrounded by light-catching diamonds.
11. Blue Topaz Ring, $905
This unique ring features a bezel-set blue topaz and bezel-set round diamonds. The bright blue color of the topaz will grab everyone's attention. Any contemporary bride will adore this beautiful blue ring.
12. Diamond Claddagh Ring, $224.25
Traditional Irish claddagh rings date back to the 17th century. They're often exchanged as tokens of love between family, friends, and couples. According to Claddagh Design, these rings are "often worn as an engagement or wedding ring due to the three beautiful symbols of love, loyalty & friendship in the heart, the crown and hands." This ring is extra special because it's covered in small round diamonds.
13. Vintage-Style Moissanite Ring, $495
This handmade ring has a sparkly appearance and an art deco vibe. The oval moissanite center stone is surrounded by cubic zirconia. The rose gold band is romantic and elegant, which gives the perfect modern touch to this vintage-looking ring.
14. Yellow Gold Floral Diamond Ring, $974.25
This floral-inspired engagement ring has a diamond center stone and a burst of diamonds going outward. The brilliant color of the yellow gold goes perfectly with the sparkling diamonds. The ring also features delicate milgrain details.
15. Blue Sapphire and Diamond Twist Bridal Set, $249.99
For years, this deep blue sapphire color has been associated with the royal family. Make your bride feel like royalty with this gorgeous princess cut blue sapphire ring. The set comes complete with a contoured diamond band that pairs perfectly with the twisted band of the engagement ring.
16. Marquise Cut Diamond Ring, $674.25
Marquise cut diamonds are some of the most unique diamonds out there. This ring has vintage elements, but it will still appeal to contemporary women. The delicate gold band shimmers with diamonds.
17. Pearl and Rose Gold Ring, $435
This charming pearl and diamond ring is elegant and unique. The rose gold band is comfortable and features some small conflict-free diamonds. Any bride who loves pearls will adore this ring.
18. Art Deco Diamond Ring, $861.75
This white gold ring has a stunning round diamond center stone and smaller diamonds fanned out around it. The art deco vibe gives the ring a unique vintage feel. Although the center diamond isn't huge, the ring has the sparkle of a much larger stone.
19. Green Peridot Ring, $595
This one-of-a-kind light green ring features a peridot center stone and a halo of small diamonds and peridot. Peridot is said to promote joy and happiness, since it has a connection to the sun. The yellow-green color of the gemstone goes perfectly with the yellow gold band.
20. Offset Yellow Gold Ring, $824.25
At first look, this ring might look like any other engagement ring. It has a simple gold band with diamonds, but the "center" stone is offset on the side of the ring. This elegant ring will look great with a contoured wedding band.
Psst: If you choose to purchase an item on this list, LittleThings may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
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