(Fashion)

This Engagement Ring Trend Will Be Huge In 2018

by Laura Lajiness Kaupke

We spend a lot of time looking at diamonds (poor us, right?) and a noticeable trend has emerged in the engagement ring market: East-West set stones. From classic cuts to modern shapes, diamonds (and trendy gemstones) are getting the horizontal treatment for a decidedly fresh aesthetic. We love this look for three major reasons. First, the setting imbues modernity into classic cuts like oval, pear or emerald, whether accompanied by side stones, adorned with a halo or as a simple solitaire. Second, depending on the setting, a stone can be reset to a traditional North-South setting down the line if you grow tired of its side-to-side appearance. Third, there’s something about a stone placed sideways that feels insanely striking. Its fluid and a bit unexpected—a perfect choice for the traditional bride-to-be craving a skosh of innovation. Ahead, see what we mean by our edit of gorgeous East-West set engagement rings. We’re calling it as the trend for 2018 engagements. Get inspired.

Mandy Moore. Photo: Getty Images.

East West Set Engagement Rings

A brilliant white cushion cut diamond is showy but chic on an 18k rose gold band. Beveled detailing with white diamond pavé accents adds an extra special touch.

Polished 18k white gold perfectly showcases an emerald cut white diamond. A split band keeps the look incredibly modern.

Pear shapes are continuing to see a resurgence in terms of engagement ring trends. We love one set horizontally on an 18kt rose gold band for a cool contemporary look.

Octagonal settings are another shape gaining popularity—a perfect choice for the modern bride. To boot, this style is hand-crafted from recycled platinum.

Kwiat's patented ASHOKA diamond cut offers a unique arrangement of 62 facets for a dazzling prismatic effect with fierce brilliance. This solitaire bezel set diamond in 18k rose gold is sleek and distinctive—perfect for the woman who loves mega sparkle.

A slightly off-kilter pear on a pavé band is unique and eye-catching.

This marquise diamond ring is perfectly sleek in gold for a minimal aesthetic. Bonus: Bario Neal is known for responsibly mined and traceable diamonds.

Ovas are another classic shape having a moment in the spotlight. A blackened pavé diamond frame and band gives this one a romantically moody feel.

A geometric diamond is exquisite and sleek, accented by baguettes on either side. We love this for a bold bride.

For the non-showy bride, this emerald-cut diamond set on a slim 18k rose gold band is perfectly simple. Large facets highlight the clarity of this ethically sourced stone.

This hexagonal diamond set in 18k white gold is spectacualr—breathtaking from every angle.

Anna Sheffield's signature suites are perfect for the cool bride. This one-of-a-kind brilliant fancy grey oval diamond is offset by a curved yellow gold Diamond Dusted band.

In an East-West setting, a marquise cut feels at once traditional and modern. The double pavè band ring with a halo ensures optimal glamour.

Side-by-side salt and pepper trillion diamonds in 18k yellow recycled gold are perfect for the bride with Vintage inclinations with modern desire.

A trendy take on timeless, this East-West emerald-cut diamond alternative is simply striking.

For oval lovers, a pavé split shank in 14k rose gold sets the classic shape apart.