2026 Engagement Ring Trends: What Will Define the Year Ahead

As the year begins, 2026 engagement ring trends are already taking shape. It is expected to focus on creating very personal, intentional, and confident designs. Compared to trends seen last year, we can expect an increase in popularity for larger (and bolder) lab-created diamond sizes & setting styles that offer maximum room for personalization. Our GIA-certified gemologists compiled these insights based on early signals seen across real engagement ring consultations, highlighting the key styles shaping 2026 and offering inspiration for the proposal you’re planning this year.

Key Engagement Ring Trends For 2026

1. Bigger Lab-Grown Diamonds, Bolder Statements

Lab-created diamonds are no longer misunderstood. Modern buyers are well aware that lab diamonds make it possible to select larger stones without compromising on budget or values, offering the same brilliance, durability, and clarity as mined diamonds—and they are taking full advantage of this.

Based on recent consultations, it is clear to our experts that couples are ready to embrace larger lab-grown diamonds, particularly stones above 2 carats. Going for a larger carat size is also encouraging couples to explore diamond shapes beyond the classic round brilliant or pear.

This year, elongated silhouettes such as oval, marquise, and elongated cushion cuts are expected to take center stage. These shapes are not going away; instead, they are evolving with modern settings, offering a balanced mix of the old and the new. Their length visually enlarges the stone; at the same time, it makes the bigger ones feel elegant rather than overwhelming.

5 Popular Large Lab-Grown Diamond Carats To Explore

2 carats

3 carats

4 carats

5 carats

6 carats

2. Bezel Settings Taking the Spotlight

As center stones grow larger, many couples are gravitating toward settings that feel secure without sacrificing style. That’s why the bezel settings are expected to become one of the top engagement ring trends in 2026. It’s perfect for larger lab-created diamonds because it surrounds the stone in a solid metal band (rim), which creates a unique profile while allowing for a great deal of protection.

What’s especially notable this year is how designers are reworking the bezel itself. You will find slim, understated bezels that maximize diamond visibility, but also thicker and bolder designs that create an impact. Partial and half-bezel variations are also gaining traction.

This setting style resonates especially with couples who want something distinctive yet timeless. This stunning yet sleek setting appeals to those who value durability, everyday wearability, and a design-forward aesthetic.

5 Popular Bezel Setting Styles To Explore

Emery Bezel Solitaire Engagement Ring in White Gold

Bellora Cathedral Bezel Engagement Ring in Rose Gold

Erin Half Bezel East-West Solitaire Engagement Ring in Yellow Gold

Enigma Bezel Hidden Halo Pavé Band Engagement Ring in Yellow Gold

Duet Bezel Lab Engagement Ring by Christian Siriano in Yellow Gold

3. Three-Stone Settings For Meaningful Balance

Modern buyers are still drawn to designs with emotional significance, but they want the meaning expressed in a way that feels personal. The classic three-stone setting is all about honoring a couple’s past, present, and future, but last year it failed to shine. This year, however, it’s getting a thoughtful update with equal emphasis on proportion, balance, and personalization.

Today’s three-stone settings are also exploring contrast, with subtle color accents. Couples are no longer choosing side stones that are a perfect match in shape and size to the center diamond and are favoring thoughtful combinations such as oval, cushion, emerald, and baguette cuts.

Also contributing to this trend is the increased availability of bigger lab-created diamond carat sizes. When using a three-stone setting, you can have a much larger center diamond as the focal point while still leaving enough space between the side stones for each to have its own defined presence.

5 Popular Three-Stone Setting Styles To Explore

Madison Three-Stone Lab Pear Engagement Ring in White Gold

Marni Petite Three-Stone Engagement Ring in White Gold

Rosella Three Stone Engagement Ring in Yellow Gold

Brigitte Diamond Accent Engagement Ring in Rose Gold

Bellora Grand Tapered Lab Baguette Engagement Ring in Yellow Gold

4. Wide Bands and Cigar Styles Make a Confident Return

The trend for ultra-thin and delicate settings on engagement rings has persisted for several years, but we are expecting a turning point in 2026. Our experts have observed a growing preference among today's modern couples for wider bands with cigar-style settings.

As larger lab-grown center stone sizes are becoming more common, buyers are ultimately seeking a band style that will balance the appearance of their diamonds while giving adequate support along with added durability and longevity.

Furthermore, higher gold prices have resulted in an overall increase in the desire for rings that are designed with intent and value. Instead of choosing rings that are minimal in metal due to what is currently trending, couples now are selecting rings that have a heavier appearance of the band as the key part of the design, as opposed to just an afterthought.

Wide and cigar-style bands resonate with those who appreciate clean lines, visual weight, and a ring that stands confidently on its own—no stacking required.

5 Popular Wide Band Setting Styles To Explore

Cortina Wide Engagement Ring in Rose Gold

Colonnade Lab Engagement Ring by Christian Siriano in White Gold

Boda Six Prong 3mm Comfort Fit Engagement Ring in White Gold

Tradition Trellis Lab Diamond Accent Engagement Ring in Yellow Gold

Enchanted Bezel Engagement Ring in Yellow Gold

5. Personalized and Customizable Settings Stealing the Show

In addition to choosing bigger carat sizes or bold stone shapes and setting styles, many couples are requesting that their engagement rings include personal elements.

This could range from custom engravings to incorporating colored gemstones alongside diamonds or simply giving a new twist to a classic design. A great example is the Solo Diamond Accent Solitaire Engagement Ring, which shows how small details—such as diamond shape or metal choice—can make a classic design feel entirely personal.

For couples seeking a truly unique creation, we at Rare Carat also offer the opportunity to design engagement rings from scratch. From choosing metals, stone shapes, or carat size, our GIA-certified gemologists are available to help create an exceptional custom piece that is a one-of-a-kind reflection of personal style and story, aligned with 2026 engagement ring trends.