A two stone diamond engagement ring highlights pear and emerald cut stones with a trending yellow gold band. Photo: Stuller
Navigate the first big decision of your life together.
Once you’ve found the perfect person, finding the perfect ring shouldn’t be that hard. And yet, it can be challenging to commit to a piece of jewelry that’s supposed to be worn ’til death do you part. Edessa Kerkinni is a second generation co-owner of Princess Jewelry in Lakeville, a full-service jewelry store that was started by her parents in 1985. She’s grown up around jewelry, so we picked her brain about the latest trends and important considerations for ring shopping. “The things that we’re starting to see is more of the vintage feel, east-to-west engagement ring settings and Art Deco look,” Kerkinni says. “I think that might be a big trend in 2026.”
Stones
Even those with their heart set on a diamond have a decision to make: lab-grown vs. natural. “Now that lab-grown diamonds have entered the market, you’re seeing a lot more couples buying larger diamonds,” Kerkinni says.
While still not as popular as diamonds, Kerkinni is seeing some engaged couples gravitate toward other stones, including agate, aquamarine, emerald and sapphire, she says. When looking at diamond alternatives, it’s important to consider the strength of the stone and how well it will wear. “It’s good to do if you want something really unique, but we always say it’s better to choose a harder stone that is going to last a long time and not chip,” Kerkinni says.
Another thing to consider: stone placement. Kerkinni says she’s seen more women consider east to west stone placement when it comes to oval- and rectangular-shaped rings. “It also gives kind of more of an Art Deco look,” she says.
Shapes
Once the stone is settled, it’s time to consider the shape. Ovals and emeralds have been very popular, and marquise cuts are also starting to gain some traction, Kerkinni says. Of course, the elongated cushion cut is also trending—thanks to Taylor Swift’s engagement ring from Travis Kelce.
There are also ways to personalize a classic cut. “One thing we’ve done over the last year is a solitaire with hidden halo, like [a ring of ] diamonds right underneath the main stone,” Kerkinni says. “It’s just little details.”
Bands
Yellow gold is back for brides when it comes to the color of bands. “A lot of people love yellow gold,” Kerkinni says. “For the people that do like the white metal, they’re leaning toward platinum.”
As far as the band design goes, simple, clean looks are popular for both brides and grooms.
Men’s rings feature a mix of tantalum and gold in the Mardini line from Malo Bands. Photo: Malo Bands
While yellow gold is seeing an uptick in men’s rings, too, there are also a variety of options, including wood inlay and alternative metals, like tantalum or titanium. Kerkinni says most men are opting for a simple gold or black tantalum or titanium ring.
Princess Jewelry
Instagram: @princessjewelrymn
