Engagement rings: The best of forever and ever

At some point in many a romantic story the moment arrives when it feels right to make the partnership official. The modern couple has in many respects come a long way from the old norms of courtship, proposal and then the big step into marriage – nowadays cohabiting, home owning, and even coparenting are commonly shared well ahead of anybody popping the question. These are, of course, symbols of real commitment, but there’s something truly magical about sealing the deal with the perfect engagement ring. Even better, in this day and age it’s becoming more and more common for jewellers to cater for all kinds of couples and proposals, from men’s engagement rings to classic women’s, as well as alternative options and everything in between. This article explores some ideas for couples commemorating taking the next big step together.

Traditional engagement rings for women

The man-asks-woman scenario remains the most common engagement event, but that doesn’t make it any less beautiful. Likewise, many couples continue to favour the traditional engagement ring style, and what could be more classic than a diamond piece? Diamond engagement rings have long stood the test of time as a symbol of a couple’s commitment to one another, and there are endless possibilities in style.

Engagement rings for men

Of course, the modern couple is often not a male-female partnership, and even if it is, it’s perfectly acceptable for a woman to pop the question in the 21^st century. Companions looking to share a token (or tokens) of their devotion have access to a range of engagement ring options for their significant male other, from pieces with precious stones to simpler styles.

Alternative engagement rings

Couples are often keen to venture a little away from the classic engagement ring taste, preferring to incorporate different designs, gems, shapes and metals. This is a great way to make sure that something that will be worn most – if not all – of the time really chimes with the wearer’s unique personality and look. It’s an opportunity for the proposer to demonstrate just how well they know their partner.

Bespoke and personalised rings

Even better, the romantic looking to propose can make their spouse-to-be feel even more special by designing a ring specifically for them. There are creative and bespoke jewellers all over the country who specialise in designing pieces to the exact requirements of their clients. In most cases they will be able to help, whatever the design or budget, and the process of creating a ring offers a lovely moment for a couple to design something special together. There is also always the option to have an existing ring engraved with something personal.

Other ways to mark the occasion

Finally, an engagement ring isn’t always what a couple wants to mark the occasion. These days, lovers can opt for matching tattoos to literally mark their commitment to one another, and there are ideas such as an engagement trip or even an engagement pet (this one needs thinking through a little bit!) for a steadfast pair to memorialise their intentions.

The editorial unit