10 Stunning Nontraditional Engagement Rings

Because not every bride-to-be dreams of a traditional diamond ring

by Lindsay Cohn
Updated 12/14/16

Sophie Epton Photography

Your engagement ring is an expression of your personal style. And while a single solitaire is a classic choice, not every bride-to-be dreams of a traditional engagement ring. And that's ok. There are plenty of fish in the sea — or, in this case, fabulous rings. If you're looking something a little less conventional, we've got you covered.

We enlisted acclaimed jewelry and bridal designer, Molly Guy, Creative Director at Stone Fox Bride to get the scoop on alternative styles. "Personally, I'd say that a diamond solitaire or a diamond halo ring is as traditional as it gets these days." Whereas nontraditional rings tend to incorporate asymmetry, multiple stones, different types of metals, gemstones and diamonds — raw, black, champagne and grey. "I'm seeing a lot of brides opt for a somewhat classic setting but with a unique center stone, like sapphires, emeralds, tourmaline and aquamarine. And so many couples are working on the ring together, which is definitely not the traditional route our parents went back in the day."

When it comes to finding (or creating) the perfect engagement ring, there's no precise formula and the options are so endless. In need of some inspo? Keep scrolling for 16 alternative styles that are so striking, you'll wonder if it's appropriate to wear one on every finger.

01 of 10

Claire Pettibone "Thalia" Ring

Courtesy of Trumpet & Horn

Dreaming of a fairytale ring? Nature and eternal love are beautifully manifested in this whimsical design. Sapphire and tsavorite garnet flower petals adorn the sides for an ethereal effect.

SHOP NOW: Trumpet & Horn, $15,950

02 of 10

Jennie Kwon Designs Sapphire Loop Ring

Courtesy of Jennie Kwon Designs

Princess Kate eat your heart out! This sapphire stunner is finished with delicate milgrain detail and pavé diamonds — for just a hint of sparkle.

SHOP NOW: Jennie Kwon Designs, $1,277

03 of 10

Erstwhile "Ruby Wings" Ring

Courtesy of Erstwhile

This deeply romantic design combines rose gold and ruby-accented wings. The ring itself exudes warmth and passion — fitting for a symbol of your everlasting devotion.

SHOP NOW: Erstwhile, $12,900

04 of 10

Barrio Neal Hex Sapphire Cluster Ring

Courtesy of Bario Neal

This asymmetrical design is perfect for beachy brides! An oceanic combination of stones — seafoam and green-blue sapphires, aquamarine and a single champagne diamond — is giving us major mermaid vibes.

SHOP NOW: Bario Neal, $2,837

05 of 10

Trumpet & Horn "Moulin Rouge" Ring

Courtesy of Trumpet & Horn

This vintage-inspired, rose gold navette style ring is truly a show-stopper. A brilliant cut white diamond is framed in a marquise halo, decorated with a fleur-de-lis motif.

SHOP NOW: Trumpet & Horn, $4,950

06 of 10

Polly Wales Shard Split Halo Ring with Blue Sapphires

Courtesy of Polly Wales

For brides who think outside the box, err solitaire. Shard-like baguettes — in lieu of a single center stone — give a nod to tradition, while staying totally au courant.

SHOP NOW: Polly Wales, $10,650

07 of 10

Wwake Large Nestled Diamond and Opal Ring

Courtesy of Wwake

If you're anything like us, you're more than a little obsessed with opal. This radiant ring features a rose cut diamond, nestled above a tiny opal stone.

SHOP NOW: Wwake, $9,600

08 of 10

Catbird "Mathilde the Swan" Black Diamond Ring

Courtesy of Catbird

Elegantly modern yet with a vintage spirit, this handmade ring features a rose cut black diamond, flanked by two brilliant cut, pear-shaped diamonds in romantic, rose gold setting.

SHOP NOW: Catbird, $3,200

09 of 10

Digby & Iona Mine-Cut Nico Ring

Courtesy of Digby & Iona

While the pear-shaped center stone may feel traditional, the rose cut salt and pepper diamonds are anything but. This cluster-style ring shimmers from every angle, so don't be surprised if you find yourself distracted by your own hand.

SHOP NOW: Digby & Iona, $3,650

10 of 10

Blanca Monrós Gómez "Vena Amoris" Nesting Ring

Courtesy of Blanca Monrós Gómez

This stunning double band nesting solitaire pays homage to vintage design — with a mix of brilliant and marquise cut diamonds, surrounded by an intricate reclaimed gold motif. It's lovely on its own, but really shines when paired with other bands.

SHOP NOW: Blanca Monrós Gómez, $2,950

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